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Avenues November 2021

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VENUES

1 AVENUES • November, 2021

November 2021

A Free Magazine for the Ozarks


PROPERTIES

Strawberry River Land & Homes America’s Land Specialist

Pamela Welch Principal/Broker/Owner

mela a P

Wel ch

520 N. Main, PO Box 483, Cave City, AR 72521

Cell: 870-897-0700 pwelch@mossyoakproperties.com

www.ArkansasLandAndHomes.us

Office: 870-495-2123 • Fax: 870-416-3191 HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE

LIFE INSURANCE

LANDLORD • DWELLING/FIRE CONTENTS POLICY

FARM INSURANCE

CATTLE INSURANCE • POULTRY INSURANCE HORSE INSURANCE • CROP INSURANCE LAND LEASE - HUNTING/FISHING

AUTO INSURANCE

TERM LIFE WHOLE LIFE BURIAL INSURANCE

BOAT • TRAILER • ATV • CAMPER

COMMERCIAL INSURANCE

GENERAL LIABILITY • COMMERCIAL PROPERTY HEALTH INSURANCE COMMERCIAL AUTO • WORKERS COMP PRESCRIPTION • DENTAL INSURANCE CARGO INSURANCE VISION INSURANCE

2 AVENUES • St November, 520 N Main Suite2021 A, Cave City, AR 72521 | www.backroadsco.com


AVENUES • November, 2021 3


NOVEMBER

6 21 26 28 34 35 36 45

ACNA Spotlight

Local Taste

Where is Avenues? Free Dinner GIveaway info

10 23 30

Home Tour: Harper Family of six settle in at new farm proof dream home

37

Veteran and country music artist/fan authors book about the industry

Reasons to shop local and tips for holiday shopping Young couple brings fresh ideas and new vibes to Salem

ON THE COVER

4 AVENUES • November, 2021

Pictured (also to the left) are season appropri appropriate backdrops from the farm of the McWilliams Pumpkin Patch in West Plains, Mo. Photos/ Kim Break

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AVENUES SALES STAFF

Sales Director STEPHANIE PIERCE 870-895-3207 MEAGAN CAMPBELL 870-856-2582

WRITERS

Kim Break Renee Janes Elaine Brown John Norberg Cheri Lynn Quattrochi

KIM BREAK Editor Photographer Graphic Designer

DEBBIE DOWNUM Graphic Designer

RENEE JANES

Graphic Designer

Avenues is published monthly and distributed free in Cherokee Village, Hardy, Ash Flat, Highland, Horseshoe Bend, Melbourne, Salem, Viola, Mammoth Spring, Mountain Home, Cave City, Batesville, West Plains, Thayer, Alton and other areas. Contact the office at the above numbers for information on advertising.

388 Hwy. 62/412 East P.O. Box 248 Salem, AR 72576 Office 1-800-995-3209 Fax 870-895-4277 news@areawidenews.com

An Areawide Media Publication Concord Publishing, Inc. Rust Communications

From the Editor: Kim Break, Editor kbreak@areawidenews.com 870-895-3207 Salem, Ark. I can’t believe we are down to our final two issues of 2021. This year has flown by, as they all seem to do. I am very excited about the final home tours of the year. The Christmas tour has been scheduled, and I just KNOW it is going to be one of the most unique and beautiful tours we’ve done I am very excited. Just as excited as I was about getting to see the finished product of THIS month’s home tour, the home of Scott and Ashley Harper. If that name sounds familiar, it should if you are an avid Avenues reader! We featured the construction process of the Harper home, located in Caufield, in a summer issue. It was definitely well worth the wait and I feel our readers will agree. You will notice the Harper’s neighbors featured throughout this issue, as well as on the cover. The McWilliams Pumpkin Patch is a family favorite, located just a few miles outside of West Plains. The last weekend of October was their last for the season. I was lucky enough to visit their sunflower fields for a couple of photo shoots, so of course I thought it was the perfect opportunity to capture the beauty of their farm and it was the perfect timing, just after a rain during an unusually warm October. I had the pleasure of visiting with Bob Ross, and his entourage, who just finished up his book which details his journey through country music. The 88-year-old veteran fell in love with the sounds of country music early on and carried that with him as he chased his dream of being a country music artist. His love of country music led to the creation of Mammoth Spring’s Solemn Old Judge Days and the George D. Hay Foundation. Ross’ story serves as a dual purpose, as he is also our veteran highlight in honor of Veterans Day, Nov. 11. He was on leave when he met his wife on the train in Thayer, Mo. She was a Thayer native, and he would eventually make his way back to Oregon County, where he became active in the community. Though he is a Springfield, Mo. resident now, he makes frequent trips to visit family and friends in the area. I guess you could say I was very busy this month, as I took the time to visit with Salem residents Max and Jordan Svobodny. The young couple recently moved (“home” for Jordan) to the Fulton County town and are making their presence known, in very good ways. It is encouraging to see a younger generation family taking pride in their community and hoping others will join them along the way. Unless you are an early bird shopper, the holiday shopping season is among us, whether we are ready for it or not. We have featured a few of our advertisers with some shopping local and holiday shopping tips. Though the “holiday shopping tips” might contradict shopping local, we understand some items just might not be available locally. I hope our readers are staying safe and will be able to spend time with those you are thankful for during any of the upcoming holidays. See you all again in December, Happy Thanksgiving!

AVENUES • November, 2021 5


Gardening in the Ozarks

The “Ears” have it… N

ovember has arrived and the gardens are slowing going to “sleep”. Your perennials will be just fine, but those beautiful annuals and tropicals will need to be brought in for the winter. But which ones? I choose “ears” … Elephant Ears of course. In this area, we can grow so many beautiful plants and flowJohn Norberg ers from Spring to the killing Sharp County frost. Your perennials will be Master Gardener just fine during the Winter and come back year after year. Sadly, those lush tropical Elephant Ears will not. But wait, you still can save them for next year. Elephant Ears are actually a tuber that is mistaken as a bulb by many (including me). They can grow in full sun but prefer part shade. They like rich loose soil and do well in containers. Elephant Ears “drink” a lot of water and should be watered in a container, or in the ground, at least every two days. A good indicator is

when they begin to droop their leaves. If you have planted your Elephant Ears in a container, you have a couple of options to use when overwintering them. The first is to bring them inside and keep them going like a house plant all winter. This is easily done by putting them in a bright, but not in the direct sunlight, room. Seeing as they are tropical, they enjoy humidity. This is hard to maintain when your heat comes on. They will enjoy a gentle misting during this time inside. Now, if you do not want them as a house plant during the winter, allow the first frost to knock the back. Cut off the stalks to four to six inches above the dirt level. At this point, you can store them in a place that gets to be at most 50 degrees and remains dark and dry. Periodically check on it and feel if the tuber is still firm to the touch. A tiny bit of water once or twice a month will sometimes help keep roots alive. If you have to dig them up from the ground, again, wait till after the first frost. Cut back foliage to four to six inches from the ground. You do not want to damage the tuber, so use a potato fork or a sharp spade and start at least one foot away from the plant stem.

