ABOUT | April 2017 by ABOUT the River Valley Magazine

rat rods

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley April 2017

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RUSSELLVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT

YOUR SCHOOL OF CHOICE

RSD believes that students should have the best educational opportunities available to them through a wide variety of learning experiences that inspire their interests and ambitions. That is why we provide: • 1:1 technology initiative at RHS • RJHS School of Innovation • 14 STEM classes grades 8-12 • 18 AP courses, EAST, and G/T programs offered • 30 hours of concurrent college credit • A focus on career education beginning in elementary schools • Award winning choir and band programs

Russellville School District is now accepting students under Arkansas Public School Choice Act Interested parents can obtain an application online at www.russellvilleschools.net or at the Administration Building at 220 West 10th Street Applications must be received by May 1, 2017

• Participation in a variety of organizations and athletics • Registered nurses and safe rooms at every campus • Theater and music programs at The Center for The Arts • National accreditation by AdvancED

220 West 10th Street ■ Russellville, AR. 72801 ■ 479.968.1306 ■ www.russellvilleschools.net

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APRIL 2017 EDITION

Pg16

Pg8

Pg26

8 Rust

When Eric Edensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 1940 Plymouth springs to life you hear it. With the flip of a switch and a puff of smoke, the big block 413 engine roars to life through a set of cut-off headers. The sound is both deafening and awe inspiring.

14 Out in the Boonies

16 My Hometown: Dardanelle

I grew up in Dardanelle through the 1970s and 80s. My parents came of age in the same small town in the 1950s and 60s. Back in the early 1900s, their parents grew up in the logging community of Harkeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Valley and the cotton farming community of Carden Bottoms, outlying rural communities for which Dardanelle was the commercial center.

26 Sweet Pastels

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

Pastel sweetness has been a hallmark of Easter since the 1800s when egg-shaped sugar pastries starting popping up in German immigrant bakeries.

34 Underappreciated

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WELCOME T O

T HE

Eric Edens GENERAL MANAGER TOYOTA Eric Edens, new Sales Manager at Phil Wright Toyota, was born and raised in Madison County in Northwest Arkansas. He has been married for 26 years and has two grown children. Edens says that he and his family love their new life here in the River Valley and truly enjoy their new church family at First Baptist Church. Edens enjoys antique cars and trucks, all terrain vehicles and horses. He spent the last 10 years at Fayetteville Toyota Auto Park where he was a manager for the last four years. Edens expressed he has enjoyed getting to know all of the kind folks here in Russellville and looks forward to making new friendships. He said he looks forward to meeting new customers every day and plans to continues to live here in the River Valley and work here at Phil Wright long term.

TEAM

Adam Stoffle GENERAL SALES MANAGER AUTOPLEX Adam Stoffle, new General Sales Manager at Phil Wright Autoplex, was born in Osceola in Northeast Arkansas. In 1999 he moved to Heber Springs in central Arkansas. After high school he moved to Tulsa, Okla., where he attended Tulsa Welding School. After Tulsa he moved to New Orleans, LA to help rebuild after Hurricane Katrina. After spending two years in Louisiana he moved to the Conway area where he went to University of Central Arkansas and got started in the auto industry selling and managing for a local dealership for nine years. Stoffle and his wife, Amanda, have been married for over four years. Together they have two young daughters and one on the way. His hobbies, other than family and work include hunting, fishing and working with his hands. Stoffle says he is excited to be a part of the Phil Wright team and is looking forward to meeting new customer and making new friendships in the River Valley area.

3300 E. Main, Hwy. 64 East, Russellville | (479) 968-1555 | philwrightautoplex.com APRIL 2017 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

A PAGE FROM

The Editor’s Notebook

Comfortable with being uncomfortable

Politics and religion… It seems that the very two subjects our dads told us never to talk about are the two things we should be talking about the most. Let me back up a bit. Although we may have been warned about the dangers of sharing our deeply held beliefs and thoughts, our parents and grandparents never really worried about it. There was just no reason to talk about it when nearly 100 percent of the people they knew believed and thought just like them. There was no need for discourse beyond quibbling about the specifics and minutiae of personal interpretations in Sunday school or at the Mt. Nebo Chicken Fry. An overall dissenting ideology was rare as hen’s teeth. Communities around the River Valley were mostly homogenous. The 2017 scene is quite different. The River Valley has become a microcosm of the melting pot that made our country great. Today, we can find a diverse array of political alignments from left to right and all through the middle. Houses of worship across the spectrum of religions have sprung up across the region and then there are those who practice in private or practice nothing at all. Diversity is here whether we like it or not. And now we must deal with it as we best we can for the betterment of all that call this beautiful and special place home. Just a few weeks ago, I visited the Arkansas delegation stationed in Washington D.C. I was there on behalf of constituents, to ask that our voices be heard amid the thundering waves of heavy influence atop Capital Hill. But I was also there to listen, to gain an understanding of how our senators and representatives thought. I was there to discuss politics and even flirted with religion in an effort to understand. Listening, truly listening with an open mind and nonjudgemental ear, to this somewhat intimate information is the only way to get a feel for the bedrock of a person’s life. It’s the foundation for all other communication. Now, more than ever, we need to be talking about these subjects that once made us so uncomfortable. We need to become comfortable with being uncomfortable in an effort to understand our neighbors, in an effort to make them our friends. This first step is a doozy, but it’s how we learn that our differences maybe aren’t so big and our similarities more numerous than we first thought. It’s how we learn that “they” are really just a part of “us.”

