Eye On Jackson April 2014

www.eyeonmag.com

Relay For Life CASA Volunteers Needed New City Website and App / newportarcity.org A Publication of Meadowland Media, Inc.

Footnote.

Dr. Smith now sees patients in Newport and Batesville.

If you have a foot or ankle problem, you can see Dr. Jason Smith in either of two convenient locations, including the new clinic in Batesville. A surgical podiatrist, Dr. Smith diagnoses and treats disorders from the ankles to the toes. So if you have an injury, hammertoe, bunion, ingrown toenail or any other foot problem, or if you need diabetic foot care, it may be time for a podiatrist’s specialized services. Same- and next-day appointments are often available. To schedule your appointment in Newport or Batesville, call 870-523-9100.

Jason T. Smith, DPM Board-Certified Podiatrist

1117 McLain St., Suite 500 • Newport 3443 Harrison St. • Batesville

Member of the Medical Staff at Harris Hospital

“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.�

201 Hazel, Newport 870-523-1009

In This Issue 6/Editor’s Note Eggs, Apps and Rice

7/Great Tastes

Easter Traditions Done Craftier

8/County Extension News Rice, Rice and More Rice

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16

8

18

10

20

14

23

9/Newport Chamber News Portfest Bound

10/Cover Story

Court Appointed Special Advocate / CASA

12/Seniors, can we talk?

Being Prepared

14/Faces 16/Feature

Once Upon a Dream, Once Upon a Cure

17/County Economic Report The New Who, What, Where!

18/I Do

Thomas - Cockrill Wedding

20/Things To Do 23/Notes from the Clearing Tending to the Fire

Something Extra

M-F 10am - 6pm Sat 10am - 3pm

New Spring Fashions Arriving Daily

1370 Neeley Street - Batesville (870) 698-1181 Cover photography Cheryl Mauldin / Studio 1910 Cover design by Joseph Thomas

Meet Your Writers...

Fishing for a Home Loan?

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?’.

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 county extension agent – staff chair with the Jackson County Office of the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension Service.

He provides educational information and programming in the areas of agriculture, 4-H, and community development.

THIS PUBLICATION IS PRODUCED BY: 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.

Rebecca Pearrow is marketing director at Harris Hospital. She attained an AA at Central Baptist College followed by a BS at Arkansas Tech University. She will complete an MBA from Harding University in December 2014. She was employed 12 years at White County Medical Center before her success in Community Relations brought her back to Newport. She spends her free time traveling to support her kid’s athletics, gardening, raising chickens and scrap booking.

MeadowLand Media, Inc. P. O. Box 196, Grubbs, AR 72431 870.503.1150 kthomas@eyeonmag.com PUBLISHER: Kimberlee Thomas Associate EDITOR: Kimberlee Thomas MANAGING EDITOR: Joseph Thomas ADVERTISING: Kimberlee Thomas Creative Director : Joseph Thomas AD DESIGN Department: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas PROOFING Department: Joseph Thomas Kimberlee Thomas

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.

All pictorial material reproduced in this book has been accepted on the condition that it is reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer concerned. As such, MeadowLand Media, Incorporated, is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof.

For advertising, distribution, or editorial contribution, contact Kimberlee Thomas, 870.503.1150, kthomas@eyeonmag.com.

Staff PHOTOGRAPHERS: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Cheryl Mauldin PRINTING COMPANY: Rockwell Publishing

Eye On

Jackson

Editor’s Note Eggs, Apps and Rice Joseph Thomas

Kimberlee and Joseph Thomas Photo by Cheryl Mauldin

First of all, we would like to make a correction for the April issue of Eye On Jackson.

Willa Black did not start the Jackson County Learning Center, Ms. Alma Black did.

We hope that the winds of this new Spring haven’t blown away your glad tidings that the snow and ice are gone.

We also wanted to send along our well wishes to Jon Chadwell, “Get better soon,

Good Sir!” We hope you enjoy this month’s goodies, as Adrienne Freeman cooks up some Devilishly good treats! Randy Chlapecka discusses rice and Julie Allen talks about her favorite subject, Portfest! Margaret Goodman lays out another fun filled Senior Circle Schedule. Jon Chadwell is helping us stay connected with our bright future with the launch of a new NEDC website and app! We welcome Caroline Beauchamp who discusses sudden, life changing events. I Cover an interview between Kimberlee and CASA Representatives, Susie Cover and Vickie Warner, and I tend the fire in this month’s Notes from the Clearing. Kimberlee brings us another beautiful wedding and Features Relay For Life, so please...join us!

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April 1 Auxiliary Fundraiser / Uniforms 2 U 2 HH community room April 2 Bingo – Newport / HH Community Room 10 am April 7 Red Cross Blood Drive / Noon – 4:30 HH community room April 11 Relay For Life – 6 pm / Village Mall April 14 Auxiliary Fundraiser / Sheets Galore 7 am – 4 pm / HH Community room April 16 Lunch N Learn - noon /HH community room April 17 Easter Potluck / 5 pm – HH Community room April 21 Bingo - noon / Tuckerman Sr. Center April 24 Movie Day / 2 pm / HH Community Room April 25 Bingo - noon / Bald Knob Sr Center April 28 Auxiliary Fundraiser / Silpada Jewelry 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm / HH Community Room April 29 Supper Club / China Star / 4:30 pm – 7 pm For more information, contact Margaret Goodman, Senior Circle Advisor and Volunteer Coordinator for Harris Hospital at 870-512-3030. N

Great Tastes Easter Traditions Done Craftier Adrienne Freeman

Although Spring doesn’t always bring Easter, Easter is the harbinger of all things Spring. The arrival of the season signals fashionistas to break out their white shoes and fancy light wardrobes for the warm weather, the fresh spring vegetables like asparagus and peas poke their tender heads through the ground as the appearance of buttery daffodils brighten each morning.