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Place the tuber and dirt into a cardboard box in a dark cool area. Around February, I would go back to the box and carefully remove the dirt from the tubers. You will find several smaller and a few larger tubers. Separate these tubers and into sizes. Keep the ones that are firm and undamaged and place them back into a cardboard box. Dispose any that are soft, squishy or damaged. Wait to plant them or return the container out into the Spring until the night temperature remains 60-65 degrees. If you do this each year, you will be surprised (I was) just how large and many tubers you will get year after year. From my point of view…the “Ears” have it.

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Milestones

102nd BIRTHDAY A small group of family gathered to celebrate the 102nd birthday of Viola resident, Vera Jamison on Saturday, Oct. 2. Her daughter Arlene Etheridge, son-in-law JB Etheridge and three grandchildren (Teresa Majors, John Etheridge and Frank Etheridge), along with Lori Etheridge and Ray and Sherry Matthew were present for the celebration. She said she couldn't believe she was that old.

AVENUES • November, 2021 9


Story AND PHOTOS by Kim Break

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very different version of Scott and Ashley Harper’s (and their four children), home was highlighted in the July Avenues – as it was the first ever “in the process” type of home tour for the magazine. This month, the Harpers welcomed Avenues into their finished home for the official tour. Located in the Caufield, Mo. community, it is perfectly situated for their farming and dog businesses, and the land once belonged to Scott’s great grandfather. After years of plans falling through 10 AVENUES • November, 2021

and tastes in houses changing, by the end of 2020, their dream home was becoming a reality. Tate Batterton, with AllSteel Inc., worked diligently with Ashley on creating the plans. Scott, Ashley, Braxton, Braymer, Brayda and Branch have been enjoying their new home for several months. There is not one thing to NOT enjoy about the Harper home. The exterior of the home is a combination of materials including metal, rock and wood beams. The concrete porch carries into the floors of the home, with a sleek unstained look for appearance but also very convenient for clean-ups.


“We are a farm family, through and through. So whenever my kids come in from chores, if they have something on the bottom of their shoes, I won’t gripe as bad … So far, we have had a yak, a calf, a chicken, a duck, our dogs, the neighbors’ dogs and then we’ve had the prairie dog in here that has escaped three times. We have had all sorts of animals in here,” said Ashley. “It is super easy to clean and there is no maintenance to it.”

Walking in off the front porch of the 6,100 square foot home, visitors’ eyes are immediately drawn to the ceiling which keeps going and going … all the up 27 feet. The tall ceilings add to the open concept layout. An open staircase leads to a loft and family hang out space, along with the three sons’ bedrooms and their home office. Downstairs on the main level, no walls separate the front door to the back of the house, allowing

AVENUES • November, 2021 11


the living room, kitchen and dining room to all be in one space. As you can imagine, this is the “central station” of the home, and most of the family members’ favorite place to hangout. A warm inviting fireplace made of rock is a beautiful feature with heights that match the ceiling. Large windows line the outside of the house and the wrap around porch can be seen. The dining room table is special, as having a place to sit down and enjoy a meal was not something the family of six had in their previous home. Though the young family is extremely busy, and supper might be eaten at different times, each family member will take the time to slow down and eat their evening meal at the table. “That was one thing I said, I don’t care about anything else, I want a table.” She also loves to be preparing meals in the kitchen and having her family congregate around the island and everyone hang out together, no matter what they are doing (cooking, homework, watching TV ). “This is the hub of our home. We have had many conversations here.” The kitchen gives a rustic vibe with warm toned wood cabinets and a tin vent-hood. The sleek countertops have a warm tone as well, but nothing feels dark with all the natural light beaming

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in from the large picture window above the sink. The island support beam is from a barn Ashley and Scott own on family land. Ashley doesn’t claim one style, as what she likes could change quickly. Lining the walls and ceilings is car siding, which is also known as tongue and groove, similar to shiplap, but available at a cheaper price than shiplap. A light pine is used on the walls. She was originally going to paint the wood white, but once it was in place, she fell in love with the look. Roughcut cedar is also used in the home. The mixture of woods makes for a perfect blend. One of the most meticulous processes was choosing paint color, especially for the wood trim. A mixture of stains is used throughout, creating a beautiful and unique look. A hallway beneath the open loft space leads to

the master bedroom, Brayda’s room, guest bath and main laundry. The master bedroom is a complete suite with bathroom, walk-in closet and their own laundry room. In her previous home, Ashley said her master bedroom was a “catch all” space and it has been her goal to keep her new master bedroom as organized and minimal as possible and has loved having a calm, relaxing space to unwind, that she doesn’t have to share with anyone else, except Scott. It is her most comforting space in the home. When it comes to the master bathroom, Scott took over and did an amazing job with the planning process. A walkin shower with rock flooring and tiled walls was designed behind the large relaxing bathtub. Of course the bathroom is complete with his and her sinks and a designated toilet

14 AVENUES • November, 2021


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room. There are family heirlooms and unique treasures spread throughout the home in decorations. In the master bedroom, one unique piece of furniture is an antique pie safe which belonged to Scott’s great grandma. However, Ashley’s father, who likes to try new projects as a hobby, stripped the piece of furniture down and restored it. Also in the bedroom, is an old barn door from one of their other properties, which would have also belonged to Scott’s great grandma. The door is on a sliding track leading to the master bathroom.

