ABOUT | February 2015

Harnessing Power and Spirit

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley February 2015

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February 2015 8 Harnessing Power and Spirit

Jim Stamps and his wife of 49 years, Paula, have lived a life that would leave many envious. But today, their focus is on racehorses, the perfect combination of competition and speed. Jim knows a thing or two about racehorses and success.

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And they lived Happily Ever After...

14 Celtic Bliss

For many women, a wedding is something carefully considered from birth until her actual wedding day occurs and even years after that. As little girls, it is not uncommon to play pretend wedding, mentally preparing for the big day, celebrity crush always included, of course.

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Savor the Flavor

26 A Natural State of Mind

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Jessica Mae Simpson is a local artist in Russellville. Born and raised in Dover, she graduated from ATU with a fine arts degree and has had her work featured in shows since graduation. Her latest show, at the River Valley Arts Center, highlighted 13 pieces and was devoted to Arkansas outdoor activities.

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A Beautiful Mystery

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

RiverValley AssistedLiving At River Valley Assisted Living

we have recently opened a specialty cottage with 15 apartments. We’ve also increased staffing to care for residents with increased needs, such as those with short term memory or wandering.

We offer total assistance with activities of daily living, and medication administration by a licensed nurse. We have a registered nurse who evaluates the residences’ needs and supervises their care. Specialized activities are planned daily for the individual’s interests. Our courtyard is fenced to allow secure outdoor activities. Couples are welcome! Please come by for a tour or call Sue Gray at (479) 567-5578.

1909 East Fairway Blvd, Russellville

(479) 567-5578 | (479) 970-5669

February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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A PAGE FROM

The Editor’s Notebook

ABOUT the River Valley

Will You Accept the Challenge?

The holidays are behind us. The buildup that started last September with the first sightings of Christmas decorations in Wal-Mart has peaked, and now we’re sliding down into the valley of extra inches around our waist and seasonal affective disorder. The sugarplums are gone, and much of our goodwill toward men (and women and kids) is gone as well; siphoned off one merry thought at a time by long lines at the return counter and those drivers that just go too fast or too slow depending on your perspective. But let me tell you a little story that will restore your confidence in humanity. It’s a subject that we often think of only during the holidays but should be a component of our everyday life. The story is about helping those in need that cannot possibly repay us for the help.

Back in May 2013, we ran a feature story about the Russ Bus, a program that provides help for the homeless in Russellville. The story opened many eyes in the River Valley. Homeless people are often thought of as “big city” concerns, and many locals were shocked to find that Russellville has a substantial number of homeless within its borders. The Russ Bus program benefited from the exposure, and caring hearts in the community have pitched in to help. But this past week a man I’m proud to call a friend stepped up in a way that is nothing short of inspiring. Billy Reeder, who has also been written about in this magazine, built a mini-house for one homeless couple in Russellville. The house is modular – built off-site and reassembled on-site – and it’s small, but it beats the heck out of spending a 13 degree night in a tent. Billy built shelter for people he did not know, will likely never see again and for no other reason than as he said, “I don’t believe anyone should have to sleep in the cold, no matter who they are and whether we think they deserve it or not.”

We all pay a lot of lip service to doing the right thing, but how much more could be done if we quit talking and actually did? To be honest, it’s disheartening that I’m inspired and that this is such a big deal. Billy’s attitude should be the attitude of us, the fortunate, every day. This should not be news. This should be the norm for any and all that claim to love our neighbors as ourselves.

So here’s my challenge for 2015, River Valley. Let’s make this the year of less talk and more action. The year of compassion. The year of empathy for those less fortunate. The year we become the change we want to see in this world. It starts with you and me doing one selfless act. Let’s make this the year that loving our neighbor as ourselves is the norm here in the River Valley. Let’s make selfless acts like Billy’s Johnny Sain, Editor an expectation instead of a novelty. johnny@aboutrvmag.com

DIANNE EDWARDS | founding editor JOHNNY SAIN | managing editor johnny@aboutrvmag.com BENITA DREW | advertising benita@aboutrvmag.com CHRISTINE SAIN | advertising christine@aboutrvmag.com KECHIA BENTLEY | columnist kechia@aboutrvmag.com MEREDITH MARTIN-MOATS | freelance meredith@aboutrvmag.com EMILY LANGFORD | freelance emily@aboutrvmag.com LYDIA ZIMMERMAN | columnist/accounting lydia@aboutrvmag.com LIZ CHRISMAN | photography lizchrismanphoto@gmail.com CLIFF THOMAS | illustrator maddsigntist@aboutrvmag.com CHRIS ZIMMERMAN | layout/design chris@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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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

Calendar of Events Feb 7: Raising the Roof fundraiser with proceeds benefitting the Russ Bus. Event will be held at Cross Fit 1509 E. Main Street Russellville from 7 p.m-midnight. Live music, food and drink available for purchase and silent auction. For more information contact billy@soapboxrevival.com.

Feb 7: Savor the Symphony Dinner for the Russellville Symphony Guild. 6 p.m. at Lake Point Conference Center. For more information contact 880-7523.

Feb 12: Wonder Boys/Golden Suns Basketball vs Northwestern Oklahoma.

7:30 p.m. at Tucker Coliseum on the campus of Arkansas Tech University.

For more information contact 964-0829.

Feb 13: Dover High School Band 2015 Dinner Dance fundraiser from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. on Dover High School campus.

Dinner menu is Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, salad, bread, drink and dessert. A night of Music and Dancing set to a 1940’s theme and musical style presented by the Dover High School Jazz Band. Tickets are $20 per person.

Seating is limited. For more information contact 331-4767 or 331-3814.

Feb 25: Free and Local: Small Business Marketing - #ATUSBTDC from 9 a.m. – noon at the Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce. Marketing approaches that are not only practical and low-cost, but also effective for any size business. Among the topics to be covered are marketing fundamentals, image development, customer service, online marketing, public relations, and other low-cost marketing methods. This fast-paced workshop provides ideas that any business can use right away.

Cost is $30 to attend, but Russellville Chamber of Commerce members can attend at no charge. Seating is limited and registration is required. For more information contact 356-2067 Feb 27: Free Frog Listening Workshop at Lake Dardanelle State Park from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. This classroom workshop led by Tom Krohn, Arkansas Regional Coordinator for FrogWatch USA, will teach you to identify all the frogs and

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toads in our area by their calls in the first session. Students will follow a Power Point presentation and learn to mimic the frog calls. For more information contact 890-7477.

Feb 28: Spencer’s Theatre of Illusion. The Center for the Arts on the Russellville High School campus at 7 p.m. For more information contact 498-6600.

March 6: Downtown Art Walk in Russellville Downtown from 6 p.m.- 9 p.m.

April 18: Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.

8:00 PM. ATU Campus in Witherspoon.

Pre-reception at 6:00, at Lake Point Conference Center.

*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 (866) 757-3282. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication.

February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

Harnessing Power and Spirit

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Story by JOHNNY SAIN | Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN

he young athlete standing next to me is an impressive physical specimen. His name is Jake.

Jake is an orphan from Indiana who now lives on a white-fenced ranch in Russellville, Arkansas. Tall and muscular, Jake has an unmistakable air of confidence surrounding him. He has a presence. Linda Rhodes-Utley, one of Jake’s trainers, pats his muscular shoulder as Jim Stamps talks about the athlete’s first race coming up later this year. “He’s so big I’m going to have his knees checked out before his first race,” said Jim. Though he’s an orphan, Jake’s lineage is known. His mother was also an outstanding athlete, and Jim is hoping that Jake inherited his mother’s speed along with another quality that’s not so easily measured.

Inside the stables, Jim is patting and admiring Jake’s outstanding physical form, noting areas of growth and potential. “Look at this. Just look at how he’s filling out in his hips.” The robust curve of Jake’s quadricep is where the power comes from, but Jim is pinning his hopes for Jake on the excellence of another particular muscle. “It’s all right here,” said Jim as he points to Jake’s massive chest. “He’s got to have a big heart.

When they did an autopsy on Secretariat, they found out that his heart was huge. He just had a bigger motor than other horses.”

Jim is right. Though Secretariat’s heart wasn’t weighed after his autopsy, It was estimated to weigh 22 pounds.

The veterinary pathologist performing the autopsy remarked that after thousands of equine autopsies he had never noticed a dramatic difference in size of horse

hearts until he saw Secretariat’s heart. The average weight of a horse’s heart is eight and a half pounds.

