Eye On Jackson January 2016

Eye On Jackson www.eyeonmag.com

Debra Thompson New Years Food Just Another Resolution A Publication of Meadowland Media, Inc.

January 2016

U N I T Y H E A LT H

WELCOMES Tanya Walker, APRN Is joining Unity Health – Harris Medical Center and will be seeing adults as well as children.

For appointments, call (870) 523-2320.

1200 McLain St., Ste. B, Newport

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Unity-Health.org

326 Lindley Lane

870-523-6539

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In This Issue 6/Editor’s Note New Chances

8/Central Baptist Brief Just Another Resolution

8/U of A, Division of Agri, Research & Extension

6

13

8

17

10

19

12

22

Walk Across Arkansas, Feb 15 - April 10, 2016

9/Seniors, can we talk?

Prescription Review

10/Cover Story

Debra Thompson

12/Healthy Women of Unity

T’was the Season, How to Keep off Extra Pounds

13/Notes from the Clearing Earned Pleasing

13/In the Field with Randy Variety Selection

15/Let’s Eat 17/I Do

Shrenger - Osorio Wedding

19/Great Tastes The Melting Pot

21/Things To Do 22/Newport Chamber News

Chamber Announces Exciting News for Portfest Festival

Adrienne Freeman is a Jackson County based food writer whose work is published statewide.

When not at the keyboard, she can be found in the kitchen, focusing on recipes and techniques that can be easily replicated by fellow enthusiastic home cooks. She always welcomes reader response at newport.foodies@yahoo. com.

Julie Allen has served as the executive director of the Newport Area Chamber of Commerce since 2002. She is a 1994 graduate of Arkansas State University with a degree in Communications - Radio/Television.

Sarah Henry Metzger is County Extension AgentInterim Staff Chair for the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service.

She has worked for Extension the last 9 years, after obtaining a BS and MS from the University of Central Arkansas. She works in the following 4 initiative areas: Food and nutrition, health & aging, resource management and Marriage, parenting and Family Life. Also, 4-H is another important program she oversees. Her free time is spent with her two boys.

Caroline Beauchamp is a local insurance agent for M & P Insurance & Investment Services. She offers personalized life and health insurance solutions and is known for her widely-published informational column, ‘Caroline, Can We Talk?’.

Kacey Clare Burge received her Master’s degree in Professional Writing from Chatham University in 2011. Relocating to Tampa, Florida proffered the opportunity to write for a Southwest Florida lifestyles magazine. Her outstanding work won her the attention of editors and readers alike, prompting her to be featured in REAL Magazine as a contributing copy writer and editor. She has also done work as a debt content writer for a financial advice website and had a successful freelance career for several years. Kacey spends most of her free time with her husband and three rescue dogs, enjoying the outdoors and exploring what the state of Arkansas has to offer.

Jon Chadwell is the executive director of the Newport Economic Development Commission (NEDC). The NEDC is funded by a ½ cent sales tax collected in Newport and works to assist in the development of business and industry in Jackson County.

Randy Chlapecka is an agronomist with Farmers Supply Association. He is retired from the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture - Cooperative Extension Service where he served as a County Extension Agent for over 32 years. He is an avid ASU Red Wolves fan and has announced Newport Greyhound sporting events since 1996. He also enjoys vegetable gardening.

Rebecca Pearrow is marketing director at Unity Health-Harris Medical Center. She attained an AA at Central Baptist College followed by a BS at Arkansas Tech University. She completed an MBA from Harding University in 2014. She was employed 12 years at White County Medical Center prior to returning to Harris Hospital, and is now happy to be an associate of the new Unity Health system that resulted from the alignment of the two hospitals. She spends her free time traveling to support her kid’s athletics, gardening, raising chickens and scrap booking.

Meet Your Writers...

Eye On Jackson is a publication of MeadowLand Media, Incorporated. Editorial, advertising and general business information can be obtained by calling (870) 503-1150 or emailing Kimberlee Thomas at kthomas@ eyeonmag.com. Mailing address: P. O. Box 196, Grubbs, AR 72431.

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Jarred Elliott is the Teaching Pastor at Central Baptist Church Newport Campus. Jarred was called into the ministry in 2012 and has been pastor at the Newport Campus since the fall of 2014. When he is not tickling his 3-year-old son, Ethan, he enjoys flying airplanes and other types of aircraft with friends.

You can learn more about Central Baptist Church and Jarred at www. centralbaptist.com.

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Editor’s Note New Chances

Joseph Thomas

Okay, let’s start over.