Lining the hallway, Braymer’s bedroom and vent-hood are pieces of tin. The tin is from one of Scott’s grandma’s barns. They also utilize an old outhouse door for storage under the stairs in the hallway. The outhouse is from a property they currently own, and also once belonged to Scott’s family. Near what you might call the “entry” of the home, Ashley has a variety of antique attic trinket treasures on display, along with a wooden magazine rack her grandfather built. One special project was a display counter in Brayda’s bathroom. Her

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space is located on the main level, beneath her brothers. With her very own bathroom, Ashley wanted to be able to personalize the space for her daughter. However, she might have felt like she bit off more than she could chew. The bathroom counter is clear glass and made to display Brayda’s shells, completing a mermaid vibe. Though a difficult project, the end result looks amazing and is definitely a unique feature. Riverbank Woodworks, of Salem, completed all of the detailed and

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gorgeous cabinetry throughout the home. The Harpers also had them do custom barnwood work. Other businesses used in the process included: Inman Electric of Lebanon, Mo., Butler Heating and Air, A & W Overhead Doors, North Arkansas Sprayfoam, Jennings Welding (cattle guard and entryway), Legends Mobile Welding, Anderson Propane, Stewart Morrison (concrete) and TLM Land Management. The outside space is just as important, as

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the Harpers are a true farm family. Concrete pads were poured at the front and back of the house, and both are equally utilized. Using the three garage doors, the kids will ride their bikes in full circles, also using the concrete pads. “The worst part about

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building a house is that every decision, even after you are done, was your decision and you can’t blame anyone else,” Ashley said with a laugh, but feels there is truth in her statement. She loved that their children got to see a project of this size from start to finish. “To see it go

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from nothing to this, and see that hard work pays off. We have worked really hard to be able to do this.” They weren’t as “handson” due to their busy lifestyles with dog kennels and exotic animals. The Harpers raise puppies through Precious Pups MO, LLC. and their farm and exotics is Lazy H Farms and Exotics. The four kiddos also have their own projects in the works. The Harpers are enjoying their new home, and now for the next big decision … where should they place their Christmas tree?!

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WE REMAIN OPEN FOR ALL YOUR COVID-19 CONCERNS

Have A Happy Thanksgiving!!

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MEDICAL DIRECTORY

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Families, Inc. Counseling Services Ash Flat - 870-994-7060 75K Hwy. 62/412, Ste. J Ash Flat, AR Mountain Home - 870-425-1041 700 S. Main, Mountain Home, AR

Elite Home Health 111 N. Main St. • Ste. 1, Salem, AR 72576 Phone: 870-895-2273 • Fax: 870-895-5515 www.lhcgroup.com Hours of operation: 8:00-4:30 Monday-Friday RN on call 24/7 We provide home health services of nursing, physical, occupational, and speech therapy and in-home aid services in the comfort of your home. “It’s all about helping people.”

Shady Oaks Healthcare Center 715 S. State Route 19, Thayer, MO 65791 417-264-7256 Dr. Christopher Cochran - Medical Director Leigh Kincheloe, RN, LNHA - Administrator Lynsey Miller, RN - Director of Nursing Long Term Care • Rehabilitation Services Wound Care • Hospice Care In House PT OT ST Services • IV Services

DENTISTS Sonya Hames Wiles, D.D.S. Family Practice Dentistry 28 E. Court St., Melbourne, AR 72556 Telephone: 870-368-6666 Most insurances accepted MCNA Dental & Delta Dental Smiles Mammoth Spring Dental Clinic Main Street, Mammoth Spring, AR 72554 870-625-3262 Dr. Mike Kersey, DDS Tuesday thru Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.mammothspringdental.com

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT Delta Medical Supply www.ARdeltamedical.com facebook.com/ARdeltamedical 15 Choctaw Trace, Cherokee Village, AR 72529 870-257-4445 916 Sidney St., Batesville, AR 72501 870-612-0049 401 Hwy. 5 N., Mountain Home, AR 72653 870-656-4140 Tri-County Medical Supply We’re Here To Serve You” 260 Hwy. 62 E. Salem, AR 72576 Toll Free: 888-476-2234 www.tricountymedicalsupply.com

MENTAL HEALTH Joe Hackworth, LCSW Southern Missouri Community Health Center West Plains • 417-255-8464 1137 Independence Dr., West Plains Thayer • 417-264-2990 U.S. Hwy. 63 North, Thayer

Shepherd’s View ALF Alton, MO 65606 417-778-7959 Level 2 Assisted Living for Seniors Activities of Daily Living Diabetic Care • Restorative Care • Rehab Care SouthFork River Therapy & Living 624 62/412 West, Salem, AR 72576 870-895-3817 Mincie Thomas - Administrator Emma Cooper - Director of Nursing Doug Cameron - Admissions

PHARMACIES Alton Drug Store 201 State Hwy. 19, Alton, MO 65606 417-778-7000 Mon.-Fri. 8 am to 5 pm • Sat. 9 am to noon Becky Peace RPh Matthew Combs RPh RX--drive thru--mail--delivery Home Health Services Gifts Available

To reserve your listing in Avenues’ Medical Directory, contact Areawide Media at 800-995-3209

AVENUES • November, 2021 21


Shop Our Local Fashion Shops for All Your Holiday Gifts! Participating Fashion Shops  Barbara’s Fashions of Batesville  Freckles Chic of Mountain Home  Crazy Grace (Kelley Thomas Landscape) of Mountain Home  Magnolia Blush of Mountain Home  Muse of Mountain Home

Great gift ideas at all shops! 22 AVENUES • November, 2021


To boost local economy CreatES the community's identity Opportunities for unique experience/merchandise To support the local work force Encourages shop owner's dreams Tax dollars stay local To have a more personable shopping experience

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13 tips for shopping smarter during the holiday season Juliana Weiss-Roessler (lifehack.org)

Whether it involves camping in a store parking lot for Black Friday deals or rac-

ing other parents for that last hot-ticket toy, just about everybody has their own nightmare holiday shopping story. Let’s be honest: holiday shopping has

the potential to be awful. You have to brave crowded malls, overpriced items, and the same Christmas carols playing on repeat. But your shopping experience doesn’t have to be that way. Try these tips to shop smarter and have a much happier holiday experience. 1. Plan ahead. It would be nice if we were able to shower our friends and family with unlimited expensive gifts, but the truth is that the majority of us have a limited amount of money. Before you even start your holiday shopping, make a gift list and set yourself a budget. That way you won’t fall prey to last minute splurge purchases. 2. Save gas (and time) by shopping online. Avoid crowded shopping centers altogether by doing the bulk of your shopping online. Just make sure that you keep mailing costs in mind and order your gifts far enough ahead of time so that you don’t have to pay for expensive overnight shipping. 3. Focus on Cyber MonApparel + Accessories day–not Black Friday. Full Salon Sure, you may find some pretty crazy deals on Black 123 E. 7th St. Friday, but when you Mountain Home factor in the gas you use to drive to the store, the time Monday-Friday you spend waiting in the 9 am - 6 pm cold out front before they open, and the time spent Saturday 9 am - 1 pm fighting the crowds and waiting in line to make your purchase, is it really 870.425.3232 worth it? This year, try shopping on the Monday immediately after Thanks-