Aside from the obvious Christian celebrations of the Resurrection, no Easter tradition is better known that the dyeing and hunting of eggs. Eggs themselves are symbols of the circle of life (which came first, the chicken or the egg?) Some like to dye hard boiled eggs for baskets and some “craftier” sorts blow out the liquid portion of the eggs, completely clean the insides and then decorate only the shells. Properly preserved, these elaborate shells can last for years and make stunning decorations. But what to do with the yummy, nutritional egg parts?

As simple as it would seem, boiling eggs properly can be a vexing to the most experienced cook. Undercooked yolks, runny whites, a dark green line around the yolk, broken shells…all potential pitfalls. Kitchen legend Julia Child did extensive research and devotes a whole section to solving the problem in her time-tested bestselling book, The Way to Cook.

THE PERFECT HARD BOILED EGG Recipe by Julia Child, The Way to Cook For 12 Eggs: 12 eggs 3 ½ quarts water (water should cover the eggs by 1 inch – so use a tall pan with a tight fitting cover – and limit to cooking no more than 2 dozen eggs at a time.)

Large bowl with water and ice cubes – enough to completely cover the eggs Place the eggs in the pan in a single layer and add the amount of cold water specified. Set over high heat and just bring to a boil; remove from heat, cover the pan, and let sit exactly 17 minutes.

When the time is up, transfer the eggs to the bowl of ice cubes and water. Chill for 2 minutes while bringing the cooking water to the boil again. (This 2 minute chilling shrinks the body of the egg from the shell.)

Transfer the eggs (6 at a time only) to the boiling water, bring to the boil again, and let boil for 10 seconds - this expands the shell from the egg. Remove eggs, and place back into the ice water.

Chilling the eggs promptly after each step prevents that dark line from forming, and if time allows, leave the eggs in the ice water after the last step for 15 to 20 minutes. Chilled eggs are easier to peel, as well.

Eggs cooked this way can also be peeled neatly.

Deviled Eggs Deviled eggs are the crowning touch alongside the

Easter ham. This traditional recipe is delicious but if you are feeling adventurous try the toppings below for that “WOW” factor.

1 dozen medium hard boiled eggs, peeled and halved lengthwise ¼ cup mayonnaise ¼ cup Dijon mustard ¼ teaspoon dill pickle relish, minced fine 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice Pinch Kosher salt Dash hot sauce, like Louisiana or Tobasco 1 Tablespoon smoked sweet paprika Fresh snipped chives, if desired Hard boil eggs according to the directions above or using your own successful method.

Run the egg yolks through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl. Stir in mayonnaise, Dijon, and relish until smooth. Add lemon juice, salt and hot sauce to taste.

Put the yolk mixture into a zip top bag, snip ¼” from the corner. Neatly pipe filling into egg white halves by squeezing filling towards the bottom of the bag. Using your fingertips, sprinkle lightly with paprika and chives.

TOPPING IDEAS: Boiled Shrimp with touch of cocktail sauce, Candied Jalapeno slice, Crispy Bacon Crumble, Pimento Stuffed Olive, Smoked Salmon, Country Ham Bits.

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Mark Manning,

LUTCF

- Agent

1400 Malcolm Ave., Newport, AR 72112 MManning@Shelterinsurance.com ShelterInsurance.com 870-523-6514 - Phone 870-523-6743 - Fax

AUTO HOME LIFE April 2014 | 7

County Extension News Rice, Rice and More Rice Randy Chlapecka

We should be looking at an increased rice acreage in Jackson County in 2014. Acreage dropped off significantly in 2013 due to factors related to economics and the weather. We had 76,700 acres planted last year. Compare that to 118,000 acres planted in 2010. I don’t know that we’ll return to that many acres but there should be a significant increase, weather permitting.

One of the more interesting rice topics as we enter the crop year is the medium grain rice market. The state of California is in the midst of a serious drought and this could seriously impact their rice acreage.

Since they produce such a large portion of the medium grain market, many feel that the market price will respond upward. There has been speculation that southern medium-grains might be used to pick up any slack caused by production issues in California, but that’s only speculation at this point. Many of the medium grain buyers are very particular about the product they buy. They have very specific kernel size and cooking quality characteristics that they look for, so it is not an automatic that they will turn to us for rice.

The Jupiter variety continues to be the medium grain variety of choice for our farmers. It has shown consistently excellent yield potential even in years where overall rice yields are down. The main reason for this is that it has moderate resistance to bacterial panicle blight. Jupiter and the hybrids are the only choices with this resistance, and this has been reflected by their yields in recent hot years when overall yields were down.

Caffey is a relatively new medium grain variety released by LSU. It appears to have excellent yield potential equal to or maybe even better than Jupiter.

It is, however, rated as susceptible to bacterial panicle blight which could be a concern in those bad panicle blight years which we obviously can’t predict in advance.

