ABOUT | February 2014

WHO IS THIS GUY NAMED ROBB?

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley February 2014

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Russellville School District Providing the BEST for Every Child

Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics (STEM) RSD is committed to making sure our students have the opportunity to excel in areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics before they reach college and the workplace.

Students can participate in: • Science curriculum beginning in Kindergarten • Engineering and robotics courses beginning in junior high • The first biomedical program in Arkansas and the sixth such program in the nation.

• 14 STEM courses

The Arts RSD believes fine arts programs play an important role in the overall success of a student.

By participating in the fine arts programs at RSD, students are learning skills that will continue to assist them in the classroom, throughout college, and in their future careers.

Students can participate in: • Theater productions • Choir and band concerts • Oakland Heights Elementary STEPS dance program • Student Talent Shows • Fine arts classes • AP Music Theory classes

College & Career Preparedness

Co-Curricular & Extracurricular Activities

RSD provides opportunities for students to excel in classes that prepare them for their future, whether that future includes a college degree or career technical training.

RSD believes that students should also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of cocurricular and extracurricular activities in addition to their academic courses.

Students can participate in: • 30 hours of concurrent college credit • A variety of Pre-AP and AP classes • Environmental and Spatial Technology (EAST) classes beginning in junior high • Gifted and Talented (GT) programs beginning at the elementary level

Students can participate in: • A variety of clubs and organizations, including Forensics, Outdoor Club, and Science National Honor Society • Choir and band • 12 athletic programs

RSD believes that students must be exposed to a wide variety of learning experiences, a firm grounding in the basics, and courses and educational opportunities that encourage them to be creative and adaptable. At RSD, this is accomplished with innovative science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programs, a commitment to the creative arts, preparation for college and career, and a well-rounded instructional program in all academic areas.

220 West 10th Street n Russellville, AR. 72801 n 479.968.1306 n www.russellvilleschools.net

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February 2014 8 Who is This Guy Named Robb?

He sits in his home recording studio as we talk casually. Although I have heard him sing and play his guitar many times, there are many things I realized I didn’t know about Robb McCormick.

12 Every Day Life

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Late for the Sunset: A Wedding Story

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Countertop Creations

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A Common Thread with the Past

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Meggan Schuemann met Kaleb Dickey when they were both working at Kroger in Russellville. When they first crossed paths back in 2007 they both were in other relationships and working different shifts in separate parts of the store. Over time they both became single and Meggan was eventually transferred to Kaleb’s department. The rest is history.

Sewing has been a survival tool for eons.

According to Archaeologists, Stone Age people used antler or ivory needles and thread made from animal parts to stitch together hides for clothing and shelter. But it wasn’t until 400 B.C. that the development of yarn and woven fabric ushered in the age of hand sewing.

32 Backyard Living

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

Cristina M. Clark, M.D. OB/GYN

William Sosebee, M.D. OB/GYN

Shuja Rasool, M.D. Cardiologist

Eric Graham, M.D. General Surgeon

Ahmed Athar, M.D. Michael Hromanik, M.D. Orthopaedic Surgeon Interventional Cardiologist

Nathan Nielson, D.O. Family Practice

Matthew Patoka, M.D. Family Practice

Fauzia Qadir, M.D. Family Practice

Heath Stacey, M.D. Plastic Surgeon

Michelle Ang, M.D. Family Practice

R E G I O N A L

Kenneth Meacham, M.D. Urology

H E A L T H

S Y S T E M

A PAGE FROM

The Editor’s Notebook

ABOUT

the River Valley

Ready or not it's 2014

A Publication of One14 Productions, Inc Vol. IX, Issue 1 – February 2014 Owner/Publisher: Chris Zimmerman

Many of us were expecting flying cars and a colony on Mars by now. I thought for sure I’d have a lightsaber before 2010.

We are 43 years away from the date of my birth, but that world seems much more distant. To use another Star Wars reference, it was a long time ago in a galaxy far far away. It was a time when kids stood up in the front seat of cars with no thought of seatbelts.

I remember making a few fishing trips to the river while sitting in a lawn chair in the bed of Dad’s 64 Chevy pickup (gasp).

Track and field training at Atkins Junior High School consisted of frequent runs to the top of Crow Mountain; a run that usually turned into a nature walk for me as I identified birds, caught lizards and listened to the wind. I was never an athlete, but I’ve always been a nerd.

We rode our bicycles to baseball games. I rode my bike to Lake Atkins, a distance of about four miles, when I was 12. The entire town and countryside was wide open as long as I told Mom when I’d be home and then followed through with that promise.

Similar examples of life in days gone by were experienced by the majority of ABOUT readers, but can any of you imagine letting your kids do those things? I can’t. My parents did, though. And they were those strict “because-I-said-so” type of parents; probably just like yours.

Time moved slower back then. Of course, my perspective was different. I remember an afternoon in the sixth-grade, glancing out the window toward the pond and then back at homework as the words “six more years” tumbled out of my mouth. It felt like a prison sentence. Who knew those years would slip away so quickly.

So here we are. We can wax nostalgic and lament all that has changed, or we can face today for what it is, realizing that even with all this change there is so much good. The River Valley is a place where strangers still wave at one another in passing, where neighbors sit on front porches over a glass of sweet tea, where folks know that family and friends are the most important components of a life well lived. Combine this heritage of hospitality with benefits of living in our modern age and what you’re left with is a good place and a good time to be alive.

Folks in the River Valley have forged the old with the new in ways that accentuate both.

Johnny Sain, Editor And that makes us, as a community, very 479.857.6791 fortunate. 2014 is here whether we like it or johnny@aboutrvmag.com not, so in with new. But let’s keep hanging on to some of that old, too.

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 CONNIE LAS SCHNEIDER | freelance connie@aboutrvmag.com MEREDITH MARTIN-MOATS | freelance meredith@aboutrvmag.com LYDIA ZIMMERMAN | columnist lydia@aboutrvmag.com STEVE NEWBY | photography stevenewbyphotography@aboutrvmag.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.

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

Inquiries may be made by calling (479) 857-6791.

Office: 220 East 4th Street Email: johnny@aboutrvmag.com Postmaster: Please send address changes to: SPPI, P.O. Box 10176, Russellville AR 72812.

One14 Productions, Inc. assumes responsibility for the production, content and financial obligations of ABOUT...the River Valley magazine. Silver Platter Productions, Inc. shall no longer be involved with, or be responsible for the production, content or financial obligations of ABOUT...the River Valley magazine.

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

Newby

479. 880.1006

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about | February 2014 Calendar of Events Feb 1- Savor The Symphony at Lakepoint Center for the Arts on the Russellville High Conference Center. The Russellville Symphony School campus. 7 p.m.-9 p.m. For more Guild fund-raiser event, begins at 6:00 information contact 498-6600. p.m. with appetizers and beverages. For more Feb 15 - Arkansas Tech University Golden Suns information contact 967-1177. vs. Henderson State at Tucker Coliseum. 2 Feb 8 – Arkansas Hospice 10th Annual p.m. For ticket info contact 968-0337.

Sweetheart Saturday. Hughes Community Feb 15 - 3rd Annual Polar Plunge/5K for Area Center in Russellville, 1p.m.-3p.m. For more 17 Special Olympics Lake Dardanelle State information contact 498-2050 Park. Registration starts at 8 a.m. For more Feb 8 - Eagle Tour on Lake Dardanelle. 10 information contact 264-4831 a.m. - 11 a.m. Meet at the boat dock near Feb 14-16 – Hikes, Hearts and Hugs weekend tournament weigh-in facility. These tours are at Petit Jean State Park. The event’s highlight weather dependent. For more information is a romantic “sweethearts candlelight contact 967-5516. dinner”. Reservations required, admission is Feb 12 - Revamp Your Resume Resume Writing free except for Sweethearts’ Dinner. For more Workshop 3:00-4:00p.m. Arkansas Tech information contact 501-727-5441 Russellville Campus, Doc Bryan room 242.

Feb 22 - Charity Ball presented by Junior For more information contact 356-6206.

Auxiliary of Russellville at the Boys and Feb 13 - Russellville High School Band concert.

Girls Club of the Arkansas River Valley.

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Theme for the 2014 children’s benefit ball is “A Night with Gatsby.” For more information contact 501-626-7070 Feb 28 & March 1 – New York Times bestselling author Lysa Terkeurst “Unglued No More.” At First Baptist Church of Russellville. Feb 28 doors open at 6 p.m. March 1 doors open at 8 a.m. Purchase tickets online at www.fbcruss.org or call 968-1316.

*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 2014 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

Who is This Guy Named

H

Robb?

Story by EMORY TYSON MOLITOR | Photos by STEVE NEWBY

He sits in his home recording studio as we talk casually. Although I have heard him sing and play his guitar many times, there are many things I realized I didn’t know about Robb McCormick.

On the surface you might see a laid-back, hippy teddy bear of a guy, but throughout our conversation, I found that he is much more than just Some Guy Named Robb.

EMORY: Who came up with the name, Some Guy Named Robb?

ROBB: I was in Altus playing at Kelt’s, and someone called to ask who was playing music that night, and the bartender looked at me, scratched his head and said, “Some guy named Robb.”

It stuck.

E: What are your musical influences? Which artists inspire you?

R: I certainly jump around [from artist to artist]. The first song I remember loving at a young age was “Stand by Me” by Ben E. King.

I wore the grooves out on that record. There’s this sustained feeling that makes you want to melt into that song. Paul Simon and Sting are some of my favorites. In fact, my wife, Jeri, and I are going to see them together in concert for our anniversary. U2, The Cure, and Bach’s “Air in G” come to mind. I remember listening to “Air in G” in choir with Mr. Townsend at RHS. I was instantly drawn in by the long, sustained note that begins the piece; similar to the feeling I had with “Stand by Me.”