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giving. This is the day when online retailers promote big sales, so you can save while shopping from the comfort of your own home. 4. Track price changes for expensive items. If you’re shopping with a big online retailer like Amazon, you can set up a tracker through websites like CamelCamelCamel or The Tracktor. You can check out past prices of the items you’re shopping for in order to determine whether now is a good time to buy or if you should wait for the price to drop. 5. Use online coupons. Avoid the hassle of clipping coupons and shoving them in your wallet until you can get to the right store by using online coupons. Many sites give you an easy way to quickly search for and redeem deals for your gift items. Here are a few to bookmark: Groupon Discounts.ca Sales Circular 6. Avoid credit card debt. This should go without saying, but one of the best ways to shop smart this season is to avoid charging more than you’ll be able to pay off. Don’t get talked into starting a credit card with a particular department store, either. It’s usually not worth it. Keep close track of the money you spend and know where your limits are. 7. Don’t be afraid to buy the same gift twice. If you find a gift that you know several people on your list would enjoy, don’t be afraid to buy it in multiples. This cuts down on your shopping time, and if the store is offering any kind of “Buy 1, get the second 1 at a discount” deal, that’s even better! 8. Considering buying experiences–not just stuff. Instead of buying material goods that your family members aren’t that excited

about, consider buying a day or weekend trip that you can share together. It can make more sense to invest money in creating a family memory that will last forever than buying an item that will have a short life span. 9. Group your shopping trips. If you have to go to brick and mortar stores to do some of your holiday shopping, figure out where all the stores you need to visit are and plan the route that will involve the least driving. Try to get all your shopping done in one fell swoop so that you don’t have to keep driving back out to the stores. 10. Save money by using your smartphone. The Amazon Price Checker app, which is available for both iPhones and Androids, lets you scan the barcodes of items in a store and compare to prices of the same item online. Shopkick is another great app that rewards you just for visiting stores by offering you special discounts. Make purchases at the store

and you’ll get even more points to put towards a future reward. 11. Never shop on weekends. Weekends are inevitably the busiest shopping days during the holiday season, so if you want to avoid the crowds, try shopping on weekday evenings. 12. Shop alone. While shopping alone doesn’t sound as fun as bringing along a friend, it will save you time and potentially prevent you from being influenced to make big spur-of-the-moment purchases. 13. Know when to eschew the express line. Each person has to do an individual transaction, so a medium regular checkout line is often better than a long express lane line. The holidays should be a time to relax and hang out with friends and family–don’t let yourself get stressed out by last-minute shopping expeditions.Just take a deep breath, do some planning in advance, and shop smart this season.

AVENUES • November, 2021 25


By Cheri Lynn Quattrochi The Arts Center of North Arkansas’s November Artist of the Month is Margaret “Peggy” Duff, an impressionistic artist—although her son calls hers a loose homey style. Using oil paints, she has taught classes using the Bob Ross technique. She has explored acrylics and has recently added watercolor to her repertoire. For as long as she can remember, art has been part of Peggy. Her mom said that before she could walk, she’d pull herself up in her crib, throw her glass bottle over the side, and stare, laughing, at the design it made on the floor. In elementary school, she was blessed with an amazing art teacher who imparted valuable information, such as perspective drawing, which incubated within Peggy. Teachers often asked Peggy to do special projects. For example, she created the backdrop for a teacher’s retirement party. The backdrop consisted of large panels of blackboard paper, each of which reflected the seasons by depicting various hunting scenes. In high school, Peggy spent every free moment in a small room connected to an art classroom where she could work on her own creative projects. Although Peggy was not outgoing, students knew her through her award-winning art. In college, she received an associate degree in advertising/ graphic art. After five years of working for an advertising agency and becoming well-known in her area, she resigned. Her employer warned that there was little work for her chosen profession. How right he was! For the next 10 years, she worked in a golf bag factory. Eventually she was hired as the computer lab manager in an elementary school. Having a love for computers, Peggy moved from manager to Technology Coordinator to working with demographics at the Arkansas Department of Education and finally to a school district to help with their

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demographics. Four years later, she retired—to her art! Peggy was born in Muskegon, Mich., 70 years ago. When she was 27, her mom’s brother and his friend, both from Arkansas, visited one summer. A year later, that friend became Peggy’s husband, and she and her seven-year-old son moved to Arkansas. While none of her three children have become artists, many of Peggy’s nine grandchildren love to do and share their artwork with her. In her younger days, seeing Peggy in overalls as she helped a cow with calving was not unusual. Her husband even bought her a set of chains designed especially for pulling calves. Although a youthful desire to become a


veterinarian never came to fruition, her passion for animals is often reflected in her paintings. After God and family, “Art” is Peggy’s great love. While it has always been her hobby, a severe injury to her right shoulder prevented her from painting for about fifteen frustrating years, during which her passion for art was unquenched. As her Artist Statement conveys, “My art represents—My feelings— My happiness—My love of life.” Peggy’s paintings are in the Randolph County Heritage Museum (Pocahontas), Spring River Art Gallery (Hardy), Gallery 246 (Batesville), and the ACNA (Cherokee Village). She was also recently featured in The Delta Crossroads magazine. November ACNA Activities Call ACNA at 870-7513793 for up-to-date CDC COVID protocol and class details. Writing/Visual Journaling, 1st Saturday, 10 a.m. to 12 noon Art Club, 2nd Saturday, 10 a.m. to 12 noon Sound Immersion, Nov. 14,

1 to 2 p.m. Photography Club, 3rd Saturday, 10 a.m. to 12 noon Sewing Club, 4th Saturday, 10 a.m. to 12 noon Tai Chi, Mondays, 10 a.m. Zoom Yoga, Tuesday/Thursday, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Mountain Dulcimer, Tuesdays, 1 to 3 p.m. Open Studio, Tuesdays, 5 to 7 p.m. Sword Tai Chi, Thursday, 10 a.m. Nov. 3: Pour Paint, 1 to 3 p.m. Nov. 6: Non-Painter Class with Sheila Donley, 1 to 3 p.m. Nov. 13: Holiday Cards, 10 a.m. to 12 noon with Barb Massie (407-7665506) 2630 Hwy. 62/412 • Hardy, AR 72542 • (870) 856-3853 Nov. 17: Holiday Gifts (candy dish, four coasters, two ornaments), 1 to 3 p.m., poured acrylic with Barb Massie (407-7665506) Nov. 22: Open Board Meeting, 2:30 p.m.