Johnny Carrol Sain, Editor johnny@aboutrvmag.com

Celebrating a Decade of Character in the Arkansas River Valley A Publication of One14 Productions, Inc Vol. XII, Issue 3 – April 2017

DIANNE EDWARDS | founding editor JOHNNY CARROL SAIN | managing editor johnny@aboutrvmag.com LIZ CHRISMAN | photography editor lizchrismanphoto@gmail.com BENITA DREW | advertising benita@aboutrvmag.com CHRISTINE SAIN | advertising christine@aboutrvmag.com MIKE QUAIN | creative content producer mike@aboutrvmag.com MEREDITH MARTIN-MOATS | freelance meredith@aboutrvmag.com SARAH CHENAULT | freelance sarah@aboutrvmag.com LYDIA ZIMMERMAN | columnist lydia@aboutrvmag.com CHRIS ZIMMERMAN | layout/design chris@aboutrvmag.com CLIFF THOMAS | illustrator maddsigntist@aboutrvmag.com

ABOUT… the River Valley is locally owned and published for distribution by direct mail and targeted delivery to those interested in the Arkansas River Valley. Material contained in this issue may not be copied or reproduced without written consent. Inquiries may be made by calling (479) 219-5031. Office: 220 East 4th Street Email: info@aboutrvmag.com Postmaster: Please send address changes to: One14 Productions 220 East 4th Street Russellville, AR 72801

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS: APRIL 2017 April 2 — Build-A-Black Bear at the Hearth Room in the Lodge from 11 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. Mt. Magazine State Park is a known habitat for American black bears. These majestic creatures are some of our guests’ favorite memories of the park. Now take home your own bear as well as memories of the park. Put together your own stuffed bear while learning about the bears of Mt. Magazine State Park. Purchase tickets at lodge front desk. Admission is $20. For more info contact 963-8502. April 2 — US Army Field Band Concert at the Center for the Arts in Russellville at 2 p.m. Event is free but ticket is required. For more info and tickets contact 4986600 or email info@russellvillecenter.net April 6 — ArkansasGives Festival hosted by the Pope County Community Foundation at the Russellville Depot from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. ArkansasGives is a 12-hour online giving event for Arkansas nonprofit organizations. For more info contact 9673083 or email at popecounty@arcf.org. April 8 — Night Vision Lake Dardanelle State Park from 8 p.m. - 9 p.m. Lake Dardanelle State Park’s diverse habitats sustain many living creatures. Many of those creatures come out only at night. Join a park interpreter at the amphitheater and discover some of the tricks nocturnal inhabitants of the park use to get around at night. Admission is free. For more info contact 967-5516. April 8 — The 4th Annual Bash at the Ballpark will bring music, food, prizes and other activities in conjunction with

ABOUT...the River Valley

the Arkansas Tech Wonder Boys’ baseball game at Tech Field. Festivities are from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Admission is free. For more info contact 968-2530 or visit www.russellvillechamber.org. April 14-16 — Great Escape Weekend and Easter Egg Hunt at Petit Jean State Park. Celebrate spring and the great outdoors at our Great Escape Weekend. Enjoy free nature programs and family activities. The celebration concludes with an “Easter Egg Scramble” for children to search for about 2,000 Easter eggs. Contact the park for a schedule. Admission is free. For info contact (501) 727-5441. April 15 — Saturday’s Fair at the Hughes Community Center from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Presented by Arkansas Hospice, Saturday’s Fair is a family-oriented fundraiser with the atmosphere of a county fair. Games, prizes, food trucks, entertainment and more. Weather permitting, there will be a visit from Tusk, the Arkansas Razorbacks’ mascot. Admission is free, but bring cash for games and lunch at the food trucks. Net proceeds benefit the Arkansas Hospice River Valley Home. For more info contact 964-4500. April 21-22 — RussVegas Half Marathon and Relay. Benefits Arkansas Children’s Hospital and River Valley Circle of Friends. Friday night events include kids mile, 5k Glow Run, bands, food, and an expo. For info go to www.russvegashalf.com. April 22 — pARTy in the Park. Artists, musicians, performer’s, and vendors, pARTy in the park will be located at 1001 E.