That is what I love about the beginning of a new year, the chance to start a new course in my life. To add ideas and learn new things to become more of the me I always wanted to be.

We haven’t changed much with Eye On Jackson for 2016, but we are glad to continue our Powerful Women photo by Robert O. Seat Series with Debra Thompson for the month of January.

Also, we have Randy Chlapecha’s thoughts on Variety, Caroline Beauchamp’s look at Medicare Prescription Plans, Jared Elliott’s article on Just Another Resolution and Van Provence shares ASUN News. Sarah Metzger speaks of Walk Across Arkansas 2016, Julie Allen teases us with a new and improved Portfest, Rebecca Pearrow teaches us how to keep off the holiday pounds next time and Adrienne Freeman brings us the Shrenger Osorio wedding and Lucky New Years Foods. We have Local Faces, Things To Do and more, so dig in and explore Jackson County with us. Glad to have you along yet again. N

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6 | Happiest of New Years to You and Your Family!

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Ayers Named Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at ASU-Newport Van Provence

Arkansas State University-Newport Chancellor Dr. Sandra Massey announced Monday the appointment of Dr. Holly Ayers as the college’s new Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. Ayers replaces Dr. Martha Shull, who had served the college as Interim Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs since January 2014.

Prior to her appointment as Vice Chancellor, Ayers served as the Director of Institutional Effectiveness at ASU-Newport. As Director of Institutional Effectiveness, Ayers served as the Higher Learning Commission Accreditation Liaison and Chair of the Higher Learning Commission Academy for the Assessment of Student Learning.

“It is with great pleasure that I announce the appointment of Dr. Ayers as our new Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs,” said Massey. “Her experience in academics is extensive and ideally suited for her in this role, and she was overwhelmingly recommended

by ASUN’s search committee, student groups, Executive Cabinet and individuals who participated in forums and provided feedback on our search process. In her time at ASU-Newport, she has worked with and earned the respect of colleagues from every department on all three of our campus locations as she guides us through the reaccreditation process with the Higher Learning Commission.”

Before coming to ASU-Newport in May 2014, Ayers’ past professional experience included serving as the Vice President of Learning and Assessment Consultant at South Arkansas Community College, Division Chair for Math, Science and Education at Ozarka College, and Student Success Fellow at the Arkansas Association of Two Year Colleges. During her time as a two-year college administrator, Ayers has led various state, regional and

local efforts resulting in both technical and transfer curriculum development and program accreditation.

She also spearheaded a variety of program articulation agreements with four-year institutions in Arkansas, Missouri and Tennessee.

“I am honored and excited to begin working in this new role with the college and its partners to provide high quality educational opportunities that support a strong and competitive workforce for our region,” said Ayers. “Having been a part of the ASU-Newport team, I have had the unique opportunity to experience the innovative approaches we are using to support academic success and economic development. I feel very fortunate to be a part of the growth and new initiatives on the horizon at ASUN, and I am looking very forward to working with a phenomenal group of faculty, staff and administrators to better serve our students.”

As Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Ayers will plan, develop, manage and administer programs and strategies for enrollment management and academic affairs.

She will coordinate with other ASUN leaders to continue to develop and implement strategic plans to recruit, retain and serve ASU-Newport’s vibrant and diverse student body. She will continue to serve as the Higher Learning Commission Accreditation Liaison and will serve as the college’s Chief Academic Officer.

Ayers earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from Arkansas State University in 1998. She went on to earn her Master of Science in Exercise Science in 2002 and her Specialist in Community College Teaching in 2008, both from A-State. In 2014, she completed her Doctorate of Education in Educational Dr. Holly Ayers Leadership from Arkansas State University.

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For this new year to bring you something new, make a move, like a butterfly in a cocoon!

January 2016 | 7

Central Baptist Brief

Just Another Resolution Jarred Elliott

U of A, Division of Agri, Research & Extension Walk Across Arkansas, Feb 15 - April 10, 2016 Sarah Henry Metzger

If you were to walk in my office, immediately you would discover my love for airplanes, with a huge propeller mounted on my wall. As you gaze to the left you would see a dry-erase board on the wall with a “prayer list.” This list contains a slough of items including names, goals, and Scripture. One of the Scriptures that you would see quoted is 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. This is where Paul tells the church in Corinth (full of the world more than they are with Christ), that endurance wins the race, not a short burst of “can-do.”

Perhaps you started off the year with the usual loose goals like “lose weight this year”, “Be more successful this year”, or maybe “go back to church this year.” No doubt that we all have goals and we all want to do “better”. But the way we define “better” can be so slanted that we never really have a true end in mind and we basically find ourselves in December looking back and measuring ourselves by a very warped benchmark. “To fail to plan is to plan to fail.”

