ABOUT | November 2011

THE NUTCRACKER: COMBINING THE ARTS

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley November 2011

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November 2011

table of

contents

8 Combining the Arts

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The DANCE Foundation is teaming up with local artists to present visually-animated wood nutcracker statues, to be auctioned during their performances December 9-11.

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ABOUT...Family

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Hospice Home

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Sales, Purchases Give Hope

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Destination: Northern Parks

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Turkey Love

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Put the Holiday Hassle On Hold

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‘Round the Bend’

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Downtown Welcomes Students

ABOUTour Cover Arkansas River Valley artists have donated time and talent to draw attention to this year’s DANCE Foundation three-performance series of The Nutcracker, Dec. 9-11. Adding their artistic touches to unpainted wood nutcrackers, artists will aid the DANCE Foundation’s effort to fund future dance performances and projects as the finished nutcrackers will be auctioned to the highest bidder. Discover the details as you read, “The Nutcracker, Combining the Arts,” beginning on page 8.

Photo by Steve Newby

The Osage and Cherokee tribes of Native Americans called Holla Bend home and the fertile river bottoms attracted early settlers for the same reasons the Native Americans chose it.

Downtown business owners and community partners sponsored an evening of free food, fun and entertainment for Arkansas Tech students, faculty and staff.

Our Associates Melanie Conley

ad ve r tis in g

479.858.2708

Connie

Vonna

Marpel

ad ve r tis ing

479.970.4263

Steve

Las Schneider

Newby

w r ite r

ph o to g r a phy

479.497.1110

Cliff

479.880.1006

Chris

Thomas

Zimmerman

il l u s tr a to r

l ayo u t/ d e s ig n

479.890.3630

4 | ABOUT

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Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

479.264.2438

November 2011

community

ARTS CENTER Jubilee 2011

The River Valley Arts Center’s annual major fundraiser, Holiday Jubilee, will be Friday, Nov. 18, from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Hughes Community Center in Russellville.

Since this is the Arts Center’s 30th Anniversary, all former presidents and members of the Board of Directors are especially encouraged to attend and be honored for the service given to the arts and the River Valley.

Arts Center president of the Board of Directors Emory Molitor invites the public to join her for what is sure to be the social event of the year. The evening will feature music for listening and dancing pleasure, feasting on heavy hors d’oeuvres by popular Plantation Catering, drinks, and bidding on lots of fabulous items and art in live and silent auctions. Chad Over is the auctioneer.

Along with the “regular size” paintings, artists have donated the smaller mini paintings featured the past couple of years that are beautiful and affordable.

“The beauty of miniature art is that you don’t need a large space for display,” said Betty LaGrone, executive director of the River Valley Arts Center. “Even in this culture of ‘bigger is better and super-size’ many individuals who are buying art for their homes, offices and gifts, as well as serious collectors, are attracted to miniature paintings. From the approximately 50 pieces, you are sure to find original works of art by your favorite artists for yourself as well as gift giving.”

This event is important to the Arts Center as a fundraiser but it is also a venue to recognize and honor the many talented artists in the River Valley.

“With no statistical data to back me up, I’ll just go out on a limb and say we have more and more talented artists here than any other part of the state,” said LaGrone.

Tickets are $50 and are on sale at the Arts Center or from any member of the Board of Directors.

“The success of this event is so important in allowing the Arts Center to bring more wonderful works of art, educational programs and services to the River Valley now and in years to come,” said the president.

“The Arts Center features more than 40 exhibits each year. What a tremendous gift to residents of the River Valley. We encourage more teachers to bring their students, parents to bring their children and the general public to take advantage of this ‘gem,’” said LaGrone.

This event is open to any resident or visitor who wishes to purchase a ticket to support the work of the Arts, Artists and Arts Center. It is not “invitation only,” stressed members. For tickets or additional information, call (479) 968.2452 for tickets or information or visit the River Valley Arts Center at 1001 East B Street, Russellville

Holiday Event Schedule

The holiday season is upon us. What better way to relive your childhood memories than with a walking tour of Historic Downtown Russellville? Stroll the avenues as downtown merchants ready their shops for holiday shoppers.

Beginning Saturday, Nov. 12, the Historic Missouri Pacific Railroad Depot will be filled with the sights and sounds of model trains as the Central Arkansas Model Railroad

Club once again visits Russellville with collections from participating members.

The event will be held from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. and is sure to delight old and young alike. Admission is one can of food per person to be donated to area food banks.

Friday night, Dec. 2, participating downtown businesses will welcome in the shopping season with their quarterly Downtown Art Walk, coupled with the annual Holiday Open House from 5-8 p.m.

Art for gift giving, strolling carolers and visits with Santa are sure to put you in the spirit of the season.

On Dec. 2-3, area school children will decorate donated trees with handmade ornaments as they line the edges of Depot Park. Come witness the decoration process from 9 to 11 a.m. or visit the area afterward and see the newly-renovated caboose, compliments of volunteers from the West Side Church of Christ adult classes and Sorrell’s Body Shop.

A few open dates still remain on the Depot’s community room schedule if you haven’t yet booked your holiday event. The community room of the Historic Russellville Depot is available for rental all year long. For rates and reservation availability, contact Betsy McGuire or Danya Day at the office of Main Street Russellville.

For more information on these and other Downtown holiday events, contact Main Street Russellville at (479) 9671437 or stop by 320 W. ‘C’ St., Historic Downtown Russellville. For additional details and membership information, visit the organization’s website at mainstreetrussellville.com.. n

Happy 100th Birthday, Chevy Family!

3300 E. Main • Hwy. 64 East, Russellville (479) 968-1555 • www.philwrightautoplex.com November 2011

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 5

ABOUT the River Valley

A Publication of Silver Platter Productions, Inc Vol. VI, Issue 9 – November 2011

OWNERS/EDITOR Nolan and Dianne Edwards editor@aboutrvmag.com

Advertising Sales Melanie Conley

melanie@aboutrvmag.com

Vonna Marpel

vonna@aboutrvmag.com

Graphic Design Chris Zimmerman

zimcreative@aboutrvmag.com

Writers Kechia Bentley kechia@aboutrvmag.com

Connie Las Schneider connie@aboutrvmag.com

Johnny Sain

johnny@aboutrvmag.com

PhotographY Steve Newby stevenewbyphotography@aboutrvmag.com

ILLUSTRATION Cliff Thomas maddsigntist@aboutrvmag.com

ABOUT… the River Valley

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

Subscriptions are available by sending $20 for one-year (10 issues) to: SPPI/ABOUT Magazine P.O. Box 10176 Russellville AR 72812 Material contained in this issue may not be copied or reproduced without written consent. Inquiries may be made by calling (479) 970-6628.

Office: 220 East 4th Street Email: editor@aboutrvmag.com

A PAGE FROM

The Editor’s Notebook

November’s issue always reminds us of the time of the year that we need to express our thankfulness. But, a date on a calendar doesn’t need to be the reason we stop to say “thanks” to those who support and encourage us.

As parents, my husband and I have successfully passed along the importance of writing “thank you notes” to our three daughters. They’ve learned that lesson well, exceeding our expectations and in most cases, beating their own parents to the punch when acknowledging gifts and expressions of kindness. Both of us are extremely proud of the talented, strong, successful young women they have become.

However, when acknowledging their successes, we must recognize that their behaviors were greatly influenced by the wonderful education they have received. A few years ago I had the opportunity to speak to several of their elementary and grade school teachers. They had congratulated their father and me on our daughters’ accomplishments. To that I replied, on bended knee (because they were seated) that they were, in fact, more responsible than we were in setting a higher level of discipline and strong educational expectation on them than we had. They seemed astonished. Perhaps at the fact that we recognized the efforts and influence that the teachers each had on our children or maybe it was that we, as parents, didn’t assume responsibility for their success.

Honestly, unless my memory fails me, I do not ever remember having to tell our daughters to go and do their homework, or to study, or to get a project done on time.

You see, despite their procrastinating mother, our daughters understood the need to perform a task on hand when it was assigned. Gee, at even a young age these girls knew that the level of stress imposed on them by assignments could be greatly avoided if they just did something when it was due... out of the ‘mouths of babes.’

As a reader, you may wonder why I’ve landed on this soapbox. I guess the topic recently came to mind when an old (and I use that term loosely because I’m pretty sure we’re the same age...) and dear friend from my past recently joined the Russellville School District as an instructor. He invited my husband and me to an Open House he was holding for the parents of the students in his East Lab program. To our dismay, not many of the parents attended, but the students seemed to flock there.

Jim Billings, an amazing and talented instructor who, after many years working in the North Little Rock School District, came “home” to pass along his passion to the East Lab students at RHS. He and I had sat side-by-side in a number of journalism classes at ATU many years ago. Jim, a photographer working for the ArkaTech student newspaper, even agreed to take the photos for my wedding. I graduated and we lost touch.

A few weeks ago, we ran into Jim and his wife, Lee, also an instructor for Russellville Schools. They’ve lived locally for a long time but for the past years Jim had commuted to NLR to teach. A chance meeting at the grocery rekindled our friendships.

A funny guy himself, Jim is a good friend to Little Rock television personality (and former radio star) Craig O’Neill. His connection brought O’Neill in contact with East Lab students who interviewed and filmed the popular personality recently. The result was exposure and experience for a new class of students – the kind of relationship that comes when a passionate instructor shares his contacts and talent – and genuinely cares about his students.

We expect parents to care about their student’s involvement and success in school, but time and time again I’ve witnessed parents too caught up in their own lives to fully participate in raising their children. Thankfully I received benefit and gentle encouragement from parents who cared.

Thanks be given for teachers who care and parents who are there.

Postmaster: Please send address changes to: SPPI, P.O. Box 10176, Russellville AR 72812.

Dianne Edwards, Editor/Publisher

6 | ABOUT

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

November 2011

Out and ABOUT

Talk ABOUT...Thankfulness

Were you one of those individuals relegated to the “kid’s table” during holiday dinners? Is so, I doubt that the topic of your conversations resembled anything close to the chatter shared between these two young ones. Sketched by talented illustrator Cliff Thomas, this pair share a prayer reflecting on what they feel is the state of the Union at present and seemingly express thankfulness that a change is in the future.

Taking a “poke” at political issues can always be controversial but regardless of your party loyalties, we believe almost everyone will agree, “We need change.” And not just a change in our political direction but a change in the values we once held dear. Among them, dinner each night shared around a table with loved ones, a return to traditional ethics once held in high regard. Simply – we need to remember what it’s like to truly care about others.

Most of our readers were probably raised in ways quite different from “today’s generation.” We were not latchkey kids, we were encouraged to “run the neighborhoods,” we did our homework before we “turned on or tuned in.”

(Translation: radio or television.)

During a recent small luncheon with Russellville Mayor Bill Eaton,

the discussion of the use of today’s advanced technology in regard to, or in replacement of, face-to-face communication was discussed. He, like many of those present, understands that cell phones, hand-held computers and the like have a valid place in today’s world. While we appreciate their usefulness, we all expressed worry that our current form of communication is replacing good old conventional, personal conversation. How many times have you had a conversation with someone while they were checking their cell phone for messages? (Guilty as charged. I was the one holding the phone, too.)

While I whole-heartedly embrace technology, I worry. (Remember, no Kindles on my Christmas List!) Have we forgotten how to communicate?

I’m not talking the “Women are from Venus, Men are from Mars,” venue.

Have we abandoned our basic methods of expressing our thoughts, beliefs and values? Land-lines are gone; printed publications are disappearing. Many of our kids can’t spell accurately because they’ve learned to text.

Is the art of gentle conversation going to become our next ‘lost art?’’

At least our kids are still praying!

