Butterfield LIFE March + April 2023

MARKETING

Kelly Syer

Director of Marketing

Leann Pacheco Sales Counselor

Elise Lorene Administrative Assistant

PROGRAMS

Riki Stamps

Director of Programs & Events

Michael Burks

Asst. Director of Programs & Events

RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION

2023 Council Members

Jerry Rose, President

Doug Prichard, Vice President

Frances Sego, Secretary

Ellis Melton, Past President

Grace Babcock, Liz Brantley, Marian Catron, Roy Clinton, Vernon Collins, Marvin Higginbottom, Rick Roessler, Nina Simmons

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Robert (Bob) Kelly, President

Will Clark, Vice President

David (Dave) Williams, Treasurer

Dr. Kim Chapman, Secretary

Lance Brewer, LeRoy Duell, Dr. Michael Holloman, Mark McNair, Bill Mitchell, Chuck Nickle, Wulfran Polonius, Beth Vaughan-Wrobel

1923 East Joyce Boulevard Fayetteville, AR 72703

Main: (479) 442-7220

Marketing: (479) 695-8056

butterfieldtrailvillage.org

Butterfield LIFE may not be reproduced in whole or in part without permission from the publisher. Butterfield LIFE is published by Butterfield Trail Village. Contents © 2023. All rights reserved.

Produced by DOXA / VANTAGE doxavantage.com

Opened in 1986, Butterfield Trail Village is a locally governed 501(c)(3) non-profit retirement community.

As Northwest Arkansas’ only comprehensive Life Plan Retirement Community, BTV offers active older adults worry-free living that is secure, independent and fulfilling – and the freedom to enjoy plentiful activities both inside and outside the Village.

From the CEO

Have you ever wondered why we get such a sense of renewal and optimism with the coming of spring? As the spring equinox brings the length of day and night into a period of near equality, we all witness an awaking of our natural surroundings – and for ourselves. More daylight means we produce less melatonin and become more energized and confident. Additional light also increases our body’s vitamin D and serotonin (the “happiness hormone”) to make us feel healthier and uplifted.

At Butterfield, we truly enjoy witnessing the proverbial spring in the steps of our residents and staff that coincides with the emergence of warm weather and the greening of campus. And, as we now move into springtime for 2023, I am pleased to say the renewal is quite literal for our Special Care Center as the renovations process will soon get under way to significantly refresh the common areas and living spaces for our residents requiring specialized support for cognitive impairment. As this major project progresses, we pledge to keep you updated.

On the topics of energy and optimism, our cover profile for this issue highlights Pat Molle, an individual who exemplifies those characteristics every day. She and her family have deep roots in Northwest Arkansas, and her lengthy, successful real estate career gave her enormous insight about the remarkable growth of the region – from its humbler beginnings to now.

You are invited to get to know Director of Facility Services Joe Perme, the leader behind dozens of residence renovations each year, campus capital building projects and countless maintenance projects that come with comfortably housing 400 people. You’ll also meet newcomers Rick and LaVonne Kirkpatrick, an adventurous couple who are just settling in at Butterfield.

Health and well-being are central to the BTV mission, and we are pleased to share details about a big adventure our Director of Well-being Jennifer Neill has planned for some of our highly motivated residents and Carriage Club members. Butterfield already has a robust hiking program, and it is about to go international with a journey to walk the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.

And, because we especially celebrate the contributions and vitality of seniors, we offer a glimpse into a fantastic exhibition of photos by octogenarian and renowned photographer Andrew Kilgore. Considered by many to be an Arkansas treasure, Kilgore has 100 works on display at the Walton Arts Center through March 19, 2023.

Wishing you well,

Quintin Trammell Chief Executive Officer

Quintin Trammell CEO

Dave Marks Move-In Coordinator

Even though her name and phone number were on real estate signs for decades, Pat Molle is a very private person. She’s humble about her career success and has overcome some big heartaches. She credits deep faith and dogged perseverance with getting her through. During her 27 years in real estate, she used “Good Golly, Call Ms. Molle” as the catchy slogan on her business cards.

Molle was born in Lowell, Arkansas, when it was truly just a rural, agricultural spot in the road. She grew up on her grandparents’ farm in Lowell, the oldest of four siblings. She had an endless stream of cousins and friends to play with and roam the farm and countryside. During those early years, she became passionately bonded to her roots and homeland.

Life changed dramatically for Molle at age 9. When this region could no longer support her dad’s job skills, the family moved to southern California, where he worked in the aircraft industry. Molle was heartbroken by the move and so homesick, but eventually adapted to the new lifestyle – with small yards, the ocean, beach parties, traffic and freeways.

