Eye On Jackson Novemvber 2015

Eye On www.eyeonmag.com

Jackson

Sweet Potatoes

Thanking Our Veterans Nothing Can Grow Without Roots A Publication of Meadowland Media, Inc.

November 2015

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

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.�

In This Issue 6/Editor’s Note Cool Temps and Warm Coffee

8/Central Baptist Brief Religion vs. Christianity

9/Seniors, can we talk?

Now’s the Time

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17

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10/Cover Story

Thanking Our Troops

12/U of A, Division of Agri, Research & Extension Don’t Stress While Preparing Your Turkey

13/In the Field with Randy Harvesting

14/I Do

Smith - Carpenter Wedding

15/ Healthy Women of Unity

Patient Focused Improvements at Unity Health

17/Feature

Nothing Can Grow Without Roots

19/Great Tastes Sweet Potatoes

20/NEDC Report

Newport Growing Strong

22/Newport Chamber News Leadership Development

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements, unless otherwise noted, do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher or the staff. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information presented in this issue is accurate and neither MeadowLand Media or it any of its staff is responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Copyright © 2013 MeadowLand Media, Incorporated. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without the permission in writing from the Publisher.

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Associate EDITOR: Kimberlee Thomas MANAGING EDITOR: Joseph Thomas ADVERTISING: Kimberlee Thomas Creative Director : Joseph Thomas AD DESIGN Department: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas

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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 Cool Temps and Warm Coffee Joseph Thomas

I love coffee year3050 round, but itSt.,isBatesville especially Harrison nice to have a cup close at hand while writing these notes to you as of late.

We hope you are enjoying the warmth of your homes as the mercury drops and the year winds away. We also hope you enjoy Van 870-793-2700 Provence’s ASUN Campus News, Adrienne Secure Coed Environment Freeman’s article about Sweet Potatoes and the 24 Hour Access / 24 Hour Tanning yummy treats that can be madeTraining fromAvailable them, Fitness on Request / Personal as well as, Caroline Beauchamp’s look at this  Medicare enrollment period. Julie Allen talks of Leadership Development, Jon Chadwell stands back and looks at Newport Caught You Looking!

Growing Strong and Amanda Reynolds says “Nothing Can Grow Without Roots.”

Randy Chlapecka speaks of the local harvest, Sarah Metzger shows us how to not stress out while preparing this year’s turkey and I say thank you to our cherished Veterans. Kimberlee brings us the Smith - Carpenter Wedding, Jarred Elliott speaks of Religion vs. Christianity and there are Faces and many Things To Do. So, collapse into your favorite chair, wait for the dog to relax beside you so he doesn’t spill your coffee and read to your hearts content.

We want to thank you for loving us and for letting us know and for your readership. We are thankful for our friends, our family and our brilliant Eye On Staff of writers and photographers. Happy Thanksgiving to you all and we will see you next month. N For Rates Email:

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ASUN Set to Deploy Campus Nexus Suite Van Provence Campus Management Corp., a leading provider of enterprise software products and services for higher education, announced today that three institutions in the Arkansas State University System (ASU System) have chosen CampusNexus® – including CampusNexus Student; CampusNexus CRM and CampusNexus Finance, HR & Payroll, as well as Campus Management’s Fundraising solution – to more efficiently grow enrollment, increase retention, improve student engagement, share interdepartmental information and make data-driven decisions.

Campus Management’s technology will be used by every department across three Arkansas State University System institutions – Newport, Beebe and Mountain Home – with nine campuses in total, reaching over 6,000 students. All three of the ASU colleges shared an immediate goal to replace their legacy systems with new technology designed for the evolving needs of today’s students. After a competitive selection process that included several major higher education vendors, the schools chose Campus Management’s CampusNexus suite. The solution will be delivered in Campus Management’s cloud environment which will enable each institution to remain focused on strategic initiatives while Campus Management manages the infrastructure, security, reliability and system upgrades.

“ASU-Mountain Home is excited about the opportunity to implement Campus Management software,” said Dr. Robin Meyers, Chancellor at Mountain Home. “This system will provide us with a solution to enhance our overall operations and allow us to better serve our students. From recruitment and retention

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Jerry Carlisle, Vice Chancellor at ASU-Beebe added “The ASUBeebe campus found that the CampusNexus suite of solutions provides the most value to our institution compared to other vendors in the ERP/SIS marketplace. We feel that the students’ higher education experience will be dramatically improved at our institution once Campus Management’s products and services are fully implemented and available for use.”

“ASU-Newport is looking forward to partnering with Campus Management to deploy a leading-edge student information system. Our college is convinced that Campus Management offers the system that will serve us the best as we look to increase the level of service to our students while increasing efficiency within our institution,” said Adam Adair, Vice Chancellor at ASUNewport. “Campus Management will allow us to save costs while significantly upgrading our service to students.

“As universities continue to experience greater competition for students and constantly evolving business models, Campus Management’s goal is to provide traditional institutions like those in the Arkansas State University System with the technology that puts them ahead of the curve when it comes to achieving growth, staying connected with students and operating efficiently,” said Jim Milton, CEO at Campus Management. “We understand that two-year institutions encounter significant enrollment shifts and budget constraints, yet are highly in tune with their community’s needs. Campus Management is delighted that these Arkansas colleges recognize the alignment of our solutions to their missions and needs.” N

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November 2015 | 7

Central Baptist Brief

Religion vs. Christianity

Jarred Elliott How many times have you heard someone say the phrase “My Mom and Dad are very religious?” Or perhaps the phrase “I used to be religious when I was a kid, but I’m not so much anymore.” Or, my favorite, “Religion is a waste of time; you don’t have to go to church to be a good person!”