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Nov. 1: Russellville Christmas Parade entry forms available, Recreation & Parks, 1000 E. Parkway or from www.russellvillearkansas.org. Theme: “Christmas Traditions”. Entry deadline Nov. 28.

Nov. 1: ARV Circle of Friends A La Carte fundraiser, 6:30 p.m., “Country Casual,” 3327 Pleasant View Rd., Tickets and information, (479) 968-2973.

Nov. 3: Ladies Night Out hosted by River Valley & Ozark Edition, Hughes Center, 5-8 p.m. Info: (501) 472-8334.

Nov. 5, 12: “The Full Course Meal” Saturday Chef Series, Winthrop Rockefeller Institute; Info: (501) 727-5435.

November 2011

Nov. 6: Local Artist Invitational, River Valley Arts Center. Info: 968-2452.

Nov. 7: The Alzheimer’s Journey “What You Need to Know and Hesitate to Ask,” Lake Point Conference Center, 9 a.m. Info: (800) 689-6090.

Nov. 8: Transitions Bereavement Support Group, 10 a.m., Ark. Hospice, 2405 E. Parkway; second Tuesday of each month. Info: 498-2050.

Nov. 8: Forget Me Not’s – Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group, 6 p.m., second Tuesday of each month, Wildflower, 240 S. Inglewood Ave. 264-8805.

Nov. 9-11: 11th Annual River Valley United Way Pork Cookout sponsored by Cargill, Cargill parking lot; Noon-5. Info: Joe Wolfe, 968-4560 ext. 262.

Nov. 11: Veteran’s Day parade, Info: 968-4411.

Nov. 12, 19, 26: Pope County Farmers Market, 2200 West Main, 10-1.

Nov. 12: Model Train Open House, Historical Train Depot, downtown Russellville, 9-3. Admission: one can of food per person. Info: 967-1437.

Nov. 16: Forget Me Not’s – Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group, 1:30 p.m., third Wednesday of each month; Arkansas Hospice, 2405 E. Parkway. 264-8805.

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

Nov. 17: Community Bingo, seniors 55 and older; 2-3 p.m. Wildflower, 240 S. Inglewood, Russellville; 890-6709.

Nov. 18: Holiday Jubilee 2011, 7-10 p.m. Info: 9682452.

Nov. 24: Thanksgiving Nov. 25: Santa Arrives at City Mall in Russellville, 11-3.

Nov. 28: Deadline for entries, 2011 Russellville Christmas Parade.

Dec. 1, 2: ATU Agri Dept Annual Poinsettia Sale is Thursday and Friday, 8-5, Tech Greenhouses, Red Hill.

Dec. 2: Downtown Art Walk and Holiday Open House.

Art for gift giving, strolling and carolers, 5 to 8 p.m.

Dec. 2-3: Festival of Trees in Depot Park, area schools decorate trees with handmade ornaments. 9-11 a.m.

Visit www.aboutrvmag.com for a list of activities updated as they are received. 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.

ABOUT | 7

the Combining The Arts Story by Kimberly Brown | Photos by Steve Newby

As the holiday season approaches, the Arkansas River Valley is filled with artistic surprises. Every other year, the area welcomes the production of The Nutcracker, the all-time favorite Christmas tale. This year, the ballet returns to Russellville, but with an even sweeter vision: the DANCE Foundation is teaming up with local artists to present visually-animated wood nutcracker statues, to be auctioned during their performances of December.

The 10-inch, unfinished wood statues (roughly 24) have been assigned to a handful of talented artists from the River Valley area, each of which will be uniquely hand-painted and illustrated.

The finished nutcrackers will be displayed and auctioned for collectors and buyers alike during all three Nutcracker performances.

The nutcrackers were purchased and distributed in their natural state during the summer and are expected to be finished in mid-to-late November, in order to be presented in December.

DANCE Foundation board members Ashley Miller Davis, Leanne Colvin, Pam Bagby, and others originated the idea to enliven the natural nutcrackers as a way to raise money for the organization’s productions. A similar idea had been used when local television personalities of Little Rock painted pottery pieces that were auctioned off for a fundraising event in Central Arkansas. After thoughtful deliberation, the members asked their interested acquaintances to help with fundraising efforts, and decided that, with hope, the animations would yield a great success.

The DANCE Foundation Colvin said, “I think Pam said, ‘wouldn’t it be neat if we could get local artists to paint unfinished nutcrackers, and we could hold a silent auction at our Nutcracker performances?’ and it grew from that. We then started looking for unfinished nutcrackers that we could purchase and started asking our friends that we knew that had done artwork around town.”

The artists have devoted their time and materials to the DANCE Foundation, and have eagerly accepted their creative challenges.

The Artists Using their own styles and talents, the artists will each depict their nutcracker’s personalities through paint, mixed media, and a host of unique ideas from each of their own creativities or inspirations.

Artist and Crawford Elementary art teacher Tonya Rhodes explains where much of her insight came from to represent her nutcracker.

“A lot of my artwork was inspired by Gustav Klimt, and I tried to incorporate black and white patterns using tissue paper and rubber for the pants’ design.

For the jacket, I referred to Klimt’s “Tree of Life” work and created my own look.”

Each individual nutcracker bears a distinct style or characteristic, different from the other, and all will be available on display at each performance of The Nutcracker in December.

“We have decided to hold a silent auction, or bid box, for each nutcracker. Bids will be placed in an envelope during the shows, and at the end of the third performance the buyer with the highest bid will ‘win’ the nutcracker,” Colvin added.

“This is an opportunity to pick out and purchase a “one-of-a-kind” nutcracker. I expect to have many different personalities of nutcrackers, and it will certainly be exciting to see what these artists come up with.”

Ashley Bryan, artist and art teacher at Sequoyah School District, chose a more contemporary approach to illustrate her nutcracker.

“I was really influenced by modern artists and I used monochromatic colors with mixed media.”

Targeted toward a younger female audience, Bryan’s animations incorporate vivid pink colors and zebra striped patterns. Bryan added, “I thought the designs I used would be more relatable to the girls.”

While the DANCE Foundation has presented The Nutcracker production in previous years, the project idea makes its debut this year.

“Since this is our first time to do this type of project, I hope that it will spark an interest in other artists and that they will want to participate in this fun, new fundraiser for The DANCE Foundation,” Colvin said.

“I think it will be fun and interesting to see the different personalities show in each of our artists’ nutcrackers, and I hope that each one will be unique to their artist. I am also excited to see the reactions of the public and I hope there will be a nutcracker for many different personalities of our attendees.” >>

The DANCE Foundation (Developing Arts and Nurturing Cultural Excellence) was founded in 2005 to provide local dancers with accessibility to performing arts opportunities within the community. The organization serves students in the River Valley as an inspiring learning experience for those who wish to challenge and/ or improve their skills.

Throughout each year, students are given the chance to work with professional dancers during a series of intensives, in where they learn the different styles of dance or the latest dance routines.

The DANCE Foundation has worked previously with Miami’s renowned ballerina, DeAnne Petruschke, and New York’s American Ballet Theatre dancers Mary Mills Thomas and Grant DeLong; all of whom performed in 2009’s Nutcracker production in the River Valley. Petruschke leads the dancers in their choreography again this year, with the help of DANCE Foundation’s owner, Ashley Miller Davis.

Davis has returned this year to direct the performance of this magical Christmas tale, staying true to the classic version of the famous ballet. Relying on E.T.A Hoffman’s traditional story, the cast and dancers will bring the exciting adventures of young Clara and her Nutcracker friends to life.

The production will include a variety of dancers from within the community, along with student dancers from the three local studios -- All That Dance, Jane Freeman’s Studio of Dance, and Just Dance Inc. Auditions for the ballet were held in April, and most of the choreography was taught in July. The dancers have been diligently rehearsing since.

“The dancers have been working so hard for the upcoming performances and they are dancing beautifully. It’s always fun working with the younger dancers; teaching them this wonderful story that they get to tell through dance, and working with the older dancers is an honor. There are so many beautiful and talented dancers in our community. They are amazing!” Davis said.

“The DANCE Foundation is thrilled to be able to offer productions such as the Nutcracker to the River Valley,” said Davis.

“Five out of six past performances have sold out and we feel fortunate that the response has been what it has been.”

With over 100 people involved in the ballet, this year’s performance is sure to offer something for everyone.

“We’ve been overwhelmed at the amount of community support we have been shown,” she added. “We hope that the community will support this year’s performance the way they have in the past and that everyone will come experience this holiday classic with us!”

The auction will be open to public; anyone who attends one of the three performances will have an opportunity to bid on the nutcrackers. The figures will only be on display in the lobby of the facility during the three performances. All money from the highest bid(s) will go to The DANCE Foundation for future performances, dance intensives, and funding future projects.

Further information of the auction can be available by contacting LeAnne Colvin at (479) 857-7912 or by email at: carac@suddenlink.net.

Photographs of recently finished nutcrackers are available by accessing The DANCE Foundation Facebook page.

Other artists include: Boyd Osborne, Robb McCormick, Tracy Roberts, Sarah Gordon, Pam Bagby, Heather Ramsey, Toby Ridenhour, Carol Watson, Virginia Boerner and Amy Smith, among others.

The Nutcracker ballet will be presented during three performances in Russellville.

As the completion of the new Center for the Arts building at Russellville High School is pending (as of publication) Gardner Auditorium has also been reserved. Final location will be confirmed closer to event date.

Performances will be at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 9 and 10, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11. Ticket prices are $15 for adults and $5 for children, and will be available at local Liberty Bank locations by November 15. (Due to the previous popularity of this program, those interested are encouraged to purchase their tickets in advance.)

Local dancers featured in this production include Hannah Barber as Clara, Garrett Mullins as Fritz, Raigan Purtle as Dew

Drop Fairy, Jimmy Ritchie as Rat King, and Mallory Leavell as Snow Queen.

Leavell, thankful and honored of the opportunity, says: “Putting on a production for the community is great; it’s a show for everyone. You will love it, and it will get you in the Christmas mood! “ Additional cast members include Randall Williams, Loretta Page, Vandy Moore, London Barnes, Olivia Barnes, Katelyn Danzy, Ruthie Jacimore, Star Austin, Grace Sykes, Caroline Larkin, Cailey Koch, Alex Tanner, Cameron Davis, Emma Grace Gregory, Zadie Peters, Arianna Edwards, Libby Wills, Lauren Owens, Rachel Ivy, Madelyn Barber, Autumn Guizar, Emerie Housley, Macey Clayton, Harper Phillips, Karis Enchelmayer, Hannah Grace Knight, Jessica Knighton.

Other cast members include Carson Davis, Isabelle Berryhill, Lydia Hale, Ellie Richardson, Claire Carothers, Macie Petty, Sydney Jones, Cara Malin, Elizabeth Griffin, Paige Thomas, Davis McNeill, Grant Mullins, Garrett Mullins, Greyson Mullins, Gage Mullins, William Ivy, Harrison Turnipseed, Nicholas Colburn, Hanna Jane Colvin, Ashton Purtle, Victoria Myers, Annabelle Walker, Hailey Smith, Shannon Perkins, Devin Slater, Ava Moreland, Olive Harrington, Brinkley Lake, Kate Rollans, Sara Grace Larkin, Landry Modersohn, River Higgs, Mary Margaret Stratton, McKenna Mullins, Ava Richardson, Cadie Beth Young, Annalee Drain, Anna Cate Wojtkowski, Logan Smith, Breckyn Ballard, Brooke Owens, Dache Brown, Mia Ratliff, Allyson George, Spencer Hurlbut, Kim Santillan, Hanna Jane Colvin, Victoria Myers, Ellie Richardson, Ava Jane McNeill, Elizabeth Griffin, Maddie Wojtkowski, Grace Hendren, Ellen Wade, Ashley Mahan.