A big heart is essential both literally and metaphorically.

A large heart means oxygen starved muscles are replenished quicker resulting in better performance and winning runs. But Jim was also referring to something abstract.

Something unquantifiable. Did this horse have gumption?

Was there a competitive flame flickering behind Jake’s chestnut eyes? Would that flame escalate into an inferno with jockey astride and challengers on either side? That would remain to be seen. For now, Jake was learning about how his body reacted to the guidance of Linda along with her sister and fellow trainer, Cathy Rhodes. Jake’s story is just beginning. But if history is any indication, Jake is in capable hands. Jim Stamps knows a thing or two about racehorses and success. >>

February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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Jim and his wife of 49 years, Paula, have lived a life that would leave many envious. Beginning with his first solo flight at the age of 16, Jim, now 83, has spent about as much time in the clouds as on the ground. That inaugural solo flight from an airstrip at Arkansas Tech University led to Jim visiting every country in the world. Jim has piloted planes for politicians Bill Clinton, Barry Goldwater and Jimmy Carter. Mick Jagger asked Jim to fly over an island volcano so he could get a better view.

Jim flew a young starlet named Cameron Diaz from Ft. Lauderdale to Burbank.

Paula, a former flight attendant, hasn’t logged as many air miles as Jim, but has seen much of the globe at high altitude and met many interesting people. Jim’s distinguished career led to his 2004 induction into the Arkansas Aviation Hall of Fame where the inductee speaking just prior to Stamps was a World War II POW. “What do you say after you hear a speech from a guy like that,” said Jim. “I thought about how different our lives had been .” So when Jim took the podium all he could think to say was “It’s a long way from Pea Ridge, Arkansas.” Jim was referencing the Pea Ridge located just north of Atkins where as a boy two things always held his attention: competition and speed.

Race horses are perhaps the perfect combination of competition and speed.

Athletes in the purest sense, racing

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

thoroughbreds and quarter horses are groomed for the track from the time their hooves hit the ground. Jim bought his first racehorse in 1955. “I was too old to compete, and I like to compete, so I let someone else do it for me,” said Jim. “And

I’ve always liked horses. Ever since I can remember I’ve liked horses.” The horse, an animal built to run, an animal that in Greek mythology was given wings, is a worthy choice for Jim’s vicarious life. Physical attributes aside, the horse holds a special place in the hearts of humankind. Humans and horses have a unique, centuries old bond that forever altered the course of both species. And, like Jim’s statement about big hearts, the different elements of this relationship between humans and horses sometimes become blurry.

Cathy Rhodes, Linda’s sister, is now saddled up on Jake and cruising smoothly through the pasture as Jim and I discuss racing, horses, and the power of a big heart in both man and beast. As Cathy and Jake reach the far end of the pasture, a dip in the landscape obscures some of my view.

All that’s visible is Cathy’s torso and the upper third of Jake; it looks as if Cathy is gliding. The two move as one with barely a bobble. As I watch the seamless wave of energy transferred from ground-thumping hooves to rider, the word that comes to mind is efficiency. Jake’s movements are a study in efficiency, and when you couple that efficiency with Cathy’s expert riding skills it produces synergy: the interaction of elements that, when combined, produce a total effect greater than the sum of the individual elements. This makes it easy to see how another Greek myth was formed, that of the centaur, half man and half horse.

The fusion of raw power and intelligent guidance. A force to be reckoned with.

Precisely the relationship between Jim and his stable of winners over the years.

Jim and Paula’s track record speaks for itself. “We did real well. We used to win 30 or 40 races a year,” said Jim. Photographs of winning horses like Dianetomeetcha and Stamps One stack on top of one another on Jim and Paula’s dining room table. Jim reminisces about wins and lineages with a smile. A lot of the horses’ success can be traced back to Jim’s dedication. “I was senior at the airline then, so I could set my schedule around races and my son’s football,” said Jim. “I’m not saying I was better at training than anyone else, but I really

"Race horses are perhaps the perfect combination of competition and speed." took care of the horses. And if you take care of them they would take care of you.” Jim’s competitive nature was on full display in his training regimen, and it led to some revolutionary ideas in horseracing. It was just a little thing, but competitors look for any edge no matter how small. “I used to watch the tapes of every race, win or lose, and try to find ways to improve,” said Jim. “This was something that no one else in horse racing was doing at the time, but it made a difference.” Though Jim has passed horse training on to Linda and Cathy, he does so with reluctance -- he just can’t stay away from the stable.

Jim still does the afternoon feeding.

Outside the stables, in a large white-fenced paddock, a 10-month-old colt frolics in the cold January sunshine.

“We call him Big Mike,” said Jim. “We named him after our grandson in Florida. Mike, our grandson, set the school record the other day for weight lifting. He lifted 545 pounds. He weighs 276 pounds and he’s right at six foot, and he’s only 16-years-old.” Big Mike, the colt, is also large and strong for his age. Besides distinguishing size, Big Mike also sports twin bumps on his forehead.

“Our vet said he’s never seen another horse with bumps like that,” said Jim. The bumps, along with a rambunctious attitude on display most vibrantly when he kicked Jim (causing just a bruise) a while back, led Linda and Cathy to give Big Mike another name. “We call him Lucifer,” said Linda. Big Mike gives all outward appearances of owning a big heart, but he settles down as Jim approaches and leans over the white fence to stroke Big Mike’s nose.

The connection is complex. Jim is already harnessing that power and spirit, guiding what will likely be another winner into his stable of legends. l

February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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ABOUT...the River Valley | Every Day Life

And They Lived Happily Ever After...

Story by KECHIA BENTLEY Illustration by CLIFF THOMAS

Just what in the world is that suppose to mean? Does it mean no fighting, no crying, no slamming doors (that would be me, not him), no running away from home (again me, not him), no sleeping through your wife pouring her heart out (yep, that is him), no thinking we aren’t going to make it another year, no heartbreaks, no sorrows, no broken promises? Or does it, in fact, mean that in spite of all those things you are still standing after 30 years, hoping and praying for 30 more? I sure hope so because my 30 years of marriage have been gloriously messy as two imperfect people struggle to hang on with everything they have to the hope and love God has placed in us for one another.

We are a mess, but we are committed – not to an institution, just to each other.

So in case you are discouraged because your “Happily Ever After” doesn’t look like you thought it would let me share just a little of what “Happily Ever After” looks like in the Bentley house and see if you feel a little better.

It is Christmas morning. We are in a vacation home in Florida with all three of our boys, my oldest son’s fiancé and her parents.

This means there is company present and we need to be on our best behavior. After reading the Christmas story from the book of Matthew and saying a prayer of thanks for the gift of God’s son, we begin to open presents. (Now, let me stop the story for a moment and add that at this point in time my husband and I are just four days away from our 30th wedding anniversary. I believe that is more than enough time for my man to remember what I like and what I don’t like.) I opened a gift from Donald and it is from Bath and Body Works. This I like. The 12

ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

fragrance is Japanese Cherry Blossom. This I don’t like. As a matter of fact, I strongly dislike it and have declared so on several occasions in the past. So please just imagine my bewilderment as I stare at this gift. All the voices in my head begin to speak: He never listens. He doesn’t really even know me. He is an idiot. Yes, these are not nice voices. But remember, we have company and my children are there, so I keep my thoughts to myself and simply say, “Thank you, honey.”

Now, to be fair I must tell you there was another gift: a card that says a night at the Capital Hotel in Little Rock for our 30th wedding anniversary on December 29th.

This I like a lot. But that’s an anniversary gift not a Christmas gift, so I quietly stay focused on the absurdity of the first gift.

Over the next two days, before our return to Arkansas, I try really hard to be a big girl and not let my hurt feelings get the best of me. I kept rehearsing in my mind all the wonderful things about my husband and telling myself to let it go. I really thought I had succeeded in putting the gift episode behind me, but then came the car ride home.

Can a family have too much togetherness? Yes, yes I think they can.

Especially when that family time comes at the end of a long week of very late nights and holiday celebrations. And the aforementioned family time occurs in a 2002 Honda Accord packed with four adults for 16 continuous hours. At eight hours into this trip two things happened: We had all had enough of each other and

I took over the driving duties from my husband. By hour 14 we were in need of some serious family counseling. Granted, I am not the world’s best driver, but I swear if I heard, “You need to pull this car over now and let me drive,” one more time you would have seen us on the evening news.