So what’s the plan? If your plan includes “going back to church”, well then frankly, you need to adopt a much better and clearer blueprint. “Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Therefore, I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.” The apostle Paul was not a shadow boxer and he certainly wasn’t a long-winded jogger. He’s talking about a different race—a spiritual race.

Friend, if you want to start 2016 with a spiritual goal in mind, then you must start with an attitude of endurance and commitment. Without that attitude, the failure of last year will be the failure of this year. The only difference will be the increase in disappointment and even deeper regret toward God and the power of His transformative gospel.

Commit to surrender your will to Christ. Endure hardship, knowing it produces endurance. Tune your schedule to focus on God and His will, rather than your own personal goals of worldly success and empty materialism.

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What is Walk Across Arkansas?

It is an 8 week exercise campaign where you and your team set personal goals for physical activity and try to meet them (with a little help from your friends!)

All you need is: A team of 2 to 10 people A team name A good pair of walking shoes A watch or stopwatch What you do: Record the number of minutes walked throughout the day (with the intent of exercising for at least 10 minutes straight).

How? You can log in your minutes online at www.uaex. edu OR you can contact your county Extension agent for more information and forms.

Who can participate?

Anyone! Some suggestions of team categories: Families Worksites Teachers Youth (under age 18) Seniors (65+) Faith-based members General (a combination of above) Is just walking allowed?

No! Most people in our program choose to walk, but you can do any type of physical activity as long as you increase your heart rate or break a sweat for at least 10 consecutive minutes. Research recommends that adults should exercise for at least 150 minutes per week and youth for 60 minutes per day.

How will this program benefit me?

Most of our participants enjoy the camaraderie they share with team members. We have also learned that many of our participants: Had more energy Slept better Strengthened their relationships Lost weight or inches Improved their blood pressure Improved their blood panels Controlled their stress If your business, church, or family would like to participate in this walking adventure, please call 870523-7450 to sign up!!!!

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793-3303 - 755 St. Louis Street - Batesville 8 | Happiest of New Years to You and Your Family!

Seniors, can we talk?

Prescription Review Caroline Beauchamp

Ruth, Betty and David reviewed their prescriptions plans during the Annual Enrollment Period that just ended. I hope you did, too. If you did not review your current prescription or Medicare advantage plan your next opportunity is October 15 through December 7, 2016.

During this enrollment period some of Ruth’s friends asked about reviewing their Medicare supplement plans.

They were interested in a different Medicare supplement plan with either more coverage/benefits and less out of pocket expenses when they go to the doctor or hospital or a lower premium. Since this enrollment period did not apply to Medicare supplement plans, changing plans was not guaranteed.

If you already have a Medicare supplement plan like Ruth, Betty and David, you will have to answer medical questions to change plans and you can be accepted or declined. Once accepted, your new plan will cover medical conditions you have now. If you’re thinking about changing plans, make certain that you compare not only premiums, but the benefits. And make sure you don’t cancel your existing policy until the new policy is approved and in effect.

These enrollment periods can be really confusing.

There are actually three (3) different enrollment periods.

The Annual Enrollment Period that we just finished which is October 15 through December each year. There’s also your Open Enrollment Period. This is the best time to enroll in a Medicare supplement policy because it is guaranteed. It is a one-time 6 month period. The clock starts ticking on the first day of the month that you are both 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B.

(You must also be enrolled in Medicare Part A.) You are guaranteed that your policy will be issued and no medical questions can be asked!

Not sure if you have Medicare Part A and Part B? Check your Medicare red white and blue card – it’s shown there.

There are also Special Enrollment Periods when you can get a Medicare supplement plan without having to answer any medical questions. One of these is when you leave an employer group health insurance policy. For example Ruby is getting off her group health insurance plan February 1. She has 63 calendar days after her group coverage ends to apply for a Medicare supplement policy with no medical questions asked.

Another Special Enrollment Period has to do with enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan when you were first eligible. If during the first 12 months that you have the Medicare Advantage plan, you decide you don’t like it and want to go back to Original Medicare. You have a Special Enrollment Period of 63 calendar days after your Medicare Advantage plan ends or 60 calendar days before your plan ends to enroll in a Medicare supplement plan – guaranteed (sometimes this enrollment period is extended to 24 months).

There are lots of enrollment periods. If you’re not sure which enrollment period applies to you, call me at 501868-6650 and say “Caroline, can we talk?”