PAT MOLLE No Place 2 Like Home

Around age 12, she began babysitting and continued with odd jobs through high school. She was involved in sports and several clubs. She excelled in clerical work – in fact, consistently typing 98 words per minute on a manual typewriter, which won her an award.

Unsure of her career path, Molle spent two years in community college and went on to UCLA. While attending UCLA, Molle married the love of her life, Frank Molle, a native Californian who had been two years ahead of her in high school. She supported him while he finished his degree in industrial engineering.

COMING BACK HOME

Molle and her husband soon bought their first house in Orange County, and they were married for 10 years before becoming parents. They first welcomed a son, Eric, and two years later, their daughter, Amber. It didn’t take long to realize they didn’t want to raise their family in California. Once he secured a job in Fayetteville, the family moved in 1973.

Words by Michelle Parks | Photos by Stephen Ironside

Once back in Arkansas, all her treasured childhood memories came flooding back. She had come home. She still thanks God for allowing her the privilege of returning to her birthplace – and never tires of it or takes it for granted.

Molle had been working as a branch manager secretary at IBM Corporation in Long Beach, making good money. Facing lower wages in Arkansas, she found a job at Dillon’s Grocery, not far from their home on Winwood, as gift merchandise manager and then full-time cashier. She was issued a uniform and could walk to work if needed; the kids’ school was close by too. As a newcomer, the job allowed her to quickly meet most of the neighborhood.

The family went camping every weekend, exploring lakes, parks and campgrounds around Arkansas and into Oklahoma and Missouri. They started by car camping in their station wagon and later got a tent, but it leaked. So, they bought a pop-up camper they used for many years.

Her husband then started his own business, manufacturing copper tubing parts for air conditioning and heating companies. She helped with the administrative work and payroll, learning a lot about the complexities of running a small business. She saw the pressures and stresses as he led the growing but struggling company in its first couple of years.

They had also been looking for houses and land, and finally found property along Arkansas Highway 45. It had taken about six years before they built their dream home and moved in. But then, about four months later, right after Thanksgiving, he was in a freak accident at the house and died unexpectedly. He was spraying for pests in an unfinished walk-in basement level when the fumes overtook him.

Their kids were 11 and 9 at the time, and the family stayed in the home for another 11 years. They all pitched in to care for the house and yard, but Molle handled most of the mowing.

She was accustomed to cooking three meals a day for the family and enjoyed trying new recipes. She soon started a ministry in their home to connect

other single people, inviting them and their children for regular potluck dinners. She wanted holidays to be full, so she also hosted her family and single friends’ families for all holiday meals – from July 4th to Christmas.

FINDING HER WAY

Shortly after she was widowed, a doctor at Northwest Arkansas Radiology Clinic (now The Breast Center) offered Molle an office job that was flexible and educational, and she stayed there about six years.

Her parents had moved back to Arkansas, and her dad retired. Then he had a heart attack and was told to putter in his shop. He’d been a jack-of-all-trades, so the family started a business making country crafts from wood, which they called The Ozark Peddler. Her dad made the wood pieces, and her mom did the base painting.

Soon, Molle joined them to do decorative painting on some pieces, and the job became full time for her. Her parents traveled to craft shows to sell their wares, while she stayed home with her children, who also started helping with all aspects of the work.

Her dad became a father figure to her children, disciplining them and encouraging and instructing them. Molle also enjoyed the experience of working with her parents and continuing to learn from them as an adult.

Soon after moving to Arkansas, she’d gotten her real estate license. She didn’t use it but kept renewing it all those years. Once her children both graduated from high school, Molle joined Lindsey & Associates in 1988. She learned on the job, picking up as many leads as she could when covering the office phones. She enjoyed the challenge, stuck with it, and gradually built up a clientele.

FORGING A NEW PATH

Molle enjoyed every aspect of real estate, and often drew on her own personal experiences to relate to her clients along with patience and persistence. And it turned out to be a successful livelihood for her. “I knew the area so I could help them really seek out what I thought was suitable for them. Because many

people don’t have a clue, especially outsiders,” she said. “I loved helping them and sharing with them. I loved the search to find the right home, and to make them happy.”

Early on, the northeast part of Fayetteville was the most popular, and the west side wasn’t as developed yet. Even then, many people were moving in for jobs with Walmart, their vendors and other major companies.

“I never sought to be a top producer. I just wanted to make people happy and do what I was supposed to do.” She built several new homes and enjoyed designing the floor plans and elevations, selecting colors, flooring, lighting fixtures and other details, and pulling it all together.