The Police’s Synchronicity molded me. My mom gave me that CD, and when I asked her why she chose that CD, she said, “They were called The Police, so I thought they couldn’t be too bad.”

I’ve been influenced by everything I’ve ever listened to; even current songs on YouTube and the radio. My song, “Everybody Blames You,” is inspired by Eminem. I have vinyl, CDs, tapes. My CDs are my friends. I like to look at the cover art and read the notes.

E: When did you know you wanted to be a musician?

R: I’ve always liked music. I was working for my dad at the furniture store [McCormick Furniture in Russellville], the book store, the Picwood and Bailey’s Grill. The world stopped and said, “If you’re going to do this you’re going to have to do this now.” And I quit all of those jobs.

Financially, I definitely went into the hole before I figured out I could teach lessons to support myself. I would go to gigs with Ben Smith two hours away and make $25, which basically covered the gas to drive there and back.

February 2014 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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E: Who taught you to play the guitar?

R: A guy named Dale Gilke who worked at the furniture store. He taught me songs like REO Speedwagon’s “Take It on the Run.” I also took lessons from James Prim for about a month. I wasn’t a great student. After that I taught myself. I also took piano at age five for about six months and from Vicky Kiehl at ATU. I really dig the piano.

E: Tell me about your latest album, 7.

R: 7 was the first album I recorded in my house. If you can afford the equipment, you can produce the same kind of album as they record in a studio these days. “Something Beautiful This Way Comes” was written for a friend whose wife left him. It was meant to be an uplifting message to him.

“Homeless” is this song I struggled with for a while. Why am I really writing this? I think that’s the first line, “This doesn’t make any sense.” My mom passed away about 6 years ago in February.

This song is from my Dad’s perspective.

“Lullaby” was written to my daughter. The life insurance policy for your kids is that you want to leave them “you.” “Lullaby” is a guide to choosing someone you can live with for the rest of your life. It’s a really intimate album.

“Stop Pleasing the World;” God gave me that one. I really like “Ain’t No Love.” It’s kind-of this anthem toward both the church and the world. It’s challenging.

many things I wanted to do differently. I just wanted to say, “I’m sorry.” I honestly started talking about the situation. People have really connected to it. When you write about yourself, you risk being transparent and vulnerable.

E: What is your process for songwriting?

R: It begins with an idea. I’m looking at a playlist for the next album. One is called “The Stars” and it’s kind of autobiographical.

It’s about a guy who gets into music and is offered record deals.

“If You’re Cold” began as an idea. You build up an idea of what’s important to you, and you realize it’s the person [not the idea] who’s important to you. If we can build something up in the listener’s mind and then just tear it out, it makes an impact. “The Sinking of the USS America” is an analogy of how America is going downhill in a lot of ways. It goes down through the social classes on the ship levels from top to bottom.

The ship sinks and we have to find some place to be.

We were praying for the kids one night, and I started “Laughter and Tears.”

“Rambling Man” is a country song. Instead of running into the Devil at the Crossroads like in lots of stories, he runs into God. It’s a work in progress.

Lyrics start with a point I want to get across. Sometimes I’ll start with the music, jamming on the piano or the guitar; I’m trying to get a feel.

Once I put it out, I give it about a year before I want to hear it again.

"I feel loved by my community.

That is success to me."

E: What do you hope people will say about your music? What feelings or reactions do you aim to inspire?

R: I think most musicians, including myself, just want to connect.

“What do you Think, Christine?” [on the album, 7] is about a girl I was once engaged to. Looking back on it, there were so 10

ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

E: How far does your fan base reach?

R: Facebook gives me stats. There are fans from India to Australia, Alaska and Africa. I’m not very big in Russia or Jamaica, but I’m the U2 of Bangladesh.

E: Other than playing guitar and singing, what do you love to do?

R: [I like to] hang out with my family, be outdoors in Colorado. I love traveling; seeing things I haven’t seen.

"I love my family, and they know if they need me, my guitar is firewood."

E: Family is obviously very important to you. You are married with a young son and daughter. How do you share your love for music with them?

R: I don’t force music down anyone’s throat. I don’t let it come between us when I’m having a good time with my kids. I live life first then write about it later. If you’ve got a family, that’s where you ought to be. I want to drink in this time with them while they’re young. Music is a wonderful expression, but you have to live life. I like it when I play a new song and put the guitar down. Then 5 or 10 minutes later I hear them singing it like little mocking birds. Then I know it’s a good tune.

I love my family, and they know if they need me, my guitar is firewood.

E: In addition to writing, recording and performing, you also teach guitar lessons and lead worship at Fellowship of Christians.

How do all of these pieces fit together?

R: Sometimes I’m performing in a bar at 2 a.m. and then at worship practice at 7 a.m. I don’t sleep much. I get a few hours here and there. Life takes control.

The line between secular and Christian is very thin. I feel like what I’m meant to do is honor God wherever I am. I do a lot of crossovers. I’ve done Pat Benatar’s “We Belong” in church.

In March I’m going on a trip to England with my guitar. My pastor, Wayne Drain, has a relationship with some churches over there. It’s a sharing of what the spirit’s doing all over the world.

I’m going to play music for worship while I’m over there, and then

I’m going to do some free shows and see how people respond. I’ve never been, so I’m curious. I’d like to see Big Ben and the River Thames. I’d like to go to South Hampton Dock where the Titanic docked.

I don’t normally enter contests, but when friend after friend sent me a link to the Song of Arkansas songwriting contest on Arkansas.com, I wrote and entered a song about Arkansas. If I am chosen to be in the top five, you can all vote for me in February.

E: I’ve noticed that you frequently give your time and talents back to our community. In addition to your church, F.O.C., what are some of the organizations and events you care about helping with your music?

R: There are a lot. Some that come to mind are the ATU Wesley Foundation and Age to Age, Grace Fellowship, Fellowship Bible Church, First United Methodist Church, Manna House, The Crossing, the Pancreatic Cancer benefit, Relay for Life and Main Street Mission.

It is our duty as artists to give our gift we’ve been given. The reason God has blessed me with his gift is that I am willing to give that gift back. It seems we have lost the art of giving. When kids ask me, “How do I do what you do?” I tell them, “Have an anchor in giving.”

I feel loved by my community. That is success to me.

The music of Some Guy Named Robb can be found on iTunes, Facebook: www.facebook.com/sgnrobb, and http://someguynamedrobb.homestead.com/ Upcoming live performances: Feb 14 at Gusano’s in Little Rock—9 p.m.-1 a.m.; Feb 17 at Russellville High School—Poetry and Songwriting; March 14 and 17 at Gusano’s in Conway—7-10 p.m.

February 2014 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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ABOUT...the River Valley | Every Day Life

Relationships Strengthen with a Good Pluckin' Story by KECHIA BENTLEY | Illustration by CLIFF THOMAS

Right before I fall asleep at night, I write the most amazing stories in my head.

As sleep takes over, I tell myself, “I will write it all down in the morning.” Then, when morning comes, I can’t remember all the witty phrases and sentences I wanted to use to tell my story. I remember the topic, but it is just not the same. No matter how many naps I take during the day trying to re-create the memories, they just won’t come. Oh, the sacrifices I make for a story!

The last one I wrote in this semi-conscious state was really funny. It was about plucking my husband’s eyebrows. The whole story begins with a conversation I had with my sister-in-law over the Christmas holidays.

We girls had all gotten pedicures and something was said about more and more men getting manicures and pedicures these days. All the Bentley men in the room scoffed at that idea. This led into the conversation my sister-inlaw and I had about how our husbands had not really changed despite all our valiant efforts throughout the years.

We joked about trying to make them more stylish and better mannered. We have failed. We joked about trying to make them better communicators. We have failed.

Now the men wanted to argue with this point, saying they are in fact better communicators now than when they were first married, it is just we women are never satisfied. They could be right about that, but we wouldn’t concede the point at that time.

Now, during my middle of the night version of this story, I had a great seque into my husband’s present-day grooming habits -- which includes my plucking his eyebrows. I can’t remember it so you will just have to trust me that it was really funny.

For those of us who are bit older, we know full well that there comes a time when hair takes on a mind of its own. It begins to grow wild and in places it does not belong. I, of course, stay vigilant and pluck these mavericks as they appear.

My dear husband was of the impression that they should be left alone to express themselves wherever they wanted. It took a great deal of persuasion

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

on my part to even get near his eyebrows with a pair of tweezers. After much pledging, I was finally permitted to pluck a few hairs from his eyebrows that had absolutely gone wild.

You would have thought we were preparing to cut off his ear.

As I would approach his brows with the tweezers he would say, “wait, I am not ready.” After about three times of this “wait” game, I went in for the kill.

From the reaction my husband had to the plucking of a single rouge eyebrow, one can categorically conclude that he would never survive childbirth. To his credit, he did let me pluck the two or three more crazy hairs, but each pluck was accompanied by yelping, moaning and thrashing about. Each pluck was also accompanied by my uncontrolled laughter.

The first plucking occurred at least two years ago, and I am happy to report that today my husband will actually ask me to check his eyebrows. The scene in our bathroom during this grooming ritual is even funnier now than it was two years ago -- because now my eyesight is not what it used to be. It actually does look like I might be preparing to cut his ear off.

We turn on every light in the bathroom. I get a high power flashlight. I put on my magnifying eyeglasses.

I position Donald just right on the stool to maximize the light on his forehead and then I begin. The one thing that hasn’t changed in all this time is he is still a poor candidate for childbirth. The yelping, moaning, and thrashing are not as acute, but he still has to take a minute or two break between each pluck.

I shared the details of this ritual with a girlfriend one time and she said, “You know you don’t have to pluck the hairs you could just trim them.” I had never really thought about that but she was right.

You would think between two college-educated adults, my husband and I could have figured that out by ourselves.