Caffey has not received approval by some domestic markets as this point and it is uncertain when and if they will. Farmers should have a definite commitment from a buyer before they plant this variety.

For more information, feel free to contact me at the Jackson County Office of the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service at 523-7450 or by e-mail at rchlapecka@uaex.edu. N 8 | We are word of mouth for your EYES!

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Newport Chamber News Portfest Bound

Julie Allen, Chamber of Commerce Director The 33rd Annual Portfest “Rollin’ on the River” Festival will be held on June 6-7, 2014 at Jacksonport State Park and is organized by the Newport Area Chamber of Commerce.

Held on the banks of the White River, Portfest welcomes approximately 10,000 people during the two-day event. Music fans travel from across Arkansas and surrounding states to enjoy our outdoor festival.

The music, however, is only one part of what attracts families to our festival. With the purchase of an armband, most of the family attractions on Saturday are free without any additional cost. People throughout the region can let their children enjoy everything within the gates such as the rock climbing wall, petting zoo, entertainment, and inflatables without having to shell out a lot of hard earned cash. The goal of the festival is always to offer high-quality entertainment for families at a low cost. We’ve been affordable for over 30 years while our costs continue to soar. Public and private support has allowed us to continue meeting our goal.

Check out next month’s edition for complete details about this year’s performers.

Portfest has several other festival-related events beginning in May. Mark your calendar for them all!

Friday, May 9 – Two-Person Golf Scramble at

Newport Country Club.

Saturday, May 24 – 5K Walk & Run at ASU-Newport Saturday, May 31 – Kids Fishing Derby at Newport Lake.

Wednesday, June 4 – Carnival Opens at Jacksonport State Park.

Thursday, June 5 – Carnival Armband Night at Jacksonport State Park.

Saturday, June 7 – Buddy Bass Fishing Tournament on the White & Black Rivers.

Saturday, June 7 – Horseshoe Pitching Tournament at Portfest.

Don’t forget that food vendor, arts & crafter and commercial booth applications are now available for Portfest weekend. If you would like to request an application, contact the Chamber office.

There will be a lot of information shared in the coming weeks regarding all things Portfest including a schedule of events, announcements on new attractions, ticket outlets and details about the various contests. Be sure to like “Portfest Festival” on Facebook to get the most up-to-date information or visit www.portfest.org.

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. N April 2014 | 9

Eye On Cover Story Court Appointed Special Advocate / CASA Joseph Thomas

"You go into the court room and you will see lawyers who know the law and have dozens of kids' files, or you have social workers who know the regulations and have dozens of kids' files. But if you see a CASA volunteer in the room, you will see that they have just one file, and what they know is that one child. And that can make all the difference to the decisions regarding how the rest of that child's life is going to go." - Anna Quindlen, Pulitzer Prize Winner and Author.

Arkansas State CASA Association's Outreach Specialist, Susie Cover, and CASA's Third Judicial District Director, Vickie Warner are on a people search.

CASA is understaffed and in need of volunteers.

CASA Volunteers come from all walks of life and can be retired, employed full or part time, homemakers, parents, teachers, or students. You can also volunteer as friendship pairs or as couples. You must be twenty-one years or older, must undergo a background check and personal interview. CASA Volunteers complete thirty hours of training, must be patient, kind and committed to children. As a CASA Volunteer, you are sworn in as an officer of the court and are then appointed to visit a child often, interview everyone in the child's life, investigate, analyze and report your findings to the judge - with an end goal of ensuring that the child is returned or placed into a permanent and safe home with the opportunity to thrive.

Cover says, "Sometimes it is simply a matter of young parents not having parenting skills and they should then be provided classes to help them do what they need to in order to keep their children. CASA Volunteers are for the children, but sometimes that means they are also there to make sure the parents get what they need from the court system in order to return the family home together." Cover also explains that CASA will work with your schedule for the thirty hour required training so that your work schedule doesn't keep you from becoming a CASA Volunteer. CASA needs more men and a diversity of volunteers. If you would like to become a CASA Volunteer to ensure a child's safety and wellbeing, contact Susie Cover at susie.cover@arkansas.gov or call her at 870-919-7235. She can answer any questions you may have. You would then fill out an application. She will have a conversation with you and then try and gather enough volunteers for a class.

Warner, who was an attorney ad litem for twelve years in Jonesboro, explains that most cases start in an emergency basis where DHS has received a call and removes a child due to poor circumstances. "Within 72 hours the judge has to sign an order for the child to be

placed in foster care or taken home. If the child is placed in foster care, within the next week a probable cause hearing will be held and the judge must decide that the child's removal was unnecessary or if the emergency still remains." She says that within 30 days, an adjudication hearing will be held, where the judge reviews all of the evidence and makes a ruling on whether the emergency was neglect, dependency or abuse from the parent. If a case is found against the parents, DHS will then hold a meeting with the parents, the CASA Volunteers and all involved attorneys to acknowledge the problem and make a plan for the best resolution of the existing problems for the children involved. By the end of a year since the case began, there is suppose to be a permanent plan, be it a return home, a temporary continuation of foster care, termination of parental rights, relative custody or guardianship. "Sometimes kids age out of foster care before a resolution can come about," says Warner. "I've seen CASA Volunteers come up with solutions to a problem that case workers wouldn't even think of because of their focus on one family at a time and the access CASA is given to each family. There are many great case workers in this world but they are typically overloaded."