Molle was voted a favorite Realtor three years in a row in the mid-2000s in the NWA Times Readers’ Choice Awards. She retired in 2015 as a senior vice president and executive broker.

Though she likes structure and planning, Molle can also be spontaneous and adventuresome. She’s always liked people and offers them her honest opinion and best solution to problems. She finds she’s most productive when pressed with a deadline.

Molle has been active in churches over the years, first at University Baptist Church and now at Cross Church. She also valued her membership in local civic organizations such as Rotary Club and the Chamber of Commerce.

LANDING AT BTV

Molle had helped several clients sell their homes when they moved to Butterfield Trail Village, and she knew how desirable the place was. Since she's on her own, the long-term health care appealed to

her, so she got on the wait list. When they called the third time, she was ready, and they had what she wanted.

She was a caregiver for her parents for more than 20 years, caring for her mother until her death in early 2020 at age 101. So, Molle moved to BTV in June 2020 during the early phase of the pandemic, when residents were kept isolated for their safety.

She’s gradually meeting more people and has joined a book club and a Bible study group, was appointed to the food committee, and is part of the Ambassador program to welcome new residents. And she hopes to join more in the future. She gave up playing tennis before she arrived at BTV, and arthritis limits her physical activity, but she goes to water aerobics weekly.

Molle wanted a two-bedroom apartment so she could use the smaller room for an office and hobby room. She converted that closet to a workspace for her embroidery machine. She enjoys creating designs on coasters, tote bags, tea towels and other items to give away to friends.

The ground-floor apartment faces Joyce Boulevard, and she can bring her groceries in through the patio door. “It’s a complete home.”

Her son lives in Centerton, and her daughter is in Fayetteville. She has two grandsons – one in Bentonville and one in Illinois.

Molle has trusted her faith that there was a greater reason she never remarried and that other things were in store for her life. And after a career spent finding people their homes, she’s found hers again.

“I’ve had a good life. It’s been a difficult life, but it’s been good, and I am happy and full of joy.”

“ and ” full of 8 BUTTERFIELD LIFE MARCH+APRIL 2023

AND I AM

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Rick & LaVonne Kirkpatrick

When did you move to Butterfield?

We signed our contract on December 27 and then promptly left for a trip to South America and Antarctica. We came home on January 21 and began moving in the next week. The crazy winter weather slowed down the move, but we still made progress!

Where are you from?

Rick was born and raised in Forrest City, Arkansas, while LaVonne was born and raised on a farm in South Dakota. LaVonne moved to Fayetteville in 1984 and Rick moved to Fayetteville in 1995.

We met on a blind date in December of 1996 and were married in September of 1998. Our first date was on Rick’s sailboat on a beautiful Saturday in December, proof that some blind dates do work out well!

What did you do before retirement?

After earning her doctorate at the University of South Dakota in 1984, LaVonne accepted her first higher education position at the University of Arkansas where she taught for the next 26 years. As well as teaching elementary undergraduate and graduate courses at the U of A, LaVonne served as the childhood/elementary coordinator for several years.

Anniversaries

March

Don and Linda Hayes

24th

Richard and Ardith Wharry 24th

April

Nick and Jerilyn Nicholson 2nd

Phil and Jackie Phillips

13th

Don and Claudette Hunnicutt 15th

Bill and Judy Schwab 23rd

New Neighbors

Recent Village Move-In

Jacqueline King

Rick & LaVonne Kirkpatrick

Gabriele Schafer

Faye Edwards

Paul & Charlene Vinson

Rick’s career as a licensed social worker had him working in various areas of mental health. These included working with hospice patients, adolescents at risk, chronically mentally ill individuals, alcohol and drug abusers, as well as with stroke victims and amputees in a rehabilitation hospital.

After retirement, Rick took on his most challenging job. He found he needed all of his social work skills as a bus driver for the Springdale Schools.

Why did you choose Butterfield?

After being the caretakers of LaVonne’s elderly aunt in another state for several years, we saw the challenges individuals can face who do not have strong family support nearby. As a result, we wanted to be proactive about our own needs as we age. We chose Butterfield due to the levels of continuous care it provides, the variety of activities it offers, and all the positive comments we have heard over the years from its residents.

Rick & LaVonne Kirkpatrick

Joe Perme: Director of Facility Services

It’s not a stretch to think if anyone has figured out how to squeeze more than 24 hours out of a single day, it may be Butterfield’s Director of Facility Services Joe Perme. A key member of the BTV leadership staff for nearly 10 years, Joe oversees the teams responsible for managing and maintaining 44 acres of facilities, housekeeping for all common areas and private residences, horticulture, construction of capital projects and the renovation of living units. Preferring to remain behind the scenes, his mannerisms are quiet, steady and unfailingly polite – usually accompanied by a genuine smile and a great sense of humor.