My husband has still not figured it out because I never shared that conversation with him. It is much more fun to pluck those babies out than to trim them.

Besides, now there is a sneaky little hair that thinks it can hide in his ear. But it is no match for me and my high powered flashlight.

After all these years, I have conceded the fight on the communication front and resigned myself to the fact that we will have the same, “you just don’t understand me fight” for the rest of our marriage.

On the grooming front, however, I have made great progress, and in some odd way, I think it has strengthened our marriage. You see, I feel much better about our communication problems after I have plucked his eyebrows.

Could it possibly have something to do with the amusement I get from all his yelping, moaning, and thrashing about? I think it could.

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Bridal

SPECIAL FEATURE ~ 2014

Late for the Sunset: A Wedding Story Story by MEREDITH MARTIN-MOATS | Photos by TRYSTON HINES (courtesy of Meggan Dickey)

Meggan Schuemann met Kaleb Dickey when they were both working at Kroger in Russellville. “I worked in the produce department and he was manager of general merchandise department,” she recalls. When they first crossed paths back in 2007 they both were in other relationships and working different shifts in separate parts of the store. Over time they both became single and Meggan was eventually transferred to Kaleb’s department. “I thought he liked me, but I was playing really hard to get because I didn’t want to date a manager,” she laughs.

She found herself equally interested in Kaleb but wasn’t ready for another relationship. “I was in nursing school at Arkansas Tech,” she recalls.

“And it was real hard. I just wanted to focus on that.” But he kept pursuing her, noting that he admired her dedication to her future career. After turning him down multiple times, she says, “finally I said I’d go out.”

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

Throughout our conversation Meggan frequently refers to Kaleb as her “best friend,” the person she can count on when she comes home from her long hours and stressful work as a labor and delivery nurse at Saint Mary’s Hospital. She talks about their love story with a great deal of humor and openness, unafraid to laugh at the less-than-perfect events of both their engagement and recent wedding.

“He had always said that he was planning an extravagant proposal,” she explains. But she wasn’t really drawn to the idea, preferring something simple and private. “But I had actually given up on the whole idea we were going to get married, she laughs. “I thought we would date forever.” Over time they both bought their own houses and continued dating, often discussing marriage but making no definite plans.

On New Year’s Eve 2012 they were working in her kitchen and preparing for friends to come over. “I opened the fridge,” she recalls, and “he grabbed my arm and kind of twirled me around and said, “baby I love you,”” she recalls. “I said, “I love you too,”” she explains. “He said, I want you to be my wife.” But she says this didn’t really take her by surprise as this was a conversation they had often. “I know you do,” she said and tried to get back to her work preparing for the party.

But he didn’t end the conversation, she explains.

February 2014 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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“He said, “no, right now will you marry me?”” Elated by the proposal, she immediately said yes, called her family, and they spent the evening celebrating. “I love to entertain so it was really neat that he ended up proposing in my kitchen,” she recalls.

Meggan and Kaleb both call the River Valley home. She was born and raised in Russellville and graduated from Dardanelle High School. He was born in West Memphis and lived in Louisiana before moving back and graduating from Atkins High School.

Meggan graduated with her B.A. in nursing from Tech in 2009 and Kaleb plans to graduate this year with a BA in mechanical engineering. They married this past fall in a wedding ceremony that reflected their love of family history and the region’s beauty.

Meggan says they originally wanted an outside wedding but knew the weather could become an issue. So they decided on a sunset wedding in the pavilion at Lake Point in London, Arkansas where they planned to incorporate the setting sun in the ceremony.

Drawing on an autumn theme, the flower girl carried leaves down the aisle and trees lines the pavilion.

“I knew what I wanted my bridesmaids to wear,” says Meggan, “but I couldn’t find it it anywhere.” So she printed photos of dresses online and visited with seamstress Betty White, owner of Perfect Seams in Russellville. Meggan and White sat down with the images and discussed what they liked about each, creating an original pattern with a latte lace overlay and stain underneath.

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

Meggan’s own dress was a vintage selection she picked up at Danielle’s in Clarksville, an ivory mermaid gown with sweetheart bodice and light gold lace appliqués. Crystals and pearls adorned the dress, which also featured a chapel length train. A birdcage veil and vintage hair clip completed her ensemble. To complement the off whites, browns, and fall colors of the ceremony, she carried a bouquet calla lilies, tulips, ranunculus, and hydrangeas with touches of baby’s breath and dusty miller. Two handkerchiefs that belonged to her great grandmother were incorporated into the bouquet’s design.

“I knew I wanted to really incorporate a lot of family heirlooms as far as the reception went,” Meggan recalls. So Joe Turner of Cathy’s Flowers in Russellville helped them decorate with heirloom lace table clothes, milk glass and crystal. Lighted candles lit up the tables, and the meal was catered by Lake Point Conference Center.

There were about 175 people in attendance, including family and friends who came from Chicago, New York, and Florida.

The 4-tiered wedding cake was topped glimmering crystals, pearls, and rhinestones taken from jewelry owned by the bride and her mother. The groom’s three-tried cake was a rich butter cake with deep brown chocolate frosting topped with chocolate covered strawberries. Music was provided by Central Arkansas Entertainment and guests enjoyed dancing throughout the evening. At the end of the evening they released Chinese lanterns onto Lake Dardanelle.

Like most wedding stories, the details of what the bride wore or a description of the reception don’t really convey the overall feel of the event. Meggan laughs as she recalls the glitches and hilarious “hiccups” that punctuated their wedding day. The bridesmaids’ dresses were being prepared down to the wire, with the last one finished the day of the ceremony. During the pre-wedding photo shoot Meggan recalls catching a glimpse of dog Bacci, who was to be included in some of the wedding photos, go running into the lake after one of his toys was accidentally thrown too far.

But the real surprise came when Meggan began to realize the actual wedding ceremony wasn’t’ starting as planned. “I knew that I had been standing there for a while, recalls Meggan, growing suspicious that something had gone wrong. “The Maid of Honor knew what was going on," she explained, “but was afraid it would stress me out.” I was afraid he’d backed out, Meggan recalls.

What Meggan didn’t realize was just moments before the wedding was to start Kaleb patted down his suit and realized he’d left the wedding ring back home in Pottsville some fifteen miles away. With only ten minutes before the wedding two of his groomsmen headed off in their jeep to fetch the ring. But a breakdown in communication led the wedding director to believe the groomsmen were just headed back to the on-site lodge for the ring. So he told the guests the wedding would proceed within a few minutes. Once she realized what was happening, Meggan

tried to catch the groomsmen and suggest they use someone else’s ring for ceremony. But by then they were already in route.

Meanwhile the groomsmen made it back to the house but couldn’t figure out how to open the safe where Kaleb had placed the ring. By this time it was growing later and their plans for a sunset wedding were disappearing. Meggan and Kaleb decided to go ahead and start the ceremony, sending the wedding party down the aisle, in hopes the groomsmen would return before the ring ceremony began. A few of the ushers stood in for the missing groomsmen allowing the wedding to proceed as planned. Just as Meggan was about to walk down the aisle the groomsmen returned with the ring walked arm and arm down the aisle, and took their places at the front of the gazebo.

Once the laughter died down, Meggan began her – VENUE – walk down the aisle, an act, Lake Point she says “mirrored” her life.

Conference Center “My parents are divorced,” – PHOTOGRAPHY – she explained. “My dad left Tryston Hines when I was 19 and it was – CAKES – just me and my mom.” So Michelle Mayer she asked her father to walk FLOWERS: her from the lodge to the Cathy's Flowers pavilion. At the pavilion she met her mother and they held – ATTIRE – Danielle's Bridal hands and walked down the aisle. “My dad waited at the end of the aisle for us and then I took both of their hands and they both gave me away,” she says.

The wedding ended up being forty minutes late, Meggan explains, laughing about how their original plans included the sunset. When asked if the last minute change of plans put a damper on the ceremony, she quickly responds. “I’m a very laid back person,” she says. “I used to stress about things, but my job has really changed me a lot….I realize now what’s important to stress about and what won’t matter the next day. So I really remained calm through every little hiccup,” she says. “I was happy,” she says. “Who cares that it started a little bit late? When I realized it wasn’t him backing out I was just happy that I still had my groom,” she laughs.

February 2014 | 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 1 ~

~ May 3 ~

Sarah Wright and Britt Schluterman

Stacy Baldwin and Jason Pollack

~ March 8 ~

~ May 17 ~

Macey Morgan & Justin Hayden

Megan Brunetti and David Lensing, Jr.

~ March 15 ~

~ May 23 ~

Jennifer Moore & Jay Winters

~ March 22 ~ Sarah Brixey & Joshua Sperry

~ April 5 ~

Paige Griffin and Caleb Bubbus

~ June 14 ~

~ May 25 ~

Amanda Gordon and Brandon Weaver Kirsten Sordelet and Daniel Bell

Megan Moore & Phil Brick (25th)

~ May 31 ~

Amanda James and David Osborne Joanna Newburn and Ryan Newton

Janey Jacimore & Jacob Gatling

~ April 12 ~

Hannah Ulrich and Ryan Jones

Katie Goodwin and Ross Harvell

~ April 26 ~ Nicki Zimmerman and Jacob Unruh

Allie Pipkin and Jacob Sparks

~ June 7 ~ Jillian Colten & Steven Walker

~ June 28 ~ Cendyl Carter and Jordan McGowan

~ July 20 ~ Laura Safdie & Kyle Taylor (20th)

~ August 30 ~ Marisa Reasoner and Dr. Forrest Bale

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.

“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 Duke (Married October 2013) 407 N. ARKANSAS AVE, CITY MALL, RUSSELLVILLE | (479) 280.1933

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

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Obtaining the License By now you probably are receiving more advice about marriage than you’d like.