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www.video-realestate.com • vrea@centurytel.net AVENUES • November, 2021 27


Church Directory Ash Flat Church of God 124 Arnhart St. • Ash Flat, AR 501-574-8294 Sunday Morning School 10:00 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 a.m. Sunday Evening Worship 5:00 p.m. Thursday Services 6:00 p.m. Pastor Colton Abbott

Mt. Zion Baptist Church, SBC Hwy. 9 South, 3 miles North of Oxford, Union, AR • 870-895-3336 Pastor - Rick Hellums Schedule of Services Sunday School 10:00 a.m. Sunday Worship 11:00 a.m. Sunday Afternoon Bible Study 12:20 p.m. Salem First Assembly of God 118 Pinto Place, Salem, AR Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m. Sunday Evening 6:00 p.m. Wednesday/Student Programs 6:00 p.m. Call 870-895-3414 Facebook: Salem First Assembly First Missionary Baptist Aba Highway 62 West At Spruce, Salem, AR Sunday School-9:45 a.m. Sunday Worship-11:00 a.m. Sunday Night Services - 5:30 p.m. Wednesday Services - 6:30 p.m. Monty Anderson, Pastor - 501-236-1039 Call 870-895-2634 or 895-4728 Welcome Hill Church of Christ 16309 Highway 9 South, Mammoth Spring, AR PO Box 495 / 417-293-6355 Sunday Morning Bible Study 10 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship 10:45 a.m. Sunday Evening Worship 5 p.m. Wednesday Evening Bible Study 7 p.m. Minister: Erman Croney - 417-264-3371 Brandsville Church of God 10902 US Hwy. 63, West Plains, MO 65775 7 miles South of West Plains and 7 miles North of Koshkonong on Hwy. 63 Come Meet The Lord! Sunday School - 10:00 a.m. Sunday Worship - 11:00 a.m. Pastor Bruce Underhill • Call 417-204-2452 Cherokee Village United Methodist Church Worship Service 8:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Sunday School (all ages) 9:45 a.m. Choir Practice Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Coffee Talk 8:45 a.m. Located in Cherokee Village at 21 Otter Dr. (between Keno & Navajo Dr.) Senior Pastor Rev. Angie Gage - 870-257-3869 Associate Pastor Rev. Jimmy Anderson

Christian Life Center Non Denominational - Full Gospel Rev. Matthew Wann, Pastor Sunday Service 10:00 a.m. For Directions Call 870-346-5556 or 870-636-0023 GPS Location: 244 AR 58 Spur Hwy. Peace Lutheran Church 4 Iroquois Dr. • Cherokee Village 870-257-3957 Pastor Brian Pummill 9 a.m. – Traditional Worship 10:15 a.m. – Adult Bible Study & Sunday School 11:15 a.m. – Contemporary Praise Service Hardy Church of Christ 305 Johnston, Hardy, AR 870-847-6024 Sunday Morning Bible Study 9:30 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Sunday Evening Worship 5:00 p.m. Minister: Don House 501-412-3532 Salem United Methodist Church 205 Church St., Salem, AR 72576 Sunday School 10:00 am Worship 11:00 a.m 870-847-6030 • 870-895-5157 Pastor Ken Anderson First Baptist Church of Mammoth Spring 16600 Highway 9, Mammoth Spring, AR 625-3273 • www.mammothspringfbc.com Charles Morgan, Pastor Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Evening Worship 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Evening Service 6:30 p.m. New Hope Baptist Church 1244 Hwy. 175 • Hardy, AR 72542 Sunday School 10:00 a.m. Sunday Worship 11:00 a.m. Sunday Discipleship Training 5:00 p.m. Sunday Worship 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Awanas 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6:00 p.m. St. Michael’s Catholic Church Corner of Tekakwitha Dr. & Hwy. 62/412 Cherokee Village, AR • 870-257-2850 Email: stmichaelcv@yahoo.com www.stmichaelscv.org Daily Mass: Mon., Thur., Fri. - 9 am; Wed. - 6 p.m.; Saturday Vigil - 4 p.m. Sunday - 9 a.m. (Latin 12 p.m., 1st & 3rd Sunday) Rev. Amal Punganoor • 870-257-4456 Hardy United Methodist Church Fourth & Spring / Every Sunday Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Open Hearts ~ Open Minds ~ Open Doors

Pleasant Hill Freewill Baptist Church 61 CR 246, Thayer, MO 65791 Pastor Tim Deckard 417-270-6214 Sunday School 10:00 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 a.m. Sunday Evening Worship 6:00 p.m. Facebook: Pleasant Hill FWB Church Wheeling Church of Christ Hwy. 9 South, Wheeling, AR 870-219-9067 Sunday School 10:00 a.m. Sunday Worship 11:00 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study 6:00 p.m. St. Paul United Methodist Church Business Highway 63, PO Box 241 Thayer, MO 65791 Sunday School - 10:15 a.m. Sunday Worship - 11:30 a.m. Email: stpaulumc@centurytel.net www.stpaulthayerumc.org 417-264-3296 • Pastor Pam Ekey Faith Presbyterian Church 1001 Third Street, Horseshoe Bend, AR 72512 Sunday School - 9:00 a.m. Sunday Worship - 10:30 a.m. 2nd Day Bible Study - Monday, 10:30 a.m. Email: faithpresby@centurytel.net www.horseshoepresbyterian.org Rev. David Schaller – Call 870-670-4103 Horseshoe Bend United Methodist Church 600 West Church Street 870-670-5392 Christian Conversation Wednesday - 12 noon Sunday Worship - 9:00 a.m. Pastor Ken Anderson First Baptist Church of Hardy Highway 63-412, Hardy, AR Sunday School-9:30 a.m. - Worship-10:45 a.m. Evening Worship - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Prayer Meeting - 6:00 p.m. Dr. Larry Kindrick, Pastor - 870-847-0897 First Christian Church “Disciples of Christ” 7th & Archer Street, Mammoth Spring, AR Sunday School - 10:00 a.m. Sunday Worship - 11:00 a.m. Bible Study Wednesday Evenings - 6:00 p.m. www.fccms.org Spring River Presbyterian Church 151 Wahpeton Hill Rd., Hardy, AR 870-856-3426 Pastor Jim Ratliff Sunday Service 10 a.m. Office Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m. - noon Closed on Mondays Email: springriverpres@outlook.com

To reserve your church’s listing call 800-995-3209 28 AVENUES • November, 2021


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AVENUES • November, 2021 29


Story AND PHOTOS by Kim Break

M

ax and Jordan Svobodny are no strangers to Fulton County, especially Jordan, who grew up and is from Salem, Ark. Max, a Colorado native, was more than willing to take on a new change of scenery by making the move to Arkansas. Though the young couple most certainly appreciates the slower pace of life than what they were used to in Colorado, they would like to implement a few things in small town Salem, Ark. to draw