A self-employed builder by trade, Joe was initially asked by a friend for his recommendations of good potential candidates for a new assistant director position Butterfield had created to begin transitioning the Village’s residential renovation projects to in-house management. He sent three different people to apply, but ultimately nobody was the right fit. BTV’s attention then shifted to Joe, who had no intention of working for anyone but himself. However, in 2008 the real estate market had crashed hard on a national scale – and it was still a tough time to be making a living in construction. He decided to throw his hat in the ring and was offered the job.

Accepting the role was the beginning of a truly outrageous first week that started off normally on a Monday, but was followed by the department director’s sudden departure and Joe’s subsequent promotion to the higher role by Wednesday. On Thursday, Butterfield’s current construction contractor quit all projects, making the need to transition to in-house management an immediate necessity. Later that same Thursday night a significant flood wreaked havoc on campus facilities and required around-theclock response. Despite everything, somehow Joe still opted to return to work the next week.

“I like challenges,” said Joe. “At the same time, Butterfield offers stability and steadiness you don’t

always find when making a living building houses on your own.” He also credits the kindness of many residents as a great reason to come to work each day, and feels an enormous responsibility for their well-being. Recognizing the substantial investment residents make to live in the Village, Joe has a commitment he sums up in a phrase, “My job is to always try to be a good steward of your money.”

As non-stop as his role is in the Village, Joe also stays constantly occupied in his off time. He loves working on new projects, evidenced by multiple personal home renovations he has completed. He is finishing the restoration of a 1939 home while living in surprising comfort in a large RV purchased last year after selling the prior renovation. “I probably should have just pushed this particular house over, but decided it deserved for us to honor its history.” In addition to the three houses he rehabbed in NWA, plus a place in Harrison, Joe also renovated a late 1800s home in Newton County, Ark. – not far from where he grew up and his grandfather’s original homestead was located.

While Joe has spent his adult life creating beautiful, comfortable living spaces, he and wife Kim of 33 years share a serious case of wanderlust and love the sense of adventure their well-appointed mobile residence offers. The couple has already traveled far and wide, visiting an enviable list of international destinations. A recent trip to Sedona, Ariz., however, caused them to realize they wanted to start focusing more on domestic exploration. Joe laughingly remarked, “When we bought our camper, it was meant to be a temporary solution while we worked on the next house. But who knows? It might just end up being permanent for us.”

-Joe Perme

Joe Perme

“My job is to always try to be a good steward of your money.”

Featured Village Events

COMING IN MARCH

MARCH 10 | 6:30pm

PERFORMANCE HALL

Happy 37th Anniversary, Butterfield Trail Village!

MARCH 30 | 2:30pm

NEW! BTV Ale Trail: Bentonville Brewing Co.

37TH ANNIVERSARY

One thing that makes our Village unique is the initiative and motivation behind its inception and development. Butterfield was conceived as an expression of church ministry by the First United Presbyterian Church of Fayetteville in 1977. The founders of a Long-Range Planning Committee began with Stephen and Margaret Stephan of First United Presbyterian Church, and the first document suggesting such a community is dated 1969. The committee realized broad-based community involvement and support were needed if the project was to be successful. In January 1981, the committee requested the support of citizens who had expressed an interest. Eighty-five citizens donated $2,500 each, becoming known as the Original Pioneers. This group provided the first movement of Butterfield Trail Village, followed by five local churches agreeing to serve as nonfinancial sponsors. The churches include First United Presbyterian, Central United Methodist, First Christian, St. Paul’s Episcopal, and First Baptist of Fayetteville. Please celebrate with us and enjoy a concert featuring live classic tunes of the 60s, 70s and 80s by the fun and talented local band Flashback. Anniversary cake will be served!

Get ready to add a growing number of craft beer microbreweries to your list of fun places to visit in Northwest Arkansas! Our new BTV Ale Trail series will investigate several hoppy stops beginning with Bentonville Brewing Company, established in 2015. Other destinations will include breweries in Springdale, Rogers, Fayetteville and Eureka Springs. BTV Ale Trail punch cards will be issued to guests for brewery stops – with a chance to win dinner for four.

COMING IN APRIL

APRIL 20 | 4:30pm

PERFORMANCE HALL Spring Jazzfest at the Village

The first annual Spring Jazzfest at the Village is a highly-anticipated event featuring local jazz artists throughout the afternoon and evening. The history of Jazz will unfold as the Performance Hall stage lights up with Ben Harris and Friends, The Claudia Burson Trio and Latin Jazz Band Los Veleros. Enjoy hand-crafted hors d’oeuvres by Chef Memo Vaca and stroll through a spring-themed atmosphere with friends for an unforgettable event!