However, this is one piece of information you’ll definitely appreciate before you and your intended purchase your marriage license – you’ll need cash or a check before you can obtain that important piece of paper!

Before you and your bride-or-groomto-be may marry, you must purchase a marriage license from the County Clerk’s office. In Pope County, that office is located in Suite 6 of the Pope County Courthouse, 102 West Main in Russellville. Office hours are 8-4, Monday through Friday.

The cost of a marriage license in Pope County is $60. (Fees may vary slightly per county so it’s best to call for specific information.) And, payment is accepted by cash or check only. Debit or credit cards are not generally accepted.

The document (license) you receive allows you to officially become a couple.

Rules for obtaining a marriage license will

vary from state to state, so be sure to know exactly what laws apply by checking with the clerk of the court’s office.

There is no waiting period in Arkansas but both the prospective bride and groom must appear together to purchase the license. You are required to present a government-issued photo id. Social security numbers of both parties are required.

There are no tests required to obtain the license but anyone under the age of 18 must have the consent of the custodial parent(s) and documentation is required. If you have been married previously, proof of dissolution of marriage (divorce) also is required.

Receiving a marriage license does not mean you are married. The license you are issued is valid only in Arkansas and good for a period of 60 days. You must have a clergyman or justice of the peace sign the license and submit it back to the County Clerk’s office within 10 days of the marriage in order for it to become official.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, contact the following offices: Pope County, County Clerk, Russellville, (479) 968-6064; Yell County Clerk, Dardanelle, (479) 229-4404; Johnson County Clerk, Clarksville, (479) 754-3967, and the Conway County Clerk, Morrilton, (501) 354-9621.

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www.joshuasfinejewelry.com February 2014 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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ABOUT...the River Valley | Community and Events

Junior Auxiliary announces 2014 Charity Ball Junior Auxiliary of Russellville has announced that its 2014 Charity Ball will be held on Saturday, February 22, at the L.V. Williamson Boys and Girls Club in Russellville.

The theme for the 2014 children’s benefit ball is “A Night with Gatsby.” Tickets are $70 per person or $130 per couple.

Junior Auxiliary is a national nonprofit organization that represents an endeavor on the part of women to be active and constructive community participants and to render charitable services which are beneficial to the general public, with particular emphasis on children.

The award-winning Russellville chapter is one of 102 chapters in the national association. Junior Auxiliary of Russellville members provide more than 3,000 hours of service per year.

Junior Auxiliary projects include “Lunch Buddies,” in which JA members provide support to local elementary students, and “Milk and Cookies with Santa,” which brings area children together in a celebration of the holiday season.

JA also supports local teachers through

Front row left to right: Christie Graham, Valerie Enchelmayer, Chair Elizabeth Latch, Chair Yanci Walker, Jennifer Samuels, Amy Whitlow; Back Row left to right: Meggan Dickey, Danielle Housenick, Emily McIllwain, Jessie Hogan, Jill Fields

Teacher Assisted Grants. The TAG grants provide opportunities for teachers in the Russellville School District to fund innovative projects for their classrooms.

In addition to annual projects, Junior Auxiliary provides volunteer assistance to a number of local organizations. For several years, JA has partnered with Big Brothers and Big Sisters to provide a celebratory event for the Big volunteers and their Little counterparts.

The majority of the projects and grants

provided by the Russellville Junior Auxiliary are funded by the chapter’s annual Charity Ball.

For more information, contact Chrtistie Graham, public relations chair, at 501-6267070 or cgraham@discoverrussellville.org.

Out of the Darkness Campus Walk

Turning Point Adult Behavioral Health at Saint Mary’s and the Arkansas Tech

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

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University Student Wellness department are partnering to start an Out of the Darkness Campus Walk on the Arkansas Tech campus. The walk is scheduled for April 12, 2014. Corporate sponsorships are currently available. A sponsorship will support the nation’s leading non-profit organization dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research, education and advocacy as well as reaching out to people with mental disorders and those impacted by suicide. Donations are tax deductible. Sponsorships include your company’s name and logo printed on the back of the official walk shirts. Verbal recognition at the event and mention in the follow-up newsletter are also included in higher levels of donation. The deadline to sponsor is February 28.

Teams are encouraged to start organizing and raising money to walk on April 12th.

To register for the walk please go to http://www.outofthedarkness.org/, select Campus Walks and find the Arkansas Tech University Campus walk. If you would like more information please contact Tonya Gosnell at 501-680-0055.

Vidovic to offer classical guitar performance at Arkansas Tech

Internationally-acclaimed musician Ana Vidovic will perform the third annual concert of the University Classical Guitar Series at Arkansas Tech University on Tuesday, Feb. 4.

The concert will begin at 7 p.m. in the Doc Bryan Student Services Center Lecture Hall. Admission will be free and open to the public. The event is sponsored

by Dr. John W. Watson, Arkansas Tech vice president for academic affairs, and the Arkansas Tech Department of Music.

A native of Karlovac, Croatia, Vidovic has performed internationally since the age of 11. At 13, she became the youngest student to attend the National Musical Academy in Zagreb, Croatia. She later graduated from the Peabody Conservatory at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Md. Vidovic has earned first place prizes in classical guitar competitions in England, Italy and Spain. She has given more than

1,000 public performances on a total of four continents since first taking the stage at the age of 7 in 1988.

For more information about Vidovic, visit www.anavidovic.com.

10th Annual Sweetheart Saturday

Arkansas Hospice’s 10th Annual Sweetheart Saturday will be Saturday, Feb. 8, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Hughes Community Center, located at 1000 East Parkway Dr., in Russellville.

Local food vendors, bakeries and restaurants will supply a selection of sweet and savory treats for everyone – including dieters. Silent and live auction items donated by area businesses will be available

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for bidders. Proceeds from Sweetheart Saturday will benefit the Arkansas Hospice River Valley Home, a start-of-the-art, eight-bed inpatient center serving citizens of Conway, Johnson, Logan, Perry, Pope and Yell counties. Thanks to tremendous community support, the Arkansas Hospice Home recently completed its second year of caring for terminally ill patients. By attending Sweetheart Saturday, you will help Arkansas Hospice carry on its mission of enhancing the quality of life for those faceing terminal illness in the River Valley for years to come.

Tickets for Sweetheart Saturday are $10 per person and may be purchased from the Arkansas Hospice Russellville office at 2405 East Parkway, Suite 3 or by calling 479-4982050. Tickets also will be available at the door.

For more information, please like our page at www.Facebook.com/ArkansasHospice, visit our main website at www.arkansashospice. org or call 479-498-2050. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.

Arkansas Hospice is a community-based, non-profit organization.

Nolan Richardson To Speak At UACCM

The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton announces its guest speaker for Black History Month, former Arkansas Razorback basketball coach Nolan Richardson, Jr. He will speak at the Fine Arts Auditorium of the UACCM campus Thursday, Feb. 6 beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Richardson is the only basketball coach to have won a championship on every college level including the 1979 National Junior College Tournament, 1981 National

NOLAN RICHARDSON

DR. RICHARD COHOON

Invitational Tournament and the 1994 NCAA Tournament.

After spending 17 years at the University of Arkansas, he now has aspirations of coaching on the NBA level. Richardson served as the head coach of the Panamanian national team and was named the head coach of the Mexican national team.

Richardson’s motivational speaking has him booked year-round where he brings his special brand of overcoming the odds to thousands around the country.

In celebration of Black History Month, this free event is open to the public; however, it is a ticketed event. Free tickets can be picked up at the Student Accounts window in the University Center at UACCM, 1537 University Boulevard in Morrilton. Tickets are limited to four per person and will be available 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. on weekdays through Feb. 5.

People who live outside the Morrilton area

may call 501-977-2044 until 4:30 p.m. Jan. 31 to make arrangements to receive up to four tickets by mail.

Ticket holders must be seated on the day of the event by 6:15 p.m. At that time, empty seats will be open to anyone without a ticket on a first come, first served basis.

For more information about this event, contact Mary Newsome by phone at 501-9772044 or by email to newsome@uaccm.edu.

Cohoon authors “Geologic Road Guide to Scenic 7 Byway”

Copies of a new publication authored by the longest-serving faculty member in Arkansas Tech University history are now available.

Dr. Richard Cohoon’s “Geologic Road Guide to Scenic 7 Byway” is a booklet that was made possible in part through a faculty research grant from Arkansas Tech and services from the Arkansas Geological Survey.

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

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Students, faculty, staff, alumni and interested members of the community are invited to pick up one of a limited number of free copies in the Arkansas Tech Department of Physical Sciences inside McEver Hall at 1701 North Boulder Ave. in Russellville.

“The guide includes geologically-based explanations, maps and photographs of the landscape crossed by the nearly 300-mile long route of Arkansas State Highway 7 from Missouri to Louisiana,” said Cohoon. “It is written for anyone to use who is interested in the natural environment of Arkansas.”

Copies of the booklet may also be obtained by mail from the Arkansas Geological Survey for the cost of handling and mailing, which is $6. Interested parties may contact the Arkansas Geological Survey by phone at (501) 296-1877 and should request RGS-01 “Geologic Road Guide to Scenic 7 Byway.”

Cohoon served on the Arkansas Tech faculty from 1960-2012, including 23 years as dean of what is now known as the College of Natural and Health Sciences.

He received the 2012 Arkansas Tech University Faculty Award of Excellence for service and holds the title of distinguished professor of geology. Cohoon and Dr. Jack Hamm are the only two individuals to receive the title of distinguished professor at Arkansas Tech.

To view the “Geologic Road Guide to Scenic 7 Byway” online, visit http://www.geology. ar.gov/roadside_geology_series/rgs01.htm.

Freezin’ For A Reason

The 3rd Annual Polar Plunge/5K for Area 17 Special Olympics will be held at Lake Dardanelle State Park on Saturday, February 15th, 2014.