Cover discusses the statistics in her field, "One hundred children were

placed in foster care in 2013 in Jackson County and only twenty-two of those received CASA Volunteers simply because of the shortage of volunteers." She stresses the need for concerned citizens wanting to make a difference and also tells of some exciting news. A new program through CASA is Fostering Futures which looks at kids in the foster care system age fourteen and up. This program now allows children who turn eighteen to remain with their foster parents until they are twenty-one if they choose and if the foster parents agree. Cover says CASA volunteers work to encourage their kids to take advantage of college after they age out of foster care. There is a four-year program that allows them to go to college so it does, sometimes, go past age 21 for those finishing their degree.

It is called the Education and Training Voucher Program and provides $5000 a year for those going to college, university or vocational college. Cover adds, "Sometimes kids are so ready to be out of the system that they walk away from these programs. I have seen CASA workers almost tag-team kids to get them to understand and appreciate the opportunity this allows and not to walk away from it." Also, Lyon College just began allowing students to use CASA as an elective.

April is Child Abuse Awareness month and Jackson County's need for child advocates is great enough that there will be a local CASA volunteer coordinator hired soon. CASA needs volunteers, but also gladly accepts monetary donations. There is an upcoming fundraiser, a Festival of Furniture will be held at Depot Days. Any furniture being discarded or donated will be repurposed and auctioned off at the 2014 Depot Days. CASA will be at Walmart in Newport on April 8 and will also take part in this years Portfest.

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Seniors, can we talk?

Being Prepared

Caroline Beauchamp Good news! Is that medical advances have increased the chances of your surviving a heart attack, cancer, stroke, or other illnesses. Bad news! Is that the cost of survival can really shake your financial life and plans.

I was talking to my friend, Ellen, the other day. She started telling me about her friend, Ruth. Ellen had not talked with Ruth in about a year and they were “catching up”. Ruth started by saying she was absolutely exhausted and worried. Ruth has been taking care of her husband, Bob, for almost a year being his caregiver for one issue then another and another.

Years ago Ruth’s husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s – just beginning and a mild case. In March 2013 he had a heart attack. “Heart attack” is a term that is thrown around a lot but technically it is “an acute myocardial infarction” It kills a portion of the heart muscle due to blockage of one or more coronary arteries.

A heart attack results in the loss of normal functions of the heart. His diagnosis was certified by his cardiologist and he should be fine – under the circumstances.

Bob was recovering, taking it easy and doing well.

He was following doctor’s orders and Ruth was doing her best to take care of him. In September 2013 he started feeling a little “different” and went to his doctor. After several series of tests and going to many doctors, he was diagnosed with cancer. His cancer was considered “invasive cancer.” They were told that his cancer manifested (started) by the presence of a malignant tumor. It was an uncontrolled growth and spread of malignant cells and invasion of tissue. Unfortunately, this was an accurate diagnosis – he had been diagnosed and confirmed by a certified pathologist.

Ellen asked her if they had made any plans to help them if and when something like this happened. Ruth told Ellen that fortunately they had. A few years ago they bought a critical illness policy and a long term care policy. They almost didn’t buy the critical illness policy but decided to because if either she or Bob died for any reason other than those listed in the policy the policy would return them all of their premiums minus any money (benefits) they had received from the policy.

They both wanted to be able to focus on recovering NOT on worrying about money and how they would pay their bills. They wanted peace of mind and thought the critical illness policy might help. They could use the cash for any reason they wanted to – like mortgage payment, car payment or medical expenses.

Bob’s recovery from his heart had gone so well that they didn’t need the long term care policy. Their critical illness policy was a blessing. It would pay a lump sum benefit for the first (ever) diagnosis or procedure of those specified, covered conditions in the policy. After Bob had his heart attack, their policy paid him $10,000 – lump sum.

Then when Bob was diagnosed with invasive cancer the critical illness policy paid another $10,000.

12 | We are word of mouth for your EYES!

In December 2013 during the time Bob was receiving treatments for his cancer, the doctor gave Ruth more bad news. His Alzheimer’s was quickly advancing. Ruth felt one of the biggest blessings was their critical illness policy which paid another $10,000. The $20,000 they had already received during the last 9 months really helped. And now this $10,000 was going to give her the cash to get help taking care of him until his long term care policy started reimbursing them for his care.

Life can change in a heartbeat. Be prepared to focus on recovery. A key ingredient for that recovery is peace of mind.

Don’t you think Ruth would tell you to check into a critical illness policy today? Got questions? Just call 870-523-6771 and say “Caroline, can we talk?”

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April 2014 | 13

Faces

Grubbs Fire Department raised over $19,000 at a Fish Fry Fundraiser March 15 to go towards rebuilding the Fire Station that collapsed under the ice of this harsh winter. Mayor Jackie Ivy says it is a record amount raised for the city and wanted to thank all of the gracious firemen in attendance and citizens that donated time or money to the cause.

The Kiwanis Club Pancake Day was Friday March 7 and pancakes were flowing from the ever helpful Kiwanis Members and devoured by the masses.

The Sixth Annual Delta Visual Arts Show was a feast for the eyes and a beautiful warm day made it the perfect day to walk the streets of Newport and meet wonderful artists from all over this region of the country. Ned Perme, shown right, had a huge selection of amazing paintings (www.theartgroupmaumelle.com).

Joe Martin, below and left was sculpting for all to observe (www.joemartinart.com).