Los Veleros

Claudia Burson

VILLAGE SNAPSHOTS

Resident Appreciation Dessert Social

Go Red for Women Heart Health Luncheon

Retirement Party for John Johnston

Turkish Earthquake Drive

Kansas City Excursion to Union Station

Take 5 Valentines

Pat Molle’s Apartment

Bright, cheerful colors and a few wellplaced art pieces immediately greet visitors to Pat Molle's beautiful first-floor, north-facing apartment. Her two-bedroom space is cozy and inviting – and Pat's strong eye for design has helped her seamlessly incorporate both warm and cool palates with lovely results.

The apartment’s efficient open floor plan accommodates furniture placement that flows easily from the kitchen into the main living area, with plenty of space for dining. Pretty accents and a few well-loved antiques also grace the room.

Pat's white kitchen boasts a crisp, clean look and features a surprising amount of storage. Her addition of red accents helps create some fun contrasting interest in this spotless space.

The primary bedroom can only be described as a sanctuary of serenity. The cool, relaxing light grays perfectly accompany hints of blue and the dark wood of Pat's bedroom suite.

The apartment's bath carries forward similar muted tones, with art and linens that reflect a nature theme.

An avid seamstress and crafter, Pat opted to convert her guest bedroom into a wellappointed office and impeccably organized creative project space.

Pat's first floor patio provides a comfortable place to relax, as well as easy entry to her apartment and convenient access to parking.

The Secrets Are Out

Butterfield Cooks Share Their Recipes

Further evidence of Butterfield feeling like a big family is the occasional willingness to swap “secret” family recipes. A retirement move to the Village and the convenience of dining services doesn’t necessarily mean lifelong kitchen talents are shelved altogether. At times, BTV staff members have managed to convince residents to share time-tested favorite recipes, helping ensure those great flavors and traditions continue into a tasty future. We invite you to try three delicious choices that might just become part of your own culinary adventures!

Margaret Hunt’s Zucchini Bread

Yield: 2 regular loaves, 4 miniloaves or 8 muffins

There are many recipes for a perennial favorite – zucchini bread. Delicious any time of year, this excellent and easy quick bread is especially helpful when the squash is in great abundance in the summer. Butterfield Financial Analyst Tricia Parette was able to convince resident Margaret Hunt to pass along the recipe for her own failsafe and fantastic version. This particular bread is full of texture, boasts a perfectly balanced flavor and freezes well. According to our taste-testers, it’s exceptional.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup vegetable oil

1 cup white sugar

1 cup brown sugar

3 eggs

2 1/2 cups flour

1 tsp salt

1 tsp baking soda

2 tsp baking powder

2 tsp cinnamon

2 tsp vanilla

1/2 cup raisin (regular or golden)

2 cups grated zucchini (skin on)

1/2 cup chopped pecans

Earlene Swepston’s Greek Rice

Most of us have vivid recollections of favorite foods prepared by friends and loved ones no longer with us – and having one of their special recipes helps rekindle our fond memories of them. The late Earlene Swepston kindly shared her excellent recipe for Greek Rice with BTV Director of Programs/Events Riki Stamps. This very unique dish is packed with flavors and textures, and makes an excellent potluck contribution because it’s great served hot or cold.

INSTRUCTIONS

Pre-heat oven to 325° and prepare pans with cooking spray.

Cream together oil and both sugars, then add eggs and mix well.

Add next six ingredients, continuing to mix well. Stir in squash, then add raisins and pecans.

Pour batter into loaf pans and bake one hour or until a straw or toothpick comes back clean from the middle of the loaf. Remove from the oven and turn bread out of pans onto a wire rack to cool.

Marolyn Fields’ Famous Homemade Strawberry Jam

(aka Quick & Easy Freezer Jam)

Yield: 6 half-pint jars

Those lucky enough to know resident Marolyn Fields are sometimes doubly lucky when she decides to make her homemade strawberry freezer jam. While the recipe for this wonderful treat is attributed to her in local circles, Marolyn readily admits it is actually found in the Sure-Jell fruit pectin box. “I just claim it as my own since I make it so often!” Her recipe was shared at the request of Butterfield MoveIn Coordinator Dave Marks, who says his son Oliver can’t get enough of it.

INGREDIENTS

2 cups crushed fresh strawberries (approximately 4 cups of whole berries)

4 cups sugar

1 package Original Sure-Jell fruit pectin

INSTRUCTIONS

Put crushed berries in a big bowl. (Marolyn purees hers in a food processor.) Add sugar and let stand at least 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to mix thoroughly.