Bill Maher, a comedian and talk show host of “Real Time” on HBO released a movie that he titled “Religulous” in 2008. The goal of this film was to expose the illogic and shaky façades of the people and practices of all types of religion in America. The film has some funny moments, but also some moments of truth in exposing the hypocrisy that religion is so commonly criticized for. Now, where does Christianity fit into that? I would argue that true, biblical Christianity fits outside of this narrative. I can explain: Merriam-Webster defines Religion as “an organized system of beliefs, ceremonies, and rules used to worship a god or a group of gods” But it also defines a relationship as “the way in which two or more people, groups, countries, etc., talk to, behave toward, and deal with each other” When a person encounters Christ instead of an “organized system of beliefs”, they experience a relationship with a Person. Jesus really had two feet, two hands, two eyes, and experienced hunger, pain, sympathy, anger, temptation and many other things we experience ourselves. When a person reads of Jesus in the Gospel accounts, they see a real human-being healing the sick, preaching repentance, telling of Heaven and Hell— many times Hell more than Heaven. Jesus established a new law when He came; a law of love that is sacrificial, honest, and true. The temple that He established was not built with human hands, but still bears the image of God, our very bodies. His message was not “try your hardest to get to heaven”, but rather “repent and believe the gospel (good news)!” What’s the difference? You tell me.

Religion is earning salvation. Christianity is living in light of salvation. Religion leads to pride and selfrighteousness, the gospel leads to humility and gratitude.

Christians sing songs of praise with tears, religion bows in prayer 5 times a day with fear. I agree with the world; we don’t need religion—we need Christ.

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We want to wish Mrs. Shirley Williams a very happy retirement, she will be missed and we love her much.

8 | Thankful for Jackson

326 Lindley Lane

870-523-6539

Seniors, can we talk?

Now’s the Time

Caroline Beauchamp How many times have you heard your friends say “I’m not really happy with my prescription card but I don’t know what to do about it?” or “I’m not happy with my Medicare Advantage plan because my doctor does not accept it any longer. Wonder what I can do to change plans?”

Well, now is their (and your), chance! Every year between October 15 and December 7 (the open enrollment period), Medicare beneficiaries have the opportunity to review their prescription card and/or Medicare Advantage plan and make changes. If your plan is “not working for you”, you can change plans. Regardless of how many medications you take or what kind of medication you take, you can change prescription plans – you are guaranteed to be accepted. Same thing with a Medicare Advantage plan (except if you have end stage renal disease - ESRD).

This year Ruth has decided to take David (Betty’s charming cousin) under her wing during this enrollment period. David has never enrolled in a prescription plan or Medicare Advantage plan. He never felt the need until he started taking some “high dollar” prescriptions and started having a lot of doctor visits. Between October 15 and December 7 he can enroll in a prescription plan or Medicare Advantage plan even though he currently does not have a plan. David must have Medicare Part A and Part B, live in the county or zip code that the plan is offered in and cannot have ESRD. All companies do not offer plans

in every county or zip code in the state. Someone who lives in Jackson County, for example, may not be able to enroll in a plan that’s available in Independence County. (If you do have ESRD, you may be able to enroll in a “special needs plan” designed specifically for people with ESRD.) To further “muddy the water” for David there are more than 27 prescription plans available in Arkansas.

Each plan has a different premium. Each plan may cover different prescriptions. Each plan has different co pays and the co pays vary based on the pharmacy you use. And the deductibles vary but cannot be more than $340. Wow! So how will David know which prescription plan meets his needs and covers his prescriptions? If he likes computers, he can go to Medicare.gov, insert his information and try to maneuver through the website. Or he can sift through the piles of mail that he’s getting. Or he can call a certified agent who represents lots of companies and ask for help in reviewing the plans available to him (that may be the easiest way).

What about Ruth? Even though she already has a prescription plan, we will still review her plan. Her prescriptions have not changed but the drugs her plan covers may have changed. Every January 1st, plans change.

Do you have a prescription plan? Need help? Get your prescriptions together and feel free to call me at 501-8686650 and say “Caroline, can we talk?

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November 2015 | 9

Eye On Cover Story Thanking Our Troops Joseph Thomas

Pitser Madison Thomas, IV (my brother), served three years in the U. S. Army with a tour in Iraq; Pitser Madison Thomas, III (my father), served four years in the U. S. Air Force as a flight mechanic on F-160’s stationed in Seattle, Washington; Pitser Madison Thomas, Junior (my grandfather), served his duty in the U. S. Army and was stationed in San Francisco, California after he and his fellow troops were taken to storm the beaches of Normandy shortly after General Patton’s men cleared the worst of it. They all have stories that they didn’t and don’t share, some they do.

But they all served as brave soldiers for this country that allows us so many opportunities and inalienable rights.

There are so many others that have served alongside them, post and prior, and trying to honor them can be so overwhelming and seemingly futile. How do we honor our military men and women as they come home from serving at varied bases in the states or abroad to inadequate healthcare, limited job options and a homelife that hasn’t changed as perhaps they have?

I know so many of us feel a desire to honor them, to thank them for serving in such a capacity. I suppose we all have our own ideas of how best to do that. An airport full of family, friends and neighbors welcoming soldiers home seems perfect, but that doesn’t happen as often as it should. I often feel unable to fully express the respect I hold for the years they’ve given, the geography and climates they’ve suffered, the danger they’ve shielded us all from by placing themselves between. To learn what our Viet Nam Veterans returned to makes my skin crawl and my anger surface. They were spit on, called “Baby Killers” and worse. Finding themselves on a journey home, probably dream-like considering that days before, they were watching their friends and fellow soldiers shot down all around them, and here they were headed home, where everything would be alright again.

The understandable desire of the anti-war movement

to stop the killing, didn’t take into account these young men and women who had no choice, or even chose to serve not knowing the bloody war that awaited them.