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January 2016 | 9

Eye On Cover Story Debra Thompson Joseph Thomas

There are many splendid characteristics that make up a powerful woman; some of the same traits that entrepenuer’s carry in their bag of skills. Debra Thompson carries some of both. She began her working timeline as a Ward Clerk and was inspired by this work to further her education. She studied and became an LPN and later, an RN. “These years of serving people and their health needs was very rewarding. I will always be thankful for these years and lessons I learned. My most rewarding time was home health and spending the times with clients helping to make them comfortable during their hour of need,” explains Thompson.

Thompson credits her father for the encouragement he gave all of his children towards education being top priority in their lives. Both of her parents had very successful medical careers. Thompson’s brother became an engineer, her sister an Internal Medicine doctor that specialized in AIDS research and treatment. Thompson’s education includes medical training, children’s evangelist and her current career as a CPA. “One of the biggest factors in my success is the support system of my wonderful husband (Terrell), and his parents. They always encouraged me to be the best that I am in everything I do,” says Thompson. “During all these years, I was raising a family, working and furthering my education, but I kept my moto, “Success is a journey, not a destination.” She says that while her children were growing up and she working so much as a nurse, that she just didn’t have the time with her children that she wanted. That was what brought her back to school to become a CPA. She says classes allowed her more time with her children and in 1997, she earned her Accounting degree from ASU Jonesboro. “I worked with Mears Farms as their bookkeeper while preparing for the CPA exam. In 2000, I received my designation as a Certified Public Accountant. I started my business in January of 2002 on Second Street in Newport AR, and moved to my current location at 912 Highway 367 North in January 2014.”

While building her firm, she worked with the Kiwanis in their fund raising and was Treasurer for a time. She volunteered at the McPherson side of the prison passing out Bible Studies for nine years. She admits, “This was an inspiring time and I was fondly known as the Bible Study Lady. I had the privilege of working with the Newport decorating committee on the giant Christmas Cards and was able to paint one of them along with helping with some of the rest.” She says business today is faster paced than ever and her clients appreciate the hard work it takes to stay up to date with the ever-changing tax regulations. “Along with my great staff, our training and experience makes us the best choice for business owners who want to operate at maximum profitability 10 | Happiest of New Years to You and Your Family!

while staying in compliance with our complex tax laws.”

Thompson is committed to every client and her firm has twice been recognized as the accounting firm of the year in Jackson County. She says, “We’ve helped thousands of clients over the years and we value each and every one of them. Presently, we are growing in our specialty areas of agriculture, transportation, utility and medical services. Thus proves my belief “Success is a journey and not a destination.”

Thompson and husband, Terrell, share thirty-seven years married and two daughters, Melissa and Amanda.

Melissa is married to Dennis Lore, Jr. and they have three children: Trey 17, Katy 15, Erica 12. Amanda is married to Brian Eggert of Conway, Arkansas and they have two children: Anthony 12, Nathan 10. You can find Thompson at her office at 912 Highway 367 North in Newport, Arkansas and online at debra@dltcpa.com.

“Debra has been my CPA since 2009 and I am very satisfied with her ability to take care of my farm accounts. I would highly recommend letting her take care of your farm related financial issues. She has a very professional attitude when working with my stressful schedule and keeping my books in order.”

Darrin Hutchinson “I have been happy with Debra Thompson’s CPA work for ten years. She is very attentive to my needs and when dealing with Uncle Sam, she makes sure my ducks are lined up in a row. Debra is very professional, however sh always deals with a person so they can understand what needs to be done and why. We have never had a misunderstanding because of her approach to any item.”

Jimmie Jones “Debra Thompson has been a friend for several years. Our relationship began as a professional medical relationship. As Debra’s career transitioned from medical to CPA ,I continued on the pathway with her. Recently Debra designed a financial portfolio for me. She worked diligently to assure my financial future was secure. I am grateful for her friendship and abilities.” Paulette White “Debra has done Independence and Jackson Regional Water Book’s since 2007. When she took over our account, it was a mess. She spent a lot of time straightening out our books for Uncle Sam. She has kept us in compliance with regulations and up to date with payroll. She helped us computerize our payroll so that writing checks was made easy. I would recommend Debra for any water company or association. Manager at Independence Jackson regional Water.”

Tommy Sandford N

Annual vision exams are an important part of preventative health care. Many eye and vision problems have no obvious signs or symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment of eye and vision problems are important for maintaining good vision and eye health and possibly preventing vision loss.