30 AVENUES • November, 2021

in people with like-minded goals and provide more opportunities/activities, etc. for the community, especially the future generations. One of the first things Jordan began doing was teaching a workout class in Salem. She had a loyal following, and has hopes to create her own customized workout program in the future. Not only is keeping your body in shape important, but it is important to keep your mind sharp as well. One way to do that is by


reading. Jordan and Max worked to “spruce up” a couple of old newspaper stands from Areawide Media to become the Little Free Libraries of Salem. Little Free Libraries is a national program with small libraries located all around the country. Now, Salem is a registered location. “Building community, inspiring readers and expanding book access for all,” are the main reasons behind the libraries, which there are two of in Salem around the square. The kids library is located in front of Whatever. The adult library is located in front of Groovy Little Flower. The statistics behind literacy are sadly getting worse. Information provided by Jordan stated that two out of three American children living in poverty have no books at home. Think about the poverty levels in our communities. Jordan also encouraged the use of public libraries when putting the word out about the LFL. “These LFL are a great addition to the community, but don’t forget to also support the local Fulton County Library. I grew up going to the

local library, I loved participating in the summer reading programs.” As Jordan and her husband Max are preparing to add another member to their family, they realize becoming active in the community might not be the best timing, but want to see growth and fresh ideas brought to the table by their own generation in the community where they will be raising their family. Max has an outgoing personality and has used that to the community’s advantage by creating “Fulton County Telecast”, a Facebook group with some interesting ideas behind it. After having a conversation with fellow Salem resident Amanda Hall, it was just something that started developing. Max said that since Fulton County doesn’t have a “media channel” , the idea behind the Telecast page is that if it becomes big enough, individuals could inform each other of things going on while they are going on. If it is a Saturday morning and someone is at a local festival, they could hop on the page and make a post, go live, about the event just to remind

people. It would make residents’ options known about activities, or whatever is going on at the time. “The idea is if we don’t value our own community, who else is going to? We need to be excited about some of this stuff going on because they do put hard work into doing these events like the Denim and Diamonds and the VFW Community Fun Day, Fulton County Homecoming, etc. It would be cool to share it to a common platform for everyone,” explained Max. The concept is slow moving right now, but he isn’t giving up. The idea of being on camera, for some, is enough to turn them away, but once more people begin to see the benefits, Max hopes it will become a resourceful tool. Possibly for businesses or people like musicians, looking for employees or gigs, etc. For employment, Max currently operates a drone service, which he has been integrating into the Fulton County Telecast. Jordan has been working for family. Jordan’s service to community runs in her blood as family members in

Located in the historical Castleberry Building on the Square in Salem.

AVENUES • November, 2021 31


public servant fields. Moving to Fulton County was a decision made because their once small town outside of Ft. Collins in Colorado was busting at the seams. “It has been a cool change,” Max said with chuckle and added, “I guess I shouldn’t say cool because it is a lot hotter here, but … it is definitely neat to live somewhere else and experience a different culture down here, compared to where I am from. I have enjoyed meeting new people and learning new stuff.” Jordan moved away eight years ago, now she is back and happy to be starting her family here. Max and Jordan have the “get up and do it yourself ” mentality. “Sometimes someone may be waiting for something to happen,” said Max and Jordan added, “but it is never going to happen if you wait around.” Jordan encourages others if they have an idea for something in the community, act on it. When it came to her library project and talking about giving advice to those who would like to be more involved, she said, “if you have free time, it doesn’t take much.” They wanted to start with a small project to begin with, and would encourage others to do the same. “We had small expectations. We are hoping to spur up more energy in the town to do different things. So we are trying to lead by example. Who knows if we end up doing more, I don’t know where some of this goes,” agreed the couple. “I want to do some art stuff next. Maybe like a greetings from Salem mural, find a building that has a good spot. People like to stop and take their pictures with those,” added Jordan. They also talked about future endeavors and wanting feedback from the community. “We

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Pictured above is a screenshot from one of Max’s posts in Fulton County Telecast. In this post, Max was giving a shout out to Sam’s Twisted Stuff in a Bun and used his drone for a portion of this video.

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don’t necessarily know what people want. Do they want the town to stay like it is? Do they want growth?” asked Max. “Not population growth, but economic growth. We’d like to do something, but I’ve seen so many businesses come and go. I’d love to see the square full,” when discussing stores or businesses in general for the area. Though the Svobodny’s will be busy preparing for the birth of their baby, this passionate young couple will definitely strive to make the community a better place.

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What’s Cookin’ in the Ozarks? Applesauce Cake Courtesy of Cooking Classy Cake 2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour (scoop and level to measure) 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. baking powder 3/4 tsp. salt 2 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 tsp. ground ginger 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp. ground allspice 3/4 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar (break up any clumps with fingertips) 2 large eggs 2 cups unsweetened applesauce 3/4 cup vegetable oil or canola oil 1 tsp. vanilla extract Frosting 8 oz. cream cheese, nearly at room temperature 6 Tbsp. unsalted butter, soft 3 cups powdered sugar 1 tsp. vanilla extract Cake Instructions Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 13 by 9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice for 30 seconds. Make a well in the center and set aside. To a separate large mixing bowl, add granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs. Using an electric hand mixer, beat on medium speed until fairly pale and fluffy, 2 minutes. Add applesauce, vegetable oil and vanilla extract to sugar mixture and blend with hand mixer until combined. Pour applesauce mixture into well in flour mixture, then gently fold and stir mixture just until there’s no longer streaks or pockets of flour. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Wiggle pan to level batter out even. Bake in preheated oven until toothpick inserted into center comes out free of batter (a moist crumb or two is fine), about 30 to 40 minutes. Cool completely: Let cake cool on a wire rack (to speed up cooling you can cool in the fridge). Frosting Instructions Add cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar and vanilla to a large mixing bowl. Using an electric hand mixer (with clean beater blades), blend mixture on low speed until combined. Then increase speed to high and whip for several minutes until light and fluffy. Spread frosting over cooled cake then cut into slices. AVENUES • November, 2021 35


Where in the World is Avenues?

Pictured above: Linda Welch of Salem, Tower Bridge, London.

Pictured left: Allen, Dasha, Max and Somi Russell in South Korea. Pictured above: John Ed and Linda Welch of Salem at rear entry Buckingham Palace.

Pictured right: Linda Welch of Salem in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Pictured left: Linda Welch of Salem at Slea Head, Ireland.