Kimberlee is shown below with Dewana McIntosh and Jim Portersfield below and right had a colorful display of wonderful paintings for sale (find both McIntosh and Portersfield on facebook).

Paint the Town Red a Huge Success Nearly 200 ladies donned their red apparel and painted the town red on February 28 to bring awareness to women’s heart health. The Healthy Woman event was hugely successful with the Village Mall atrium providing the venue. The red dress fashion show was a fun way to kick start the evening, followed by fabulous hors d’ oeuvres for the heart and Dr. Mortoti rounded out the evening with a keynote presentation about heart health information especially for ladies. Many thanks to the Healthy Woman corporate partners that make it possible for Harris Hospital to provide wonderful community education events such as this. The 2014 Healthy Woman Advisory Council put together this event Harris Hospital is proud to announce this group below. These ladies look forward to providing more community outreach activities that specifically address women’s health. Don’t miss out on the next event - to become a member of the Healthy Woman program, visit www.HarrisHospital.com and register for free to receive invitations for upcoming events!

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L toR: Kimberlee Thomas, Raquel Nwokeji, Jenna Austin, Kristen Smith, Gina Slagley, Ginger Carlyle, Lisa Whitehead, Rebecca Pearrow-Advisor, Carol Falwell, Sherrie Hanley, Sandra Massey, Leslie Altom, Lauren Sampson, Alieta Rupp, Teriann Dildine, Amanda White, Tara Salinas, Margaret Goodman, Susan Fletcher, Not pictured is Heather Long and Ashley Thomley.

April 2014 | 15

Eye On Feature Once Upon a Dream, Once Upon a Cure Kimberlee Thomas

Christmas 2007 came and went for Roy and Louise Runyan. Their home had been filled with love, family and the joyful sounds of their 2 year old grand-daughter, Avery, enjoying all that the holiday’s had to offer her. Shortly after returning home to Wisconsin Avery began to feel ill. Her mother, Tiffany Runyan Garrison, took her to her regular pediatrician where she was treated for a typical childhood illness. Avery did not show signs of getting better and after a few days she and her mother returned to the pediatrician’s office where further testing was done. A short time later Tiffany received a call advising her she should rush Avery to Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin in Milwaukee.

Avery’s father, Zac Garrison, meet them at the hospital. Once there Avery was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. For the next two and a half years Avery underwent intensive chemotherapy treatments.

She could no longer attend daycare due to fear of infection. She lost her hair and had several stays in the hospital.

Today Avery is a beautiful bright eyed eight year old. She is in second grade and enjoys lessons in ice skating, horseback riding, and gymnastics.

Her hair has returned curly and has grown long. Tiffany has spent many

16 | We are word of mouth for your EYES!

hours answering Avery’s questions on life but there is still one question she cannot answer, “Mom, why did I have A.L.L.?”

Louise explains that the Runyan family has been touched by cancer before, “We have lost my brother and my nephew to cancer. We have participated in the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life for many years in remembrance of those we have lost. When we received Avery’s diagnoses we were stunned. Our fight was renewed and we created our team, Avery’s Wild HOGS.” The Runyan’s maintained the team for several years with friends joining in to support the cause. Recently they were not able to continue their team so they made the decision to be a sponsor. “We are sponsors because we understand how important continued research is.

Great strides have been made in the treatment of cancer. In 1964 a child’s chance of surviving A.L.L. was three percent. Today it is ninety!”

Each year Avery is proud to participate and host her own team, Avery’s Angels, in the Kenosha Relay For Life. Her father is Director of Global Standards for Edgenet and also serves on the Advisory Board for the Cancer Unit at the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. Her mother is Strategic Portfolio Management–Sr. Manager of Discovery Operations for Abbot in Chicago. She reviews research proposals on the development of new drugs and guides them in what directions they need to advance in their research. Tiffany also makes recommendations for grants for the American Cancer Society. Louise shared, “We have seen the results of their research efforts, the education and support services for the patients, their families, and caregivers but there is still much to accomplish. The fight against cancer must continue.”

Jackson County Relay for Life Chair Woman, Jennifer Drummond, has also been touched by cancer. She is a Newport High School Alumni and Newport native, “Cancer has run

ramped in my family. My mother, grandmother and two aunts have all been diagnosed with cancer.” The most recent diagnosis in Jennifer’s family was her own. She was diagnosed in January 2013 with breast cancer and underwent a right radical mastectomy in February the same year. She then began Chemotherapy and Herceptin treatments. Her last Chemotherapy treatment was in June of last year.

Her final Herceptin treatment will come very close to this year’s Relay For Life event. “I have had several friends who have battled cancer. Some have lost their battle while some have become Survivors like me. That is why I Relay.” The American Cancer Society and Relay For Life along with finding a cure for cancer are three things that are very dear to Jennifer’s heart.

The Jackson County Relay For Life will be held on April 11 from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. on April 12. This year’s theme is “Once Upon a Dream, Once Upon a Cure”. The event will be held in the Village Mall parking lot. Two new activities at this year’s Relay For Life include a CANCER Wall which will contain the names of survivors and also the names of those who lost their battle. There will also be a Mr. Relay pageant.

There will be eighteen teams participating in this year’s Relay.