Dr. Gavin McDowell and Dr. Amy Tolbert

www.seeourdocs.com

I hope that in this year to come you make mistakes, because if you are making mistakes then you are: making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself.... changing the world. - Neil Gaiman January 2016 |  11

T’was the Season, How to Keep off Extra Pounds Rebecca Pearrow, MBA We have just emerged from the holiday season as a joyful time of year to celebrate with friends and family.

Along with the extra time spent with friends and family came extra food! It was certainly difficult to maintain healthy eating habits during the celebrations involving lots of party foods at holiday gatherings. Here are a few tips to ensure that the turkey is the only one stuffed at the next holiday season.

THINK ABOUT PEOPLE, NOT FOOD. Concentrate on socializing, having fun and making new acquaintances. Spend time conversing with relatives or reminiscing with old friends or family you don’t see often. Don’t think about just how great the food is; think about what you are celebrating in the first place!

PLAN BEFORE YOU EAT. Don’t skip a meal or arrive at a party hungry. Skipping breakfast or lunch to save up calories to consume later does not work. It will just make you cranky, tired and even more tempted to overeat when surrounded by scrumptious foods you may only see once a year.

MAKE SMART CHOICES. Plan before you eat by checking out all the food options and developing a plan which will enable you to sample foods you enjoy without abandoning good eating habits. Remember it IS okay to have some holiday treats, just spend your calories wisely and then enjoy the foods you choose! Moderation is key. Select small portions that allow you to control your calorie intake yet enjoy all the different items offered.

Eat slowly, because it takes a few minutes for your brain to realize your stomach is getting full. Put your fork down and sip a holiday beverage between bites to savor the experience.

HOLIDAY BEVERAGES ARE SNEAKY. That delicious traditional punch, top secret cider recipe or those cups of eggnog are high in sugar and calories!

So limit your intake. Alcohol also adds extra unwanted calories and through lowering inhibitions it also leads to overeating. Try alternating water with lime in between alcoholic drinks.

TIME TO GET PHYSICALLY ACTIVE. Now that the damage is done, it is even more important to exercise.

It helps reduce stress, which usually comes with the holiday season, and increases energy. Burn off those holiday indulgences and get rid of that extra weight gain quickly. If you increase your activity level, those splurges won’t stick around long!

12 | Happiest of New Years to You and Your Family!

If you slipped up during the holidays, it’s okay; don’t be too hard on yourself. Just kick off 2016 with a New Year’s resolution to eat healthy year-round. Women can join the free Healthy Women of Unity program that provides seminars and health education for women, including weight management and healthy cooking for their families. To join Healthy Women of Unity and receive invitations to local events as well as the e-newsletter go to www.Unity-Health.org, click on the Harris Medical Center tab and go to the sign up button.

From our family to yours, we wish you a Happy New Year!

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In the Field with Randy Variety Selection Randy Chlapecka

Notes from the Clearing Earned Pleasing

Joseph Thomas Playing with the air of possibility that surrounds my nostrils waiting to be inhaled, to become life sustaining parts. Waging the war with each particle as it becomes thought. Do I write for reason, for sanity, for attention or merely because these threads float before me and ask to be pulled onto the page? Do I run to flee myself, to find my serenity or to expose my inner cheetah? Do I cook to eat, to feed or perhaps to make others think I am multi-talented?

I believe in the end we are all selfish when doing for others makes us feel a pleasure akin to hard work and how dirt feels good on the hands....and I think that is a good thing. I am selfishly giving and am all the luckier for it. N

Manna

Cynthia Lochridge Manna Food Pantry is located in the Newport Pentecostal Church of God at 205 Ray street in Newport. They are an open door pantry which means people that are in need can come in and choose the items that their family will enjoy. They do not go by any kind of income guide lines and are open every Tuesday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. They have partnered with the NEA food bank in jonesboro and so are able to help more people in need. Anyone looking to donate to the pantry can contact Cynthia Lochridge. at 870-219-0857 or can log on to www.newportpcg.com.

They also accept food donations.

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One of the major decisions that farmers have to make during the offseason is variety selection for the crops they plan to plant the following spring. In many cases, those decisions have already been made to take advantage of variety availability and various discounts that may be available for early booking from seed companies. But many will wait until closer to planting to make these decisions.

Variety selection can be a critical component of rice production, especially in years where conditions are less than optimum. 2015 was a prime example of this. Yields were as erratic as I can remember in a while. I think this was mainly due to temperatures during pollination and possibly the sensitivity of some varieties to high temperatures during certain critical developmental stages.

Over time it has appeared that Jupiter and the hybrids have been a little more consistent yielders during years when conditions are less than optimum. In good years when planting can occur in late March and April, and weather conditions are good during pollination and grain fill, there generally is not as much difference between these varieties and other good varieties.