Remember those voices in my head I mentioned earlier; well they were back in full swing by now. I could have written a book with everything my man has ever said or done wrong in the past 30 years! I still managed to have enough self-control to not let the thoughts become words – only because two of our boys were in the car with us. But boy was I building up an arsenal to use at a later date.

We all made it home, not really speaking to one another, but finally home and out of our confined space.

The following day, Sunday the 28th of December, the day before our 30th wedding anniversary, a day most people would have spent fondly reminiscing about their long ago wedding day, our blow up happened. I still had my panties in a wad over all the poor driving comments, and I just happened to be putting away the Japanese Cherry Blossom gift. I just could not be silent anymore. I stomp into the kitchen with bubble bath in hand and demand to know why in the world he would buy that for me.

Yeah, I know, I wish I was making this up, but sadly it is all true: bubble bath sent me over the edge.

Well, low and behold, he DID NOT buy it for me. He had asked our youngest

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son to pick something up for me at Bath and Body Works since he (Donald) didn’t have time. When Payton walked in with Japanese Cherry Blossom, Donald did not say anything out of fear of hurting Payton’s feelings by telling him I would not like it.

Yes, I know, it is very sweet of him to not want to hurt Payton’s feeling. But ladies, here is my question, why did he not pull me aside from the beginning and tell me? Knowing the full story only made me angrier. Why would he let me go for days thinking he had gone into a store and purposely picked out a gift for me knowing I hate it? Why would he let those voices in my head have a field day with my thoughts and emotions? OK, ok, I guess I can’t blame all that on him.

So here comes the 29th and 30 years of “Happily Ever After.” Except no one was

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really happy. I assumed our trip to the Capital Hotel was off. Much to my surprise Donald still wanted to go.

You see, there was a whole lot else the man had failed to tell me: one of the reasons he had run out of time to buy me a Christmas gift was because of all he was doing to try and make our 30th wedding anniversary perfect.

We get to the Capital Hotel, with me still pouting, and check into an amazing room. At dinner that night he gives me an opal necklace and earrings he had made for me. He picked it up that day from the jeweler. I was absolutely undone. He had given me an opal necklace and earrings as a wedding gift 30 years ago. This terrible, awful, inconsiderate man who couldn’t communicate his way out of a paper bag, and didn’t know a thing about me had just

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melted my heart all over again. After dinner, back in the room, he gives me a vintage opal ring that matches the necklace and earrings.

Oh my ladies, I am all in again. Not just because the gifts are beautiful but because he has taken so much time and care to show me how much he cherishes me.

I am the idiot! You know those days I spent thinking he didn’t know me or care about me were the very same days that he was plotting and planning to pamper me and shower me with gifts that he knew would melt my heart and bring back precious memories of a young 21-year-old girl that believed in “Happily Ever After”.

You know what? This much older woman still believes! Oh, it is way messier than I ever thought it would be. But, Dear Lord, if you could give me another 30 we might just get it right. l

February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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Bridal

SPECIAL FEATURE ~ 2015

Celtic

Bliss

Story by EMILY LANGFORD | Photos provided by BETHANY BLAIR

or many women, a wedding is something carefully considered from birth until her actual wedding day occurs and even years after that. As little girls, it is not uncommon to play pretend wedding, mentally preparing for the big day, celebrity crush always included, of course.

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

When it comes time for a woman to live this day out in reality, my hope is that the actual product surpasses her adolescent expectations of what “the perfect wedding” is. For Bethany Blair, recent bride and wedding expert, it is safe to say that is true.

On September 21, 2013, Bethany and Kevin Blair tied the knot at their unique, culturefilled ceremony, including influences from Scottish and Irish heritages.

However, before that, came two people who stumbled upon an “unexpected relationship.”

“We were both attending church at London First Baptist when we met. We started talking some at church and then he took me on our first date, which was hiking on Petit Jean, and it all went from there,” said Blair.

Staying true to the theme of “unexpected,” Kevin’s proposal was nothing short of that. “It was a Sunday

morning and I was getting ready for church when Kevin called to see if I had some Tylenol for one of my three stepdaughters.

When he showed up, I was in a robe, hair in a towel and he was in a suit and tie. I kept thinking ‘there is still an hour and a half before church,’ but he got down on one knee and read a poem he had written.

I said yes, crying, and then kicked him out so I could get ready,” recalled Blair. >> February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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When the wedding planning began, both Bethany and Kevin knew they wanted the wedding that they wanted. Both being previously married, a big, over the top wedding was not appealing.

“Part of getting to know each other was done talking about our heritages, so we decided that was important to us. He is Scottish and I am Irish,” said Blair.

After committing to a theme, things took off. “After we got engaged, we went to a Renaissance fair soon after where Kevin got a traditional kilt and I found a dress. Both of our outfits were from the same time period. Kevin’s kilt was Scottish and my dress was from the Highlands,” said Blair.

It is customary in their heritages for a man to take part of his tartan clothing and drape it over his bride’s shoulders, representing that he is taking her into his house. Per Scottish tradition, Kevin had a broach with the Blair crest on his kilt. “I had a matching broach with the Blair crest that was made for me, and was pinned on my tartan after it was given to me. I also wore bells around my ankles and wrists, which signifies long life and fertility,” said Blair.

All of Blair’s jewelry incorporated trees, which symbolizes “love of the land” and how everyone is connected.

“My sister was my Matron of Honor, Kevin’s best man was his good friend from church. Everyone in our wedding was family or we knew them from church. The bridesmaids wore simple, black dresses,” said Blair.

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

Other traditions included in the ceremony were tying of the bride and groom’s hands, known as handfasting. “The term handfasting, is from late medieval times, deriving from Old Norse: hand-festa, which means to strike a bargain by joining hands. The notion of a handshake comes from the old tradition of hand fasting; and even today, let us shake on it, can represent a vow of sorts. Similarly, handfasting, represents a commitment in context to a more intimate partnership.”

“I always had this romantic idea of riding my horse, Toba, down the aisle when I got married. I have had Toba since I was 16. Since my dad did not get to walk me down the aisle because I rode my horse, he tied our hands together and said a prayer,” said Blair.

Bethany and Kevin’s ceremony took place at a friend’s house and land on top of Crow Mountain. “The day before the wedding, it was raining and storming. That was the only time I really felt stressed about things. We decided to decorate the barn in case the weather did not cooperate. I took old sheets and ripped them into strips and hung when around the barn to cover everything up,” said Blair. Aligning with the culture of their wedding, the Blair’s had bells ring after their ceremony.

“A tradition we thought about doing is having guests actually bring cakes and stack them up. The bride and groom kiss over the cake. My mom made my cake, though. Making cakes was one of her first jobs. We chose to kiss over the traditional cake instead,”

explained Blair. Blair’s cake topper was hand blown glass, with a purple crown and a trinity symbol centered.

“Our flowers were a mixture of orchids, roses and wheat, all done by Cathy’s flowers. Wheat is a Scottish tradition. In my bouquet was lavender in the shape of a heart, with wire roses and orchids. My mom also used fresh orchids to decorate the cake,” recalled Blair. >>

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February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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ABOUT...the River Valley | Engagements

Save the Date!

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

~ February 28 ~

~ May2 ~

Emma Finch and Trey James

Hanah Winton & Chase Peek

~ March 14 ~

~ May16 ~

Kathryn Dicken and Alexander Lopez

Abbey Darnell & Kyler Lee

Kailey Wheaton & "Bo" Kyle James

Dawn Thomen & Ryan Timmons

~ March 20 ~

~ May 21 ~

Erin Marsh & Joey Brown

Hanna Crane and Kurtis Kulbeth

~ March 21 ~

~ May 23 ~

Rachel Storment & Caleb Jones

Jessica Virden and Dillon Hickman

~ April 11 ~

~ May 30 ~

Amanda Kimbrough & Will Farley

Brook Flippo & Colton Williams

~ April 14 ~

Alyssa Shaw & Matt Bradley

Photo by Benita's Photography

Dr. Ashley Mason & George Mallory, IV

~ June 6 ~

~ June 27 ~

~ April 18 ~

Taylor Eshnaur & Joshua Willis

Lindsey Branham and Matt Williams

Lauren Russell & David Robinson

~ June 13 ~

~ July 18 ~

Jill Van Es & Matt Gregory

Alisha Sears and Braden Carson

Morgan Newton & Clay Ramey

Katherine Wohlgemuth and Cole Smith

Kelli Couch & Mark Jelks

To have your engagement or wedding published in a future issue of ABOUT Magazine, send your information, photo* and a check for $57.50 to: ABOUT Magazine, PO Box 10176, Russellville AR 72812, or visit visit www.aboutrvmag.com/forms.html. Word count is limited to 225 words. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication. For additional information, call (479) 857-6791. *Digital files are accepted and will be published upon receipt of payment.