They didn’t stop to see that these young boys and girls were now young adults with no home who were changed irrevocably and haunted for years to come.

I am fortunate to have the opportunity to share articles like this one and express myself on such meaningful topics, and so here is my thank you to our serving troops and to all the veterans lost to the ages.

It won’t be enough but, it is a heartfelt offering and I can only hope it comes across as genuine as it is meant.

I had thoughts of serving but, being graced with a baby girl at seventeen, I felt she needed me more, or perhaps I needed her more than the journey of military service.

I am extremely fortunate that I had that choice when so many before me didn’t. And, I feel that my choice was in part, due to their sacrifices and service. Thank You. When I was twenty-six, a student at ASU Newport, on a visit to my grandfather’s house, I wanted to know something of his life. I just assumed that his children knew and just never talked about it, but indeed my father and aunt Sandy seemed to be hearing the details for the first time when I shared what I’d learned that day. I’d convinced him that I was going to write an article because it seemed rude to just ask him about his life. I was probably more ashamed that I didn’t know anything about his life, but it was never spoken of around me. Anyway, my grandfather expressed to me how it felt to see the white cliffs of Dover on his journey to Normandy Beach; I could see the awe in his eyes. He spoke of the ruins in Germany and Italy and how saddened he was everytime his armory division trampled through a wonderous field of Flax in order to aim and fire their weapons at the enemy line on the horizon. He talked of spoiled food and the resulting dysentery that afflicted them all within the ruins and sniper fire all around them. The image of this to me was intense...and humorous. Here are these young men pinned down on a mission to take out snipers in the

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ruins of this Italian village and they are taking turns running out into the open behind the building they are taking shelter in, using an exposed fallen beam to clutch in turn...wow.

He shared tears when telling me of a weeks leave when my father was born. He was at his parent’s home place just west of Risher, between Cash and Grubbs (where my grandmother was living and waiting for him). Sitting in the porch swing with my grandmother, holding my Aunt Sandy and newly born father. They were listening to the radio and I’m sure feeling the overwhelming fact the he soon would be returning to the thick of World War II, when the announcement came through the little radio speaker, “The war is over.”

I tried to imagine the joy of that announcement while holding his newborn son with his wife and daughter, on his mom and dad’s property. How hard it must have been to believe that it was really over...again, wow.

I’ve spoken to my good friend Scott Parker of this and his dad’s (Metalsmith Second Class. ME2 Cecil Eugene Parker), Naval service in the same war. He shared a story his dad often told of the scary moment when they were firing upon an enemy submarine picked up on radar. The mistaken whale that was killed soon floated to the surface and verified their mistake. I wonder about how young Mr. Parker must have felt, torn between feelings of immanent attack, sudden victory, the relief of a mistaken identification and the distress of killing such a wondrous creature. I know that in war,

The Chamber hosted a ribbon cutting for the White River Area Agency on Aging at 1200 Highway 367 in Newport.

killing is a fact and one must typically kill inorder not to be killed, but these are also actions that must then be lived with and I ponder if this time ladened affair of living with ones self after war isn’t far harder than the act of war itself.

The cover photo shows P. M. Thomas, II above a photograph of his two sons, P. M. Thomas, III and Johnny Thomas (an Army Veteran), with P. M. Thomas, IV’s Army photo facing them. The American Flag shown was presented to my father at my grandfather’s funeral.

The book under my brother’s photo is a book called the USS Noble (APA218). Joanne Seat’s father, Lawrence Ray F2c, served in the Navy and the Noble was one of three ships he served aboard. The aircraft shown is an F-160, the model that my father worked on in the Air Force. Robert O. Seat very quickly put all of this together for a fitting tribute to these men. There are so many brave men and women out there and so little cover space, however, this “Thank You” is for all of you out there. Your sacrifices are appreciated.

N

Attention Medical Supply recently celebrated 10 years at 1220 Malcolm Avenue in Newport, congratulations!

November 2015 | 11

U of A, Division of Agri, Research & Extension Don’t Stress While Preparing Your Turkey Sarah Henry Metzger

Thanksgiving is right around the corner and for many, preparing the main dish, the turkey, can bring stress. What size should be purchased? What do you do with it when you get it home? There are so many questions.

If you are purchasing a whole bird, you will need to figure on 1 pound per person, boneless turkey breast one half pound per person, and bone in turkey breast three fourth pound per person.

When it comes time to thaw your turkey, remember that a frozen turkey takes time and patience. The safest method is to thaw it in the refrigerator. Be sure to plan ahead, it takes approximately 24 hours for every 4 pounds of turkey to fully defrost in the refrigerator. Keep the turkey in its original wrapper. Place it on a tray or in a pan to catch any juices that may leak. A thawed turkey can remain in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days. If necessary, a turkey that has been properly thawed in the refrigerator may be refrozen.

If you forgot to thaw your turkey, or don’t have room to thaw in the refrigerator, don’t stress. Wrap your turkey securely; making sure the water is not able to leak through the wrapping. Submerge wrapped turkey in cold tap water, never warm or hot. Change the water every 30 minutes.

Cook the turkey immediately after it is thawed. Do not refreeze.

Annual vision exams are an important part of preentative 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.

Remember, always wash hands, utensils, sink, and anything else that comes in contact with raw turkey and its juices with soap and water.

Regardless of the thawing method you choose, avoid a holiday blunder and remove the giblets from the turkey cavities after thawing. Cook those separately.

Now time to cook the star of the show, set your oven temperature no lower than 325 °F. Place your turkey or turkey breast on a rack in a shallow roasting pan. Tuck wing tips under the shoulders of the bird for more even cooking.

This is referred to as “akimbo.”

If your roasting pan does not have a lid, you may place a tent of heavy-duty aluminum foil over the turkey for the first 1 to 1 ½ hours. This allows for maximum heat circulation, keeps the turkey moist, and reduces oven splatter. To prevent overbrowning, foil may also be placed over the turkey after it reaches the desired color.