For ticket other information regarding the DANCE Foundation’s production of The Nutcracker, contact Ashley Miller Davis at (479) 968-6888, or by email at justdanceashley@gmail.com. n Kimberly Brown is a senior studying Journalism, Public Relations and Speech Communications at Arkansas Tech University. With a great love for writing and liberal arts, Kimberly enjoys covering local stories and meeting new and interesting people. She is fascinated with diverse cultures and adores animals, believing “we are all God’s creatures! She is a dedicated animal advocate, belonging to both the IFAW and ASPCA. She hopes to someday support a refuge for neglected and abused animals. In addition to enjoying art, music and movies “with substance,” Kimberly loves fishing, four-wheeling, and all of that “Arkansas stuff!” She feels blessed to have a loving, supportive boyfriend and “the goofiest dog in the world!”

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10 | ABOUT

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

November 2011

Author Dane Receives Prestigious Award Story by Connie Las Schneider

The Arkansas Library Association named Civil War author and Pope County resident Nancy Dane as the 2011 recipient of the Arkansiana Fiction Award.

“Imagine my shock,” said Dane, “a few minutes before receiving the award to learn John Grisham was the 2001 winner! I’d say I’m in good company.”

Dane’s Civil War series, based on her history book Tattered Glory, depicts both sides of the conflict in Arkansas. The first novel in the series, Where the Road Begins, is the current featured selection for the Newspapers In Education program sponsored by the Arkansas Newspaper Foundation. All of Dane’s books are used as curriculum in Arkansas public schools and colleges.

With the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War starting in 2011, interest in Dane’s wellresearched books is high.

“I am thrilled that my fan mail comes from all over the United States and from males and females of all ages. I hear from soldiers

and history professors as well as school children, doctors, lawyers, truck drivers and housewives. Just yesterday I got an email from a college student who had shared the series with her eighty-nine year old grandmother. She wrote to say they were both anxiously awaiting the next book.

What a blessing!”

Where the Road Begins is a fictional account of the first two years of the Civil War from the Confederate perspective.

A Difference of Opinion, told from the perspective of a Union sympathizer, is based on the same timeframe.

A Long Way to Go resumes the story of Confederate soldier, Elijah Loring and his bride, Cindy from 1863 to the bitter end of the war.

The Fourth book in Tattered Glory Series, An Enduring Union, will be out next spring. This book, based on the Union point of view, is set mostly in Fort Smith the last two years of the war and has Francis Springer as a prominent character. He was the chaplain for the Union troops in Fort Smith and also a man very involved with caring for Civil War orphans and trying to get them out of the state to safety, which is a major subject of the book.

“A lot of people don’t realize that while we didn’t have a major Civil War battle in the River Valley, the people living here suffered

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The books are not just war stories, but drama the way real people lived it.”

Dane did 10 years of exhaustive research on the Civil War period in Arkansas before publishing the findings in her non-fiction book, Tattered Glory.

For more information on Dane’s books go to wwnancydane.com . n

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family

Story by Kechia Bentley

A Job -vs- The Dreadlocks It is time for Thanksgiving, and once again my life has been blessed with one of those moments that leaves me amusingly saying, “Really, God?” These truly are “blessed moments” because I love it when God works in ways I could never imagine. Even in the small stuff like dreadlocks.

I need to take you back to this past summer. Our son Dillon attends the University of Arkansas and instead of moving home for summer break he decided to stay in Fayetteville. We told him he needed to find a summer job ASAP to help pay the bills.

Not daily, but almost, I would call Dillon to find out if he had secured a job. I had been praying that God would lead Dillon to the right job. I had asked that it be a job that would help Dillon grow as a person. About two weeks into this job hunt Dillon still did not have a job and I was beginning to get a little frustrated.

I woke one morning and began the day by telling God, “Dillon REALLY needs to find a job.” I must stop here and say it could be my “telling God” part that leads to the answer I received. You see, I believe God has a great sense of humor and my attitude of “when are you going to get around to fixing this for me?” played in perfectly to Him getting ready to blast me with both barrels.

Not blast me in a bad way, but blast me in a way that leaves me laughingly asking, “Really God?” As the morning progressed, I received a phone call from Dillon.

He wanted to know how much money he had in his bank account because he wanted to go golfing with some friends. I, being the dutiful mother, looked it up for him and assured him he had enough to go play golf.

After I hung up the phone it dawned on me, wait a minute, he needs to be out looking for a job not playing golf! I immediately got back on my phone in an attempt to inform him that he would not be playing golf -- he would be job searching.

I called. No answer. I called again. No answer.

I called a third time -- no answer. By now I am very irritated. Who does this boy think he is, not answering my calls? If I could just ever get through to this child I was going to let him have it. Finally, after several more calls, he answered.

I started in: “You are not going golfing. You are going to find a job.” He immediately shoots back, “I have a job. While you were blowing up my phone calling me I was on the phone accepting

a job offer. They want me to start today at 4 p.m.” Talk about a 180 in mood. I was thrilled. Please stay with me because this is where it gets really good.

Before we go any further you need to know that we attend a Southern Baptist Church. I have been raised Southern Baptist.

I love being Southern Baptist but we do have an inclination to sometimes be a little legalistic. At least I know I have at times, yet I am also known as one who hates being told what to do. This is why I think God likes to lovingly “mess” with me.

For those of you who are well acquainted with Southern Baptist, I am sure by now you have probably guessed where Dillon is working... “Mom, I got a job at a liquor store.”

Yes, my child will be working at a liquor store. Just what every Southern Baptist mother wants to say when someone asks her, “So what is Dillon doing these days?”

As soon as this conversation with Dillon ended, my conversation with God began. And it began with, “Really, God? Really?”

I was laughing as I asked. “Is this your answer to my prayer?

And, oh by the way God, thanks for stomping on my pride. I can’t wait to tell my mother where her grandson will be working.”

And just so we are clear, my husband Donald and I don’t really have a problem with Dillon working at the liquor store. We just find it humorous in one of those “You gotta trust God to work in mysterious ways.”

This leads me back to the beginning of this story and to the dreadlocks. Dillon started growing his hair out at the beginning of the summer and informed us that he wanted to get dreadlocks.

Seriously, can my children just be normal once in a while? Apparently not.

We tried to talk him out of it several times, to no avail. His hair gets longer and longer, just waiting for the right length to have the dreads done.

One weekend we walk into his house and he has a crew cut! What happened to the dreads? Did mom and dad finally prevail and talk some sense into the boy? Oh, no. He went to work and checked with the management at the liquor store to make sure dreads would be acceptable.

They said, “No, not really.”

The next day my son Dillon had short hair!

See, I told you God works in mysterious ways! Thanks, Liquor Store Management.

We have a lot to be thankful for! n

Photo by Steve Newby

12 | ABOUT

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

November 2011

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ABOUT

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Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 13

“It was the worst of times. It was the best of times.�

Charles Dickens

T

he final days of life for a terminal patient and his family are traumatic under the best circumstances.

Many families bring their loved one home to die. In these cases, Hospice services come to the home to provide comfort to the patient and respite for family caregivers.

Hospice or palliative care focuses on physical and emotional comfort for patients during their final days, rather than on active or curative treatment. In simple terms, Hospice care represents quality of life over the quantity of life.

Unfortunately, home hospice service is not always appropriate because of medical necessity or limitations in the home environment or in medical coverage. For these patients, the Arkansas Hospice River Valley Home at 220 John Babish Lane was formally dedicated on September 28, 2011.

14 | ABOUT

Twelve years ago when the facility was first planned, it would have been the first free-standing hospice inpatient center in Arkansas, said Jim Bob Humphrey, Chairman of the Arkansas Hospice Capital Campaign Committee.

However, it is the first to be built and operated by the nonprofit organization, Arkansas Hospice, and will serve patients in the six county area including Conway, Johnson, Logan, Perry, Pope and Yell counties.

The 7,000 square foot state-of-theart building has private rooms for eight patients. Each room has been designed to hospital standards while maintaining a feeling of home and comfort. The facility includes a central nursing care station, a negative pressure patient room for patients with respiratory or contagious infections, a chapel named

in honor of the late Dorothy Babish, and a comfortable lobby with a fireplace seating area and adjoining multi-purpose family room with a food preparation area for family use. The family room opens to an outdoor garden patio with a water feature holding a stunning, optically lit tree-of-life sculpture.

To provide a homey feeling, each bedroom-like patient room is furnished with a chair/bed for family members, a handicapped-accessible private bath and a big screen TV that can play a continual loop of familiar area landscape photos donated by Russellville photographer Terry Boyd, with soothing piano music produced and donated by Nancy Feldman of San Destin, Fla. The Home also encourages families to bring DVDs of photographs for reminiscing with the loved one.

Story by Connie Las Schneider Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

November 2011

The Final Days As owner and manager of Humphrey Funeral Home in Russellville for more than 30 years, Jim Bob Humphrey has dedicated his life to help families dealing with death. Because of his work, Humphrey is intimately familiar with the process of death and dying.

“The last 3-5 days of a person’s life can be very powerful!

For those closest to the dying patient, these last days and hours are nearly always filled with some trauma. For the dying patient it can be filled with both agony and ecstasy!”

When a decision is made by the dying patient and family members in coordination with the primary care physician to discontinue life-saving procedures, a change in context occurs: no longer are we seeking a cure when there really is no cure. A new direction begins: the focus is no longer on medical procedures that are diagnostic or curative. Instead, the medical support team focuses on comfort.

The patient then moves from an intensive care unit to his or her own bed at home (or inpatient Hospice) surrounded by that which is familiar and comforting. Now, the person can be surrounded by people who give them comfort and by the things which bring up the sweetest of memories like photographs of events long ago that shaped their lives.

Loved ones and caregivers should focus on long talks where the purpose is centered on being present in the moment rather than on doing. It is in these moments that we become most “human”, said Humphrey.

(For information on Boyd, visit www. terryboydphotography.com, or www. magnoliahouse.com for Feldman) Completing the cozy atmosphere, each bed has a handmade quilt and a crocheted prayer shawl made by local volunteers as special remembrances for the family to take home.

There is no similar inpatient facility within a 70-mile radius. To access this type of care in the past, patients and their

November 2011

Humphrey still vividly recalls his beloved father’s death 14 years ago, after a long fight with Alzheimer’s disease followed by seven months in a nursing home and two weeks in the hospital.

The time that Medicare would pay for hospital care was over and so we returned to the nursing home, to an unfamiliar room.

“During the last 48 hours he suffered. Unable to get his breath, for the first time in my life, I saw fear in my father’s eyes. It was so painful to see him in such suffering. I asked the nurse if I should stay. She said “sweetheart, you don’t want to be here to watch this”. And so I left and said that I could be reached on my pager. I ran away. I left my dad dying in a room with four gray walls with people he did not know or trust because I could not “handle it.” How I long to go back there and make a different decision”.

Humphrey said he wished he would have had another chance to say all the loving things he held in his heart for his father. Humphrey and his father worked together more than 20 years in the family business. Adopted at the age of seven by the Humphreys, he said “He was my dad, my business partner, my best friend and my hero.”

“I wish I could have sat by his bed and told him how proud I am to be his son, how I will always love and remember him. I wish I had held his big farm hands. I wish I could have told him that I will take good care of my mom. I would have told him I will continue to care for the families of the Arkansas River Valley with the same concern he had shown for the past 56 years.”

As Capital Campaign Chairman for the Arkansas Hospice River Valley Home, Humphrey kept his promise to his father and to families in the River Valley suffering with end of life concerns.

families had to travel to Ft. Smith, Little Rock or Harrison.