Stir together one package of Sure-Jell Fruit Pectin and 3/4 cup of water in a small saucepan. (Pectin may be lumpy.) Bring to a boil on high heat, stirring constantly. Boil for one minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.

Add pectin mixture to the fruit mixture; stir three minutes or until sugar is completely dissolved and no longer grainy. (A few sugar crystals may remain.)

Fill jelly jars immediately, leaving at least 1/2-inch space at the top for expansion during freezing. Cover with lids.

Let stand at room temperature for 24 hours or until set. Refrigerate up to three weeks or freeze up to one year.

INGREDIENTS

4 cups cooked brown rice

1 lb cooked, crumbled bacon

1 chopped red, yellow or orange sweet pepper

1 bunch chopped green onions

1 cup golden raisins

1 cup sweetened coconut

2 Tbsp nigella seeds (optional – can also use black or white sesame seeds)

1 Tbsp truffle oil (may wish to adjust to taste) Garlic salt, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine all ingredients and mix well. Flavors will intensify if refrigerated for a few hours or overnight.

A Christmastime variation of this recipe includes the addition of candied gingerroot and candied lemon peel.

100 Photographs by Andrew Kilgore

Walton Arts Center presents retrospective exhibition of works by renowned portrait photographer

Walton Arts Center is showcasing the career and advocacy of Fayetteville-based portrait photographer Andrew Kilgore through a major retrospective of the artist’s work in the Center’s Joy Pratt Markham Gallery, on display through March 19. The exhibition features 100 portraits of Arkansans curated by Kathy P. Thompson from Kilgore's archive of over 750,000 images.

Kilgore’s work is diverse, equitable and inclusive, often capturing the lives of those who are “unseen” in society over his 53-year career. In addition to his studio work, historically Andrew has intentionally sought out diverse subjects to photograph to ensure his fine art images reflect the underrepresented diversity of those who live in the state of Arkansas.

His cumulative work fosters a sense of belonging for all who sat in front of his camera and those who view the resulting photographs. Kilgore will also be awarded the 2023 Governor’s Arts Award for Lifetime Achievement in March at a ceremony in Little Rock.

“I photograph these people because I love them,” said Kilgore. “When I open my eyes and my heart to someone whose vulnerability has so clearly defined their very being, I experience the deepest level of ineffable connection. And the best word that I have for that profound experience of connection is love.” The free exhibition is open 10am to 2pm on weekdays through March 19. The Joy Pratt Markham Gallery also opens one hour prior to and during most WAC performances.

There are also audio components to the exhibition, curated by KUAF 91.3FM National Public Radio, which allows patrons to learn more about select photos in the exhibition. Links to these audio segments and interviews are available on the Walton Art Center’s website.

Additionally, there will be a creative conversation with Kilgore at 6 pm on Friday, March 10, that will focus on his career and his advocacy of the unseen, different, misunderstood and marginalized. This conversation will take place in Walton Arts Center’s Walker Atrium and is free and open to the public, but tickets are required. Reservations may be made online at waltonartscenter.org or by calling the box office at (479) 443-5600.

Celebrate Spring with Something New at Walton Arts Center

By Grace Lindquist

Springtime is the perfect time to try something fresh and new, and Walton Arts Center has a great lineup to fit the bill. From a mini film festival featuring works by Arkansas independent filmmakers to a weekend of high-quality vocal performances, a ticket to an inspiring show is sure to cure your winter blues.

On Saturday, March 11, enjoy a mini film festival featuring works by filmmakers from across Arkansas. Curated by Fayetteville Film Festival, Arkansas Filmmakers Showcase brings cinema to local audiences, enriching understanding of our neighbors and of the world at large.

Kick off the VoiceJam A Cappella Festival weekend on Friday, April 14, with Duwendé, an award winning six-person ensemble that presents a unique take on a cappella music. Best known for their upbeat, electrifying bass-and-beatbox-driven style, the group pumps up the crowd with their exuberant sound, replicating a variety of instruments with their powerful and distinct voices. With ever-growing acclaim and fans all over the globe, Duwendé brings new life to the a cappella genre for contemporary audiences. Tickets are only $10!

Seven films will be featured back-to-back, culminating in nearly two hours of creative storytelling. This showcase will range in theme from with the connecting tissue being that all filmmakers are from the Natural State. Films include Lemniscate by Fayetteville local Chuck Mere; Flight by Tyler Horne from Hot Springs; Double Trouble by University of Central Arkansas film students from Fayetteville, Levi Matthew Smith and Blake Dean Allen; For A few Dollars Fewer by Siloam Springs native and John Brown University film student Nick Loper; Banana Triangle Six directed by Marc Crandall of Fayetteville; Boppie by Conway native and UCA film student Ethan Gueck; and Pomegranate by Molly Wheat of Searcy.