For optimum safety, stuffing a turkey is not recommended. For more even cooking, it is recommended you cook your stuffing outside the bird in a casserole. Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the stuffing. The stuffing must reach a safe minimum internal temperature of 165 °F. If you choose to stuff your turkey, the ingredients can be prepared ahead of time; however, keep wet and dry ingredients separate. Chill all of the wet ingredients (butter/margarine, cooked celery and onions, broth, etc.). Mix wet and dry ingredients just before filling the turkey cavities. Fill the cavities loosely. Cook the turkey

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                                               

              

immediately. Use a food thermometer to make sure the center of the stuffing reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165 °F. A whole turkey is safe when cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 165 °F as measured with a food thermometer. Check the internal temperature in the innermost part of the thigh and wing and the thickest part of the breast. For reasons of personal preference, consumers may choose to cook turkey to higher temperatures.

If your turkey has a “pop-up” temperature indicator, it is recommended that you also check the internal temperature of the turkey in the innermost part of the thigh and wing and the thickest part of the breast with a food thermometer. The minimum internal temperature should reach 165 °F for safety.

For quality, let the turkey stand for 20 minutes before carving to allow juices to set. The turkey will carve more easily. If you cooked the turkey with stuffing, remove all stuffing from the turkey cavities.

Preparing your Thanksgiving bird, can be stress free, if you follow the tips mentioned above. If you would like a free copy of Let’s Talk Turkey, featuring thawing methods, cooking times, recipes and more, contact our office at the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture in Jackson County. Call 870-523-2415, or email me at smetzger@ uaex.edu. N

Notes from the Clearing Skies Joseph Thomas

The gray pre-morning curtain brightened by the red Sun reveals its blue painted surface, refinished by the lows and highs of the many battering fronts that cycle overhead. Streaks of pink and gold, brushed and rubbed upon the canvas with an artistic touch, sensitive to the winds and temperature we wake and sleep to.

Often unnoticed and unappreciated as we speed from appointment to meal to appointment and yet its beauty is never lacking or simply thrown up haphazardly. 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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In the Field with Randy Harvesting Randy Chlapecka

The 2015 harvest is winding down. Although harvest started later than normal this year, it has generally gone very quickly due to a very dry September and October. I always get nervous generalizing about farming conditions, especially yields, because there are always going to be some that are either well above or well below the general statements I make. But people want to know how the crop turned out so here goes with my comments about the 2015 crop.

Looking at our major crops, rice yields were more erratic than I can remember in a while but overall below where we’ve been the last few years, corn yields were for the lack of a better word average, grain sorghum yields were mostly good, and soybean yields that I have heard so far have been mostly above average and well above average in some cases.

As with most years, the main factor in these yield trends was weather. A wet spring delayed planting of all crops and that generally means lower yield potential for all crops, but a continuation of that wet pattern meant that lower yield potential was overcome to an extent especially for soybeans and grain sorghum.

Temperature is a huge factor, especially the potentially negative effects of high temperatures on rice pollination and grain fill. High temperatures in the upper 90s and above, and low temperatures in the upper 70s and above, can negatively impact rice yields.

After I kept hearing the erratic yield reports, I decided to try and get some local temperature data and see if I could correlate high temperatures to the problem. Thanks to the Newport Municipal Water Company for having this data available and providing it to me. After seeing this data, things began to make a little more sense.

I saw my first rice head of 2015 on July 17th northeast of Weiner. I know there was some heading before that, but that was the first that I saw. That tells us that the rice crop pollinated during the last half of July probably through about the first week or so of August.

We had low temperatures in Newport of above 75 degrees on July 19-20 and then again July 25-29. After July 30, all lows were below 75. That could definitely help explain the erratic nature of yields on the earlier rice and some of the better yields from the later rice.

There were also heavy rains exceeding 5 inches on July 22-23 and that could have effected pollination especially if heavy rains fell at the wrong time of day.

Those cooler temperatures after July 30th along with some timely rains were also a likely factor in the good soybean yields.

For more information, feel free to contact me at randychlapecka@gmail.com. N

November 2015 | 13

I Do Do

Smith - Carpenter Wedding Kimberlee Thomas

Ariel Marie Smith and Dalton Bryan Carpenter meet in 2010 during Ariel’s college volleyball recruitment trip to Lyon College from Henderson State University. Ariel’s future teammate and best friend, Danielle, took her out to eat at the former China Buffet. Ariel recalls, “I saw this amazing young man at the restaurant and he remembers locking eyes with me that night too.” The two became Facebook friends and then three years went by with no contact between them. Danielle would again become their connection.

She was visiting from out of town and Ariel had asked her to drop by and bring whomever she wanted to hang out for the evening. “April 12, 2013 was the night I couldn’t take my eyes off of him. The group of us spent the evening hanging out and then parted ways; later that night I received a Facebook message from Dalton saying he had a great time.” Ariel was certain Dalton had messaged her by mistake and that it was someone else he was interested in. He managed to convince her he had not made a mistake and the two eventually exchanged numbers, the talking and texting began. The two stayed in touch after school let out for the summer skyping daily when Ariel was gone for two weeks to Germany on a Lyon College Nichols Program trip. “It was obvious we missed each other,” Ariel reminisces. That summer proved to be a difficult one for Ariel as she lost her grandmother on June 4 to pancreatic cancer and underwent knee surgery two weeks later. “Those two events were definitely a test on our relationship but we made it through. I tease Dalton telling him the only reason we made it was his knack for growing the sweetest Cave City watermelons, which I love.” The two became an official couple on June 13th of that year, the remainder of which was filled with a summer growing watermelons, lots of volleyball and seeking Christ together.