5K Run/Walk registration is at 8 a.m. and race begins at 9 a.m., entry fee is $25.

Plunge registration is at 10 a.m., entry fee $50. Parade and awards will be at 11 a.m. and the plunge is at 11:30. This event is open to everyone in the community.

About Special Olympics Arkansas Special Olympics Arkansas supports 14,000 athletes across the state that compete and train year-round in 20 different Olympic-type sports. In addition to their 240 competitions throughout the state Special Olympics Arkansas offers programming in education and health

and wellness. For more information about Special Olympics Arkansas, visit SpecialOlympicsArkansas.org The vision of Special Olympics Arkansas is to transform communities by changing lives through sports.

Local Participants in the USA Games

The USA Games will take place June 14-21, 2014 and will be centered in and around Princeton University, NJ. These games will feature nearly 3,500 athletes competing in 14 Olympic-type sports, with the support of 1,000 coaches, 8,000 volunteers and an estimated 50,000 family, friends and spectators. Non-competitive special events will include the Final Leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run that will symbolize the start of the competition; Healthy Athletes, a place where the athletes can get vital free screenings. Youth and education events will also be held in conjunction with the games as young leaders rally around making change for the better of the Special Olympics movement

and promoting acceptance of those with intellectual disabilities.

Arkansas will be taking a delegation of around 130 Athletes, Coaches, and additional staff that will include athletes for individual sports, team sports, and unified sports.

Area 17 Special Olympics, which includes Pope, Perry, Conway, Faulkner and Van Buren counties, is very proud of all of our athletes and coaches who work year round helping make this program a success. “We couldn’t have such a great program without our families, volunteers, and sponsors who give so freely.” To Law Enforcement who help raise money for us with ‘Tip a Cop’ and the ‘Polar Plunges’---- Realtors who hold fundraisers and donate thousands of dollars annually. A Thank You just doesn’t seem enough!! Darla Jones, area director.

The USA Games are held every four years.

The last were held in Lincoln, Nebraska in June of 2010. The last Special Olympics Summer Games were held in Athens, Greece in 2011. Summer Games 2015 will be in Los Angeles, CA, for those fortunate enough to be chosen. Good luck at the GAMES!!!!!

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479-498-2277 3405 E. Main, Russellville

February 2014 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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ABOUT...the River Valley | Valley Vittles

Italian Cuisine for the Night of Amore Story by JOHNNY SAIN | Photos by STEVE NEWBY

It’s February and love is in the air. St. Valentine’s Day, the holiday set aside for a celebration of romantic love, flavors the month.

Modern American culture has filled St. Valentine’s Day with some wonderfully cliché expressions of endearment such as romantic cards, chocolates, flowers, lingerie and fine dining. Good food is always the safest bet. There are many answers to the question of what to eat for a St. Valentine’s Day dinner date, but the overwhelming choice for diners is Italian.

Looking closely at this holiday shows that there may be more to choosing Italian food than taste bud preference. For starters, St. Valentine was given his saint hood by the Roman Catholic Church, which is of course in Italy. And then there’s that word “romantic.” Notice any similarities with the other words in this paragraph?

Like maybe the name of a certain city that happens to be the capital of Italy? It’s all starting to make sense now. It appears that Italy has monopolized St. Valentine’s Day. I kid, there is no Italian conspiracy going on here. It simply is the preference of your taste buds. A diversity of savory, robust 24

ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

flavors blended in a medley mirroring the complex and intertwining emotions of couples with the moon in their eye. Like a big pizza pie. Because that’s amore.

Nothing accompanies Italian cuisine better than a bottle of fine vineyard nectar.

But which wine to choose? Does a bold red best compliment your entrée, or should you choose a gossamer white?

VENEZIA'S | 1321 E Main St, Russellville

There is a restaurant in the River Valley that can address this question.

Coincidently, you and your date can address your Italian cravings there as well. That restaurant is Venezia’s.

My recommendation is the shrimp scampi. Yes, scampi is standard Italian eatery fare, but Venezia’s does a delectable interpretation. Plump shrimp, al dente pasta and light, creamy white wine sauce seasoned just right.

Buon appetito lovers, the night is yours.

February 2014 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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ABOUT...the River Valley | Countertop Creations

A Sweet for your Sweetie Story by LYDIA ZIMMERMAN, Food Editor

I

have often heard that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.

While this may not always be true, most men love to have their “sweetie” make sweets for them.

In honor of Valentine’s Day, I collected some delicious recipes from friends and family members that make these for their men folk.

Of course, men can prepare these dishes for their women folk just as easily.

I’ve also thrown in slow cooker, sugar free and gluten free recipes.

As always enjoy!

PS: Thank you Joyce Jackson for the use of your Slow Cooker recipe book!

HELLO DOLLY CAKE 1 stick butter, melted 2-3 c Graham Cracker Crumbs 1 c coconut, shredded 1 c pecans, chopped or halved 1 can sweetened condensed milk 1 c chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk choc.)

mix with the crumbs to make a thin crust.

On top of graham cracker crust layer each of the following evenly: Coconut, chocolate chips and pecans. Lastly pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly on top of the layer mixture and bake at 350 degrees until lightly browned and bubbly at the edges.

Pour melted butter into 9X13 pan. Pour graham cracker crumbs into the pan and

Recipe courtesy of Angela Stokes, wife of Khadrahn Stokes.

BANANA PUDDING 1/4 c cornstarch 1/2 tsp salt 2 1/2 c milk 3 egg yolks 1 tsp vanilla 1 T butter 4 bananas Vanilla wafers Mix cornstarch, salt, milk and eggs.

Cook over a medium heat, stirring constantly. When thickened add vanilla and butter, beating well. Set aside.

Slice 2 bananas in a cake pan or large bowl. Add 1/2 vanilla wafers to cover

bananas. Add a layer of pudding, saving enough for a second layer. Add bananas and vanilla wafers as for first layer.

Cover with meringue (see recipe below) and brown at 350 degrees.

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

MERINGUE 3 egg whites 6 T granulated sugar Beat egg whites until frothy. Add sugar, 2 T at a time. Stir until dissolved.

Recipe Courtesy of Michelle Payne, wife of Larry “Rusty” Payne

ELISA’S GRANDMOTHER’S STRAWBERRY CAKE

CAKE: 1 box yellow cake mix 1 lg box strawberry jello 1 c cooking oil 1/2 c water 1 c frozen strawberries, thawed/drained ICING: 3/4 c frozen strawberries, thawed and drained 1 stick butter, room temp 16 oz powdered sugar

Grease and flour 3 eight or nine inch cake pans, or bundt pan. Use the time and temperature indicated on the box to bake the cake. Remove cake from oven and let cool. Remove from pans onto a cake tray and let cool further.

Combine the icing ingredients together in a bowl, beat until smooth. Spread icing onto cake. You may need to secure layers with toothpicks until icing sets.

Refrigerate until ready to serve. Save extra icing for people to drizzle as desired.

Garnish with strawberries if desired.

Recipe Courtesy of Elisa Jones

CAPPUCCINO PIE (SUGAR FREE) 1/2 c room temperature coffee 1 envelope (1/4 oz) unflavored gelatin 1/4 c coffee liqueur 1 c nonfat or light ricotta cheese Sugar substitute equal to 1/3 c sugar 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon 2 c nonfat or light whipped topping 1 Chocolate-Almond Pie crust (recipe below) 1-1/2 T shaved dark chocolate

Place 2 T of the coffee in a blender.

Sprinkle the gelatin over the coffee and let sit for 2 minutes.

Bring the remaining coffee to a boil and pour over the mixture in the blender.

Blend for 1 minute, until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Set aside for 5 minutes to cool slightly.

Add the liqueur to the blender mixture and blend to mix. Add the ricotta, sugar substitute, and cinnamon and blend until smooth. Pour the mixture into a large bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until the consistency of pudding. Whisk until smooth and then fold in the whipped topping.

Spread the ricotta mixture into the piecrust, swirling the top.

Sprinkle the chocolate over the top.

Cover and chill for at least 3 hours, or until set.

CHOCOLATE-ALMOND PIE CRUST

1/2 c sliced almonds 2 T sugar substitute 3/4 c chocolate graham cracker crumbs

Sugar substitute equal to 3 tablespoons sugar 1-1/2 T melted margarine or butter 1-1/2 tsp fat-free egg substitute

Place the almonds and sugar in a food processor and process until the almonds are finely ground. Add the graham cracker crumbs and sugar substitute and process to mix well.

Add the margarine or butter and the egg substitute and process, pulsing for a few seconds at a time, until the mixture is moistened.

Coat a 9-inch pie pan with nonstick cooking spray and press the mixture firmly over the bottom and sides of the pan. (Place your hand inside a small plastic bag as you press to prevent sticking.)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Bake for about 8 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool to room temperature before filling.

Recipe Courtesy of Diabetic Gourmet Magazine

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27

vanilla. Continue to beat until stiff and fluffy. Spread on top of the coconut pie and sprinkle with coconut. Bake in oven at 350 until meringue is brown. ** You may use a sugar substitute such as Fructose in place of sugar for a sugar free version** Recipe courtesy of Wilma Gray, wife of James B. Gray *** LEMON SOUR CREAM POUND CAKE

CARROT CAKE 2 c flour 2 c sugar 3 c finely grated carrots (approx 6) 1 1/2 c oil 3 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp allspice 1 tsp salt 1 tsp soda 3 eggs 1 c raisins 1 tsp vanilla 2 tsp baking powder Sift together flour, soda, cinnamon, allspice and salt. Mix 2 T of the flour mixture into raisins. Beat together sugar, vanilla and oil. Thoroughly beat in eggs, adding one at a time. Gradually stir in sifted dry ingredients alternately with grated carrots, blending just until smooth after each addition. Stir in raisins.