Tickets are only $15 and are available now. More information about each of the films can be found at waltonartscenter.org.

A cappella fans and performers alike will gather April 14 and 15 for the annual VoiceJam A Cappella Festival, complete with a headliner concert by Duwendé and the finale event, the VoiceJam Competition. There are also opportunities to learn more about a cappella and experience acaawesome performances.

The weekend continues April 15 when some of the best a cappella groups from across the country will gather in Northwest Arkansas for workshops and masterclasses and to compete for the title of grand champion. The VoiceJam competition starts at 7:30 pm has become one of the most-loved events in our season. Come cheer on these harmonizing, beatboxing, mindblowing groups and cast your vote for aca-fan favorite! Tickets to the competition are $27. Combo tickets to both Duwendé and VoiceJam Competition are just $29.

Tickets to all of these shows and more are available at waltonartscenter.org

Also coming to Walton Arts Center

Ulysses Owens Jr.’s Generation Y

March 4

Acoustic Rooster’s Barnyard

Boogie Starring Indigo Bloom

March 5

STAR DUST: From Bach to Bowie

March 16

John Crist

March 19 | 2 shows! The Jungle Book

March 25

LADAMA

March 30

The Pirates of Penzance

April 1

Blue October

April 2

Brianna Thomas Sextet

April 7

Windmill Theatre’s Hiccup!

April 16

Visceral Dance Chicago

April 20

A Letter for Elena

April 23

David Sedaris

April 25

Duwendé

Voice Jam

Posters from Arkansas Filmmakers Showcase

The Foundation is grateful for the gifts received between December 1st and February 1st from the following Donors.

Donations/Memorials

John Robinson

Sandy Brooks

Everett and Allie Solomon

Marolyn Fields in memory of Evelyn Townsend Andres

Doris Layne in memory of Bobbie Wasson

Dick and Ann Booth in memory of Dorothy Seaton

Roy Clinton in memory of Bobbie Wasson and Pauline Mueller

Dwain and Glenda Newman in memory Jackee Smith and Winnie MacDonald

Chuck and Barbara Culver in honor of Ray and Penny Culver

Health Care/Special Care/Sensory Garden Fund

Seth Young

Doris Schuldt

Penny Culver in honor of Ray Culver

Jane Spellman and Carol Spears

Beverly George in memory of Mary Meyer

John and Sally King in memory of Joan Havens

Kurt and Gene Tweraser in honor of Ardith Wharry

Celisa Steele in honor of Beth Vaughan-Wrobel Steele

Linda Pinkerton in honor of the CNAs and nurses who take care of BTV residents

Music and Performance Fund

Pat Jahoda

Derrik and Julie Olsen

Moving Made Easy

Helen Kennedy

Carol Barnett

John Robinson

To Be in Arkansas, Oklahoma and Missouri …at the Same Time

Take a step and be in Arkansas. Take another and now you're in Missouri. Or just stretch out your arms and be in Arkansas, Oklahoma and Missouri at the same time – all while standing next to a slightly mysterious cornerstone!

This off-the-beaten-path attraction can be found in northwest Benton County where Arkansas Highway 43 meets the Missouri and Oklahoma state lines. Look for the blue "HISTORICAL MARKER" highway sign by the 108-year-old cornerstone. This is where travelers can stretch their legs and then have something to talk about later.

In 1932, the Springfield, Mo., newspaper ran a story about a couple marrying at the spot while standing in three states. In 1998, one of the locals told a reporter how a "fender bender" by the marker caused confusion when Arkansas, Oklahoma and Missouri troopers arrived on the scene. Local legend has it that the landmark is on the westernmost point of the Mason-Dixon Line, which can spur debates as to how far the line actually stretched.

The marker apparently has no formal title. It's listed in Wikipedia as "OKARMO Corner" while Google

Maps show it as the “AR-MO-OK Tri-State Marker." The structure is succinct by listing each state’s name and the year it entered the union while facing its corresponding location. The fourth side notes that the Ozark Culture Club created the marker in 1915. At the top is a gray stone chiseled with the letters "MISR" and "182" with a fourth character, severely eroded, unreadable.

The story is that the rock was much larger when a local stonemason named Dave Smith chiseled it in the 1820s. He stood it up at the Arkansas-Missouri boundary, but the stone eventually fell over and was forgotten until a farmer plowed it up. The farmer created a new marker with a pile of rocks and placed the stone on top.