Two years would speed by filled with fishing, art shows, college classes and career changes for both of them. On July 20, 2015 Ariel picked Dalton up after work and they headed to Beef ‘O’ Brady’s for dinner. “I knew something was up because he was fully decked out in church attire and he normally wears socks and flip flops.” Dalton suggested they take a drive to Painter’s (Penter’s) Bluff. The afternoon was beautiful and perfect for picture taking, so Ariel readily agreed.

Soon after arriving at the bluff, Ariel realized the reason for Dalton’s special attire. “He got down on one knee; I was shaking uncontrollably because I was so incredibly excited. Screaming off the bluff I said “Yes!” Hearing it echo was an awesome feeling.” The bluff holds sentimental value to Ariel as she spent many hours doing research and photographing the area for her photography class. Her photomontage was featured on the front page of the Historic Sites & Monuments of Independence County 2012 calendar.

14 | Thankful for Jackson

Photography by friends of couple

Things began to move very quickly for the couple and as Dalton prepared to start classes at Arkansas State University, the couple also began the process of purchasing a home in Sidney. “We both felt very strongly that we needed to be married before moving into the house, we did not want to start our lives off together living in sin.” The couple had been asked to join some friends on a trip to Colorado and this is where it gets interesting; in the state of Colorado couples may perform self-solemnization after they complete the required paperwork at a Colorado courthouse.

On the morning of August 13, 2015 the couple meandered into the courthouse in Colorado and completed the required paperwork. They spent the rest of the day site seeing around Denver. Later in the evening the group began the twenty minute drive to Lookout Mountain. Dalton was a champ as he spent the entire ascent blindfolded so that he could not see his bride to be. With God’s awe inspiring handy work as their backdrop, the young couple exchanged vows and rings. Ariel recalls, “The moment was so perfect and indescribable feelings fell over me. As we exchanged vows I felt so thankful that God had put this man in my life.” This time it was Dalton’s turn to scream off the mountain. “Once again the echo inspired an awesome feeling. We both stood there taking it all in enjoying the moment we had just shared. We both love the outdoors and I think it is so romantic that Dalton proposed to me in the Ozarks and married me in the Rockies.”

They honeymooned in Mt. Evans, Colorado. The couple will be holding a vow renewal ceremony on August 13, 2016 so that their family and friends may join them in celebrating their union.

Ariel is employed at Citizens Bank as Product Manager and Marketing Coordinator. She also owns a freelance graphic design and photography business.

Dalton is attending Arkansas State University where he will obtain his Agriculture Business degree in two years. They currently reside in Sidney with their German Shepard, Bella.

Ariel and Dalton offer up a “Huge thank you” to Caitlyn and Casey Coles along with Carey and Colby Markum for helping them, “Pull everything off.”

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Find Your Style at Darling’s

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November 2015 | 15

Patient Focused Improvements at Unity Health Rebecca Pearrow

Under management of the new Unity Health system, the Senior Care geriatric behavioral health unit of Harris Medical Center is undergoing extensive remodeling.

This massive renovation is expected to be completed in two phases - the first of which should last approximately two-and-a-half months through the end of December, and the second and final phase is anticipated to be completed by March. During these construction phases, it will be necessary to implement a temporary census reduction to best accommodate provision of care in the least disruptive manner possible. Upon completion of the major improvements to the unit, census will return to the normal capacity.

In addition to a beautiful facelift throughout the unit, the redesign will include a larger day room, completely remodeled patient rooms and enhanced shower areas with special accommodations for the senior population. The overhaul is intended to enhance the patient experience by providing a spacious place for healing as well as comfortably maintain privacy for patients and families. “This undertaking is visible evidence of the commitment that Unity Health has brought to the area and the patients we serve. You will continue to see this commitment played out through improvements to the facility for some time to come,� says Darren Caldwell, VP/Administrator of Harris Medical Center. For more information about behavioral health services at Unity Health, please visit UnityHealth.org/psychiatric-services.

Another patient focused improvement is the availability of MRI on weekends. Now that the MRI unit can accommodate appointments on Saturday and Sunday, patients will no longer have to take time off work for the test. When a physician recommends an MRI, you don’t have to be concerned about lost work hours. These extended times of availability will help provide maximum convenience and access when your doctor finds it necessary to schedule an MRI. For additional information or questions, call the Harris Medical Center Radiology Departments at 870-5123004. There are many exciting improvements underway for Harris Medical Center. Watch us grow!

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16 | Thankful for Jackson

Nothing Can Grow Without Roots Amanda Reynolds

A group of cousins, all different in their appearance ranging from a little blonde haired girl with two braids down her back, blue eyes and a dirty face to a preadolescent with a love for fast four wheelers, shooting squirrels and of course, girls. Everyone is familiar with the kind of dirty that results from playing hard. It is the kind of dirty that leaves a perfect ring in the crease of the neck. The little blonde girl wears jeans with perfect square patches on the knees. The color of the patch is supposed to match the color of the jeans, but everyone knows the color is never the same. The jeans belonged to the older brother, passed down when he outgrew them so that the little sister could wear them to play. The filth on the clothes would make most people call social services. The boots are dingo boots, very popular in the 1970s, and are perfect for playing on the farm. The term for a farm is not the normal definition in Jackson County. We do not have the farm that is read about in elementary school literature. In Jackson County, farmers raise rice, soybeans, wheat, corn, or various other seed crops. Very few people raise chickens, pigs or cattle and call it a farm. Our farms are laced with levees and pump houses.

As a child, Saturday mornings after breakfast, which consisted of anything desired, myself and the group of cousins we were allowed to go with our granddad, Wade Nance, to “repair” the levees. Thank God he was a patient and kind man, because we probably caused more harm than he was able to fix on that Saturday morning. The most excitement of those excursions arose when a snake was spotted by one of us. My grandpa Nance either killed it with his shovel or chose to ignore it and us all together. My father’s family goes back generations in Jackson County. Although Remmell is not the thriving community it once was, the memories are vivid of the weekends on dirt roads and bottled cokes from the machine at the general store.