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

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“We kept it simple with food. Our cups were mugs, though, because it is customary for the groom to sprinkle ale over the bride, but we didn’t do that. We served punch,” said Blair. Also served were Blair’s handmade cream cheese mints in the shape of leaves.

During the reception, Blair’s brother and sister-in-law played the flute and guitar.

Family friends Hannah Branscum and Cara Gentry took all photos. “We spent our honeymoon in Hot Springs. The coolest part of our stay was definitely the outdoor shower,” said Blair.

Blair has done weddings on the side for years, for family and friends, and when it came time to plan her own big day, she took no shortcuts for making it perfect. “It was a lot less stressful planning my own wedding.

I also had the option when planning to do what I wanted; it was the wedding we wanted,” explained Blair.

For Blair, what came after the wedding is the best part. “I hope people can see the deep love and joy we have for each other and in each other. That love comes from God, and it is not something we expected. We did not expect to find each other and the joy that came with it. We enjoy spending time together, and occasionally, we still wear our wedding clothes on dates,” said Blair. l

When it comes to planning a wedding, Blair has a few tips for brides.

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Relax, do not let this be a stressful time.

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Have fun planning your wedding!

Buying tuxedos is not necessary, not everything needs to match and be huge and fancy. However, if that’s your dream wedding, don’t do the huge meal, give and take.

Figure out what part of your wedding is the most important to you, and spend the most money on that.

It will be hard, but do not listen too much to what other people want for your wedding. It is your day.

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Front Street, Dardanelle www.millyns.com | shopmillyns@aol.com February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

19

ABOUT...the River Valley | Valley Vittles

CAGLE'S MILL | 2407 North Arkansas Avenue, Russellville

Savor the Flavor Story by JOHNNY SAIN | Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN

Fast-food is “what’s for dinner” many times in our hectic lives. When we finally punch the time clock, pick Junior up from baseball practice and run by the pharmacy for allergy medication it just seems like too much effort thinking up a recipe, let alone actually cooking it. Sometimes, on the weekends, we enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, not fast-food, but we’re still stuck in a hurried mindset from earlier in the week. Maybe we’ve got other plans for the evening and don’t want to dawdle around eating. Maybe were on a date with our significant other and the movie starts in 45 minutes. We sure don’t want to miss the previews. So we set aside half an hour to eat and lightly converse, all the time thinking ahead to where we’re going to sit in the theater. But we need to slow down.

We need to savor the moment and the food, because good moments and good food are truly life’s greatest treasures. There is a meal, specifically, a particular cut of 20

ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

beef that begs you to slow down. It’s been hailed as the king of cuts and its very name means excellence. It’s called prime rib.

The “prime” in prime rib means best possible quality, top-rate, choice, superior, supreme. It means that every other cut of meat on a 2,000 pound bull is second-rate.

If you want to be known as a person of discriminating palate, you order the prime rib. If you want your significant other to know that only the very best will do for them, you buy them a prime rib.

I’m writing this from a man’s perspective, but delicious beef is no respecter of sex.

Ladies, if you love your man tell him to order the prime rib. When the prime rib is finally set in front of you, don’t rush to the knife and fork. Take your time. Spread the napkin on your lap, then look into your significant other’s eyes and note the gleam of joy, the anticipation of that first bite. Then, slice a hunk and admire the color. Relish the primal cravings. Chew

slowly and savor deeply. Now, talk with your significant other. There is no rush.

There is no hurry. It’s just you two, and you’ve got all night.

And where can you order prime rib in the River Valley? Glad you asked.

Cagle’s Mill has long been lauded for this tasty cut of red meat. They also have a bar with adult beverages and an upscale atmosphere to go along with a wellprepared prime rib. Sounds like a fantastic idea for a certain holiday coming up in the middle of February. l

February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

21

ABOUT...the River Valley | Countertop Creations

OAKLAWN RUEBEN 2 pcs marbled Rye bread 4 oz Corned beef, sliced thin 1 oz thousand island dressing 2 oz sauerkraut, cooked 2 slices swiss cheese

And They’re Off… Story by LYDIA ZIMMERMAN, Food Editor

W

hen I was a child, I remember listening to the live broadcasts of the horse races at Oaklawn Park and each race would begin with the sound of the bugle and those magic words.

These days, I wish I could magically say those words and the pounds that I gained during the months of November and December (also known as the “feasting season”) would just be off like the horses through the gate.

The first sermon of the New Year at our church started with listing the top New Year’s resolutions and of course losing weight was top on the list.

Some people do this by exercising more and eating less. Some do this by eating low fat. And some do it by counting carbs.

For those counting carbs, I have compiled some relatively easy, low carb recipes you can try out on your sweetie this Valentines Day. For a special treat, the good folks at Oaklawn Racing have shared with us a couple of their most popular, delicious recipes. Thank you so much to Ms. Belinda Castleberry and the chefs at Oaklawn for sharing the recipes with us.

As always enjoy!

22

ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

Butter 1 side of the bread lightly, place on a flat grill.

Add 1/2 oz thousand island to each side of bread.

Place sauerkraut on grill and heat thoroughly.

Place 1 piece of swiss cheese on each piece of bread.

Add hot sauerkraut onto 1 side. Steam corned beef until heated through and place on top of kraut.

Top with the 2nd piece of bread. Flip over to see if both sides are golden brown and serve.

OAKLAWN BREAD PUDDING 1 Gal milk 2 qt Easy eggs 2.5 lbs sugar 1 oz vanilla 1 1/2 loafs french bread, cubed 1 box (12-15 oz) raisins Blend milk, eggs, sugar and vanilla in a mixing bowl until all sugar is completely dissolved.

Cut bread into 1-2 inch squares. Add raisins to bread squares.

Add all liquid to the bread making sure all the sugar is dissolved and the eggs are blended.

Press down on the bread to soak up the liquid.

Bake in a convection oven at 250 degrees for approximately 2 hours.

Bake in a conventional oven at 275-300 degrees for 1 1/2 hours.

Yields 24 orders (servings) NOTE: The bread pudding recipe serves a large number of people. So you might want to cut recipe ingredient amounts down by 1/2 or 1/4 to serve a smaller crowd.

2 T apple cider vinegar 2 T low sugar ketchup salt and pepper to taste

CAROLINE BBQ MEATBALLS (LOW CARB AND GLUTEN FREE) 1 lb ground pork 1 tsp granulated sugar substitute (honey for Paleo) 1 tsp paprika (smoked if you have it) 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp black pepper 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper 1/2 tsp ground cumin 1/4 tsp celery salt 1 egg 1/4 c almond flour 1 T water For the BBQ sauce 1/4 c yellow mustard 2 tsp Frank’s Hot Sauce 1 T dried onion flakes 3 T gran. sugar substitute (honey for Paleo)

“MOCK” GARLIC MASHED POTATOES 1 medium head cauliflower 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup grated Parmesan 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic 1/8 teaspoon straight chicken base or bullion (may substitute 1/2 teaspoon salt) 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh or dry chives, for garnish 3 tablespoons unsalted butter Set a stockpot of water to boil over high heat.

Clean and cut cauliflower into small

Start the sauce first so the flavors have time to develop while you are making the meatballs.

For the sauce: Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan, stirring until smooth. Simmer on low heat for about 8 minutes.

For the meatballs: Combine all of the meatball ingredients in a medium bowl and mix thoroughly.

Form into 16 meatballs. In a large, nonstick saute pan, fry the meatballs over medium heat until golden on all sides and cooked through. About 3 – 4 minutes per side.

Toss the meatballs gently in the sauce, then spread on a parchment lined baking sheet

pieces. Cook in boiling water for about 6 minutes, or until well done. Drain well; do not let cool and pat cooked cauliflower very dry between several layers of paper towels.

In a bowl with an immersion blender, or in a food processor, puree the hot cauliflower with the cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, chicken base, and pepper until almost smooth.

Garnish with chives, and serve hot with pats of butter.

Hint: Try roasting the garlic and adding a little fresh rosemary for a whole new taste.