Prior to this year’s main Relay teams have been holding special fundraising events. Teams are hosting Karaoke For A Cure at the Silvermoon on April 3. Team Dustin will be sponsoring a Western style “Dancing For a Cause”at the Depot on April 5. They will also be sponsoring a softball game featuring Newport Wal-Mart vs. Jonesboro Target teams at George Kell Park on April 6 at 2:00 p.m. For more information about any of these events you may contact Jennifer Drummond at 870-251-7440.

Jennifer stated, “Relay For Life is a life changing event that gives everyone in the county a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer. One person can make all the difference. So join with family, friends, and fellow workers to celebrate and help raise money and awareness by walking, jogging or running or simply offering encouragement for those who have entered.”

Sandy Smotherman is the 2014 Chairwoman of the Sponsorship Committee for the Jackson County Relay For Life. She challenges everyone to stand together against cancer, “We in Jackson County can join together to raise funds to help put an end to the disease that has taken so many from us.” She goes on to say, “Many businesses in Jackson County have taken a leadership role in the Relay by becoming sponsors in addition to putting together teams as well as assisting with much needed goods and services. However, more sponsors are always needed and appreciated.” There are several levels of sponsorship

available including a Special Friend level for small businesses. The Luminaire torch displays are available for a $100 donation. If you have not already contacted Sandy to be a part of this year’s Relay you may do so by calling Sandy Smotherman at 870-495-3252 or email her at rms72112@ yahoo.com.

The American Cancer Society fights to bring a cure and hope as one out of every two men will develop cancer in their lifetime, while one out of every three women will develop cancer in their lifetime. Everyday more than 1,500 Americans die from cancer while each year more than 1.6 million Americans learn they have cancer. For those fighting cancer each day is a challenge. Progress is being made but there is still more to be done. At Relay For Life events communities across the globe come together to honor cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost and to fight back against a disease that has already taken too much. The funds raised truly make a difference in the fight against cancer so please come and join your community on Friday, April 11. Help raise awareness, inspire courage and hope, and find a cure. N

County Economic Report The New Who, What, Where!

Jon Chadwell, Economic Development Director A little over a year ago I was sitting in my office talking to a group of graduate students. They were asking about a phone number in Newport, so I pulled out the phone book to look it up. The students thought it was hilarious! They said, “You still use a phone book!

That is so old school.”

Today some of that “old school” technology that many of us took for granted for decades – pocket calendars, phone books, contact books and the like has been replaced by the cell phones we carry in our pockets, the Ipads we have at work and home or the computer that sits on our desk. Now if the information is not at our fingertips, twenty-four hours a day, at the speed of at least 2 megabits per second, then we’re frustrated.

And if you think that is true for those like me over 50, it is doubly true for those who are under 40. The way our world gets, stores and shares information is rapidly changing.

For this reason the Newport Economic Development Commission commissioned the development of a new web site with a dynamic conversion for mobile devices and a new mobile app for both Iphones and Android phones to share information about Newport and Jackson County. The site and the app will work across all mobile and desktop devices and will allow for rapid

and instant access to an amazing amount of information about our community. At your fingertips you have instant access to information about elected officials, community demographics, press releases, events and so much more through the web site. The site has major sections for the City of Newport, Jackson County, the Newport Area Chamber of Commerce, the Newport Economic Development Commission and Tourism in our area.

The mobile app has a comprehensive business directory of businesses in the City of Newport with access to phone numbers, turn by turn directions through Google maps and information on each business. It also contains a robust calendar of events that will help any resident or visitor to our community know what is happening in Jackson County. From governmental meetings to fun recreational events, the mobile app will keep you up-to-date on when and where to be.

All of this technology has been developed to help our small businesses and our community compete in a digital age. So visit www.newportaredc.org and download the mobile app “The City of Newport Arkansas” today and get connected to our bright future.

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I Do

Thomas - Cockrill Wedding Kimberlee Thomas

PJ Photography

Colby Danielle Thomas and Hayden Alan Cockrill started out being “Friends” on Facebook. They would “Like” each other’s posts and photos. After many messages were typed out between them, they decided they were ready for some real face time and had their first date.

Neither one was really clear on how they felt about the other by the end of their first date, so they let a little time pass before giving it another whirl. By February 5, 2012 the couple decided that they knew enough about each other through their continued Facebook friendship that they would try dating once more, this time they clicked.

Colby was a student at Midland and Hayden was attending Batesville so they spent the remainder of their senior year going to one another’s basketball and baseball games.

They both made plans to attend Arkansas State University in Jonesboro after graduation. Their summer was spent hanging out with each other’s families at horse shows, the lake, and the beach. One lazy afternoon in early June the two had just returned from a weekend of what Colby refers to as “glamping”, “Hayden ever so casually pulls this little red box from his pocket and asks me ‘Do you want this’ he then opened the box to reveal the most stunning engagement ring I had ever seen. I of course said yes.” The couple spent the remainder of their summer with family and friends before heading off to ASU in early August.

Colby and Hayden married on October 5, 2013 at the Eagle Mountain Golf Course in Batesville. Colby recalls, “The weather was less than perfect, there were rain showers and clouds all day. I was so happy that the rain stopped just long enough for us to get some wonderful photos before the wedding and have a beautiful ceremony.” Daryl Sellers

was the Officiate and began the double ring ceremony with a family prayer. The couple later intertwined twine to represent the marriage between the bride and groom and God. “I really love that we wrote our own vows. There were tears and laughter among our family and friends as we recited them to each other,” Colby shared. Bethany Roberson served as Maid of Honor. Lauren Carpenter, Emma Sellers, Kayla Wood, and Kerstie Bumpous served as bridesmaids. Tanner Ring stood as Hayden’s Best Man and Justin Conyers, Cody Vaughan, Chase Henderson, and Landon Gillmore stood as groomsmen.