That general store had a bench out front and was never level, but the fire inside was always warm and the men loved to hang out there to talk about farming (actually gossip, but we will assume the conversations were more productive). The hustle and bustle of the general store was magnified by the existence of the gin next door.

Those two were usually built side by side in the small agricultural communities. The smell of the farmers, even today, was very distinctive. Since most of them, today and yesterday, wore long sleeves, the men smelled of a mixture of dirt and sweat. Even today, when I catch that smell in the air, I think of that old man I loved more than anything as a child and smile.

Roots, Jackson County knows about roots. We grow things and we raise people. I smile to myself every time a young adult, or teenager close to graduation says, “I cannot wait to get out of Jackson County.” The smile is for two reasons. First, I remember saying those words from my very own lips. I recall thinking I was going to find paradise outside this county and a life full

of excitement. Maybe some people do find that other life, but the urge is always there to visit home and slow down, if only for a bit. On the other hand, others, like myself, long for a career and life that can bring us back to Jackson County and the roots that have made us strong.

Second, the smile is for my response to their comment.

It is always the same, “You couldn’t grow without roots.

Your roots start here and run deep. Jackson County will always be here and be home. When one branch of a plant doesn’t grow as planned, the roots will hold and continue to hold it up. “ There is just something about Jackson County.

From the northern tip to the southern line, the people are part of one family. The things the people have in common range from types of crops farmers grow, the family tree branched from, the family the person married into, common hobbies like baseball and football, or a love for hunting and fishing. Often those things overlap into relationships on different levels.

Interesting enough, Jackson County has many citizens that grew up in other places, but married someone from Jackson County and are now considered to be from Jackson County.

What is so special about Jackson County? What sets it apart from others? The people are what make this county special. The relationships of the people, black or white, rich or poor, the roots are twisted together. To the average eye, we are all individuals with different lives, careers and hobbies, but underneath the surface, our roots are connected and intertwined so strongly that we stand tall and hold up each other, especially when there is need or weakness. Many claim that Jackson County is not what it used to be and thank goodness. It is better. Our memories are treasured by the families and passed down the generations. The future of Jackson County is bright and I love the idea of what OUR future holds.

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November 2015 | 17

MJ’s

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870-523-2278 2123 Malcolm Avenue, Newport

Great Tastes Sweet Potatoes Adrienne Freeman Until low-carb diets came into vogue about ten years ago, many people saw sweet potatoes only on holidays and only under a charred mound of mini-marshmallows.

But with today’s laser-like focus on diabetes and obesity, the richly colored sweet potato has risen in stature and familiarity, migrating from fancy restaurant menus to appearing as tots and fries at drive thru burger joints everywhere.

Research from the USDA (www.usda.gov), shows that the two potato versions aren’t that different in nutritional value, but medical experts from the Mayo Clinic (www.mayoclinic.com), say that besides the similarity in evident vitamin values, the sweet potato is lower on the glycemic index - as a result, people don’t experience the same roller coaster of sugar highs and lows, which stresses the pancreas and can lead to hunger spikes. In the simplest terms, foods with lower glycemic indexes, like sweet potatoes and brown rice, make you feel full longer.

Sweet potatoes don’t have to be sweet – savory preparations are perfect for this tender tuber as well.

Especially tasty seasoned with some spicy zing, like chipotle peppers, cinnamon or smoked paprika, pairing them with walnuts or pecans and even bright fruit flavors, like orange and apple.

Whether served as a side dish, in a salad or as a dessert, the vibrantly warm colored vegetable can complete a plate with panache and leave the memory of charred marshmallows in the dark of holidays past and take these fresh, flavorful dishes with the sparkly promise of holidays future.

WARM SWEET POTATO SALAD WITH BALSAMIC BACON VINEGARETTE INGREDIENTS: 3 large sweet potatoes, cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes 3 nedium red potatoes, diced

1/3 cup mayonnaise 2 Tablespoons Dijon mustard ¼ cup balsamic vinegar ½ teaspoon ground turmeric 1 Tablespoon chopped chives Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste 2 slices crisply cooked bacon, crumbled 2 green onions, finely chopped ½ red onion, finely chopped DIRECTIONS: Either boil or steam the cubed potatoes until fork tender, about 20 minutes. Do not overcook – potatoes should still hold their shape. Cool the cooked potatoes slightly.

Mix together the mayonnaise, mustard, balsamic vinegar, turmeric, chives, salt and pepper in a large bowl.

Set aside.

Combine the bacon, green onions, red onion with the cooked potatoes, tossing carefully. Cover warm potatoes with the dressing. Serve warm garnished with extra chives or green onion.

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USDA Services Local Offices Issue Receipts for Services Provided James M. Barnes, CED

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director Linda Newkirk reminds agricultural producers that FSA provides a receipt to customers who request or receive assistance or information on FSA programs.

“If you visit our office, you’ll receive documentation of services requested and provided,” said Mrs. Newkirk. “It’s part of our mission to provide enhanced customer service for producers. From December through June, FSA issued more than 327,000 electronic receipts.”

The 2014 Farm Bill requires a receipt to be issued for any agricultural program assistance requested from FSA, the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Rural Development (RD).

Receipts include the date, summary of the visit and any agricultural information, program and/or loan assistance provided to an individual or entity.

In some cases, a form or document – such as a completed and signed program enrollment form –serve as the customer receipt instead

of a printed or electronic receipt. A service is any information, program or loan assistance provided whether through a visit, email, fax or letter.