Pictured above: John Ed Welch of Salem, at Edinburgh Castle, Scotland.


Story by Renee Janes and Kim Break Photos by Kim Break and Submitted

I

nspiration is the spark of creation for many great things including a Tennessee reporter’s idea for the Grand Ole Opry after a visit to Mammoth Spring, this musical influence motivated

others to not only play music but to create the George D. Hay Foundation and Hall of Fame. Areawide Media visited with Bob Ross, a founder and former presi-

AVENUES • November, 2021 37


dent of George D. Hay Foundation and Hall of Fame, former secretary Jim Peebles and publisher Barry Barnes about the inspiration for the local organization and Ross’ book “Bob Ross and His Journey Through Country Music.” Ross stated it was his job to get the foundation together to commemorate the inspiration of The Grand Ole Opry coming from Mammoth Spring. In 1919, then a reporter with The Memphis Commercial Appeal, George D. Hay was on assignment to cover the death of a marine from Arkansas who was killed in Europe. After attending the funeral, Hay was invited by a gentleman to a “hoedown” at a cabin located on the Arkansas/Missouri line. Hay returned to Tennes-

see, eventually leaving the newspaper and went to work for Sears and Roebuck before working as an announcer at WSM radio station in the National Life Building in 1925. “The first show he did was FM, and he invited a fiddle player, Jimmie Thompson, and his niece played the piano. They were fixing to go on the radio. There was an opera show on right before that and this guy that was running the opera show said there is not realism in opera music. He went off the air, Mr. Hay came on the air and said you just heard the gentleman say there is no realism in opera music. He said for the next hour we are going to play real realism and it is called the Grand Ole Opry. It just come off the top of his head and that is

38 AVENUES • November, 2021

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how the Opry started,” said Ross. The Grand Ole Opry greatly influenced Ross’ life as he listened to the Opry as a young man, inspiring him to get involved in country music and share his talents. “He got the bug for country music by listening to the Opry on the radio,” said Peebles, stating Ross was listening to him growing up in South Carolina and he has been an ambassador for country music ever since. “It was the enthusiasm he got from hearing the man on the radio. The enthusiasm came through the airways and it’s sitting right here right now still.” At the age of 17, Ross enrolled in the military,

serving in the military for 20 years. During this time, he played music all over including in Europe. A poignant moment in his life also occurred in the early 1950s while on his first leave from the military when traveling by bus, Ross met his wife, Thayer native, Ann Madden. Ross got off the bus when they stopped for a break in Thayer at Trailways Bus Station. When he returned to his seat it was taken by a young woman, her niece, her sister and a man. Ross then had to stand all the way to Cabool. “When we got to Cabool, they had a change with some going to St. Louis and the rest going to Kansas City. Well,

AVENUES • November, 2021 39


when that happened the seat came open by her. I asked her if I could sit down and she said sure,” said Ross. He and Ann visited for the rest of the trip. “By the time we got to Kansas City, we knew each other,” said Ross, stating she informed him her boyfriend would be there when they got there. “There he stood, he must have been six foot

tall, maybe longer, and I talked to her for a minute, I just reached over and kissed her. I gave her my phone number and got back on the bus.” His proposal was just as unique with having his engagement ring hand delivered to Ann. A man he worked for in a dining hall, who lived in base housing, was planning a trip home to Oklahoma with his wife.

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Ross was asked to babysit their three children for a couple of days. Ross agreed to do so, but wanted a favor in exchange, for the couple to take his engagement ring to Kansas City to his girlfriend. “He got there, and her sister came out the door and they tried to give it to her,” said Ross, stating Ann came skipping down the sidewalk. Her sister told the couple that she was the one to give the

ring to. Bob and Ann had three children, one boy and two girls. Ross told of a story while living in Kansas City. He stated he was determined to win a music contest with his two daughters they entered for which they learned “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.” “We won first place. I could never get them to do anything else,” said Ross. The couple eventually

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Hometown Strong is a way for GTS as therapists and member of community to give back to the communities that we love and live in. Each month employees of GTS donates a portion of their paycheck and GTS rounds that amount up to make a donation to a local charity. Each staff member that donates to this fund is entered into a drawing and once per month we draw a staff member name. Brook Taylor, PT, DPT chose the Batesville Montessori School to receive $1,000. Batesville Montessori is a nonprofit private school for children 6 weeks to 6 years of age. At Batesville Montessori we focus on child-led learning. Students are encouraged to be the directors of their own study, identifying and pursuing projects that interest them, with the teacher serving as a guide to their learning. We rely on Tuition, Fundraising and generous donations, like this donation from GTS, to keep our doors open. GTS, thank you so much for being so kind and generous to our school and consistently supporting us. This donation will help to purchase new curriculum for our classrooms among many other needs for our school. Pictured Brook Taylor, PT, DPT and Natalie Emerson, Batesville Montessori President

Much Appreciation, Natalie Emerson • Batesville Montessori President

AVENUES • November, 2021 41


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When Bob Ross and editor Barry Barnes were “in town” for the Avenues interview, a stop was made at the Mammoth Spring State Park for an impromptu book signing event with Superintendent Dave Jackson and Asst. Superintendent Adam Davis. Pictured on page 42 (far left) is Mammoth Spring Chamber of Commerce President Trena Spears showing off her copies of Ross’ book.

settled in Thayer and Ross served in Vietnam. Ross’ interest was peaked when his wife informed him the Grand Ole Opry was inspired by Hay after visiting Mammoth Spring. Ross was instrumental in founding the George D. Hay Foundation and Hall of Fame, which was formed in 1997. This idea was formed when he heard former Mammoth Spring Mayor Jean Pace on the radio asking for ideas to help increase tourism. In addition to talking to Pace about his idea, Ross contacted the Country Music Hall of Fame president to connect with Hay’s next of kin. He was able to get in touch with Hay’s daughter, who lived in Albuquerque to discuss his idea to start a foundation in honor of her father to which she gave permission to do with the prerequisite that he try to keep the Opry like her dad wanted. In creating and publishing his book, around 2008, Ross came across one of Barnes’ newsletters in a club in Nashville. Ross’ wife had passed away and he was trying to get away from town for a little while when he came across one of Barnes’ newsletters. After contacting Barnes, they met at Cracker Barrell where he told him about his project and Barnes was interested resulting in his book “Bob Ross and His Journey Through Country Music.”