Turn into a greased 10 inch angel cake pan or large cake pan. Cake does not rise very high in oven. Bake at 375 for 1 hour.

Let cool for 10 minutes, then turn out of pan onto rack. Frost with cream cheese frosting (see recipe below).

CREAM CHEESE FROSTING 8 oz cream cheese, softened 1 box powdered sugar 1 stick margarine 2 tsp vanilla 1/2 c walnuts (optional) 28

ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

Blend cream cheese and margarine together. Gradually beat in powdered sugar. Stir in vanilla and walnuts. Spread onto warm cake and refrigerate.

Recipe courtesy of Dottie Zimmerman, wife of Charlie Zimmerman *** COCONUT CREAM PIE

3 lg egg yolks (save whites for Meringue) 2 c milk 3/4 c sugar 1/3 c + 1 T corn starch 2 T butter 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 c shredded coconut

Place egg white yolks in a sauce pan and beat, gradually adding milk to pan.

In a bowl mix together the sugar and corn starch. Add to the milk mixture in the sauce pan. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until mixture is thick.

Turn off heat and add butter, vanilla and shredded coconut. Mix well and pour into a prepared pie crust

1 box Duncan Hines Butter Recipe Golden cake mix (no substitute) 1/2 c sugar 3/4 c oil 4 eggs 8 oz sour cream 1 T pure lemon extract

Mix cake mix and sugar together well. Add remaining ingredients and beat well. Pour into a well greased and floured Bundt pan. Bake for 45 minutes at 325 or until toothpick comes out clean when inserted into cake. Leave in the pan for 10 minutes after removing from oven. Turn out onto a cake plate and cover with a cake cover or bowl while still hot. This is very important for a moist cake. *** HEATH BAR APPLE DIP

8 oz cream cheese, softened 1/2 c powdered sugar 3/4 c brown sugar 1 tsp vanilla 1/2 bag Heath bar bits Apple wedges soaked in pineapple juice (Granny Smith or Rome)*

3 egg whites A dash of salt 1/4 c sugar 1/2 tsp vanilla

*Soak apple slices in pineapple juice for 5-10 minutes then drain off the juice. This will leave the apple slices nice and sweet.

Using a mixer, cream together Cream cheese, sugars and vanilla. Stir in Heath bar bits with a spoon. Chill and serve with apple slices.

In a bowl beat the egg whites and salt together until stiff. Then add sugar and

Recipe courtesy of Shelley Johnson, wife of Daniel Johnson

MERINGUE

SWEETHEART FRUIT PIZZA CRUST: 3 c all-purpose flour ¾ c light brown sugar ¾ c chopped walnuts 1 c melted margarine Mix flour, sugar, and walnuts then stir in margarine, until makes a dough consistency. Spray heart shaped pizza pan with pan spray then lightly press dough onto pan. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown at 350 degrees.

SAUCE: 1 pkg cream cheese 1 jar marshmallow cream ¾ c powdered sugar ¼ c cherry juice (juice from maraschino cherries used later in recipe) Mix cream cheese, marshmallow cream, powdered sugar, and cherry juice with hand mixer until well combined. Spread mixture on cooled crust.

TOPPINGS: 2 granny smith apples 1 pkg fresh strawberries 1 lb green grapes 1 jar maraschino cherries 3 kiwis 1 jar orange marmalade ¾ c chopped walnuts

Wash all fresh fruit. Core apples and slice leaving skin on. Arrange apples on outside edge of crust. Trim off tops of strawberries and then slice long ways. Arrange strawberries next to apples around crust. Slice grapes in half and arrange next to strawberries around crust. Peel and slice kiwi and arrange in center of crust. Sprinkle cherries and walnuts around pizza where you desire. Remove lid from marmalade and heat in microwave for about 1 minute. Once marmalade at a thick liquid consistency; drizzle over top of pizza. You can use as much of marmalade as you desire. Chill pizza for about 1 hour and then enjoy.

Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, sprinkle gelatin over cold water; let stand for 1 minute. Heat over low heat, stirring until gelatin is completely dissolved. Remove from the heat; set aside.

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in the milk, Kahlua and gelatin mixture until blended.

Gently fold in whipped topping; pour over crust. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until firm.

Drizzle with melted chocolate; garnish with raspberries and mint leaves if desired.

Recipe courtesy of Taste of Home Magazine

Recipe Courtesy of Amy Manson, wife of Andrew Manson

***

***

BANANA CHOCOLATE CREAM PIE

GLUTEN-FREE KAHLUA DESSERT 1 c gluten-free cornflakes, crushed 2 T butter, melted 2 tsp unflavored gelatin 1/4 c cold water 12 oz reduced-fat cream cheese 2 T sugar 2/3 c fat-free sweetened condensed milk 1/4 c Kahlua (coffee liqueur) 2 c fat-free whipped topping 2 oz dark chocolate candy bar, melted Fresh raspberries and mint leaves, optional Combine cornflake crumbs and butter; press onto the bottom of a 9-in. square pan coated with cooking spray. Refrigerate for 10 minutes.

2 regular sized chocolate bars 2 bananas 1 sm box instant banana cream pudding 1 tub cool whip topping 1 ready made graham cracker crust

Melt candy bars and pour them it into the bottom of the pie crust. Place in the refrigerator to set.

Prepare pudding as directed on the box.

When chocolate is set, slice banana and put slices onto chocolate. Pour prepared pudding over bananas, then top with cool whip. Please in the refrigerator to chill for a few hours.

Recipe courtesy of Apryl Pledger, wife of Brian Pledger

February 2014 | ABOUT...the River Valley

29

S

Sewing has been a survival tool for eons.

According to Archaeologists, Stone Age people used antler or ivory needles and thread made from animal parts to stitch together hides for clothing and shelter to insure their survival in harsh climates.

Hunters supplied the raw materials while family members prepared the skins and stitched them into usable objects. But it wasn’t until 400 B.C. that the development of yarn and woven fabric ushered in the age of hand sewing.

30

ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

Story by CONNIE LAS-SCHNEIDER | Photos by JOHNNY SAIN

With women in charge of sewing hand stitching developed into a fine art, since much of a woman’s time was spent maintaining the family wardrobe. In fact, up until the early 20th century fine sewing was such a prized skill that young women could woo potential suitors on the merits of their expertise with a needle and thread.

In the early- to mid-1800’s the first sewing machines were built and women’s work has never been the same. Not only did the sewing machine fuel part of the industrial revolution and provide work for millions of people including women and children, it allowed housewives more time to pursue activities like volunteering and working outside the home.

The availability of ready-made clothing and linens by the mid20th century eventually made sewing all but obsolete, and home sewing started a slow decline. While sewing is still taught in schools today, young people have little idea of the importance of sewing and the sewing machine as a major force of change in the world.

Home sewing has regained popularity in recent years, perhaps due to DIY shows and reality fashion shows on TV. To keep up with modern attitudes sewing has even adapted new terminology, and today both men and women are simply called “sewists.”

Mrs. Dora May Johnson, wife of the late Raymond Johnson who opened Johnson’s Sewing Machine Center in Russellville more than 50 years ago, recollected that when she was growing up in the 1930’s and 40’s only women sewed at home. “As I spent time in the shop with Raymond, I became aware that there were not only seamstresses (women who sew) but also tailors, men who creates clothing etc.”

Dora May, who is an octogenarian and had never heard the word “sewist” before, also found it very interesting that the masculine and feminine terms for those who sew had changed to more a gender-neutral term.

Whether you call them sewists, seamstresses or tailors; baby boomers are taking up quilting and sewing in growing numbers. Consequently, sales are rising for fabric, sewing machines and specialized equipment like quilting machines, embroidery machines and Sergers that bind and finish seams for a professional look.

Still, it can be difficult to find a retail sources for sewing products and services today. Russellville is fortunate to have Johnson Sewing Machine Center in town since 1966.

Raymond Johnson began repairing and servicing machine for the public in the late 1940’s when he worked at the Russellville shoe factory repairing its equipment and machines, explained Karen Lawrence, daughter of Raymond and Dora Mae Johnson.

Because of Johnson’s expertise, co-workers brought their machines from home so he could repair and service them in

his spare time, said Lawrence. “Raymond would work on them during his break time or bring them home to work on.

He was of great integrity and never did this on the factory time clock,” she added.

Eventually the shoe factory closed, but before that happened people from other places had started bringing Johnson their machines to be serviced. Word traveled of Mr. Johnson’s proficiency.

Johnson’s Sewing Machine Center and its “sewing machine man” soon became household words in many River Valley homes, said Lawrence.

The business by its current name began in the mid 1950-60’s, said Lawrence. “At that point, some folks were still sewing on the old treadle machines and rejected the “newfangled motorized contraptions.”

I think they held tightly to their treadle machines because they appreciated the leg exercise that running a treadle machine required from the tilting back and forth movement of the treadle. Meanwhile, others began to purchase electric sewing machines that performed more than just the treadle’s straight stitch. These electric machines became popular with their additional functions and because they were easy to carry,” she added.

Because of their diversity, Johnson’s has continued to thrive while other shops have folded, said Lawrence, whose husband Raymond carries on the business. “Raymond continues to service his customers with equal respect and retains all needed components to thoroughly furnish the customer with the items needful to their preferred artistry. Courteous respect and diligent customer service are two constants that should never change regardless of the ongoing changes in technology and techniques.

This equals the Johnson attitude!”

When visiting the shop at 510 E 11th St. in Russellville, you’ll find that Raymond is the “man with the plan” to fix your machine, hear about the newest sewing innovations and, in the words of Janome ( a popular sewing/embroidery machine manufacturer they represent) encourage you to “dream… imagine… and create.”