Today's announcement was made possible through the 2014 Farm Bill. The Farm Bill builds on historic economic gains in rural America over the past six years, while achieving meaningful reform and billions of dollars in savings for the taxpayer. Since enactment, USDA has made significant progress to implement each provision of this critical legislation, including providing disaster relief to farmers and ranchers; strengthening risk management tools; expanding access to rural credit; funding critical research; establishing innovative public-private conservation partnerships; developing new markets for rural-made products; and investing in infrastructure, housing and community facilities to help improve quality of life in rural America. For more information, visit www.usda.gov/farmbill. To learn more about FSA, visit www.fsa.usda.gov or to find your local USDA office, visit http:// offices.usda.gov. N

Things To Do

2nd Annual Meet the Author The Iron Mountain Regional Arts Council is pleased to announce the 2nd Annual Meet the Author event, which will take place on Saturday, November 14 from 10 a.m. to Noon at the Harryette M. and Kaneaster Hodges, Sr. Library on the campus of ASU-Newport. Eighteen authors are slated for the event. This is your time to visit with authors one-on-one, find out how their stories are created and purchase an autographed copy of their books. Participating authors include: Wayne Boyce, Lori Crabtree, Annalisa Daughety, Kristie Haigwood, Gregory Hansen, Sadie Jones, Dr. Andrew (Andy) Motes, Annie England Noblin, Amber R. Polk, Joyce M. Price, Mark Rorie, Marvin Schwartz, Abby Summers, Sidda Lee Tate, Carrie Thomas, Sue Cullins Walls, Lonnie R. Williams, and K.D. Wood.

Beans and Cornbread Lunch The ladies of First United Methodist Church will host their annual bean and cornbread lunch and bake sale on Tuesday, November 3, from 11:00 until l:00. The event will be held in the Fellowship Hall on the corner of Laurel and 3rd and donations will be taken at the door for the lunch. Come, bring a friend for lunch and then you can buy some goodies for the upcoming Holiday Season. EVERYONE is welcome.

Farmer’s Market Don’t forget to stop by the Farmers Market every Saturday and Wednesday mornings starting at 7 a.m. Located in the market pavilion next to Newport Lake.

5K Fun Run & Walk The Junior Auxiliary of Jackson County will host its second 5K Fun Run & Walk on Saturday, November 14 beginning at 8 a.m. The race will be held on the certified course at ASU-Newport.

Adult Walk/Run pre-registration fee is $20 or $25 race day. Kids Fun Run for ages 11 and under is $15. Register online at www. racesonline.com and search for this race. Online registration closes October 30. This time frame allows adequate time to receive your race shirt, which is included in the registration fee. For more info, email webb.samantha88@gmail.com.

Tuckerman Christmas Parade Tuckerman’s Christmas parade will be Saturday, December 12, 2015 at 10 a.m. Entry is Free. Entry forms are available at City Hall or call 870-349-5313.

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

20 | Thankful for Jackson

NEDC Report Newport Growing Strong

Jon Chadwell, Economic Development Director The main mission of the Newport Economic Development Commission is promoting and stimulating business growth in Newport and Jackson County.

Activities that will help grow our existing businesses and bring in new businesses consume a majority of our time. We’ve seen the rewards over the past few years as growth has come through both expansion and new business.

When we notice the growth, we are excited.

However, it is even more exciting when others notice how we are growing. Smart Asset Investments, a financial research and advisory firm out of New York, evaluates all the counties in the United States on a wide range of statistical information. A recent report released online by the company ranked the investments made by others in each county in the U.S. In the category labeled “Business Growth,” Jackson County did remarkably well. Over the last two years, according to Smart Asset, Jackson County is ranked 5th in the State of Arkansas for Business Growth with a 3.1% growth rate over the two-year period. Fifth in the State of Arkansas!

Even better, the data for this report was compiled before the recent announcements of 100 new jobs at Southwest Steel, 100 new jobs at Shearer’s Foods and 35 new jobs at Delta Manufacturing. Just imagine what percentage our Business Growth will be when those expansions are also factored into the mix.

People often say, “We need more good jobs in Newport.” And yet, at our recent job fair, we had 300 good jobs available in a wide range of careers, including healthcare, manufacturing, retail, education and services sectors. After heavily advertising that we had 300 jobs available, we had just over 100 people come to apply for those jobs. That means that even if everyone who had come to the job fair was hired that day, we’d still need 200 more people just to fill those jobs. And we know of 150 more job openings in the community that were not represented by companies attending the job fair. Having 450 job openings in a county that has 525 unemployed people makes Jackson County a great place to be right now – especially if we could connect the unemployed to the jobs available which would cause us to have a 1.2% unemployment rate.

Our bright future is quickly becoming a reality. As we move forward, new issues will arise that we have to address because of the growth. One will be helping find employees for the companies in Jackson County! What a fantastic turn of events! Smart Asset Investments just confirmed what we are hearing every day from the companies in our community. Each of you deserve a pat on the back for making this happen by investing in Jackson County through the Newport Economic Development Commission. The bright future is here because you made it happen! Smile and enjoy as things continue to grow even more.

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THE DIABETIC HIGHWAY

can be a rough one. The road to good health starts with your family doctor.

You have a higher risk of developing diabetes if you: • Are over the age of 30.

• Have a family history of diabetes.

• Are overweight.

• Do not exercise regularly.

• Have low HDL cholesterol.

• Have high blood pressure.

• Have any type of thyroid or other glandular problem.

For help finding a family doctor in your area, call (870) 262-6149 for your FREE Physician Directory, or visit our online directory at www.WhiteRiverHealthSystem.com.