The building’s total cost of more than $2.5 million was raised by a group of dedicated fund raisers called the Arkansas Hospice Capital Campaign Committee. Headed by Jim Bob Humphrey, Capital Campaign Committee members include: Dr. Mary Ann Rollans, Susan Bailey, Donna Van-Horn, Aldona Standridge, George and Paula Reid, Bonnie Brown Ring, Glenn Heaton, Susan Bailey, Sharon Trusty

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

Kronenberger, Troy Burris, Dee Brazil-Dale, Phyllis Bewley, Janet Ford, Leonard Krout, Richard Ruble and Dorothy Babish, who died three weeks before the dedication of the facility she worked tirelessly to make a reality.

Donations made by the family of John and Dorothy Babish provided the funds to build the street and the chapel in each of their names. The names of 158 donors of $1,000 donors are also listed on the donor wall inside the foyer. >>

ABOUT | 15

Dr. James Smith and Dr. Allen Kirkland, Arkansas Hospice Home physicians

Prior to the formal dedication ceremony, there was a private reception for these founding donors, members of the Capital Campaign Committee and Babish’s three grown daughters: Gwendolyn Rambo, Charla McKernan, and Carla Beckwith.

“My mother would have loved to be here to see this,” said McKernan. Babish died on September 13 at home under the care of Arkansas Hospice services.

“There are no words to describe the wonderful service she received. These people truly have the heart to do what they do,” she added.

The formal dedication ceremony took place outside under the portico at the front entrance of the building; a brick and stone structure which more closely resembles a gracious home than an end-of-life medical facility.

“This day has been a long time in coming,” said Judy Wooten, President and CEO of Arkansas Hospice. Wooten cited the vision of former Arkansas Hospice founder and CEO, Michael Aureli, who died just three months ago at the age of 61 from recurring cancer, and Babish, who died in early September, as two driving forces behind the new Hospice Home. Ironically, neither person was able to die in the peaceful and comforting care of the new facility they worked so hard to create and hoped to spend their last days.

“Michael Aureli was a visionary leader who changed the lives of those he touched. His love for the dying and his passion for excellence set the standard for end-of-life care in Arkansas,” said Wooten. Although Aureli originally conceived the Hospice with the belief that Little Rock would be the site, Aureli came to believe the Russellville location would better serve the Arkansas community.

Wooten also eulogized Babish. “Dorothy Babish was a driving force in the realization of this wonderful facility. Toward the end of her life, Dorothy thought she might be the first patient to use this facility and I know she is here in spirit today to witness the dedication.”

“To both Dorothy Babish and Michael Aureli, thank you for sharing your dreams and lives with us. We love you, miss you and will never forget,” said a tearful Wooten to the equally misty eyed group at the dedication.

Wooten thanked the many donors and the Capital Campaign Committee, which she lovingly referred to as “professional beggars”. Because of the committee’s hard work and dedication, “a concept that was only a dream in the early 1990’s, is now bricks and mortar.” Wooten also thanked the staff and donors for “taking these bricks and mortar and turning it into a living, breathing home offering loving, tender, compassionate care for the end of life.”

Wooten presented Jim Bob Humphrey with a plaque to honor his leadership as Capital Campaign Chairman.

“Mr. Humphrey is a man who never sleeps, never met a stranger and never gives up. If you want something done in this town, he is the man to do it.”

Humphrey thanked Wooten and said, “It’s not about me. It’s about the people who have gone on before us.”

With 350 employees state wide, working out of eight regional offices, Arkansas Hospice is the largest nonprofit in the state and patients are never turned away due to inability to pay, said Wooten.

Arkansas Hospice services are covered 100% by Medicare and Medicaid and most private insurers follow Medicare’s footsteps. As a not-for-profit organization, Arkansas Hospice cares for all regardless of financial resources. For more information on the Arkansas Hospice River Valley Hospice Home, call (888) 498-2050. n

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16 | ABOUT

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

November 2011

development

Photos by Liz Chrisman

Input sought for Russellville Master Plan

Main Street Russellville, the city of Russellville, Arkansas Tech University and the county are joining together to develop and support a downtown master plan.

When complete, the plan will address an assessment of current resources and opportunities, collaboration between key stakeholders and a plan for future growth and economic development—all of which will enhance the quality of life for residents Russellville and surrounding area.

“The City’s Downtown Master Plan Project represents the beginning stage of a progressive and exciting period of development for our downtown. Not only is it a great opportunity for the City to collaborate with the downtown property and business owners, Arkansas Tech University, the County and countless others in creating a clear vision for the future of downtown Russellville and El Paso Avenue, but, more importantly, it will allow us to channel all of our collective energies, ideas and resources into creating a concrete and common sense plan to achieve that vision,” states Russellville Mayor Bill Eaton.

On October 10 and 11, The Walker Collaborative of Nashville, Tenn., was in Russellville to begin the process of developing the master plan. There were a series of stakeholder focus group meetings, meetings with the Downtown Master Plan Steering Committee, a tour of the study area and a public kick-off meeting—all facilitated

by the Walker Collaborative, a team of nationally-recognized leaders in the field of downtown planning and revitalization.

Interested parties were invited to attend the public kick-off meeting, which was held in the first floor conference room of City Hall, 203 S. Commerce.

During the two-day “fact-gathering” visit, the Walker Collaborative discussed the Project Scope Summary, which includes four task areas: Research and Analysis, Charrette and Concept Plan, Draft Plan Preparation, and Plan Presentation and Revision.

Task 2, which covers the Charrette* and Concept Plan, will be scheduled for a future

visit (date to be announced, possibly early January) and will include a day-long field day, evening public workshop, two-day concept plan development, and an evening concept plan presentation.

The public is encouraged and invited to participate as this group works to involve property and business owners, area officials, local homeowners and the general public in creating a the Downtown Russellville Master Plan – a “community plan” – that will improve not only the appearance and functionality of the city but the mobility, economic impact and overall design improvement of the focus area.

Cont. on page 19

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ABOUT | 17

Sales, Purchases Give Hope Molly Turner of Russellville, an advocate for the Eternal Threads organization, understands the value of giving hope.

That is why Turner will be hosting the fourth annual local Eternal Threads Gathering Sale on Saturday, Nov. 5, at the Family Center of West Side Church of Christ, 201 N. Waco, Russellville. The event, which will be open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., is always held the first Saturday of November.

This unique shopping experience will showcase Fair Trade products from 12 countries across the world.

Established in the year 2000, Eternal Threads is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of women and children most at risk of extreme poverty, trafficking and other forms of exploitation. Eternal Threads provides sustainable livelihoods through income generating projects that directly pay a fair and living wage.

18 | ABOUT

Additionally, the proceeds from sales help fund vocational training, anti-trafficking border units and literacy programs.

Area shoppers are invited to come browse the beautiful hand-crafted items lovingly made by skilled artisans in these exotic countries. Items include: handcrocheted totes and lace from India; hand-loomed silk scarves and shawls, handmade paper, and engaging raffia items from Madagascar; hand-knitted woolen items and jewelry from Nepal; beautifully hand crafted jewelry using semiprecious stones from Afghanistan and Thailand, and much, much more from Ghana, Uganda, Nigeria, Mongolia, Peru, Bulgaria and the Philippines.

“With your Eternal Threads purchase, you not only possess a quality item that you will treasure, you also give a gift of hope to a woman in the developing world,” say Eternal Threads organizers.

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

Rosemary began a business weaving round baskets to support her family. She is from Uganda. Read Rosemary’s story at eternalthreads.com.

“Join us in ‘weaving hope and justice’ into the lives of hundreds of families. Your single purchase really does make a difference,” agrees Turner.

Visit Eternal Threads website at www.

EternalThreads.org. For more information about this event, please contact Molly Turner at (479) 970-5445. n November 2011

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Cont. from page 17 Contrary to what some may think, the scope of the project covers not just “Main Street Russellville” or the Downtown Historic District, but is extended to include: Parkway on the North, Glenwood on the West, 4th Street on the South and Cleveland on the East.

Interested citizens are encouraged to learn more about the Downtown Russellville Master Plan by contacting members of the DTMP Steering Committee. They include: Jimmy Streett, Committee Chair and MSR Board member; Linda Carnahan, MSR Board, Friends of the Depot and Russellville Historic District Commission (RHDC); John Cochran, Russellville Fire Chief, MSR Board ex-officio; Breanne Davis, Blackstone Construction, Russellville School Board; David Harris, City Planner, MSR Board ex-officio, RHDC staff; John Harris, MSR Board Vice-President; Julie Morgan, ATU; Steve Newby, MSR Board, RHDC; Jeff Pipkin, Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce/Ark. Valley Alliance for Economic Development; David Rollans, Pope County Quorum Court; Garland Steuber, City Council Liason; Kevin Freeman, City Council Liason and Madelyn Ginsberg, Pope County Quorum Court. MSR Staff members include Betsy McGuire, MSR Executive Director, and Danya Day, MSR Administrative Assistant.

For more information on how you can be involved in creating a better Russellville, contact Main Street Russellville at (479) 967-1437. n Note: The word “charrette” may refer to any collaborative session in which a group of designers drafts a solution to a design problem. Charrettes often take place in multiple sessions in which the group divides into sub-groups. In planning, the charrette has become a technique for consulting with all stakeholders, typically involving intense and possibly multi-day meetings, involving municipal officials, developers, and residents.

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ABOUT | 19

food

Gifts from the heart of the kitchen Story by Dianna Qualls About the River Valley Food Editor

I

t ’s time to start thinking about Christmas. ALREADY? Yes already! I have solved a multitude of gifts for you to give to those in your life.

Many years ago Lloyd and I would prepare candies, cookies, breads and more and place them in gift boxes to share with those in our lives.

I remember we gave Dr. Dan Ryder (before I worked for him) and his staff a box of goodies and attached a card that stated: “I hope your dentist appreciates our gift to you and your staff.”

SUGAR! SUGAR! SUGAR! HaHa! Create your own goodie boxes and share your love of cooking with those you love.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving and a Merry Christmas, and happy gift giving.

HOMEMADE GRANOLA

Easy-to-mix homemade granola makes a welcome gift. Label the container with the suggestion to serve with milk or yogurt.

3 c. regular rolled oats 1/2 c. toasted wheat germ 1/2 c. coarsely chopped hazelnuts (filberts) or sliced almonds 1/3 c. honey 1/2 tsp. finely shredded orange peel 1/3 c. orange juice 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon Nonstick cooking spray 1 c. flaked or shredded coconut In a large mixing bowl stir together the oats, wheat germ, and hazelnuts or almonds. In a small saucepan stir together the honey, orange peel and juice, and cinnamon. Heat just until boiling; remove from heat. Add honey mixture to oat mixture, tossing gently until coated.

Coat a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Spread oat mixture evenly in pan. Bake in a 325 degree oven for 15 minutes. Add coconut to oat mixture and stir. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes more or until light brown, stirring once.

Remove from oven and immediately turn out onto a large piece of foil; cool.

Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Makes about 10 1/2-cup serving.

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Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

November 2011

To Present This As a Gift: You will need, scissors, ribbon, clear jar, thick white crafts glue, hot-glue gun and hot-glue sticks, cinnamon sticks, wheat, and a small artificial orange.

Cut a piece of ribbon to wrap around glass jar lid. Glue in place with crafts glue.

Let dry. Hot-glue cinnamon sticks around the rim of the lid. Arrange and hot-glue wheat to the top of the lid.

Hot-glue an artificial orange in the center of the lid. Let dry. Include preparation directions, below, with gift.

Spoon granola into a bowl. Top with fresh fruit. Top with plain or vanilla yogurt or milk.

your hands to finish mixing. Shape into walnut sized balls. Place 2 inches apart on prepared cookie sheets.

3. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes in the preheated oven. Transfer from cookie sheets to cool on wire racks.

Yield: approx 3 dozen. Recipe from allrecipes.com.

SNOW BALLS IN A JAR 1/2 c. confectioners’ sugar 2 c. all-purpose flour 1 c. chopped pecans

8 oz. milk chocolate, broken into pieces 27 (8-inch long) pretzel rods In a medium bowl, combine the Flaked coconut and/or green, red, and white sprinkles (for topping) confectioners’ sugar and flour. Place into a 1 quart canning jar. Put the chopped Cowboy Cookie Mix in a Jar Cookie mix layered in a jar. They are great pecans on top. Close the lid and attach a Place chocolate in microwave-safe measuring cup or mug. Heat, covered with tag with the following instructions. for gift-giving or bake sales. waxed paper, in microwave on High 1 to 2

minutes or until chocolate is almost melted, Instructions: 1 1/3 c. rolled oats Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. stirring occasionally until smooth.

1/2 c. packed brown sugar Grease cookie sheets. In a medium bowl, Meanwhile, place each topping choice 1/2 c. white sugar cream together 3/4 cup of shortening and on separate sheet of waxed paper or on 1/2 c. chopped pecans individual plates.

1/4 cup of margarine.

1 c. semisweet chocolate chips Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla. Add Holding 1 pretzel rod at a time, dip in 1 1/3 c. all-purpose flour the entire contents of the jar, and mix melted chocolate, tipping cup to cover 1 tsp. baking powder well. Roll dough into 1 inch balls and about half of rod with chocolate. Allow 1 tsp. baking soda place them on the prepared cookie excess chocolate to drip off pretzel back 1/4 tsp. salt sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, into cup. Immediately sprinkle coated Layer the ingredients in a 1 quart jar in the until lightly browned. Cool, and roll in pretzel with choice of topping.

Carefully place coated pretzel rod in pie order given. Press each layer firmly in place confectioners’ sugar. before adding the next layer. Include a card Yields approximately four dozen cookies. plate or shallow bowl, leaning uncoated portion on edge. with the following instructions.

Repeat with remaining pretzels (try to CHOCOLATE-DIPPED PRETZELS These pretzels are super easy to whip up keep pretzels from touching one another in Cowboy Cookie Mix in a Jar to give as a gift. Dip them a day ahead, and pie plate), and refrigerate about 20 minutes 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease pack them in a box lined with waxed tissue to set coating. cookie sheets.

2. In a medium bowl, mix together 1/2 cup paper or parchment paper. Don’t forget to Store pretzels in tightly sealed container, add a note, or simply remind your friends with waxed paper between layers, at melted butter or margarine, 1 egg, and that pretzels are best eaten within a week room temperature. Recipe from Good 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Stir in the entire Housekeeping. >> contents of the jar. You may need to use -- if they’re even around that long!

November 2011

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 21

TACO SEASONING II

A mixture of spices and a little cornstarch for thickening, that closely resembles packaged taco seasoning found in the store. There is no salt in this mixture.

6 tsp. chili powder 5 tsp. paprika 4 1/2 tsp. ground cumin 2 1/2 tsp. onion powder 2 1/2 tsp. garlic powder 1 1/2 tsp. cornstarch 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper

Include the following instructions on the gift tag.

In a jar with a tight fitting lid, combine chili powder, paprika, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper and cornstarch. Close lid securely, and shake well to mix contents. 7 teaspoons is equivalent to one 1.25 ounce package of taco seasoning.

Yield approximately 21 teaspoons.

Recipe from. allrecipes.com

EASY BEER BREAD MIX

2 1/2 c. self-rising flour 1/2 c. all-purpose flour 1/4 c. brown sugar 1 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. onion powder 3/4 tsp. Italian seasoning 1 (12 fluid oz.) can beer 1/4 c. butter or margarine, melted

Combine all the dry ingredients and put them in quart canning jars or quart size plastic bags and give as gifts. All the recipient needs to add is the can of beer and butter over the top of the loaf.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9x5 inch baking pan. In a bowl, mix the self-rising flour, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Pour in the beer, and mix just until moistened. Transfer to the prepared baking pan. Top with the melted butter.

Bake 45 to 55 minutes in the preheated oven, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack.

CALICO BEAN SOUP MIX 1/3 c. yellow split peas 1/3 c. green split peas 1/3 c. dried lima beans

1/3 c. dried pinto beans 1/3 c. dry kidney beans 1/3 c. dry great Northern beans 1/4 c. dried minced onion 2 tsp. chicken bouillon granules 1/4 tsp. ground cumin 1/4 tsp. garlic powder To make Bean Soup Mix: Combine yellow split peas, green split peas, limas, pinto beans, kidney beans, great Northern beans, onion, bouillon granules, cumin and garlic powder. Store in an airtight container until ready to use.

Include on the gift tag the following directions.

Other Soup Ingredients 8 c. water 2 carrots, chopped 2 stalks celery, chopped 2 lbs. smoked ham hocks To make soup, bring Bean Soup Mix and water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Cover, remove from heat and let sit one hour.

Return pot to heat, stir in carrots and celery.

Stir in ham hocks, bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat and simmer 2 hours, until beans are tender, skimming fat as necessary.

Remove ham hocks from soup. Remove meat from bone, chop and return to soup.

Heat through and serve.

SPICED MIXED NUTS

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3521 West Main Street Russellville • 479-967-3744

Only our name is different.

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

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

Since 1996, Wildflower has served the needs of Seniors.

Rest assured, Only Our Name Has Changed.

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22 | ABOUT

479-890-6709

240 S. Inglewood Ave., Russellville, AR www.Emeritus.com • Lic #027

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

1 lb. (4 cups) mixed unsalted nuts (such as cashews, macadamias, walnuts, pecans, or almonds) 1/2 tsp. ground coriander 1/2 tsp. ground cumin 2 T. unsalted butter 2 T. dark brown sugar 2 T. chopped fresh rosemary 1/4 tsp. cayenne 1-1/2 tsp. kosher salt Tip: Tossing the warm nuts in a warmed bowl helps the spiced butter coat the nuts evenly.

Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 350°F. Scatter the nuts on a rimmed baking sheet and bake, shaking the sheet a couple of times during baking until the nuts are nicely toasted, 10 to 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, set a small heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle in the coriander and cumin and toast until aromatic, about 30 seconds. Remove the pan from the heat and add the butter, brown sugar, rosemary, and cayenne.

Return the skillet to low heat and stir until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves, 2 to 2-1/2 minutes. Keep warm.

November 2011

metal spatula. Sift the baking soda and salt onto a small sheet of waxed paper. Measure the vanilla extract into a small container. Set all of these near your work area, along with a pair of rubber gloves.

In a four qt. deep, heavy-based saucepan, combine the water, corn syrup, and sugar.

Stir over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves, 10 to 12 minutes. When the Make Ahead Tips: The nuts can be made up to a week in solution is clear and begins to boil, increase the heat to high and stop stirring. Put a advance; store in an airtight container.

Variations: You can use any combination candy thermometer in the solution, holding of unsalted nuts you like but avoid Brazil it with a mitt to protect your hand. When the nuts; their high oil content makes the mixture registers 265°F on the thermometer, stir 8 to 10 minutes. coating slide off of them.

Later, add the nuts and stir gently to disperse them through the mixture. Continue TRADITIONAL PEANUT BRITTLE cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture Unflavored vegetable oil for greasing the reaches the hard-crack stage, 305° to 310°F, slab (or inverted cookie sheet) about 5 minutes longer. Remove the pan from 3/4 tsp. baking soda the heat. Stir in the softened butter, the vanilla 1/2 tsp. salt extract, and then the baking soda and salt.

1 tsp. vanilla extract The mixture will begin to foam.

1/2 c. water Stir just until the mixture foams evenly, 3/4 c. light corn syrup and without delay pour it onto the oiled 2 c. sugar 1-1/2 c. raw peanuts (Spanish or blanched) marble slab. The mixture should spread to about 14 inches in diameter. Slip the oiled 2 T. unsalted butter, softened spatula under the hot candy to loosen the Generously oil an 18-inch-square marble edges and bottom. Put on the gloves and slab (or an inverted baking sheet) and a thin as soon as the candy is firm enough on the Place roasted nuts into a large warmed bowl, pour the warm spiced butter over the nuts, and add the salt. Stir until the nuts are well coated.

Taste for seasoning and add more salt if necessary. Let the nuts cool completely.

Recipe from finecooking.com.

LOVE your smile.

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Before

November 2011

1 (16 oz) pkg. saltine crackers 1 c. canola oil 2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes 1 (1 oz.) pkg. dry ranch salad dressing mix Unwrap crackers, place entire package into a container that will hold all of them and will allow enough room to toss the crackers around to coat with the oil mixture, and that has an airtight lid. In a small bowl, combine well the oil, red pepper flakes, and the ranch dressing mix.

Pour over the crackers in the container.

Close the lid tightly, and turn the container every 5 minutes for about 1 hour to coat with the oil mixture. Allow to sit overnight. Enjoy.

These can be placed into clear gift bags, tie with festive ribbon and share with those in your life who enjoy firecrackers. n

Estate Planning REVOCABLE LIVING TRUSTS WILLS ELDER LAW

(479) 967-3225 Before

{After}

Hodge Family Dentistry 2112 W. Main • Russellville

FIRE-CRACKERS

{After}

For All Your Family’s Dental Needs Call

Dr. Brandi Hodge

bottom to be picked up (the top won’t be hard yet), lift the edges and turn the entire piece of brittle over.

With gloved hands, stretch the brittle to extend it so it’s as thin as you can get it, about 17 inches in diameter. Let the candy cool undisturbed for at least 1 hour and then break it into small pieces. Store the brittle in airtight containers for up to 10 days.

(479) 968-7314 Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

THE COUTTS LAW FIRM, P.A. James V. Coutts Attorney at Law

110 South Commerce Russellville ABOUT | 23

providing

Turkey Love Story by Connie Las Schneider

Table turkeys seem to live hard and die young. Raised for a few short months in artificial conditions only to be killed and eaten, animal right activists rail at the treatment of poultry raised for food.

But do domestic turkeys really live tortured lives?

According to one local turkey grower, turkeys are living the good life and spend their short lives as lovingly cared for as family pets.

“I just love my turkeys and treat them as good as I can!” said Kaffie Campbell, who along with her husband, Eddie, has raised turkeys in west Johnson County for the past nine years. Kaffie calls her turkeys “my babies” and means it.

The Campbells care for up to 90,000 turkeys at two farms as contract growers for Butterball LLC. Each year Butterball delivers up to six batches of baby turkeys called poults and supplies the necessary feed and “rice hull” litter. The Campbells supply the manpower and equipment, with barns equipped with various high-tech feeders and watering systems.

As turkeys are susceptible to changes in temperature, the Campbells closely monitor the temperature and moisture of the barns several times per day and walk through the pens every few hours to inspect their poults and check equipment.

“God put these creatures on the earth to feed us, and we want to make their lives as happy as possible while they are here.”

When we walk the barns, the turkeys get active and go to the feeders to eat, said Eddie. Mechanized feeding and water systems keeps nutritional food and fresh water constantly available to the young birds.

The barns are also equipped with sophisticated temperature control systems with huge fans which were in constant use during the long heat wave last summer.

“We were very lucky this year,” agreed Kaffie and Eddie, describing how the turkey operation made it through the May 25th tornado which touched down less than one mile from their farm and the scorching 115degree heat.

That was a blessing in itself!” said Kaffie.

Although the Campbells start each day at 4 a.m., they 24 | ABOUT

are on call 24/7 as a computerized “sense-a-phone” automatically warns them if the temperature gets too cold or too hot.