February 2014 | ABOUT...the River Valley

31

ABOUT...the River Valley | Backyard Living

Read more from Meredith at www.boileddownjuice.com

The Boiled Down Juice

The Power of Dormancy Story by MEREDITH MARTIN-MOATS

The first seed catalogs are arriving in the mail. I sit dreamy-eyed staring at the heirloom tomatoes and peppers; I imagine the return of five-foot tall hollyhocks and sunflowers. In my imagination the garden is a bee and butterfly-filled fairyland of blooms and harvests with my kids and dogs running carefree, and carefully, between the rows (this is my dream, so I can pretend they actually run between the rows, right?). I look up from the catalog and stare out my window. A few yarrow plants made it through the winter, but mostly the garden is brown and bare, with months of cold yet to come.

In late November I finally convinced myself to complete that most dreaded task of garden cleanup. With my young sons and old dogs running ahead of me, I walked down the steps and down the hill.

Setting my jaw to ward off any thoughts of quitting, and pulling on my winter gloves to ward off the cold, I began to

pull up the tangle of bamboo and wire and vines that had been our garden. Feeling the lifelessness of the tomato vines in my hands, I decided to snap a few photos and share them on my personal blog, posing the question: “Why is it gardeners only share pictures of harvest? Isn’t this dishonest?” I made a promise to take more photos of my dead plants.

south and they stopped by my house every day for a drink. They were joined by other butterflies I’ve since learned the names of: Little sulphur, Diane’s, spicebush swallowtail, and viceroy. But within a few weeks the temperatures dropped and an early frost took the flowers.

I’d created that garden for her, or so I thought. I had moved into the house across

"...if we spend enough time carefully watching the winters, it becomes impossible to overlook the power of dormancy or the hints it provides of a returning spring."

I first pondered this concept of dormancy when my mother died a few years ago. She passed away on October 17, 2008, right as the fall was coming on. During her last days the air was warm and the plants were plentiful. Monarch butterflies were heading

the street so that I could care for her in her last days. I dug up huge chunks of the yard so I could give her something to see from her bed –– something growing, something with color. But when winter came I was lost. I didn’t know it at the time, but I

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

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was too inexperienced as a gardener to understand the power of dormancy.

According to the dictionary dormancy is “a state of quiet (but possibly temporary) inaction. We use the word dormant to describe anything “marked by a suspension of activity” or “temporarily in abeyance yet capable of being activated.” We often use it as a negative or neutral word rather than a cyclical description of a necessary activity. It’s usage among gardeners, however, comes with a certain sense of expectancy. It’s a time when growth of the organism is temporarily halted, preparing the plant for the explosion of creativity, growth and vibrancy we call spring and summer.

All seasoned gardeners know dormancy is when life happens below the surface. The decomposing leaves fall to the ground and nurture the soil; the rain and snows renew the water table and tree roots grow deeper.

It takes a lot of faith to believe in the power of dormancy. What’s more, I think it takes a little proof. A bare garden space may never ignite in us that same spark we feel when our tomato plant is bowed over with ripe fruit. But if we spend enough time carefully watching the winters, it becomes impossible to overlook the power of dormancy or the hints it provides of a returning spring.

Since my mother died I’ve been obsessed with this concept of dormancy and all it can mean for us humans. I’m only beginning to wrap my mind around the depth of the metaphor. Despite my deep appreciation for winter’s stark beauty, I still haven’t figured out how to look forward to the days when my garden becomes a patch of bare upturned soil. But as I watch my kids’ fascination with decaying leaves and the bareness of winter, I know they’re tapping into a wisdom I lost years ago. I may never return to that wholeness of spirit, but I have learned to respect it when I see it.

Kids have it in droves.

Most gardening magazines and columns will tell you that February is the time for planning, preparing, dreaming and plotting for the growing season.

Certainly, this is true. But perhaps dormancy’s greatest power is the way it

forces us to slow down and grow deeper roots before focusing on flowering. If we let it, dormancy can bolster us for the coming days. Maybe there’s something about our own dormancy that asks us to sit with sorrow long enough for it to seep deeply into our bodies, preparing us to reach out to others in their pain without being crushed under the weight of our own losses.

A certain kind of peace comes with learning to sit with the cycles. There’s a measured expectancy in not being afraid to spend time in our winter gardens rather than rushing to dream up a new spring. The joy of harvest is undeniable and contagious. But there’s something in the beauty of late winter that asks us to consider the importance of our own cultivation.

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The New Millard-Henry Clinic Is Opening The Doors To More: More Physicians, More Specialties, More Technology

A new door is opening soon in Russellville – a door to more complete healthcare for our community. On Sunday, March 2, Millard-Henry Clinic celebrates the grand opening of the 47,000-square-foot, ultramodern facility that is to be home to its 28 medical practices. It will be one of the largest multi-specialty clinics in the state.

“Given current national economics, a building of this magnitude in a smaller community is rarely seen and I am excited to see this project completed,” said Donnie Frederic, CEO of Saint Mary’s Regional Health System, with which Millard-Henry Clinic is affiliated. “The leaders of our parent company, Capella Healthcare, and the physicians of Millard-Henry Clinic have had clear foresight and resolute drive for our community and its health system.

We have committed to providing the best care possible for the River Valley region and beyond, and the opening of this clinic is tangible proof of that commitment.”

The seeds of this commitment were planted when the clinic broke ground for the new facility in December 2012.

The new clinic announcement came after an intensive, targeted 3-year effort that included input from clinic physicians, local hospital leadership, and Capella Healthcare (the parent company of Saint Mary’s Regional Health System).

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Jerry Mabry, Capella’s Arkansas Market 34

ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

President, thanked the group of visionary physicians who are the driving force behind the multi-million dollar project.

“They have persevered through a number of difficulties and obstacles in order to get this job done, “ he said, as

and effective plan to best benefit patients, caregivers and medical staff alike.

Financed through partner Summit Bank, the year-long project was overseen by Russellville-based EWI Construction. The construction made a positive economic impact on the area, and has provided local jobs in tough economic times. “It’s really hard to put it in words. Anytime you have a clinic the size of Millard-Henry in your community, and it is continuing to grow, it is an understatement to say it is a boost to the local economy,” said Jeff Pipkin, president and CEO of the Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce.

Since its inception in 1945, Millard-Henry Clinic has been on a path of growth. For decades, thousands of Arkansans have trusted

“We want to provide state-of-the-art medical care – care so complete that you would not have to go anywhere else to get better care in a nicer facility" he also thanked Saint Mary’s. “There is a cooperative spirit that has been developed between Millard-Henry and Saint Mary’s, and this building is a part of that cooperative spirit. We are very pleased to see this project flourish.”

At that occasion, Dr. Keith Ison, 2014 president of Millard-Henry Clinic’s executive committee, said that the physicians had worked closely with Lean Six-Sigma efficiency experts. This intensive groundwork paved the way for the new clinic’s architect firm, Haynes Limited (Rogers, Ark.), to design the most technologically advanced, streamlined

Millard-Henry to bring a wide range of health professionals and services under one roof. In the new clinic, those conveniences will be more notable than ever.

Positioned southeast of the existing clinic and east of the Millard-Henry Obstetrics/ Gynecology Center, the new Millard Henry Clinic is a three-story steel structure that features a contemporary façade of glass, stucco and brick. Its expansive portico creates a convenient, accessible drop off area. The razing of the current building will make way for additional parking.

Inside the state-of-the art facility are large, central waiting areas and an

elevator for easier mobility. These open spaces are flooded with natural light, and the comfortable environment boasts an intentional, carefully chosen color palette.

A dedicated “color-coded” theme for each specialty is one of the many design elements that help ensure easy, efficient navigation and flow from one area to another for patients and guests.

Specialties within the new facility include pediatrics, internal medicine, family practice, orthopedics and general surgery, while women’s services are available in the adjacent building. Additionally, new all-digital radiology services and advanced lab services offered in a private, patientcentric space are available on site. More specialists and medical professionals are on staff than ever before, making appointment scheduling faster and more available.

“We want to provide state-of-the-art medical care – care so complete that you would not have to go anywhere else to get better care in a nicer facility,” said Dr. Vickie Henderson, a gynecologist/obstetrician and 2014 past president of the Millard-Henry Clinic executive committee.

But achieving more complete care requires more than a new building, technological advances and efficiencies. It ultimately requires a team of exceptional medical professionals. “The clinic provides the very best doctors who are going to provide the very best medical care,” Dr. Henderson added. “The facility matters, but the bottom line is the quality of care that is delivered.”

The new Millard-Henry Clinic is opening its doors to more: more exceptional physicians, delivering more complete care, in one of the most modern, efficient facilities in the state. Discover the more complete care at Millard-Henry Clinic by calling 479964-2345 today to make an appointment with one of our leading specialists.

You can also learn more by joining us at the Millard-Henry Clinic’s grand opening Sunday, March 2, 2-4 p.m., in the portico.

State and local dignitaries and officials, as well as area physicians and business leaders, will take part in this celebration and ribboncutting ceremony. After the ribbon cutting, tours of the new facility with medical team members serving as guides will be available.

Refreshments will be served.

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35

ABOUT...the River Valley | Outdoors

Crypto-Critters

Read more from Johnny at www.aviewfromthebackroads.com

Story by JOHNNY SAIN

Cryptozoology is the study of animals living on the rim of reality. Most scientists consider “study” a very loose usage of the word in this context. There is, however, just enough evidence for some of these animals to give you pause. To make you question that sound you heard but couldn’t quite identify.

To make you think about those times in the woods when you saw movement out of the corner of your eye, but could never find the source of that movement. I know of three cryptozoological critters (whew, that’s a mouthful) talked about in hushed tones around Arkansas. Maybe you’ve heard of them, too.