The results from the 2015 Arkansas Rice Performance Trials (ARPT) are available and verify the above comments. The top 4 entries when averaged between the 5 locations were Rice Tec 753 (212), Rice Tec 760 (207), Rice Tec CL XL 729 (194), and Rice Tec CL XL 745 (187).

The medium grain varieties Caffey and Jupiter were 6th and 7th respectively at 179 and 176. I don’t know that Caffey has the desired grain characteristics that medium grain users prefer.

The variety with the 5th highest yield averaged across ARPT locations was the University of Arkansas experimental variety ARX1084. It averaged 186 bushels per acre. Hopefully this variety will be released in 2016 and will maintain this type of yield potential as it is planted on more acres and in farmer’s fields.

When selecting rice varieties for 2016, consider planting a good mix of varieties. While I have mainly discussed the hybrids and Jupiter, there are certainly other good choices. If red rice is an issue, consider Clearfield 151 and 271, and possibly others along with the Rice Tec Clearfield Hybrids. Conventional long grain varieties that have good potential include Roy J, Taggart, and LaKast.

For more information, feel free to contact me at randychlapecka@gmail.com or 870-318-0739. N

January 2016 |  13

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14 | Happiest of New Years to You and Your Family!

1 l i r p A

HUNGRY MAN RESTAURANT

Smokehouse Restaurant 601 Malcolm Avenue, Newport

870-217-0228

Catfish Barbeque Lackey’s Tamales Come and enjoy all your freshly prepared Mexican favorites

Outstanding Pizza / Salads Desserts

870-523-8129 2500 Hwy 367 N. Newport, AR

870-523-2278 1204 HWY 367 N Newport, AR 72112

2123 Malcolm Avenue, Newport

CLOSED FOR THE WINTER We would like to thank all of our customers who made our first Season a great one!

We will see you in the Spring!

Unique: {adj.} Being the only one of its kind; unlike anything else.

Nosh: {n} A snack. {v} To eat a snack.

220 E. Main - Batesville, AR 870-569-8050 For information on how you can advertise your business here contact: Kthomas@eyeonmag.com

January 2016 | 15

Continuity Care Clinic.

Newport: The New Portal to Medicine Unity Health-Continuity Care Clinic Primary Care has been expanded by four in Newport with the addition of Internal Medicine Residents at the new Continuity Care Clinic.

Located at 1200 McLain St., Suite G, these fully licensed doctors are now available to care for your health needs. Appointments are available every Thursday by calling 870-523-9852.

CONTINUITY CARE CLINIC

Unity-Health.org | (870) 523-9852 1200 McLain Street | Newport, AR

I Do Do

Shrenger - Osorio Wedding Adrienne Freeman

During the beautiful springtime of April 2015, Miami resident Walter Osorio was in town on a short term work assignment for his company, ABC Tree Services. Newport was new to him, so after a long day of work, he began looking for a good dinner. The cheerful décor and full dining room at Mi Pueblito made his choice easy. He stepped inside for a meal and left with a love affair.

There was an instant connection between Judy Shrenger, the restaurant owner, and Walter. Their conversation came easily and it was plain to see that these two were “simpatico.” After an exciting seven month courtship, the couple were married on November 14th in front of family and friends at the sight of their first encounter; the restaurant.

Judy and Walter’s wedding christened the newly renovated party room at Mi Pueblito. The couple liked the idea of getting married where they first met and fell in love. Approximately 75 family and friends gathered to witness their happiness.

Mr. Schrenger and her grandparents were the only survivors from their family who escaped Auschwitz concentration camp by hiding in attics. The rest of the family perished.

Walter’s mother is Consuelo Padilla of Miami, FL and has one daughter, Michelle.

Judy is originally from Monterrey, Mexico and is the daughter of Bruno Shrenger.

Judy has four children, Abraham, Paola, Allie and Cesar.

Judy plans to keep her maiden name, Shrenger, as a special honor to her family.

“My father and grandparents survived the Holocaust, while the rest of the family perished. The escaped Auschwitz, the legendary concentration camp, by hiding in attics. This is meaningful to me and I want to honor that,” Judy says.

When not running the restaurant together, the couple love spending time together shopping and enjoying their new family. They will honeymoon in Miami over the Christmas holidays and make their home together in Batesville.

If you would like to book the party room for your special event or arrange catering services, call 870-523-2278 and ask for Stephanie or Judy. N

Photography by friends of couple

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YUKON DENALI: MAKES A STATEMENT. ADDS AN EXCLAMATION POINT.