The Ozark Culture Club of Southwest City, Missouri, intervened in 1915 and provided a proper concrete pedestal with engravings to display the stone. In 1955, when the marker was in need of restoration, the Lions Club of Southwest City came to the rescue. It still stands today by a bucolic highway. The only fanfare, if it could even be called that, is the rural convenience store across the road in Missouri. Its name? Corner Stone Station.

When traveling north on Arkansas Highway 43, which at times veers toward the Sooner State and becomes Oklahoma 20, be sure to look for the blue highway sign designating the marker where Arkansas, Oklahoma and Missouri meet.

Sandra Cox Birchfield, Shiloh Museum of Ozark History

The original concrete marker was placed by the Ozark Culture Club of Southwest City, Mo., in 1915 and was restored by the Lions Club of Southwest City, Mo., which is just above the Arkansas and Missouri state line.

The stone atop the marker where Arkansas, Oklahoma and Missouri meet is said to have been chiseled in the 1820s by a local stonemason.

Butterfield Residents

The Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage Walk the Walk

It’s never too late in life to have transformative experiences. For some, it can mean seeking adventure and experiencing new places and cultures. For others, it might involve pushing physically and mentally to accomplish a challenging feat. In coming months, Butterfield residents and Carriage Club members will have the chance to undergo preparations for an incredible bucket-list opportunity that will perfectly combine both.

Director of Well-being Jennifer Neill has put plans in motion to take a group abroad to hike a portion of the famous Camino de Santiago. This ancient network of pilgrim routes has existed more than 1,200 years, stretching across Europe and coming together at the tomb of St. James in Santiago de Compostela in northwest Spain. Butterfield travelers will walk the last 100 kilometers (over 62 miles) of the Camino Francés, the most popular route that stretches nearly 500 miles from St. Jean-Pied-duPort near Biarritz, France to Santiago, Spain.

Interested? Attend our information session!

Thurs, March 9 2:30pm

BTV Performance Hall

Anyone who cannot travel to Spain but wishes to train with the group is welcome and encouraged to take part in the Camino de Santiago Virtual Challenge. Visit theconqueror.events/camino for details.

For those who wonder if they are too old to walk the Camino Francés, it is helpful to consider that many pilgrims who tackle this hike are well over age 65. It is said the oldest known person to walk the Camino de Santiago was a

93-year-old woman who traversed the entire 500 miles with her age 60 daughter. A detailed strategy is in place to help our willing participants prepare for the both rigors of the trip and necessary accommodations once there:

• Expert help to get in good physical shape, including weekly group walks specially designed to prepare for the trail and proper use of walking sticks

• Assistance with trip preparation – such as packing guidance, education on finding the best shoes and what gear to take

• Travel accommodations support, including private rooms, luggage transport and rides for anyone who needs a break along the trail

• Wisdom and guidance from other residents and Carriage Club members who have completed the hike and are ready to share what they learned

The Butterfield version of the Camino Francés hike is specifically geared for fun and adventure, and every effort will be made to ensure travelers have the necessary advance training and ready support once there. The trip will also include plenty of sight-seeing and cultural experiences, such as the awe-inspiring Belorado Caves, the Templars Castle in Ponferrada, the summit of Monte de Gozo, the famous Bodegas Irache Wine Fountain, La Rioja wine and tapas in Logroño – and so much more.

MAY 16-24

FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA

Corrado Rovaris, Music Director

THE ARTOSPHERE FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA RETURNS!

More than 90 premier musicians from around the world come together for a series of truly inspired orchestral performances

An Evening of Brahms and Beethoven

MAY 16 | 7pm | $10

Walton Arts Center

This program includes Johannes Brahms’ Concerto for Violin and Cello in A minor, Op. 102 and Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 in F major, Op. 68 “Pastoral.”

Respighi’s Roman Trilogy

MAY 20 | 8pm | $15-50

Walton Arts Center

A program showcasing Italian composer Ottorino Respighi’s masterpiece, Roman Trilogy, including Roman Festivals, Fountains of Rome and Pines of Rome

Live from Crystal Bridges: Mozart in the Museum

MAY 24 | 7pm | $49

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

Highlighting the orchestra’s oboes, horns and strings, this program includes Mozart’s Symphony No. 11, Exsultate jubilate and Symphony No. 25.

Artosphere Festival is made possible by Friends of Artosphere. Principal Support for Maestro Corrado Rovaris provided by Reed and Mary Ann Greenwood. Premier Show Underwriters are Kelly and Marti Sudduth. Show Underwriters are Peter B. Lane and Barbara Putman.