First is the legendary catfish found near the lock and dam at Russellville, or I guess anywhere on any river. There are different versions of this story from folks around the country. I first heard it back when I was a tow-headed boy. A friend told me about his cousin who had a friend who had a sister who had a boyfriend who had an uncle that was a scuba diver. Apparently, this scuba diver was doing some work on the dam and came face to face with a catfish big as a mule. The poor guy nearly stroked out and barely made it to safety, all the while swearing he would never dive again. This legend persists because it’s fueled by the whopper catfish they DO

pull out of the river. Fifty pounders and up are common. Experienced anglers tell of hooked fish that they could do nothing with; fish that promptly broke the line or straightened the hook.

Mountains. The Ozarks are where the Number two on the list is the black wild things are in Arkansas and I believe panther. Who among us has not sat with he could be out there. The mountains are mouths agape as grandpa told of hearing the a rugged place. I’d wager not even a third blood-curdling scream of a panther. I have of that country sees a human being most long suspected that Arkansas has cougars, years. Why couldn’t he be out there? but not black panthers. Then one night, while I visited with a genuine Arkansas traveling north of Dover, the headlights of Bigfoot researcher last year looking for my truck caught something unidentifiable tips on how to find sign. This fellow said crossing the lonely mountain road. A that sign is everywhere; you just need to shadowy feline shape with a long tail glided open your eyes. Those broken saplings too into the underbrush. I stopped the truck and big for a buck to break, the tree knocking had to really think about what I saw. I’m that sounds too heavy and slow for a an open-minded guy, but also a realist. The woodpecker, the barred owl hooting in the picture in my mind just did not make sense. hollow that sounds just a little too much Since that night I’ve done a little research and like a primate. Yep, Bigfoot. am left with the conclusion there is indeed a The mysterious pile of rocks randomly high probability that wild black cats prowl stacked in the woods ain’t from the Blair Arkansas. I would love to tell you more, but Witch. The scream on the ridge-top wasn’t I’m working on an article dealing with those a woman. The splash that sounds like a cats in detail. I’ll keep you posted. pig dropped in the water as you’re fishing Last on the list is my favorite. He’s better at night on the sandbar; when you know known in the Pacific Northwest, but he good and well pigs don’t randomly drop seems to pop up everywhere at one time from the sky. All of this is evidence. And Drop the address box and insert Proudly above or another. I’m talking about ol’ Bigfoot. it could be from something more flesh and river valley since If there was ever aserving place inthe Arkansas blood than1921. we want to admit; but still on tailor made for Sasquatch it’s the Ozark the rim of our reality.

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ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

SUPER CONVENIENCE STORES Russellville and Dover

2014 Live Auction Packages 1. GIRLS NIGHT OUT Five lucky ladies will get to enjoy a fun evening out with 30 minute hot stone massages, shampoo styles, pedicures, and facials from the ladies at Tangles Salon and Spa while enjoying libations and hors d’oeuvres.

2. TROUT FISHING IN ARKANSAS Get away from it all for some successful trout fishing adventures with 2 nights at Gaston’s White River Resort, America’s #1 Trout Fishing Resort, on the White River in the Arkansas Ozarks, and 2 nights at The Little Cedar Cabin at Calico Rock.

3. CITY MALL BIRTHDAY BASH Enjoy a birthday party for 8 kids at Paint with Lane, plus a birthday cake from The Cake Place, a treat from Freddo’s, and an XL Jumper and Party Package for in theme of choice w/plates, cups, napkins, streamers and guest gift bags from Happy Jumpers Rentals & Party Supplies.

4. FAMILY FUN IN THE SUN Enjoy a stay at Orlando’s Hilton Grand Vacation Suites at SeaWorld the week of June 7th -14th, 2014. The 2BR Suite has 1 king bed, 2 queen beds, and 1 double sofa bed. Each bedroom has a full-size bathroom. Guests can relax in the separate living room with LCD television with cable channels, and DVD player; plus enjoy complimentary wireless Internet access and a laptop-compatible safe. The kitchen offers a full-size refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, and stove/oven. The master bathroom features a separate jetted bathtub. A washer/ dryer is also provided. Exclusive benefits for SeaWorld and travel insurance are included with this package.

5. THE PERFECT SMILE

8. LIFE MEMBER’S MASTERPIECE Work with our fabulous Junior Auxiliary life member Arden Boyce on a commissioned 12” x 16” painting and framing. Arden’s travels have influenced her international impressionistic style of using “pure palette” painting which uses the vibrant hues of the spectrum for an overall effect of brightness and harmony, which reflects her own optimistic attitude toward life.

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Cherish those precious family moments, with a one-of-a-kind photography package from Jennifer Goodman Photography. Having custom made photos is a great way to capture those special moments in your life. Your photography package includes: On-Location Session, (5) 4x6 portraits, (5) 5x7 portraits, (2) 8x10 portraits, (1) 11x14 portraits, and a 3x3 Accordion Album which contains 12 images.

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RAFFLE ITEM:

Let your little princess dwell in a magical world of her very own with a beautiful Doll House Bed exclusively from the new Good Deal Charlie Discount Furniture. This solid construction purple Stairway Storage Bed with light pink and lime accents will transform her bedroom into a functional fantasyland. The bed includes one twin mattress for the top bunk and has space for you to add up to a full size bed on bottom. Custom designed bedding from Bizzy Bee Quilts as well as Local delivery and assembly is included in this package.

Joshua’s Fine Jewelry has donated an elegant necklace of three oval rings containing 1/2 CT of channel set diamonds set in 14KT white gold. Raffle tickets are now available for $10 from Junior Auxiliary of Russellville members.

7. SAN FRANCISCO Reserved for your enjoyment is a stay at Powell Place at Nob Hill for the week of August 1-8th. Situated in the prestigious Nob Hill section of San Francisco, Powell Place is a charming four-story Edwardian building near the Union Square district. Up to four guests will enjoy a gorgeous one bedroom suite which includes a sitting area with sofa bed, a fully equipped kitchen, and dinning room. Each suite has color televisions, VCR/DVD players, CD player with IPod input, and complimentary wireless internet access. Conveniently located, exploring the unique city of San Francisco is easily done by boarding one of the city’s cable cars, less than a half-block away.

SIGN UP EVENTS: >> Self Defense class for Kids with Kyle Bennett >> Forca Martial Arts and Fitness Self Defense Seminar for Women >>Murder Mystery Dinner Party @ Todd Sweeden’s Belle Helene Bess House $200/couple

SILENT AUCTION: Large array of Silent Auction items donated from people and businesses across the River Valley. You’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy!

SAVE THE DATE ~ 02/22/14 February 2014 | ABOUT...the River Valley

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On a Personal Note What a Woman Wants Guest Written by Christine Sain

The main thing to remember is it’s not about the gift as much as the thought and effort put into it.

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Women can seem complicated and high maintenance at times; always changing our minds. Really, we are simple creatures, just wanting to be understood. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, I’m sure most of you men out there are racking your brains about what to get the lady in your life. I mean, it seems like Christmas was just yesterday and now you have to come up with another meaningful gift. Maybe you feel like you do the same thing every Valentine’s Day. You want to change things up this year, but you don’t really know how. Let me give you my two cents about what women want.

First, decide what a meaningful gift really is. Is it a dozen roses delivered to her office where five other ladies got the same thing? Is it that heart shaped piece of jewelry, or chocolates in a heart shaped box? There is nothing wrong with any of those gifts, but how about being creative. If you choose flowers, go to a local florist. One your wife frequents when buying for others. If you are not sure what your wife or girlfriend’s favorite flower or arrangement is, ask the staff. If you want to purchase jewelry, go to her regular jeweler and they can help you choose a timeless piece that reflects her taste and personality. Purchasing candy or any other sweet treat during this time can be a bit tricky. If your love has committed to lose weight as one of her New Year’s resolutions then you may want to be very specific and purchase just a few pieces of her favorite indulgence. Several places in town serve candy by the piece.

Pool your ideas into a thoughtful, creative and loved gift. This will not only make the love of your life happy, but earn brownie points for you as well.

Think outside the box. What about a journal, and on the pages of the journal you write a word or phrase describing why you love her or what makes her the apple of your eye? What about a photo album or book of your favorite moments together?

ABOUT...the River Valley | February 2014

What about a day at the spa, a massage, how about a mani/pedi? How would she react if you offered to “chauffeur” her to the spa or salon?

Maybe you are thinking about a romantic dinner at her favorite restaurant. One of my fondest moments was an evening my husband and I celebrated our wedding anniversary (yes these tips will work wonderfully for your anniversary as well). We made arrangements to be kid free and planned to have dinner then a movie. After a long day at work, we were too tired to get dressed up for a night on the town. So we called in our order to the restaurant, picked out a movie we would both enjoy and went back home. Presto! A romantic dinner in front of the TV in our comfy clothes. My memories of that night are just as special as if we had gone through with our original plans.

Gentlemen, if your lady adores receiving a dozen roses at work on Valentine’s Day, go for it. Think about adding one of the suggestions mentioned above. You can create many combinations and change things up every year. You can keep the traditional but add a twist. The main thing to remember is it’s not about the gift as much as the thought and effort put into it. Try it once and notice the response you get and the many rewards you reap from your efforts. You might actually start to enjoy shopping for Valentine’s Day. Ladies, whatever you do, NEVER, and I mean NEVER EVER let your man know that you are disappointed in his efforts. At least he tried and you don’t want to risk hurting his feelings and causing him to stop trying. Take it from someone that knows, but that is another story. And remember, you can use the spirit behind these ideas for the man in your life.

The moral of the story is this: A woman wants to feel special and know that you really get her, that you really know her. She will take pleasure in knowing that you went the extra mile and sincerely thought about her and the things that make her who she is. Because that is truly what a woman wants.

Look for more interesting features and tidbits in "On a Personal Note" each month in future issues of ABOUT...the River Valley. You'll find short stories, interesting pieces and other great reads from people you know, or would like to know from around the River Valley.

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