A reception followed the outdoor ceremony. The chosen colors for the day were light blue and burnt orange. The theme was vintage-rustic. There were beautiful vintage handkerchiefs adorning the sign in table. The reception tables were decorated with white hydrangeas in vintage blue mason jars. A very special part of the decorations were the wedding dresses of Colby and Hayden’s grandmothers.

The couple took a brief honeymoon to Pudding Ridge in Greer’s Ferry and headed back to college on Tuesday.

Colby and Hayden reside in Beedeville and both attend college at ASU. Hayden is pursuing his degree in Agriculture Science and Colby is pursing hers in Business Administration. Hayden is employed at Dan Thomas Farms and Colby is a sales associate at Darling’s Fine Things in Newport.

When asked about future plans Colby responded, “For now just loving our three puppies Lucy, Dixie, and Susie, and enjoying being a young married couple.” This writer believes she will “Like” that. N

Things To Do The Jackson County Humane Society is in need of the following supplies: water buckets, dog houses, Clorox, laundry detergent, paper towels and blankets (without backing). Items can be dropped off at the Newport Area Chamber office at 201 Hazel Street.

Blood Drive American Red Cross is having a blood drive at Harris Hospital April 7 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

KASU’s Bluesday Tuesday This month’s Bluesday Tuesday will feature Sonny Burgess and the Legendary Pacers from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Newport Country Club on April 8. There is no admission, but the hat will be passed for the band.

Sponsors are KASU Public Radio, ASU-Newport, C & C Distributors and Harris Ford..

Relay for Life At the Village Mall from 6 p.m April 11 to 6 a.m. on April 12.

State Park Easter Egg Hunt Join this community Easter Egg Hunt April 12 from 11 a.m. to Noon at Jacksonport State Park.

GPS Workshop This April 26 workshop on using GPS tools requires a reservation and runs from 9 a.m. to Noon at Jacksonport State Park.

Portfest!

Mark your calendar for the 33rd Annual Portfest Festival on June 6-7 at Jacksonport State Park. For the most up-to-date information and announcements, like Portfest Festival on Facebook.

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Podiatry Services now Available in Two Convenient Locatio.ns Rebecca Pearrow

Over the past few years, Harris Hospital feet • Bunions • Hammertoes and other toe has expanded its capabilities to include problems • Diabetic complaints • Foot and orthopedic, gynecologic and podiatric ankle deformities • Heel spurs and arch pain • surgeries in addition to general surgeries.

Arthritis of the foot and ankle • Ingrown nails, Jason Smith, D.P.M., is one of the exemplary corns and calluses • Children’s problems such surgeons who perform these procedures. As as toeing in or out • Sports injuries and shin a surgical podiatrist, Dr. Smith specializes splints • Warts and other skin conditions of in foot and ankle reconstruction. Dr. the foot • Fractures and sprains of the foot and Smith’s range of surgical specialties also ankle • Neuromas and ganglions • Burning feet includes joint replacement, wound care We strive to provide methods of and removal of bone spurs and tumors treatment that will allow for the greatest of the foot. If your doctor recommends patient satisfaction. In some cases this may nonemergency foot surgery, you should Dr. Jason Smith require surgery. Dr. Smith is on the medical carefully weigh your options before making staff and performs surgery at Harris a decision. Dr. Smith works closely with his Hospital. These surgeries include: patients and their families to explain all of their options and give them the information they need to make an • Bunion surgery • Correction of hammertoe • Joint informed decision. His podiatric interests are fore foot and replacement • Reconstructive and functional surgery • rear foot reconstruction, trauma, wound care, limb salvage Removal of bone spurs • Removal of tumors of the foot • and sports medicine. His specialty is foot and ankle trauma Neuroma surgery • Internal and external fracture fixation reconstruction and limb salvage. With a high population of Dr. Smith now sees patients in both Newport and diabetic patients in our region, Dr. Smith is pleased to offer Batesville! If you have a foot or ankle problem, you can his specialty to this area and to make a positive difference go to Harris Podiatry Clinic in either of two convenient in the lives of his patients. locations, including the new clinic in Batesville. Surgical Podiatrists are doctors who have been specially trained podiatrist, Dr. Smith diagnoses and treats disorders from to care for feet and ankles. Your feet support the weight the ankles to the toes. So if you have an injury, hammertoe, of your body, so it is important to keep them in excellent bunion, ingrown toenail or any other foot problem, or if health. A podiatrist can help you achieve and maintain you need diabetic foot care, it may be time for a podiatrist’s healthy feet and an active lifestyle through routine care specialized services. Same- and next-day appointments are and evaluation, medical intervention and traditional often available. To schedule your appointment in Newport surgery. Harris Podiatry Clinic cares for people of all ages, or Batesville, call 870-523-9100 stressing preventive care and early medical intervention.

Harris Podiatry Clinic The clinic treats many types of foot and ankle problems, 1117 McLain St., Suite 500 • Newport and the range of specialties includes the treatment of: 3443 Harrison St. • Batesville. N • Non-healing wounds • Cuts and infections • Flat 20 | We are word of mouth for your EYES!