WhiteRiverHealthSystem.com

White River Health System is an Equal Opportunity Provider & Employer

November 2015 | 21

Support Our Advertisers

Newport Chamber News Leadership Development

Julie Allen, Newport Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director

Amanda Reynolds, Rich Realty------------ 10 Custom Eyes Vision Care------------------- 12 Darling Pharmacy--------------------------- 15 Darling’s Fine Things----------------------- 15 Dillinger Funeral Home-------------------- 21 D Q Grill & Chill----------------------------- 10 Eagle Pest------------------------------------- 5 Fortune Inn and Suites---------------------- 3 George Kell Motors, Inc--------------------- 7 Greenway Equipment, Inc.------------------ 4 Jackson’s Funeral Home-------------------- 6 Let’s Eat-------------------------------------- 18 Lindley Health & Rehab Center, LLC------ 8 Merchants and Planters Bank--------------- 9 N E D C---------------------------------------- 3 Newark Furniture, Flowers and More----- 6 Purdy’s Flowers and Gifts------------------23 Sadie’s Sweet Confections------------------- 9

One of the most active and important programs of the Newport Area Chamber of Commerce is our annual leadership development course – New Vision Newport. This is the 13th year for the program, with approximately 20 participants in the course each year. That’s well over 240 alumni to date who have committed themselves to leadership positions throughout Newport and Jackson County!

Four team projects are being included as part of the curriculum of this year’s New Vision Newport course. Participants will be working on these community projects over the next several months: Team 1 will work with the Downtown Revitalization & Improvement Volunteer Effort (DRIVE) to implement a grant from Unity Health for a downtown exercise and fitness park. The project will include selecting equipment, preliminary park design and a groundbreaking for the new park.

Team 2 will partner with the City of Newport to design and seek funding for a dog park to be located on city-owned property. The project will include researching dog parks, developing a cost estimate, seeking funding opportunities and holding a groundbreaking.

Team 3 will partner with the Newport Area Chamber of Commerce to research and design a program by which volunteers can paint buildings around town to aid in beautification efforts. The project will include researching similar programs, designing guidelines specific to Newport and painting the first building.

Team 4 will partner with the Newport Economic Development Commission to populate the Community Alumni Database with at least 250 people who have graduated from a school in Jackson County or lived in Jackson County for a significant amount of time. The project will include developing and implementing a sign-up campaign for the database.

Teams will share their project reports during the class graduation in May. The Newport Area Chamber of Commerce is extremely proud of this year’s New Vision Newport participants and their partner organizations for the work that they have begun to complete these projects for the betterment of our community!

If you would like to know more about Chamber or community events in and around Newport/Jackson County, call (870) 523-3618 or email director@newportarchamber.org to sign up for our free “Upcoming Events” email.

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Southern Tire Mart--------------------------- 8 St. Michael’s Place---------------------------24 T-L Irrigation Company-------------------- 12 Unity Health Harris Medical Center------ 16 Unity Health Welcomes Tanya Walker, APRN--- 2 WRMC Tuckerman Clinic------------------ 21 Xtreme Graphics---------------------------- 21

LocalFaces

Central Baptist Family Day was Sunday October 18th.

Four From ASUN Honored at ACC Conference Van Provence

Two Arkansas State UniversityNewport employees, one ASUN alumni and one student were honored for outstanding performance at the 27th Annual Arkansas Community Colleges Conference in Hot Springs.

Christian Gott, a student on ASUN’s Jonesboro Campus, was honored as the school’s Academic All-Star; John Kelly, Principal at East Poinsett County High School, was named ASUN’s Outstanding Alumni; Melinda Odom, Cosmetology Instructor, was honored as ASUN’s Outstanding Faculty Member and Geraldine Overbey, Administrative Specialist II, was named Outstanding Staff Member.

The conference was held October 11-13 at the Hot Springs Convention Center and the ACC is a private, nonprofit higher education membership organization serving the educational needs of two-year college students and the business/industry needs of the state. Arkansas Community Colleges, formerly known as the Arkansas Association of Two Year Colleges, represents all twenty-two (22) public two-year colleges in Arkansas.

Overbey and Odom were recognized at Monday’s Awards Brunch, while Kelly and Gott were honored at Tuesday’s Academic AllStar Brunch.

Gott enjoys volunteering in her community and at ASU-Newport. She assists fellow students struggling with assignments and frequently inspires others in their educational and life journeys. When a team assignment

is given, she consistently assumes a leadership position. Gott displays a sense of dedication and understands the life principle that time invested in education today will yield life-long dividends. Her volunteer activities include work at NEA Baptist Hospital, Phi Theta Kappa and the American Red Cross.

Kelly strives to ensure bright futures for the citizens of Arkansas.

He helps East Poinsett County students complete their high school diploma as well as begin their higher education journey through concurrent enrollment. He aggressively pursues options for students to participate in concurrent enrollment in order to enhance their futures and open countless doors leading to success.

As a longtime employee at the college, Overbey is readily characterized as dependable, eager, student friendly and always willing to assist. She consistently arrives early and remains late while cheerfully providing answers to questions, solving problems and providing guidance to peers and students alike in her capacity as Administrative Specialist II. Her span of influence spreads not only throughout the institution, but the community as she volunteers her time to various community and county events.

Odom is one of the most respected educators in her field. She has been professionally recognized throughout the state and nation in the field of Cosmetology. ASU-Newport’s program has a consistent legacy of

excellence, boasting a 100% pass rate for State Boards, and exceptional student placement. Odom exerts a dynamic, creative and innovative educational influence and continually strives to provide the most pertinent educational opportunities for her students. Programs of study often reflect the character and personality of the faculty, and this is the case with ASUN’s Cosmetology program – an outstanding instructor equals an outstanding program.

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Ike Wheeler, ASUN Dean for Institutional Advancement, John Kelly, Christian Gott and Jacqueline Faulkner, ASUN Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs.

Bill Stovall, ACC Executive Director, Melinda Odom, Geraldine Overbey, Dr. Sandra Massey, ASUN Chancellor.