Recipe courtesy foodnetwork.com

of

George

Stella/

and broil (carefully!!) for 2 – 3 minutes.

This can be paired with “Mock” Garlic mashed potatoes (next recipe) Recipe courtesy of ibreatheimhungry.com

KEY LIME CRUSTLESS PIE 1 cup Whipping Cream 1 box sugar free Lime Jello 1/3 cup Splenda 2 - 8 oz cream cheese (softened) Heat whipping cream until very warm (do not boil). Stir in jello until thoroughly mixed. In a seperate bowl, combine cream cheese and splenda. Use less Splenda (1/4 cup) for a more tart flavor. Mix until smooth. Add cream mixture and beat until thoroughly mixed.

Pour into pie plate or individual serving cups. Chill for 2 hours.

Recipe courtesy of lowcarbfriends.com

“Every bride-to-be needs to create a bridal registry at Kitchen Essentials!

Wether you’re skilled in the kitchen or just starting to learn, there is something for every body. They have all kinds of goodies in various price ranges so there’s plenty to pick from. Also, the girls are so helpful and sweet. And don’t forget hostess gifts for all those showers - they’ve got you covered there too! Bottom line, it is essential to register at Kitchen Essentials, I’m SO thankful I did!”

~ Kelsey & Keith Duke (Married October 2013) 407 N. ARKANSAS AVE, CITY MALL, RUSSELLVILLE | (479) 280.1933

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK! February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

23

LOW CARB WALNUT BROWNIE CAKE WITH CHOCOLATE ICING Walnut Brownie Cake: 2 oz unsweetened baking chocolate 1 stick unsalted butter 4 eggs 1/4 c vegetable oil 1/4 c low carb sweetener 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp salt 1/2 c prepared sugar-free instant chocolate pudding (Prepared with one cup heavy cream and one cup water) 1/2 c sifted soy flour 3 tsp baking powder Chocolate Icing: 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese 1 stick butter 1 tsp chocolate extract 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1 c low carb powdered sugar 3 T cocoa powder 1/2 c walnuts - crushed Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and wax 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Melt butter and chocolate in bowl placed over pot of simmering water. In a mixer beat eggs and add oil, vanilla extract, low carb sweetener & salt. Add melted butter and chocolate to egg mixture and stir. Add prepared pudding and stir. Scrape bowl then add sifted flour and baking powder over mixture and mix in same.

Pour batter into 2 -8” round greased cake pans and bake for 30 minutes. Cool each cake.

Icing Preparation: Cream butter and cream cheese with wire whip until well blended. Add low

carb powered sugar and mix well. Scrape bowl with rubber spatula and add cocoa, chocolate and vanilla extracts. Mix until light and fluffy about one minute.

Take bottom of first cake and spread icing on top. Top with other cake and ice sides and top of same. Garnish entire cake with crushed walnuts.

Recipe courtesy of lowcarbfriends.com BACON WRAPPED CHEESE STUFFED ONIONS 4 Large Vidalia/Sweet Onions 4 oz Sharp Cheddar, shredded ¼ c Mediterranean or Jack cheese, shredded ¼ c Country Ham, chopped & cooked ½ c Fire Roasted Red Pepper, chopped 1 T Sweet/hot Jalapeno Peppers, chopped Salt & Pepper, to taste 4 T Butter, unsalted 4 slices Bacon, thick Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Cut off tops of onions. Scoop out the flesh, leave about 4 rings intact.

Combine cheese, ham, red pepper, jalapeno pepper, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.

Put 1 Tbsp of butter in each onion. Add cheese mixture to onions and wrap with bacon. Secure with toothpick.

Place each stuffed onion in aluminum foil, loosely, then close tight and place on oven proof pan.

Bake onions for 25 minutes. Remove from aluminum foil. Continue to bake for 15 minutes or so until bacon begins to crisp up.

Recipe courtesy of lower.betterrecipes.com

MEDITERRANEAN BROILED SIRLOIN STEAKS *1 1/2 lb sirloin steak, cut into 4 steaks *2 T sea salt *2 T ground black pepper *1 T Lowery season salt 2 T extra virgin olive oil 2 T butter 3 c fresh spinach leaves, coarsely chopped 1/4 c diced red onions 1/4 c diced tomato 1/2 c sliced mushrooms 1 T Oregano 1 T minced garlic 1/4 c crumbled feta cheese 1/4 c Italian bread crumbs *Dry steaks off with a paper towel.

Place a sheet of wax paper on a clean flat surface. Place steaks on wax paper and sprinkle each side of steaks with the sea salt, pepper and Lowery season salt. Place another sheet of wax paper on top of the steaks and using a rolling pin pound the steaks for 2-3 minutes.

This will make steak a little more tender.

Place steaks on a platter, cover with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for 6-8 hrs or overnight.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

Chop fresh spinach and place in a microwave safe bowl with 1 T of water and cover with plastic wrap. Microwave for 3-4 minutes. Remove from microwave and drain thoroughly. Set aside. Let cool, then add feta cheese and bread crumbs.

Heat 1 T olive oil in a Saute pan over low/medium heat. Add red onions, tomato, mushrooms, Oregano, and minced garlic.

Emeritus at Wildflower Choosing assisted living at an Emeritus Senior Living community will actually give your loved one greater independence. You will gain peace of mind knowing that they are nearby in a safe and comfortable senior living community.

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

Call us today to learn more about the benefits of assisted living for your loved one. We will be glad to arrange a private tour experience for you.

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Saute for approx 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat, let cool. Then add it to the Spinach mixture. Mix well.

Heat 1 T of Olive oil in a skillet (I use a cast iron) over medium heat. Place steaks in skillet and sear them 4-5 minutes on each side. Remove skillet from heat.

In same skillet, place 1/2 T of butter on each steak and let melt. After butter melted over steaks. Sprinkle each steak with the Spinach mixture.

Place in preheated oven on top rack and broil for approximately 8-10 minutes or until middle of steak reaches a temperature of 150 degrees using a meat thermometer (this should give you a medium rare steak). Cooking time will vary per oven performance.

ROASTED SALMON WITH PINK PEPPERCORN SAUCE For the Roasted Salmon: 2 1/2 lbs. Fresh Salmon Fillets (about 6) 1 T olive oil Salt and Pepper For the Pink Peppercorn Sauce:

3/4 c sour cream 1/4 c milk 1 T fresh chopped dill 1 1/2 T prepared horseradish 2 T pink peppercorns, plus extra for sprinkling 1/2 tsp honey 1/2 tsp salt Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet and brush with olive oil. Salt and pepper liberally.

Roast in the oven for approximately 12 minutes, until just barely cooked through.

Meanwhile, place all the ingredients for the pink peppercorn topping in a blender, puree until smooth.

Serve the roasted salmon warm, with a generous drizzle of sauce and a sprinkling of extra pink peppercorns.

Recipe courtesy of aspicyperspective.com

Recipes continued on page 37...

Capacity.

Features.

Dependabilty.

If only they folded your clothes too.

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Give your love the gift of music!

For Music & Voice Lessons: River Valley Music Center

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for New Students for the month of February! (can be used for gift certificates)

Your Life.

Your Home.

Your Independence.

Your AMCARE. Are you facing the realization that assisted living is a necessity, but don’t want to surrender the independence that comes with living in your own home?

If so, we at AMCARE want to help you understand all of the options available, including that of remaining in the place you know and love...your home.

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IN-HOME PERSONAL CARE

914 West B Street, Russellville (479) 880-1112 February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

25

A Natural State of Mind Story by JOHNNY SAIN | Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN

26

ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

J

essica Mae Simpson is a local artist in Russellville. Born and raised in Dover, she graduated from ATU with a fine arts degree and has had her work featured in shows since graduation. Her latest show, at the River Valley Arts Center, highlighted 13 pieces and was devoted to Arkansas outdoor activities. Many pieces of her art are currently on display and for sale around the River Valley. Penny University and The Wall climbing gym are two locations. The Natural State and its natural wonders hold a special place in Jessica’s heart. “My passion is to inspire art, but also inspire outdoor activities through my art,” said Jessica.

The work on display in these pages is from Jessica’s collection “The Natural State: An Ode to Arkansas.” On her website Jessica says, “The Natural State isn’t just representing our dear old Arkansas. It is a representation of a state of mind. Having a natural state of mind and being unified with nature is my goal for this collection.”