Arkansas Grown Revamped to Expand Markets For State’s Farmers Submitted

As interest in local foods surges, the Arkansas Agriculture Department stands ready to meet the public’s demand with a revamped edition of its Arkansas Grown program. In partnership with P. Allen Smith, the program connects Arkansas farmers with a range of buyers, such as restaurants, schools and grocery stores.

The program’s ultimate aim is to increase the quantity of locally produced food in the state’s market.

“We’re excited about the changes we’ve made to the program that will benefit consumers and producers,” Butch Calhoun, Arkansas Agriculture Department secretary, said.

“Arkansas Grown will help consumers more readily identify locally grown foods so they can make informed choices and stimulate their local economy by keeping their food dollars in the community. The program will bring more awareness to Arkansas’ wonderful producers and help create more markets for their products.”

Benefits of a strong local food system include economic gains for smaller farmers and the state, a reduction of environmental pollution by decreasing food transportation distances and increased access to fresher, healthier and better-tasting foods for the public.

“Farmers and producers want to farm and produce,” Smith said. “That’s what they’re good at and how they

want to spend their time. Now, they have an advocate, Arkansas Grown, that’ll step in and get them plugged in to the state’s market. It’s a win for farmers, consumers and Arkansas’ economy.”

Often small growers do not have the resources to spend much on marketing, making the state infrastructure-building program an essential partner to help the farmers compete in their native market. In addition to working to connect producers with buyers, the program assists small farmers with marketing efforts that increase visibility, including placing an Arkansas Grown label at point of sale or on the product.

Arkansas Grown offers tiered options for farmers and producers: a free option that also includes special labeling for restaurants, one for $25 and another for $50 with increasing exposure and benefits accompanying each. Many states, including Georgia, Texas, Missouri and New Jersey, have successful comparable programs.

For more information or to sign up, visit www. arkansasgrown.org.

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Toll Free: (800) 250-3664 Sales & Service: (870) 523-2792 501 Hwy 367 North Newport, AR 72112

Visit us today, and test drive one of our new or used cars, trucks or SUVs, and see how easy it is to buy from George Kell Motors.

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Browse our entire inventory online and schedule an appointment without picking up the phone!

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13th Annual Ozark Foothills FilmFest Announces “Free FilmFest Saturday”

AgHeritage Farm Credit Services-------- 8

Organizers of the 13th Annual Ozark Foothills FilmFest have announced that one full day of the upcoming festival will be entirely free to the public.

The festival, which will take place April 2-6, has received a Film Festival Grant from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to present a filmmaker panel discussion and series of four film screenings titled “Breaking Through: Promoting Cultural Understanding through Film.” The grant funding, coupled with an additional grant award from the Arkansas Humanities Council, has made it possible to present the entire program at no charge to the public.

The free program takes place in Independence Hall on the campus of the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville on Saturday, April 5. It begins with a panel discussion among the directors of the four featured films, from 10:00 to 11:30 AM. The four films—three documentaries and one narrative film--will then screen throughout the remainder of the day.

The films included in the series are: I LEARN AMERICA, directed by Jean-Michel Dissard and Gitte Peng (Noon).

SWEET DREAMS, directed by Lisa Fruchtman and Rob Fruchtman (2:15 PM).

FAMBUL TOK, directed by Sara Terry (5:45 PM).

DETROIT UNLEADED, directed by Rola Nashef 7:45 PM).

“Breaking Through” is sponsored in part by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Arkansas Humanities Council, and the National Endowment for the Humanities. A description of the movies and complete schedule for the 13th Annual Ozark Foothills FilmFest can be found at www. ozarkfoothillsfilmfest.org/schedule.

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Dairy Queen-------------------------------- 12 ENG Lending------------------------------ 5 George Kell Motors, Inc------------------ 21 Harris Hospital---------------------------- 2 H & R Block Tax Services----------------- 12 Kent’s Firestone--------------------------- 11 Lindley Health & Rehab Center, LLC--- 6 Living Spaces------------------------------ 3 Mark Martin Ford------------------------- 13 Merchants and Planters Bank------------ 8 Modern Woodmen------------------------ 22 NEA Baptist Clinic-------------------------13 N E D C------------------------------------- 3 Newport Cable 15-------------------------- 22 Purdy’s Flowers and Gifts---------------- 15 Serenity Massage-------------------------- 22 Shelter Insurance-------------------------- 7 Something Extra--------------------------- 4 Southern Tire Mart------------------------ 6 St. Michael’s Place------------------------- 24 Studio 1910 Photography----------------- 9 The Pink Poodle--------------------------- 22 Thompson’s Jewelry---------------------- 22 Welcome To Jackson---------------------- 22 White River Chiropractic ---------------- 19 Xtreme Graphix--------------------------- 22

Notes from the Clearing Tending to the Fire Joseph Thomas The chanting drum beats with intent and a driving fire, so dangerous, our virtues might be stained with its charcoaled fingers. And yet we float closer, like beached seaweed. Bottles adrift without a message save for the recycling logo and expiration date. The sand grits beneath our bodied intention with a frustration unheard. The suds lined waves ebb about, seemingly indifferent to it all. And all the while, the crabs feed upon the popcorn shrimp left behind by the audience from a different moment. Still, the breeze finds us all and wraps us within her warm hands and fills us with the belief that all is as it should be and ever shall remain...and it becomes our mantra as we add the needed tinder and blow with a breath so fragile and yet so powerfully life giving.

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