“You’ve got to love animals to stay in this business,” said Kaffee.

“It’s not something you can do and just walk away. It’s a 24-hour-aday job and you worry about their comfort and safety just like you worry about your children’s health and welfare,” said the mother of two grown sons.

“We keep our turkeys safe from diseases and predators and they don’t have to worry about the weather or where their next meal is coming from,” Kaffie explained. “If they get injured we try to save them and even have a little turkey hospital where convalescing turkeys and those being picked on by other birds are kept safe.”

The females don’t much like the Toms (male turkeys) and often pick at their “noodle,” a little bump above the male’s beak, said Kaffie. Most of the poults are female, but some males are usually included, she added.

The turkeys are also kept safe from diseases and parasites. Anyone other than the Campbells must wear a disposable hygienic coverall, a hair net and footies or special plastic boots, plus step in disinfectant before being allowed in the barns. Health inspectors and Butterball specialists also monitor the operation on a regular basis, to insure the safety and welfare of the turkeys on the premises. Birds that die are incinerated, which also helps keep the turkey operation sanitary, said Kaffie.

But, what about the turkeys themselves? Conventional wisdom tells us that turkeys are stupid.

“Turkeys are not stupid. They are curious and happy little creatures.

Some people think they do dumb things, but that’s only because they are curious,” said Kaffie. They love attention and shiny things and can even tell the difference between a familiar voice and a stranger’s voice, she added.

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

November 2011

“Turkeys love people and will run toward the sound of human voices,” said Kaffie. To prove her point, Kaffie opened the door to the office connected to the growing barn for only a moment. Sure enough, thousands of young poults came running to the door because they heard her voice.

“I’ve got to close this door fast, so they don’t crowd one another and get hurt. If the birds aren’t happy, I’m not happy,” she added.

Poults start out in the “brooder” barn, where they stay until they are 5-6 weeks old. Then the poults are split into two groups so the growing turkeys have more room, with half going into each of two “grow out” barns. Usually, at 12-13 weeks, the

grown turkeys are transported by truck to the Butterball plant in Ozark for processing.

The litter is then removed and put through a cleaning machine and sold to farmers who use the litter to fertilize crops. Kaffie also said turkey litter doesn’t seem to smell as bad as chicken litter.

“As a turkey grower, you don’t make a lot of money,” said Kaffie. “I’ve always loved animals and this was a way to be close to them. I’d rather work at something I love and make a little bit than make more money and hate the job.”

Does Kaffie feel guilty when her beloved birds end up on someone’s plate? As the Campbells see it, they are doing a service to the public and to Mother Nature.

R OCK THIS IS NOT YOUR FUNK UNK FATHER’S NPEW WAVE OLDIES G L A M 7 0 S & 80S P STATION! DISCOOP Listen Anywhere In The World at

www.oldies993live.com November 2011

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

“God put these creatures on the earth to feed us, and we want to make their lives as happy as possible while they are here,” she said.

Kaffie even has a little prayer she likes to say. It goes, “God Bless the turkeys and all the little creatures and God Bless us, because we all need it.”

Happy Thanksgiving! n

This is the time of year to be Grateful, and at Nebo 2 we are thankful for all our customers!

479-498-2277 3405 E. Main, Russellville ABOUT | 25

HOLLA BEND Story by Johnny Sain Contributing photos by Johnny Sain and Brad Harris

26 | ABOUT

T

he dredging of the new Arkansas River channel back in 1954 made some huge changes in the River Valley. The channel along with the lock and dam system virtually eliminated the threat of flood to residents of the river bottoms. It created a safer, more productive lane of commerce. Goods were much easier to import and export out of the River Valley. It was also responsible for separating a crescent shaped piece of Pope County from the rest of Pope County.

The 7,000 acres of fertile farming land is still part of Pope County but the only way to get to it is to drive through Yell County, even if your journey starts in Pope County. Confused yet? The 7,000 acre piece of land is known today as Holla Bend.

The Osage and Cherokee tribes of Native Americans called this area home and the fertile river bottoms attracted early settlers for the same reasons the Native Americans chose it. The waterway provided good soil for crops along with an abundance of wild game. All of the ingredients needed for people to prosper have always been available in this area.

As more settlers moved in the community encircled on three sides by the Arkansas River became known as “Holly Bend,” named for one of its earliest residents, Holly Brown. Sometime around 1830 a crew began survey work in order to make an accurate map of the area and one letter was changed by mistake as the map came into production. A community name changed forever by one little typo.

In the years to follow, development along the river allowed Holly Bend to support 65 farming families but then disaster struck.

In April of 1927 a massive flood from the then untamed Arkansas River destroyed the farming community and altered the river’s course. While the river levees didn’t help much in preventing the flood, they did keep the flood waters from quickly receding. This allowed sediments to form a blanket of sand -- in some places more than eight feet deep. Because of the change in the river channel, flooding continued to be a threat and made it impossible for residents to make a living on the once-prosperous soil.

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

November 2011

Our mission here at Holla Bend is to protect the natural heritage that we have and we do that by education and involvement.

The land known as Holla Bend was then purchased by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and in 1954 a new River Channel was cut. The new channel separated Holla Bend from the rest of Pope County creating an island of sorts, surrounded by the new Arkansas River channel to the north and by the oxbow lake of the old channel on all other sides.

Holla Bend reverted to scrub timber and grass with little farming activity. Public interest from River Valley sportsman created a push to designate Holla Bend a National Wildlife Refuge, and in 1957, the efforts of these outdoorsmen and women came to fruition.

Now a part of 540 refuges across the nation, Holla Bend is a wildlife wonderland in the River Valley. Agriculture is again an important part of the refuge but the land is farmed to benefit wildlife as well as the local farmers. The farmers plant milo, soybeans, corn, and winter wheat. The soybeans and milo are harvested by the farmers for profit while the corn and wheat are left in the fields. The leftover wheat and corn provide much needed high carbohydrate food for the many species of wildlife that both migrate through and live yearround on the refuge.

Scattered throughout the agricultural fields are several small ponds. The ponds aren’t deep enough to stay wet all year so when they dry up in the summer, millet and other grains are planted and grow there, providing another source of high energy food for wildlife.

In the winter the ponds fill up with rain, or in dry years, they are flooded by refuge employees, providing perfect stopovers for waterfowl. This is a duck’s version of a four-star hotel along with an all-you-can-eat buffet.

Holla Bend is a resting area for migratory birds that travel the central and Mississippi flyways during the spring and summer migrations. At least 240 different species of birds have been observed on the refuge ranging from the tiny ruby-throated hummingbird up to the majestic bald eagles. Waterfowl sometimes number into the tens of thousands on the refuge during peak migration dates.

Many different species of reptiles and amphibians call the refuge home along with a multitude of mammals. Probably the most popular animal on the refuge, especially in the eyes of sportsmen and women, are the whitetail deer. >>

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|

4200 East Main • Russellville Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 27

TECH TRAVEL

CHRISTMAS TOUR – NATCHITOCHES, LOUISIANA Dec. 8-11, 2011 (25 Group Limit - Wait List Available)

***COMING IN 2012*** TROPICAL COSTA RICA Feb. 11-19, 2012 Lush forests, stunning waterfalls, endless coastlines. A paradise teaming with plants and animals. Highlights include Monteverde’s Cloud Forest, Cano Negro River Boat Cruise, Tamarindo Beach, coffee plantation, volcanos and more!

BALTIC TREASURES LUXURY CRUISE: June 8-19, 2012 A royal experience awaits you on this cruise from Copenhagen to legendary ports across the Baltic Sea. Highlights: Copenhagen-Berlin-Ronne-Gdansk- VisbyRiga-Tallinn-St. Petersburg-Helsinki-Stockholm.

THE BEST OF EASTERN CANADA: August 5-13, 2012 Featuring Montreal, Quebec City, Ottawa, Niagra Falls and more! Details Coming Soon!

CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK CITY: Nov/ Dec. 2012 (5-Day Tour) Experience the best of “the Big Apple.” From Little Italy to Greenwich Village, this NYC trip offers two exciting Broadway Shows, Ellis Island, Metropolitan Museum, Empire State Building, Wall Street and more with plenty of free time to shop and explore.

SPRING & FALL DAY TRIPS TO BE ADDED IN NEAR FUTURE. UPDATED PASSPORTS REQUIRED ON TRIPS OUTSIDE OF THE USA!

Tech Travel

Alumni and Friends of Arkansas Tech www.atu.edu/travel

For additional information, please contact Dana Moseley, Office of Gift Planning, (479) 964-0532

Holla Bend is known across the southeast as an area of interest for bowhunters. Because of the archery-only hunting season (along with an annual twoday youth gun hunt) the deer on Holla Bend get an opportunity to grow old and big. The weights and antler size of deer harvested on the refuge typically dwarf most deer harvested in the surrounding counties.

The Refuge usually sells around 200 deer hunting permits per year. While the deer population is high, the relatively low annual deer harvest of between 30-60 deer -- due in large part to the difficulty of killing a deer with archery tackle -- guarantees that many bucks will reach maturity and maximum size.

For many years Holla Bend has been mostly on the radar of hunters, anglers, and a few die- hard bird watchers, but new management at Holla Bend saw the need for more public awareness. Current Refuge Manager Durwin Carter has a vision that goes beyond the people that already enjoy the refuge; he has set a goal of finding new ways to inform more River Valley citizens about the treasure of wild land that exists right under their collective noses.

“Our mission here on Holla Bend is to protect the natural heritage that we have and we do that by education and involvement.”

Carter spoke with emotion as he continued.

“It’s really about the kids; we’re just borrowing the land from them and if we’re not finding ways to create an interest in

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nature, in wildlife, then I’m just wasting my time doing the things I do on the refuge today. We need future stewards of the land.

I want the kids to be able to experience what I experience when I see a red-tailed hawk soaring above or even a leopard frog on a pond bank.”

Carter has worked extensively with a group of local citizens known as ‘The Friends of Holla Bend.’

“This is just a group of citizens that enjoy Holla Bend and want to find ways to make the public, specifically the kids, aware of it.” Carter went on to talk about some of projects and events that ‘The Friends of Holla Bend’ had planned and implemented.

“This was the second year for Bow Jam and we doubled the number of kids that came out to participate. The members made wooden bows for all the kids, had target shooting, a flint knapping demonstration, and a table with antlers and furs for the kids to look at and touch.”

“The group had a nature hay ride this summer and they are planning more things like this. Part of my job is to help them make Holla Bend attractive to the public, to the kids. Getting them involved and interested in the natural world helps insure the future of places like Holla Bend.”

Carter captured the essence of what Holla Bend is with one succinct statement.

“I work here, this is where I make my living, but Holla Bend belongs to the citizens. I just want them to be aware of the special and interesting place that it is.” n

BIG SAVINGS

Amber Smith

(479) 968-1932 • 2410 E. Parkway Dr., Ste. 4 Insurance and coverages subject to terms, qualifications and availability. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company: Northbrook, Illinois © 2010 Allstate Insurance Company.

28 | ABOUT

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

November 2011

Destination: Northern Parks

America’s most spectacular treasures, the national parks of Utah, Wyoming and Idaho, were the destination for a group of local travelers led by Arkansas Tech’s director of Gift Planning and Tech travel coordinator Dana Moseley. The group departed from Little Rock on July 22 headed for Salt Lake City, the take-off point of an eight-day journey.

After completing a two-night stay touring the “City of the Saints,” including the Kennecott Copper Mines, Temple Square, the impressive Salt Lake Temple and domed Mormon Tabernacle, the group traveled north from Salt Lake toward the rugged beauty of Wyoming. Prior to their arrival in the cowboy town and “Crown Jewel” of the Northern Rockies, Jackson, the travelers stopped at the Oregon Train Museum in Montpelier, Idaho, learning a bit of local history.