Besides the pieces in this collection, Jessica also does commissioned work. “One person really liked the painting with the blue kayak, but asked if I could do one with a red kayak because they had a red one,” said Jessica. “So I did.”

Jessica’s unique first-person perspective places the viewer in the action. Indeed, it is difficult to look at her work without feeling the itch to get outside, take a hike, swim in the creek or just laze the day away in a hammock.

Visit www.jmsimpsongallery.crevado.com to view more of Jessica’s work.

February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

27

Check Out Our NEW Gift Shop & More!

Serving the River Valley Since 1970

28

ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

(479) 968-1157 • 715 W. MAIN, RUSSELLVILLE, AR

jmsimpsongallery.crevado.com

RTV-X1120 Prices Starting at $14,000!

RC Kubota $36.99

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New Owners, Same Friendly Faces February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

29

ABOUT...the River Valley | Community and Events

Uaccm To Host Philander Smith Choir Feb. 5 The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton announces the Philander Smith College Choir as its special guests for Black History Month.

The choir will perform at a free community event in the Fine Arts Auditorium at UACCM on Thursday, Feb. 5 at 6:30 p.m.

There are no tickets for the event. Guests may seat themselves on a first-come, first-served basis after doors open at 5:30 p.m.

In the event of inclement weather, updates will be posted on the UACCM Facebook page and at www.uaccm.edu. For more information about this event, contact Mary Newsome by phone at 501-977-2044 or by email to newsome@uaccm.edu.

ENGAGE - MEN ENGAGING WITH GOD, THEIR WIVES, THEIR FAMILIES AND EACH OTHER

CO U

PO

N

The River Valley Men of Faith, a non-denominational group of local Christian men from different churches, will hold its second event on Saturday, March 7, at the Russellville High School Center for the Arts. Lineup of speakers include: CEO of Family Life Ministries and author of numerous publications and radio talk programs Dennis Rainey; former NFL quarterback, author, vice president and HomeBuilder Catalyst of Family Life Ministries Jeff Kemp; founder of Man in the Mirror Ministries, author Pat Morley.

Music will start the morning and afternoon sessions. Lunch on the grounds will be provided by Chick-Fil-A. Tickets are limited and must be reserved. $24 for students and $28 for adults. Jason Pederson from KTHV Channel 7 in Little Rock will MC the event.

Information, tickets and downloaded church resources can be obtained at www.rivervalleymenoffaith.org.

SAVOR THE SYMPHONY 2015

Savor the Symphony 2015 will be held at Lake Point Conference Center. Heavy hors d’oeuvres, assorted beverages and an open bar will be available for the guests starting at 6 p.m. A Mediterranean inspired steak dinner, prepared by Chef Bruce Trefery, will follow at 7:30. After dinner, guests can bid on items and sign up parties donated by supporters of the Symphony in a silent auction. The center of the room will be dedicated to highlight and feature art work by local artists. Tables by local merchants will also be featured. Tickets are $60.00.

Doris Lawrence and Mary Davis will co-chair the event, and it is hosted and organized by all the board members on the Russellville Symphony Guild board. Ann Squyres is the president of the board.

New this year will be a raffle, with a prize of $1,000. You do not have to be present to win, and the drawing will be the evening of this event. Tickets are $5.00 each or five for $20.00, and may be purchased at the door the evening of the event or pre-event from any board member, Goldmasters & Crown Antiques and Wells Fargo. Funds generated from the raffle and Savor The Symphony will be used to bring the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra to Witherspoon on the ATU campus on April 18, 2015. The funds

SWIM ALL YEAR!

LondonL School of Aquatics Join us this March in celebrating our 10-Year Anniversary with Giveaways and Special Deals all month long!

in the store with this coupon $1.00 OFF anything from March 1st thru the 31st, 2015!

2621 West Main Street • (479) 498-2884 ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

A

Aerobics $10 per class London School Pool Rental (up toof15 people) $75 hr Aquatics 4-Student Group Lessons $75 per session Private Classes starting at $75 a session www.londonschoolofaquatics.com 505 Georgetown Rd. • London, AR

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Celebrating 10 Years of Healthy Living!

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The Philander Smith Collegiate Choir will perform at the UACCM Fine Arts Auditorium February 5 in celebration of Black History Month.

O

(479) 747-2029

CITY MALL • RUSSELLVILLE (479)968-3001

will also help to promote music education in our schools, and music scholarships awarded to students.

For more information, please call board member Judy Murphy at (479) 967-1177.

RSD COUNSELORS WORK WITH ARKANSAS TECH CLL

Fifteen counselors representing each campus in the Russellville School District are engaged in an ongoing series of professional development workshops offered by the Arkansas Tech University Center for Leadership and Learning.

The workshops began in November, at which time the participants established the beliefs, vision and mission of counselors in the Russellville School District, discussed the goal-setting process and studied the American School Counselor Association national model.

Suzanne Knowles and Roger Palmer of the Arkansas Department of Education joined the counselors for their second 2014-

15 professional development workshop at the Arkansas Tech CLL on Monday, Jan. 5.

Knowles is a public school program coordinator and Palmer is a public school program advisor for the Arkansas Department of Education.

The Jan. 5 workshop also provided counselors with an opportunity to draft goals for 2015 and incorporate elements of the American School Counselor Association model into their comprehensive plans.

Arkansas Tech CLL faculty members Dr. Christopher Trombly, department head and assistant professor of educational leadership, and Dr. Pam Dixon, assistant professor of school counseling and leadership, are facilitating the workshops.

“The first of the year is a very hectic time for school counselors,” said Dixon. “We applaud you for your willingness to make time for yourselves, the school counseling profession and ultimately the students you serve.”

Counselors participating in the professional development workshops

include: Robin Johnson of Center Valley Elementary; Tracey Skaggs of Crawford Elementary; Jennifer Fuller of Dwight Elementary; Kathy Steffy of London Elementary; Jullie Kirkpatrick of Oakland Heights Elementary; Ellen Hefner of Sequoyah Elementary; Mary Ann Tallent of Russellville Upper Elementary Fifth Grade; Cindy Chaffin and Leigh Anne Forehand of Russellville Middle School; Tamara Laws and Amy Warrick of Russellville Junior High; Beverly Osborn of the Russellville Secondary Learning Center; and Chris Arnold, Andrea George and Donna Gwaltney of Russellville High School.

The Arkansas Tech CLL provides Master of Education degree programs in teaching, learning and leadership, educational leadership and school counseling and leadership as well as an Educational Specialist degree in educational leadership and a forthcoming Doctor of Education degree in school leadership. l

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479-968-2929

Mahindra EMAX 22 Gear Tractor and Loader Cash Price: $12,250*

* With approved credit. Program restrictions may apply. See dealer for details.

Taxes and fees may apply. See Dealer for Details. Offer good through 2/28/15 † All offers expire July 31, 2014.

YELL COUNTY GIN COMPANY South 2nd St. • Dardanelle • 479-229-4841 February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

31

ABOUT...the River Valley | Backyard Living

Read more from Meredith at www.boileddownjuice.com

The Boiled Down Juice

A Beautiful Mystery

Story by MEREDITH MARTIN-MOATS Photo by JOHNNY SAIN

We were somewhere between Conway and Maumelle when that astronomy class so many years ago. I think I can speak for my son asked, “Where does outer space lead to?” It was around both my husband and myself when I say it was one of those 8:30 at night, and there were few cars on the interstate. Out moments when you realize how inadequate your understanding the windows empty fields stretched in each direction and really is. In the end our answers came down to that frequent thousands of stars filled the sky. Our other two children had parental confession: “I don’t know.” already drifted off to sleep. As per usual, our middle child (only As my children grow older and ask increasingly complex a minute younger than his twin brother) was fighting sleep by questions, I find myself saying that phrase a lot. But I am usually asking the deep, existential questions. able to follow it up with, “let’s look it up!” But this time I had the We had spent the previous few days in Yell County, and were pleasure of explaining that even those who study space don’t know headed back to Little Rock. Stars were on the brain. The night exactly what lies beyond. With the universe always expanding the before---far away from the light and noise of the city---we’d beyond is still being created. We let the silence and the weight looked up at fuzzy clouds of stars overhead, trying to pick out some of I think I can speak for both my husband and myself when I say the constellations we’d been reading it was one of those moments when you realize how inadequate about in an old book I’d found about your understanding really is. In the end our answers came space. My sons are often taken aback down to that frequent parental confession: “I don’t know.” by what they perceive to be more stars hanging over Dardanelle. My husband and I explained how the of the question hang in the car, a “beautiful mystery” as we like same stars are also overhead at our home in Little Rock; we to call it in our home. I’ve always encouraged my sons to find just lose sight of them in the glow of so many streetlights. I felt hope in the unknown. After all, even with our advanced scientific dizzy that night looking up into the deep expanse. I remembered exploration (something for which I also teach them to have how, as a child, I used to love to take a flashlight and shine it up great respect), there are limits to our understanding. I’ve always into the sky, baffled that the light never found something upon operated under the conviction that a reciprocal relationship with God can’t be built upon an evasion of mystery. It wasn’t long after which to land.