The ultimate expression of Professional Grade Toll Free: (800) 250-3664 Sales & Service: (870) 523-2792 501 Hwy 367 North Newport, AR 72112 W W W. G E O R G E K E L L M O T O R S . C O M

B r ow s e o u r e n t i r e i nve n to r y o n l i n e a n d s c h e d u l e a n ap p o i n t m e n t w i t ho u t p i c k i n g u p t h e p ho n e !

Great Tastes The Melting Pot Adrienne Freeman I hope everyone has had a very merry holiday season so far. So many fun and wonderful traditions are observed in this magical time, beginning with the Thanksgiving Turkey right through the Christmas Mistletoe, but don’t forget the equally important traditions of the New Year. Not just the rowdy New Years Eve celebration! All cultures practice different things to bring in the New Year properly.

A variety of foods that are believed to be lucky and to improve the odds that next year will be a great one.

Not all are covered here, but six major category foods are considered fortunate - grapes, greens, fish, pork, legumes, and cakes. Whether you want to create a full menu of lucky foods or just supplement your meal, we have an assortment of choices, guaranteed to make for a happy new year, or at least a very happy belly.

Cooked Greens Cooked greens, including cabbage, collards, turnip, kale, and chard, are consumed at New Year’s in different countries for a simple reason — their green leaves look like folded money, and are thus symbolic of economic fortune. In the south, collards or turnip greens are the green of choice. It’s widely believed that the more greens one eats the larger one’s fortune next year.

Peas and Beans Legumes including beans, peas, and lentils are symbolic of money. Their small, seedlike appearance resembles coins that swell when cooked so they are consumed with financial rewards in mind.

In the South, we are all familiar with black-eyed peas on New Years for luck. Sometimes this is made into a dish called Hoppin’ John. This practice traces back to the legend that during the Civil War, the town of Vicksburg, Mississippi, ran out of food while under attack. The residents fortunately discovered black-eyed peas that were mistaken for cattle feed by the Yankees and left behind. These simple dishes got the starving

citizens through the winter and thereafter have been considered lucky. Often this tasty treat is made with….

Pork The custom of eating pork on New Year’s is based on the idea that pigs symbolize progress. The animal pushes forward, rooting itself in the ground before moving, symbolizing progress. Pork also is consumed because thanks to its rich fat content, it signifies wealth and prosperity.

But Don’t Eat… Chicken is discouraged because the bird scratches backwards, which has the diner “scratching” for his food the next year. Another theory warns against eating any winged fowl because good luck could fly away. Same goes for lobster - it moves backward and can cause a “setback”.

I make a very casual “Hoppin’ John” but many families have their own traditional variations, adding red or green peppers or additional spices. All are delicious! I cook my dried peas with a ham hock and no bell pepper, and add a can of Rotel tomatoes when they are soft and adjust the seasoning. Sometimes a quick squeeze of fresh lemon may be needed to cut the rich fat. Serve with piping hot rice and a nice slab of golden cornbread (sunshine!). Happy New Year!

Hoppin’ John Ingredients: 2 Tablespoons butter 1 small onion, chopped 1 can Rotel tomatoes Garlic powder 2 cups black-eye peas, cooked with ham hock 2 cups cooked rice, hot Directions: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Soften onion in butter for about 5 minutes. Add peas, tomatoes, and garlic powder, to taste, cook an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Adjust seasonings to taste. Serve over hot rice.

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201 Hazel, Newport 870-523-1009 “The mission of the Newport Economic Development Commission is to facilitate an environment that will be conducive to economic growth and stability. The commission will work to enhance, promote, and create increased opportunities for economic well being by developing and implementing strategies that will improve quality of life, community aesthetics, and encourage new investment in Newport and Jackson County.�

20 | Happiest of New Years to You and Your Family!

Things To Do

Seasame Street Live at the A-State Convo Sesame Street Live at the A-State Convocation Center, March 2 10:30 am & 6:30 p.m. Tickets are available for $15, $20, $25, $55 at Ticketmaster.com Here is a list of all of the shows coming to The Convo: Humorist Jeanne Robertson January 14 Brad Paisley January 21 The Harlem Globetrotters February 3 Brantley Gilbert February 26 Breaking Benjamin February 29 Sesame Street Live March 2 10:30 am Sesame Street Live March 2 6:30 pm Monster X Tour March 11 Monster X Tour March 12 Jackson County Book Nook The Jackson County Book Nook, located directly behind Umsted Methodist Church on McLain St., is open each Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. They offer a wide range of books for all ages. Friends of the Jackson County Library operate the Book Nook and all proceeds go to help with programs and needs of the library.