Day Four of the journey included treks through Yellowstone National Park, the first and oldest national park in the world.

Sightseers enjoyed the famous “Old Faithful” geyser, hot springs and incredible wildlife within the 3,470 acre park. The week’s activities concluded with trips through the Grand Tetons, Jackson Hole, and Blackfoot, Idaho, before ending with a final tour of Pocatello along the Oregon Trail.

Tech Travel is open to Tech alumni and friends through the ATU Foundation.

Upcoming trips are now being scheduled.

For information, contact Dana Moseley or Phyllis Stone at (479) 964-0532. n

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Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

Mahindra offers a full line of heavy-duty workhorses from 18-83 HP, backed by a 5-year powertrain warranty.

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South 2nd St. • Dardanelle • 479-229-4841 ABOUT | 29

Put The ‘Holiday Hassle’ On Hold

T

hink back to the memories of Christmases past. What was your favorite gift? Was it a hand-crafted picture frame, a new jacket, a gift basket of your favorite fragrances? Perhaps it was a special pair of boots or coveted shoes, or maybe it was a gift certificate for something truly unique.

The sights and fragrances that remind us of the holidays are here now. Don’t worry about locating that perfect gift! Let the merchants and business owners of the River Valley help you select something that says more than “Merry Christmas.”

With their friendly, customer-oriented sales and service, the associates at your local shops will assist in making your holiday gift-giving tailored especially for the recipient. But don’t think ‘small town’ when you are shopping with the businesses throughout the River Valley!

The newest fashions, gift ideas, latest fragrances and holiday decor are available right at your fingertips. Their suggestions will put your holiday hassle on hold. In many cases, the local merchants offer free gift wrapping and free delivery.

Don’t spend your shopping money filling your gas tank. Whatever your need, whatever your budget, the businesses of the River Valley merchant community are ready to lend a hand.

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2125 EAST PARKWAY 30 | ABOUT

•

RUSSELLVILLE

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

•

(479) 968-2284 November 2011

Do you like quality skin and bath products?

Do you have sensitive skin or noses? If so, stop by 2125 E. Parkway and check out Bath Junkie! We make our products up FRESH -- right here in Russellville, Arkansas.

You get to pick out the scent and often times the color of your products.

We have lots of special packages and items that make wonderful gifts for the holidays. We carry candles and custom room sprays to set the mood for your home and family this fall and winter. We gift wrap -- at no charge to you and we also have layaway. Be sure to shop LOCAL and support our local merchants this year!

Bath Junkie 2125 E. Parkway, Russellville (479) 2284

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C and D Drug Store, a full-service pharmacy located on the corner of B and Commerce Streets in downtown Russellville, has been committed to bringing River Valley residents the very best in courtesy and service since 1958.

Though their dedication to “courtesy and service” can be traced back to founders Dale Walker and Charles Oates, they are committed to remaining “state of the art” with their pharmacy computer system and compounding equipment.

Need a prescription, a gift, a quick bite to eat? Value, sincere, friendly service, free delivery and curbside pickup, coupled with 24 Hour Emergency Service, is one reason customers make C&D Drug Store their hometown pharmacy. Open Monday

November 2011

through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Activities throughout the weekend Saturday 8:30 until 1 p.m. include visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, live entertainment, Dazzle Deli and C& D Drug Store much more. The weekend will conclude 121 N. Commerce, Russellville on Saturday at 4 p.m. with the much (479) 968-7914 anticipated raffle drawing for a 2012 Ford Mustang Convertible. Purchase your event or raffle tickets by calling (501) 513-5778 or Dalton Family Dentistry has everything visit www.DazzleDaze.com. you could need for the holidays. What could be more giving than the gift of a beautiful DazzleDaze smile and good health? We offer gift Conway Expo Center, Conway certificates in any amount, Crest Whitestrips (501) 513-5778 for the holiday party smile and Sonicare Toothbrushes for no worry brushing.

Dalton Family Dentistry offers a full Feltner’s Athlete’s Corner located line of dental services ranging from basic at 2320 West Main in Russellville offers cleanings to complex implants. We also apparel for a wide assortment of activities perform cosmetic services such as veneers and temperatures. We concentrate on and chairside bleaching. Financing is workout wear, casual clothing, outerwear, available and we accept all major credit footwear and eyewear from leading brands cards. Please call (479) 968-1001 or come such as Nike, Under Armour, The North by our office today at 3105 W Main Street Face, Patagonia, Keen, Chaco, Mizuno, across from Rose Drug and Bank of the Asics, Kavu, Lole, Oakley and more.

Ozarks for your holiday needs.

Our selection increases each year as we carry new colors of the familiar pieces Dalton Family Dentistry and fresh, new styles from each of the top 3105 W. Main, Russellville vendors. Customer favorites this year for (479) 968-1001. women are the Women’s Thunder Jacket from The North Face, the Re-Tool Snap-T and the Retro-X Jacket, both by Patagonia.

The tenth annual Dazzle Daze holiday For men, some favorites are the Nano shopping extravaganza, will bring more than Puff Pullover and Synchilla Snap-T by 90 merchants to the Conway Expo Center Patagonia, also the Alsace V-Neck sweater November 17-19. Join us Thursday, November and Windproof Denali by The North Face.

17, 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. for Girl’s Nite Out Preview Chaco ventured into the realm of boots Party. Hours will be Friday, November 18, 10 this year and came out with some extremely a.m. until 8 p.m. and Saturday, November 19, cool styles, like the Creedence Tall Boot.

And Keen, as always, provides a plethora of 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. for General Shopping.

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Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 31

special man or woman in your life by either Estee Lauder or Clinique.

Lefler’s also offers the fabulous Brighton charms and jewelry. They are simply charming, and destined to make a great holiday gift.

We are the Valley’s only source for the contemporary denims, Citizen of Humanity, and JOE’S. Our Ladies have loved the addition of LUXX denims with just the right bling and fit, and the JAG jeans too. We Joshua’s Fine Jewelry have stylish and casual apparel for all ages, even SPANX for that graceful exit. HANKY 310 West Main Street Feltner’s Athlete’s Corner Historic Downtown Russellville PANKY’S, in assorted styles and color are 2320 West Main, Russellville (479) 968-3117 perfect for great stocking stuffers.

(479) 968-6464 Remember, we still gladly gift wrap your purchases! We hope to see you soon. Open Joshua’s Fine Jewelry has a huge Lefler’s, located inside City Mall, is Monday through Friday 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., selection of diamonds, wedding sets, your destination for personal service and and Saturday 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. pearls and precious gems. They offer shopping. Allow our professionally-trained hundreds of earrings, necklaces, gold staff to help you select your perfect shade Lefler’s chains, Chamilia charms and watches of Estee Lauder or Clinique, and don’t City Mall, Russellville perfect for everyone on your holiday gift forget to find that perfect fragrance for the (479) 968-3001 beautiful and comfortable shoes and boots.

Our vast selection of Oakley eyewear is sure to please anyone on your list.

When the chaos of Christmas begins, remember that we gift wrap, deliver locally and ship nationally. Our focus is our customers. We actively look for ways to serve you better every day. Give us the opportunity to take the burden out of shopping this year.

We look forward to seeing you.

list. In addition to Razorback giftware, crystal and silver selections perfect for special occasion gift giving, Joshua’s features fine watches from Citizen, Seiko and Pulsar. They also provide watch repair, custom-designed jewelry, appraisals and consulting. Joshua’s works hard to earn your business, offering very competitive prices.

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one stop shoe shop 968-4900

2143 E. Parkway • Russellville

Main Street Russellville has been working to revitalize and develop the downtown area of Russellville as a business and governmental center as well as a cultural center for the Arkansas River Valley. Through community effort, a strategy is developed to build a vital and growing economy, improve the appearance of downtown Russellville through historic preservation and good design, and promote the image of downtown Russellville.

Their office is located in the Historic Missouri-Pacific Railroad Depot in Downtown Russellville, 320 W. C. Street.

November 17, 18 & 19 Conway Expo Center • 2505 E Oak St. (Hwy 64E)

Spend the weekend in Conway at the holiday shopping extravaganza of the year Shopping for everyone Visits with Santa And fun for all

Win a 2012 Ford Mustang Benefiting

Limited to 500 Raffle Tickets, $100 each Other great prizes available

www.DazzleDaze.com • (501) 513-5778 32 | ABOUT

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

November 2011

Host your next gathering in the Depot’s community room, available for rental.

Main Street Russellville 320 W. C Street Historic Downtown Russellville (479) 967-1437

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Miller Roofing Company is giving away a free roof to a deserving family in the River Valley this Christmas season.

“If you or someone you know is in need of a new roof please submit the information by detailing the situation along with name, address and phone number to P.O. Box 1317, Russellville, AR, 72811 or fax to (479) 890-3498,” urges Lorrie Miller. Letters will be accepted November 15th through December 15th. Notification will be on Tuesday, Dec. 20. Visit www.millerroofing. net for complete list of terms and limitations or pick up a copy at 318 S. Arkansas.

Miller Roofing Company 318 S. Arkansas, Russellville (479) 890-2499

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Millyn’s gift and home accessory shop on Front Street in Dardanelle was established 43 years ago by the mother-daughter team of Mildred Gleason and Lynne Murphy. Lynne says, “It’s still fun to come to work everyday and continue to provide friendly service and unique products at competitive prices.”

Teresa Minor, store manager, and longtime associate Virginia Young, complete the Millyn’s team. We are open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and open Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. beginning the Sunday before Thanksgiving.

Millyn’s is open Thanksgiving Day, also from 12:00 to 5:00.

Millyn’s 124 S. Front Street, Dardanelle (479) 229-4144

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This holiday season Morgan’s Fashions in Clarksville has a lot of sparkle and glamour. Miss Me still offers all the great embellished pockets on their jeans, t-shirts and shirts.

Morgan’s has a large selection and receive new styles every week. The more casual area hits guys and gals with a great selection of coats, jackets and accessories

by The North Face and Fox Racing, Seven for All Mankind, Silver Jeans, Big Star and November 2011

Rose Drug Bridal Registry

Since 1984 One Of A Kind Gifts

Baby Registry

“Professional Prescription Service for over 30 Years in the Arkansas River Valley” Free Gift Wrapping & Delivery! www.rosedrug.com Mike Smith & Gary Denton, Owners

3103 W Main Place, Russellville AR

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(479) 968-1323

Millyn’s Annual

Christmas Show & Sale November 3 thru 12 20% Off Entire Stock Including all Christmas • Selected items 1/2 price 229-4144 • Front Street • Millyn s • Dardanelle ’

Open Sundays beginning the Sunday before Thanksgiving • Open 12 to 5 Thanksgiving Day • www.millyns.com

Russellville’s First

Gourmet

Dessert Boutique

Cookies ~ Brownies ~ Cake Dots ~ Cheesecakes ~ Gourmet Cupcakes

(479) 968-8945 411 W. Parkway Dr., Russellville, AR www.thecakeplacebakery.com

MILLER ROOFING

Evening Dine-In availability with special dine-in-only desserts

Visit our website to learn about the “Shingle Bells” Roof Giveaway!

COMPANY

479-890-3499 1-855-501-ROOF (toll free)

318 S. Arkansas Ave. | www.millerroofing.net Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 33

THE COLOR STYLIST $57.50 with any Estée Lauder fragrance purchase.

The collection worth over $340.00

Offer good while supplies last.

Quantities limited.