As we drove toward home we talked about the solar system that he drifted off to sleep and my husband and I turned our adult and the theories of an expansive universe. We talked about conversations toward more earthly topics like world affairs and rocket ships and gravity and orbits and, per request, we talked plans for the following day. about ideas of heaven and the mysteries of life after death. I dug There are a lot of decisions I’ve made as a parent that I later deep into my brain to try to pull up what I could remember from question. And I’m thankful each day for the opportunity for a do32

ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

over from the day before. But our bedtime rituals aren’t in that list.

Over the years I’ve learned that connecting with children around bedtime is one of the more magical parts of the day. As they drift toward sleep they lose their shields, employing their growing vocabularies to ask questions that would baffle even the elderly.

I’ve always seen this to be such an act of bravery on their part.

As humans, being able to lay down in the night, in the stillness of our bodies, and look into that which we don’t understand isn’t for the weak of heart. As a parent I try to give space to this process and stick around whenever they want me near. My gut feeling is that encouraging this contemplation will likely serve my kids well as they grow into adults attempting to navigate a world filled with injustice and complexity. I welcome the chance to tell my children there is so much I don’t understand. Most importantly I feel these moments are one of the many ways in which they’ll learn to develop a relationship with things they cannot see.

Oh don’t get me wrong. It’s not as if every bedtime is a peaceful, mystical exploration of life’s greatest questions. In their fatigue sometimes they’re extra grumpy and fight about how their brother’s foot bumped against their foot or how they want the pajamas their brother picked out first. Sometimes they fight sleep by requesting yet another glass of water or arguing with their brother about who the blanket belongs to. In other words, it’s not all magic and mystery. I don’t think these are specifically

childhood traits but rather human ones. After all, how often do we adults find ourselves thinking, even talking about, the importance of human connection, brotherhood and sisterhood of humanity, only to get sidetracked into speculating on the worth of another human’s heart just because they spoke to us with a tone we didn’t like. It’s not as if kids have secured the market on being petty. In the end, we’re humans with human brains and human bodies. We get sidetracked. But sometimes, whether we’re fifty or five, we manage to cut through it all and reach toward something beyond ourselves. There is something about the darkness that encourages this reach. I want my children to feel unafraid in that balance.

A few more miles down the interstate, nearing the lights of the city, it occurred to me that I’d been so busy trying to answer my son's questions that I hadn’t offered him the chance to explore his own thoughts on the matter. When we got back into town and he began to wake back up I asked what he thought. “Where do you think it leads to?” The moment had passed. He was groggy, and he didn’t really have much to say on the matter. But I’m glad I asked.

I know he’ll file the question away, knowing that there is room in this world, and in this family, for his own ruminations. He’ll sit with them as he goes about his days and they’ll likely resurface some evening when he’s staring at the stars, or the ceiling of his room, making his way toward rest. I look forward to learning from his ever-evolving answers. l

February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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ABOUT...the River Valley | Community Commerce

Joshua's Fine Jewelry 310 West Main, Downtown Russellville | (479) 968-3117 www.joshuasfinejewelry.com Story by EMILY LANGFORD | Photos by JOHNNY SAIN

Not every family that gets to play together and work together, but for the owner of Joshua’s Fine Jewelry in Downtown Russellville, Chris George, and son Nathan, store manager, that is their reality. Chris George began Joshua’s in 1994, naming it after his late son, Joshua. When a supplier encouraged him to go out on his own, Chris took the opportunity and has not looked back or slowed down since. The original store was located at Valley Park Centre mall, where business was conducted for 10 years until moving to the heart of Russellville in 2004.

“Since being in this location, we have built a really strong relationship with Downtown Russellville, and I have served on several of the merchant boards,” said Nathan. Such ties to the

community led the father-son duo to being large contributors to the founding of Russellville’s famous Art Walk. “Art Walk has been very beneficial to local businesses. Being able to tell a business owner that they are going to have 300 people in their store, on this date, for this amount of time, for three hours, is great,” added Nathan.

Joshua’s is a place that truly sees people through the good, bad, big and small. “We meet people at the happiest and most nervous moments of their lives. But, we are also with people during the harder times in life,” said Nathan.

For Nathan, the people are the most important and certainly come first. “We do business ethically. We make sure our products are not made in unethical ways. That is important to us because I think people have a hard time trusting the jewelry business, and the best way to combat that is to be completely open with everything you do, and I feel like we have done that,” explained Nathan.

It is evident that Chris and Nathan are a team and complement

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

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each other. “It is important for us to reach out to my generation because we are graduating college, getting full-time jobs and doing things aside from our parents. It has been helpful for him (Chris) to allow me to make decisions that reflect that. It is beneficial to have two viewpoints, one of tradition and one of technology,” said George.

Joshua’s has taken strides to stay on top of technology. With software that allows customers to customize pendants and rings. “This allows people to see a product being made in front of them. The younger generation wants something that no one else is going to have, the same way celebrities do, and that is what this is about, complete customization,” said Nathan.

This process could potentially be intimidating to a man searching for the perfect engagement ring, but have no fear, Joshua’s is on Pinterest, and if you plan on being engaged, you need to be too.

“When a guy comes in and doesn’t know what kind of ring to buy, the first thing I ask is ‘does she have a Pinterest account?’

If she does, we search for rings she likes and create one like it,” said Nathan.

Joshua’s is one of those businesses you would see in an old time, black and white television show. They want to know you by name. They want to serve you like family. Additionally, everyone who works at the store is “family in one way or another.”

So, why should you buy from a local jeweler instead of a chain store? Nathan sums it up in one quote by John Ruskin: “There is hardly anything in the world that some man cannot make a little worse and sell a little cheaper, and the people who consider price only are this man’s lawful prey.” “You get what you pay for, we can match any price that anybody has for like kind goods,” added Nathan.

If you are looking for a comfortable experience, and a place where good business means more than an exchange of money for goods, you can’t do better than buying from the George family.

For more information, please visit their Facebook page listed under “Joshua’s Fine Jewelry,” or call 479-968-3117. l

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February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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ABOUT...the River Valley | Outdoors

Read more from Johnny at www.aviewfromthebackroads.com

Ozark Witch Hazel The Arkansas woodlands look mostly barren in February. Somber grays and browns are interrupted only by the evergreen pines and cedars along with twining honeysuckle vines in the creek bottoms. The viridescent forest is still a month away. Even the serviceberry, one of the earliest bloomers with its snowwhite blossoms, won’t be showing off until March. But if you look closely along the creeks draining the highlands you’ll notice a very early – or very late, depending on your point of view – bloomer. The wine and saffron colored flowers blend in surprisingly well with the late winter woods. The shrub with the subtle blossom has an unforgettable name, though. It’s called Ozark witch hazel.

Ozark witch hazel blooms January through March. The pictures in this article were taken mid-February. This is odd timing for a flowering plant. There aren’t many pollinators out and about in winter, and bloom times are guided by the symbiotic relationship between pollinators 36

ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

and flowering plants. But southern winters, even winters like the one we experienced last year, are sprinkled with warm days.

Rarely more than a couple weeks go by that you don’t see small bees, flies, moths or even a butterfly here in the south.

Because winter pollinator visits are often spaced widely apart, the Ozark witch hazel holds on to its blossoms for several weeks.

Probably also due to its need to attract the sparse numbers of winter pollinators out and about, the flowers are quite fragrant.

They’ve been described as smelling like honey and vanilla. My olfactory powers aren’t that discerning. After a big whiff the word that came to my mind was simply “sweet.”

Witch hazel gets its name from the use of its branches in the old art of water witching.