*Unless otherwise indicated, all area codes are 479. To have your event included in the ABOUT Calendar of Events, email: editor@aboutrvmag.com or fax to (479) 219-5031. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication.

B Street and is hosted by the River Valley Arts Center, the Hughes Community Center, and the Recreation and Parks department. If you would like to be a vendor please contact Sarah at the River Valley Arts Center at 968-2452 or email at rvartscenter@gmail.com April 21-22 — Funky Junk Road Show at the Marvin Vinson Center 1611 Oakland Street Clarksville from 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. 20,000 square feet full of vendors with one of a kind handmade, boutique, repurposed, vintage items and more. Admission is $1. For info contact 746-1716. April 29 — Relay for Life Pope, Yell and Conway Counties from 5 - 10 p.m. at the Russellville Depot and Depot Park. For info contact (318) 315-2368.

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ABOUT ABOUT the the RIVER RIVER VALLEY VALLEY ~ ~ APRIL APRIL 2017 2017

Story by MI KE QUAIN Photos by LIZ CHRISM AN

When Eric Edens’ 1940 Plymouth springs to life you hear it. With the flip of a switch and a puff of smoke, the big block 413 engine roars to life through a set of cut-off headers. The sound is both deafening and awe inspiring. To some folks, a car is an appliance. It gets you from point A to point B with minimal drama but is as forgettable as a toaster or a washing machine. But some folks treat automobiles as a passion, and Eric Edens is one of those people. Eric has spent the last two years grinding, welding, and building his own dream car using scavenged parts and scrap metal. His creation is named “Rusty.” Rusty is what motor-heads like to call a rat rod. A portmanteau of hot rod and rat bike, the term originated in the 90s to describe a new wave of builders who were making relatively inexpensive hot rods out of long abandoned vehicles from the 30s and 40s.

This new style was a counter-reaction to high-priced “trailer queens” that dominated the custom car scene at the time. A trailer queen is a car built for show that is never driven for fear of damage. They have impeccable paint, chrome engines, and perfect interiors but are too nice to drive. A rat rod is built to be driven hard, drag raced, and is often driven to any car show.

APRIL 2017 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

“If it’s painted, it’s a hot rod. Rust is a must.” Early rat rods were similar to the original custom roadsters and hot rods of the 50s but were often left primered or rusty in an “as found” condition. Imagine a car like those seen in the movie “Grease” but with less paint. Over the years, the term evolved to include a wide variety of machines with only a few common characteristics. The most important of these being rust. Eric says, “If it’s painted, it’s a hot rod. Rust is a must.” Rusty, formally known as Russell Bigelow, began life as a 1940 Plymouth pickup truck. From the factory, Rusty likely had a small, 201 cubic inch, Chrysler flathead engine. It presumably spent its life on a farm before being sentenced to an eternity in the salvage yard. Over the years, useful parts were stripped from it and the automobile was left to rot. When Eric found the truck it was just a hollow shell with a locked up motor — the perfect candidate for a rat rod revival. 10

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

Eric built Rusty from the ground up. He created the frame with metal tubing then modified the truck frame to sit on top. He used an old hot rodder technique called channeling to remove a portion of the original body so it would rest closer to the ground for an aggressive look. The top has been “chopped,” removing strips of metal to lower the roofline. Eric cobbled together Rusty’s running gear from thirteen different machines including a hay baler and a boat. The front wheels are from a Ford Model A and the headlights are from a 1930 Rolls Royce Phantom. “Nobody has been able to guess where the headlights came from,” Eric says. The steering gearbox is out of a ‘67 Chevy truck and the engine is a huge 413 big block from a 60s Chrysler Imperial. The steering column is from a mid-80s Chevy station wagon. It even has a tilt steering wheel. Even more impressive are all the little details Eric added. The shifter is a wooden boat paddle and the shifter boot is an actual

boot. A saw blade sets atop the air cleaner and the brake pedal is made from an old plowshare. The gas pedal is a boot sole. Around back, hollowed pistons are used for taillights. The rat rod only has one gauge, which monitors oil pressure. He checks the fuel using a dipstick not unlike the one used to check oil. Parts from this truck span eight decades and the whole thing fits together in a sort of organized chaos reminiscent of a Mad Max movie. In a way, Rusty is an exaggerated caricature of a hot rod, something Ed Roth would have drawn on a sweatshirt. If this isn’t functional art, I don’t know what is. Eric estimates that he’s spent $8,000 in parts over the two years it