Tuckerman City Council Meeting The 2nd Tuesday of each month. Tuckerman Water & Sewer 870-349-5336. N Images above and the two to the left submitted by Unity Health Harris Medical Center. They show moments from the Newport Christmas Parade and other Holiday events around the county.

email eyeonjoseph@eyeonmag .com or call Kimberlee at (870) 503-1150 January 2016 |  21

Support Our Advertisers Custom Eyes Vision Care------------------- 11 Darling Pharmacy---------------------------- 6 Darling’s Fine Things------------------------ 6 Debra Thompson, CPA--------------------- 11 Dillinger Funeral Home-------------------- 14 D Q Grill & Chill------------------------------ 8 Eagle Pest------------------------------------- 5 Fortune Inn and Suites---------------------20 George Kell Motors, Inc-------------------- 18 Jackson’s Funeral Home-------------------23 Let’s Eat-------------------------------------- 15 Lindley Health & Rehab Center, LLC------ 3 Merchants and Planters Bank--------------- 3 N E D C---------------------------------------20 Newark Furniture, Flowers and More----- 9 Purdy’s Flowers and Gifts------------------- 4 Sadie’s Sweet Confections------------------- 3 Southern Tire Mart--------------------------- 6 St. Michael’s Place---------------------------24 T-L Irrigation Company--------------------- 3 Unique Nosh Frozen Delights-------------- 14 Unity Health Continuity Care Clinic------16 Unity Health Welcomes Tanya Walker, APRN--- 2 WRMC Tuckerman Clinic------------------ 13

Newport Chamber News Chamber Announces Exciting News for Portfest Festival

Julie Allen, Newport Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director The Newport Area Chamber of Commerce and Portfest Directors have exciting news for festival fans in Northeast, Arkansas. A revamped Portfest Festival will be coming to Jackson County on the second weekend of June 2017. The Portfest Directors, along with other volunteers, sponsors and representatives from the community, will be working over the next 18 months to develop a brand new look and feel for Portfest.

Anticipated improvements include looking at a wider range of events, a broader reach with a variety of music and increased family entertainment options.

“When we learned that Riverfest, the state’s largest festival, was moving to the weekend that Portfest has traditionally been held, we knew that some changes would be required. We felt that this was a good time to re-invent the festival with input from the sponsors and the community,” stated Julie Allen, director of the Newport Area Chamber of Commerce.

The group will gain input from the community that includes online surveys. Everyone is encouraged to participate in the survey, which can be found on the Portfest Facebook page or by typing the link http:// survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07ebuosbd7ih2jhm44/start into a website browser.

The Newport Area Chamber of Commerce and the Portfest Directors plan to unveil the new Portfest at a public event in late summer or early fall of 2016. “This planning year is going to allow us to create an exciting new atmosphere for Portfest,” explained Mayor David Stewart. “The festival has been a huge benefit to Newport and Jackson County, both from an entertainment and economic perspective. We look forward to making improvements that will extend those opportunities well into the future.”

Many loyal Portfest sponsors have agreed to continue their financial support during the planning year to both fund planning activities and to create the seed money for the re-inauguration of the festival in June of 2017.

“We are so appreciative of our sponsors that want to ensure the best possible festival for our community,” shared Melissa Watson, Portfest Treasurer. “Their continued support for this planning year and beyond shows how much community backing we have for Portfest. We can’t say enough about how much they’ve encouraged this process so that the people of Jackson County and northeast Arkansas can have a truly amazing festival.” The sponsors that have agreed to fund Portfest during the planning year so far include Arkansas Steel Associates, Merchants & Planters Bank, Unity Health Harris Medical Center, ASU-Newport, C&C Distributors, Geroge Kell Motors, Harris Ford, George’s of Newport, Lindley Health & Rehab, Jackson’s Funeral Home, CenterPoint Energy, Dillinger Funeral Home, FutureFuel Chemical Company, Iberiabank, Southwest Steel Processing, Hedge’s Portable Toilets, Shelter Insurance and R&D Fire Protection.

The Chamber urges members of the community to get involved in the process by taking the survey and letting their voice be heard. Chamber President Robert Summers said, “We are dedicated to making Portfest a more unique festival experience that will appeal to the broadest audience possible. Our plan is to develop an event that has something for everyone in our community. If we are as successful as the original founders of Portfest were, then we’ll look back 35 years from now and know we made some great improvements to the festival.”

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22 | Happiest of New Years to You and Your Family!

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