The following is an excerpt from Chapter 1. It showcases how Ross was still able to be active in country music, while active in the Air Force. “It came into my heart to go into the military, I went down to the Post Office. Met the recruiting officer down there. He took me to Greenville, S.C. I was inducted into the Air Force. I went from there to Lackland Air Force Base (Texas), went through basic training and was stationed at Ellsworth A.F.B. in Rapid City, S.D. From there, I reenlisted. I was sent to Germany, Wiesbaden, Germany, with a friend that I met from North Carolina that was stationed with me up there in South Dakota. Bill Allison and I become very close friends, wrote songs together, sang together for years till his death. We went to Germany, spent our time over there doing a lot of shows at Air Force and Army bases around Wiesbaden, Germany. When our tour was over, by luck of chance, we were sent back to an Air Force radar base in Minnesota, in the north country up there. We had a band in Grand Rapids made up of some military and local musicians and got on the local radio station. Ended up working with many country music stations and entertainers. I promoted country music everywhere I went. We stayed on that. Allison and I made a trip down to Duluth, Minnesota. We met a guy down there that owned a record shop. He told us they were bringing Grand Ole Opry stars in. We told him we had a band. He asked us if we’d like to be on the Grand Old Opera show. We told him es we would. We were on the show. It was Roy Acuff and the Smoky Mountain Boys and Johnny Cash. Johnny Cash had just gotten started. He had Teenage Queen out at that time. We got to meet him. We opened the show. My band opened the show. We came off the stage Johnny Cash was standing there waiting to shake our hands and told us what a great job we did. We knew how he was because he had just had his start. He knew we were trying to have our start. When my enlistment was up at Grand Rapids, I was assigned to a radar site at Cape Charles, Virginia. Allison, later, was shipped to France. I spent a lot of time promoting country music throughout Cape Charles, during my time there. I was invited to attend the Apple Blossom Festival in Winchester, Virginia. Winchester being the home of Patsy Cline, got to remember that. The show featured Ray Price and the Cherokee Cowboys with Willie Nelson playing bass. This was Willie’s first show with Ray Price. He took the place of Roger Miller. Billy Walker and I were teamed to appear together on each show. All in all, we did three shows with the backing of Ray Price’s band.”


44 AVENUES • November, 2021


WIN A DINNER FOR TWO

RULES: To register for the drawing, fill out a card on location at Fred’s Fish House in Mammoth Spring, Ark. Look for the pictured box to drop your card in to be registered. The drawing will still take place around the end of each month at the restaurant.

LAST MONTH’S WINNER: DAVID BRYANT MAMMOTH SPRING, ARK.

THE NEXT DRAWING FOR A FREE DINNER GIVEAWAY FOR TWO WILL BE NOV. 18.

Fred’s Fish House 215 Main Street Mammoth Spring, Arkansas 870-625-7551 Fred’s Fish House is located in downtown Mammoth Spring, Ark. The restaurant has been family owned and operated for nearly 30 years. Open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m to 2 p.m. Fred’s is open and ready to provide great service with a smile.

AVENUES • November, 2021 45


TGAS

HAYER

Serving Our Community for over 60 Years

1-800-477-1427

WEST PLAINS • ALTON • THAYER • MYRTLE MAMMOTH SPRING • HARDY • ASH FLAT • WILLIFORD EVENING SHADE • STRAWBERRY • CAVE CITY • VIOLA

DON’t FORGET - Take us with you! Where is Avenues is a special feature we offer our readers. If you are traveling, take an Avenues with you, take a photo with it and send it in! - You can nominate houses for our Home Tour feature. If you, or someone you know, has a unique home perfect for Avenues, let us know! - We love to highlight the next generation and we do so with our Community Cuties. Send in a photo of your child(ren) (grandchild, niece, nephew, etc.) with their name, age, parents’ name, etc. They can be featured in Avenues as well. Send photos or suggestions to news@areawidenews.com

46 AVENUES • November, 2021


Green Pumpkin Time By Dewayne French

Most pumpkins are a type of orange coloration. But have you seen green pumpkin? This is not your typical Halloween or thanksgiving pumpkin. If you fish you know exactly what I’m talking about. Possibly one of the most popular bait/lure colors that has ever been produced. Green pumpkin catches more fish than possibly any other lure color. It is a combination of brown/ green with black flakes that is used in everything from tubes, jigs, to chatterbaits. Green pumpkin is said to be a natural prey color that fish see as non-threating and “natural to eat”. You can even say it is a standby color, green pumpkin or as some call it “green pukin”. The lures and baits that we have are literally a rainbow of colors and configurations. My tackle box seems to grow ever year, but I always have Green pumpkin in my tackle treys. Natural colors seem to catch more fish day in and day, but every once in a while you have to shock them with something to make them bite. A green pumpkin tube is one of the most fish catchiest baits to have tired on your fishing line. It proves a point that we can all have tackle “over load” sometimes. There are lots of variations and combination’s that have green pumpkin in them and they all work. It is just like a good ole jack-o-lantern at Halloween. Even pumpkins in fall decorations. The green pumpkin color is right on track for fishing and putting big fish in your pictures. It works all season, not just in the fall and like we said earlier, it is very

natural. If you have every played around with colors in fishing you know green pumpkin is a staple. Most any good jig fishing fanatic worth their own weight will have lots of different sizes of green pumpkin jigs at the ready. In the last several years the green pumpkin chatterbait has taking the fishing industry by storm. Green pumpkin is actually is a very good color that matches the crawdad (craw fish), almost identical in most cases. Put a good plastic trailer on it with a little dye (orange or chartreuse) on the pinchers and you have a magical fishing lure ready for the biggest bass in the lake. It has often been said that color is very important in fishing as long as it has green pumpkin in it. Thanks for reading and following along my Ozarks fishing adventures. Remember we all “Live Downstream” so please pick up your trash and any other trash you see out floating around! Never discard old fishing line in the river or lake! Wear your life jacket, and tell your family your expected return times, and a general location of where you plan to fish. Check out my social media pages and follow my fishing adventures around the Ozark waters we call home. Facebook: Dewayne French Fishing Twitter: @French_fishin Instagram: french_fishin Youtube: Dewayne French or French fishing In the end it’s not the years in your life that count, It’s the life in your years Abraham Lincoln

To find a store near you or to order online: https://favoriteusa.com/

(877) 800-6246

603 N 9th St, Thayer, MO 65791 EMAIL ADDRESS: contact@favoriteusa.com

AVENUES • August, November, 2021 2021 47 47


Dr. Rebecca

Phillips

Casey Dun can, APRN

, Pe Amy Hodges

APRN

Deborah K

ing, APRN

Regular Hours: h, APRN Starla Smit

48 AVENUES • November, 2021

Accepting new patients!


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