City Mall Russellville (479)968-3001

Give Art ~ Frame Memories t Ask Abouay! w ya a L rt A

The Frame Shop & Gallery Downtown @ 311 West C Street

www.frameshopgallery.net

(479) 967-1398

Get Ready for those

Holiday Parties!

of course Miss Me. Morgan’s Fashions also carries a wonderful selection of shoes and boots featuring Nicole Miller, Madeline and Anne Michelle. They also feature men’s Affliction, Keen Shoes, Mountain Khakis, and men’s and women’s Razorback Retro brand t-shirts, hoodies and dresses, as well as Oakley sunglasses and accessories.

Our Christmas Open House will be on Sunday, Nov. 20, from 1-5 p.m. featuring bargains throughout the store along with refreshments. This will be definitely worth the short drive to Clarksville. Open early on Black Friday with discounts and free giveaways until noon. Morgan’s Fashions offers free alterations on regular priced jeans and free gift-wrapping. They have a very knowledge staff, customer service is their top priority and they make you feel right at home while shopping. Store hours: Monday through Friday 9 until 6 and Saturday 9 until 5:30.

Morgan’s Fashions 116 East Main, Clarksville (479) 754-8130

It’s all about the Customer at Peters Family Living. This family-owned-andoperated Furniture & Appliance store in Historic Downtown Russellville is celebrating its 67th year of serving Five Generations of Satisfied Customers.

With its store operated Appliance Service Department, In-Store Financing, and 30Day money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee, Peters is on track for the best year since it was established in 1944.

This business is made up of Customer Caring individuals in its Sales, Credit, Delivery and Service Departments who work as a team focused on taking care of You, The Customer. You will like the way they do business.

Peters Family Living 201 N. Arkansas Ave. Historic Downtown Russellville (479) 968-2929

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Rose Drug has been serving the prescription needs of families in the Arkansas River Valley for more than 30

A Big Sincere From All of Us at Peters Family Living to our Family of Customers for making us Your Choice for Furniture and Appliances!

Gift Certificates Chairside Bleaching Cosmetic Dentistry F I N A N C I N G AVA I L A B L E

We Cater to Cowards!

Dalton

FAMILY

Dentistry

Amy Morgan

Connie Hall

FURNITURE, APPLIANCES & MORE 201 North Arkansas Avenue Historic Downtown Russellville (479) 968-2929 www.petersfamilyliving.com

(479) 968-1001

3105 West Main, Russellville AR (across from Rose Drug)

34 | ABOUT

Russell Corbin

Ask for your favorite sales associate to assist you in making an intelligent buying decision. Our sales team is supported by our CREDIT, SERVICE, and DELIVERY DEPARTMENTS in exceeding YOUR LEVEL OF EXPECTATIONS!

We Cater to Cowards

www.daltonwecatertocowards.com

Kirt Mosley

“Serving Four Generations of Satisfied Customers Since 1944” Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

November 2011

years. Mike Smith and Gary Denton, owners, are always available to counsel you on your medicines – how to take them properly and how to be aware of possible reactions when taking new medications.

Rose Drug’s up-to-date records of your medical history may be printed out for your insurance or tax purposes. Let Rose Drug be your one-stop medicine shop. Located at 3103 West Main Place, Russellville, AR 72801. Hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 6:30 p.m., Saturdays, 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Be watching for our preholiday sales, beginning in November.

Rose Drug, Inc. 3013 W. Main Place Russellville AR (479) 968-1323

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Savanah’s Restaurant in Dardanelle is in full swing and “bling” for the Holiday Season.

Every nook and cranny had been decorated to bring the warmth and joy of the Holidays.

Known for their delicious steaks and superior quality, Savanah’s Restaurant has won

November 2011

numerous awards including 4-Star by the Arkansas Times newspaper. Reservations are now being made for parties of all sizes and catering is available. Celebrate ANY occasion at Savanah’s Restaurant....A Unique Dining Experience!

Savanah’s Restaurant 208 N. Front St., Dardanelle (479) 229-3425

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The friendly folks at Taylor Nursery believe there are so many improvements you can make in your gardens and lawns in the beautiful fall season. It is the perfect time to plant everything from fruit trees and berries to add shade trees. Fall is the best time to redo existing shrub beds and to add new ones, and the ideal time to plant pansies for winter blooms.

To have a beautiful spring lawn, apply preventive herbicide now for the winter weeds and grasses.

Starting the week of Thanksgiving Taylor Nursery will have poinsettias for your holiday decorations, and remember, we will

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

479-967-0882 Mon-Sat 10am-6pm

A subsidiary of Friendship Community Care, Inc.

320 West “B” Street • Russellville, AR 72801

Thanks for All our Loyal Customers Let us Help You with Your Plant Needs!

Taylor Nursery 130 S Cumberland • 479-968-2778

ABOUT | 35

deliver your gift plants. Just call us at 9682778 and let one of the friendly employees at Taylor Nursery help you make your selection.

Taylor Nursery 130 S. Cumberland, Russellville (479) 968-2778

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Special Red Tag Sale

Only Sale of the Year Now~Christmas

J shua’s Fine Jewelry

310 West Main, Downtown Russellville

(479) 968-3117

www.joshuasfinejewelry.com

Holiday Events Downtown

Lauren Stinson and Cindy Jones, daughter and mother, opened TheCakePlace in June 2011. They believe in nothing but the highest quality products, and they promise everything is always made fresh and from-scratch.

TheCakePlace offers a unique place for children and adults alike to visit. Gourmet cupcakes, cake dots, cheesecakes, cookies, pies, and specialty gourmet desserts are just a few of the items that are available daily. TheCakePlace is open in the evenings for those that have a sweet tooth at night, and remember to stop by and check out their new holiday items!

TheCakePlace 411 W. Parkway Dr., Russellville (479) 968-8945

Buy art by local artists at The Frame Shop and Gallery. The perfect accent for your home or office – frame original art, keepsakes, needlework... anything you can imagine, we can frame! Gallery features watercolors, photography, oils and pottery from local and regional artists.

Conveniently located at 311 West C. Street in Historic Downtown Russellville, The Frame Shop and Gallery offers plenty of free parking just steps away from the Historic MissouriPacific Railroad Depot and adjacent to Depot Park. Open Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.; other days by appt.

This holiday season – and everyday – is the perfect time to “Give Art and Frame Memories” at The Frame Shop and Gallery. ‘Shop at home’ with your friendly neighborhood merchants!

The Frame Shop & Gallery 311 West C St. Historic Downtown Russellville (479) 967-1398 • (479) 970-8058 (cell)

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The Other Foot & More has expanded their inventory and now offers a wider

Now Taking Reservations for

Holiday Parties

NOVEMBER 12th • 9am-3pm Model Train Open House At the Depot

Conducted by the Central Arkansas Model Railroad Club. Per person admission is a can of food for area food banks.

DECEMBER 2nd • 5-8pm Downtown Art Walk & Holiday Open House

Art for gift giving, strolling carolers, & visits with Santa.

DECEMBER 2nd & 3rd • 9-11am Festival of Trees in Depot Park Area schools decorate trees with handmade ornaments.

DECEMBER 17th • 6-7:30pm An Evening with Mr. Conductor at the Depot

Have Your Party Catered at Savanah's or at Your Event Location.

We can customize the menu to meet your needs.

AWARD WINNING

$5.00 admission per child

For additional information contact

Main Street Russellville

320 W. ‘C’ St., Historic Downtown Russellville

479-967-1437

www.mainstreetrussellville.com 36 | ABOUT

208 N. Front St. • Dardanelle

(479) 229-3425

www.savanahsrestaurant.com Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

Lunch Buffet Tues.-Fri. 11am-2pm Dinner: Tues.-Sat., 5-10pm New Nightly Specials That Are Not On The Menu Text SAVANAHS to 20673 for the latest info on our specials!

November 2011

variety of shoes, clothing, and accessories for the stylish young ladies to the chic dressing moms. They are the exclusive Tom Shoe and Ugg dealer for the River Valley, making it easy for you to fill those Christmas wish lists. Big Star Denim, Steve Madden, Chinese Laundry, and Naughty Monkey are just a few of the other brands that are offered.

Have a Secret Santa or need an inexpensive gift for a teacher or co-worker? They will be stocked up with a wonderful selection of nice gift ideas under $20. Beginning November 25, they will be extending their hours for your Christmas shopping convenience.

Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.;

Saturday, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. Look for their new location, just down the street, in January 2012.

The Other Foot and More 2143 E. Parkway Dr., Russellville (479) 968-4900

Mossy Oak and Realtree Camo clothing.

Valley Divas was started last year on the side of the highway selling purses and T’s.

By February we had a store in Danville and

by July, we opened in Russellville! I want to thank all of you for continuing to make us who we are. Look for lots of exciting new merchandise the next couple months in time for great holiday gifts. Stop by one Valley Divas, located in Danville and of the locations and check us out today!

Russellville, features trendy name brand T’s in youth and adult ladies sizes, as well Valley Divas as purses, wallets, watches, jewelry and LOCATED inside Bath Junkie 2125 E. Parkway, Russellville numerous other stylish items.

At the Danville location we also carry (479) 968-2284 Buckwear t-shirts, men, women, and youth Danville, (479) 622-0130

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Morgan’s Fashions

116 East Main St., Clarksville, AR 479-754-8130 • Mon-Fri 9-6 and Sat 9-5:30 Free Gift Wrapping On Most Items November 2011

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 37

engagements

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.)

–November 11–

–December 10–

Cindy Walker and Tom Walker

Pamela Lane and Adam McFalls

–November 12–

–January 21–

Jessica Johnson and Charles Austin

Brittney Talley and Dustin Bunting

–November 19–

–February 25–

Konya R. Johnson and Eric S. Smith

Sarah Cotton and Jay Patterson

Jessica Rutlege and Christopher Smith

–March 3–

Samantha Taylor and Geoffrey Aitken

Brandy Bland and James Humphrey

–November 25–

–April 14–

Erin Barnhouse Porter and Olin Rankin

Jana Parker and Greg Crouch

–June 22–

Danielle’s Bridal Bridal ~ Tuxes ~ Formal Wear 2382 West Clark Road Clarksville, AR 72830

(479) 754-5885

To have your engagement or wedding published in a www.daniellesbridalshop.com future issue of ABOUT Magazine, visit www.aboutrvmag.com/forms.html

Brittany Helms and Andrew Smith

–TBA– Leighann Owensby and Robert Veach 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. Word count is limited to 225 words.

Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication. For additional information, call (479) 970-6628. *Digital f iles are accepted and will be published upon receipt of payment.

Speaker: Lisa Harper Worship Leader: Laura Cooksey Friday, January 13, 2012 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Saturday, January 14, 2012 9:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

First Baptist Church • Russellville 479-968-1316 Tickets available at: First Baptist Church • Flowers Etc. • Rose Drug • III’s Company • The Mirage • Jagz Salon • Heart and Soul $30 early bird ticket - deadline Dec. 2, 2011 • $40 after deadline • $20 student ticket

38 | ABOUT

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

November 2011

Downtown Welcomes Students Photos by Liz Chrisman

November 2011

With a second annual event, Destination Downtown: The Welcome Back Tech Event, Downtown business owners and community partners sponsored an evening of free food, fun and entertainment for Tech students, faculty and staff. Held September 23 in Downtown Russellville, those attending were encouraged to become better acquainted with the downtown area. More than 20 Downtown businesses partners provided refreshments, door prizes or goodie bags for the students as they participated

in a scavenger hunt which drew them into the participating locations.

Attendees enjoyed food provided by CashSaver and Stoby’s, photo booth, music and a street dance

by Mr. DJ; live fashion show sponsored by Three’s Company, a climbing wall from Hog Wild, and an exhibit and Hummer display from the local office of the U.S. Army Recruiter.

The ArkaTech Student Newspaper provided publicity support while bus transportation to and from downtown was provided by Arkansas Tech.

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 39