The branches would dip or twitch when the dowser, or water witch, walked over an underground water table. This method was also supposedly used to find minerals, oil and even unmarked gravesites. The “witch” part of the name is said to come

Story & Photo by JOHNNY SAIN

from the Middle English word “wych” or “wiche,” depending on which (see what I did there) etymology you believe, and it means pliable or bendable. Of course “witch” may also be a nod to the magical powers believed to be held in the plant for both finding water and healing the body.

Most of us have seen witch hazel in a bottle at the store, but the medicinal uses of this shrub stretch back to when only Native Americans walked in the New World. The extract from witch hazel is an astringent and anti-oxidant used for a wide range of skin issues and injuries.

Another interesting aspect of this plant is the way it distributes seeds. When the seed capsule reaches maturity in the fall, it forcibly “spits” the seeds sometimes as far as 30 feet. Though I’ve not tried them, I’ve read that the seeds are edible and taste like pistachios. So if you’re hiking along an Ozark stream this autumn, and get a hankering for pistachios, finding a fix is simple. Just listen for the sound of a spitting shrub. l

...cont. from page 25 SOUTHWEST BACON STUFFED CHICKEN 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast 2 T olive oil 1 medium tomato (I used a Roma since they are often less expensive) 1 small yellow onion 1 medium green pepper 1 medium yellow pepper 1/2 c roasted crushed red peppers 1 1/2 T fajitia seasoning/mix (I used McCormick) 1 c colby/jack shreadded cheese 4 T crumbled bacon or real bacon bits 2 T Miss Dash Southwest Chipolte seasoning 2 T melted butter Pepper, Salt and Lowery Season Salt for sprinkling Cooking spray Heat oven to 400 degrees.

Cut the chicken breast in 1/2 long ways, so when cut each chicken breast will make 2 thin chicken breasts. Lay out a sheet of parchment paper on your countertop and place chicken breasts on top. Cover chicken breasts with another sheet of parchment paper. Pound with a rolling pin to tenderize and flatten chicken to desired thickness. I like about 1/2-3/4 inch thick.

Chop up tomato, onion, green and yellow peppers. Heat olive oil in a saute pan, then add chopped vegetables and roasted crushed red peppers. Stir together in pan and sprinkle fajita seasoning on top.

Saute for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.

Then remove pan from heat.

Prepare a 9 X 11 baking dish by spraying with cooking spray and sprinkling with pepper, salt and Lowery season salt (desired amount).

Melt butter in a small bowl.

Lay each pounded chicken breast flat in the prepared baking dish. Brush a thin layer of melted butter on the inside of each chicken breast. Then place 1 T of cheese, 1 T of crumbled bacon/bits, 1 tsp Miss Dash seasoning and I T of sauteed vegetables on one end of chicken breast and fold the chicken breast over. Do this with each chicken breast. Sprinkle any remaining cheese, seasonings and vegetables on top of chicken breasts.

Cover baking dish with foil and place in preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes (depending on your oven).

Serve while still hot. You can add a dollop of sour cream on top when you serve it if you desire.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH QUINOA PILAF 4 c peeled and cubed butternut squash 6 cloves garlic, minced 1/8-1/4 tsp crushed red pepper 5 tsp olive oil 1/4 c sliced almonds 2 c cooked quinoa 1 T snipped fresh sage 1/2 tsp salt Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. In a large bowl combine butternut squash, garlic, and crushed red pepper. Drizzle with 2 teaspoons of the oil. Stir until the squash is evenly coated. Spoon into a 15x10x1-inch baking pan. Roast for 30 minutes, stirring

once and adding the sliced almonds for the last 4 to 5 minutes of roasting.

In a large bowl combine quinoa, the remaining 3 teaspoons oil, the snipped sage, and salt. Stir in roasted squash and almonds.

If desired, garnish with sage leaves.

Recipe courtesy of diabeticlivingonline.com CRACKER BARREL COUNTRY GREEN BEANS 1/4 lb cooked bacon,chopped (approx 4 slices) 3 (14-oz) cans whole green beans with liquid 1 tsp granular Splenda 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp pepper 1 small onion, chopped In a 2-quart pot, cook the bacon until browned but not crisp. Do not drain the grease. Add the beans and liquid, Splenda, salt and pepper. Sprinkle the onion over the top of the beans and don’t mix in.

Cover and bring to a light boil. Simmer 45 minutes. Adjust the seasoning, if needed.

Recipe courtesy of genaw.com l

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On a Personal Note Barefoot Strong Guest Written by Nikki Graybill

We all can learn and benefit from barefoot training.

Here are some exercises you can do at home before work, school, practice or workouts.

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Most of you reading this have probably never heard of the benefits of barefoot training and why it is so important. Within the last few years shoe manufactures have created all types of minimalist type shoes to market barefoot running and minimalist training. If you think about it, our feet take us wherever we need to go. They contain 52 bones, 66 joints, 40 muscles, and hundreds of sensory receptors, tendons, and ligaments collectively forming two of the body’s most beautifully efficient mechanisms.

Our feet may be small compared to the rest of our bodies, but they play an important role in our entire body. It’s about time that we got to know them! Every step we take starts with our feet and translates through our kinetic chain: ankles, knees, hip, and lower back.

Jumping straight into minimalist shoes from high supportive shoes is not the way to go. Just like every other muscle in the body, it takes time to build a strong, solid foundation. Progression is key. For anyone who has experienced severe foot pain, one might be scared to walk barefoot or even think about exercising barefoot. To build a strong foundation means retraining our feet, and that begins with education. Allowing your feet the freedom to walk around without shoes allows for natural movement, flexibility, and mobility.

Wearing continuously high arched shoes over time, limits mobility and weakens the muscles in the foot.

Weak muscles in the feet and lower leg can cause plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and other imbalances throughout your body.

We all can learn and benefit from barefoot training. Here are some exercises you can do at home before work, school, practice or workouts.

1) Toe Fan: Lift and lower your toes. You want your pinkie toe to rise to the same level as your big toe. Repeat 4 times. Then, on the lift, spread your toes as wide as you can 4 times. This exercise will strengthen the muscles in your front lower leg compartment (shin) as well as your toes. Increased strength and flexibility in your toes can lead to a stronger push-off for runners/ walkers and better balance.

ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2015

2) Great Toe Down: Leave all 10 toes up. Press just the big toes down and up. Then do the same with the pinkie toes. Then alternate big toes and pinky toes. This exercise develops smart neuromuscular connections (reconnecting) with your feet. Smart feet are the base of a strong, healthy kinetic chain, and can lead to greater function all the way up the body.

3) Rock Out: Rock onto the outer edge of your foot and then the inner edge a few times loosening up the ankles. This flexible strength exercises for the ankles may lead to a reduction in ankle injuries.

4) Doming: Grip the ground with your toes and release. (Grip it rather than curl the toes under.)

This exercise stimulates the movement of the arch lifting (called “doming”).

Since 2009 I have incorporated barefoot fitness & barefoot training in my overall fitness routine.

I have personally seen the benefits of barefoot fitness. Throughout high school sports I always seemed to roll my ankles due to weak ankle support and being extremely flat footed. Within the last three years I have noticed an increase in muscular strength within my arches and ankles.

I am not considered flat footed anymore, which is pretty great if you ask me. This proves that the exercises really do work!

Beginning a foot fitness program is simple.

Be patient with your body and allow for natural progress. Start out by simply being barefoot more often around the house and notice the way your feet feel on different surfaces. Massage your feet and do the exercises above on a daily basis.

Before long, you will start noticing the benefits of barefoot training.

I wish you well on your journey to healthy feet, mind, and body!

(All exercises above have come from the “SoleTraining” program at www.willPowerMethod. com) (Foot fitness sources come from the willpowermethod.com & vibramfivefingers.com)

Nikki is certified through The willPower Method®, which is the original foot fitness program. As a group fitness instructor, she teaches a class called Willpower & grace® at Sole2Soul located in downtown Russellville. Soul2Soul also provides Yoga, Pilates,and BarreFusion all offered as barefoot style classes. For more information about barefoot training, please stop by the studio or email us at sole2soular@gmail.com.

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This one full day and one half day of fully guided duck hunting trip for two is perfect for the outdoorsman! One day the hunt will be in South Arkansas and one day the hunt will be in North Texas. Both hunts are private and will be situated on some of the most prestigious hunting lands available in the area. This package will include a store credit to A-1 Pawn so you can get any hunting accessories you have had on your wish list and a two night hotel stay.

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SAVE THE DATE 02/28/15 February 2015 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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