took to build Rusty. The hours he’s spent fabricating are countless. Because of the variety of part sources, much of the build had to be created from scratch. He made his own brake system, steering system, suspension, and cooling system among other things. Although Eric will be the first to admit that Rusty looks like a death-trap, Eric says he takes safety very seriously. He’s installed modern disk brakes for quick stopping and an air-ride suspension to smooth out the road. A modern axle prevents dangerous failures. Even with all of its amenities, it’s not the most comfortable ride. “This isn’t a long distance vehicle,” Eric says. “You wouldn’t want to drive it to California even though I guess you could.” A comfortable ride isn’t the point. Rusty is designed to burn rubber and look good doing it. Eric is now the general manager of Phil Wright Toyota in Russellville but has been passionate about antique cars and hot rods since he was a kid. “I grew up around old cars as a kid. My dad was a junk car dealer,” Eric says. “When I was ten years old I was so enthralled with antique cars that I could tell you the difference between a ‘28 ‘29 and ‘30 Model A.” All of this attention to detail hasn’t been wasted. Eric spends long hours searching scrap yards and swap meets, looking for the perfect parts. >> APRIL 2017 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

To begin a rat rod project, Eric recommends a car built in the 30’s or 40’s. They have graceful and sleek lines but simple sheet metal that is easy to work with. Common rat rods are built out of the Ford Model A and coupes. Chevy, Ford, and Dodge trucks also make great candidates. The popularity of rat rods started growing exponentially around 2010 and the trend went viral as a new generation started building these custom vehicles. This surge of popularity has been met with mixed reviews by some of the more traditional hot rodders. They complain that rat rods are too low, too loud, and too ugly to be at car shows. That being said, the crowds love them. Eric says, “There are people who have spent 75 or 80 thousand dollars on their restoration. They’re beautiful, but so nice that you can’t enjoy them. People will walk right past that car and start making circles around mine.” In addition, Eric says that he has much more fun with this truck than he has had with other classic cars. “What fun is a car if you have to haul it on a trailer everywhere you go and you don’t want to put any miles on it? You might as well have a model car sitting on a shelf.” He goes on to say that he’s owned very nice classic cars in the past but didn’t get the same enjoyment out of them. “It’s not real fun because you’re always afraid of someone getting too close with a button or a snap. You can’t take them anywhere because you’re afraid of leaving them unattended. I had an old antique Corvette. It was a neat and fun car, but I didn’t have nearly as much fun with it. This has turned more heads than any other car I’ve ever had.” These days, Eric doesn’t worry about dings or dirt. Kids routinely get to climb in and around Rusty at car shows. “There’s nothing they can break,” says Eric. Eric was kind enough to give me a ride in his rat rod, and I wasn’t about to pass up the opportunity.

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

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My first surprise was that the doors open backwards. Suicide doors are an homage to the early days of hot rodding. As I was getting in Rusty, I noticed the cutoff headers and open cab and commented on how loud driving Rusty must be. Eric replied, “Nah, they aren’t too bad.” The old engine leaks a bit of oil, but started right up and I found out Eric was wrong. The sound inside the cab was loud. We’re talking uncomfortably loud. Rusty isn’t finished yet, but sound insulation was definitely not a priority. The ride, however, was surprisingly smooth. Eric’s custom built air-ride suspension is to thank for that. One trip up and down the driveway and I was already hooked.

EDUCATING

HAND & MIND

Eric isn’t alone in his hobby. His friend Dale Holt has his own custom rat rod. It’s a 1946 Chevy truck with a 454 big block, a tunnel-ram intake and four-speed transmission. Dale’s truck is a rarity in the rat rod world with luxuries like roll up windows, windshield wipers and turn signals. He says it’s perfectly drivable as long as you don’t mind getting six miles to the gallon. A project like Eric’s doesn’t evolve on its own. He’s had plenty of help from friends and the support of his wife. Eric is thinking about starting a rad rod club called River Valley Rat Rods in the near future. For some people, a car is more than just an appliance. l

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APRIL 2017 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

EVERY DAY LIFE

ABOUT...the River Valley

Out in the Boonies

Story by SARAH CHENAULT | Illustration by CLIFF THOMAS

Spring break is the perfect opportunity for short road trips and quick getaways. I try to always find time to take my son to do something fun on spring break even if just for a couple of days. It’s a small vacation before returning to the daily grind of second grade. This year a friend and I decided to take a trip to Branson with our kids. We had a relaxing drive through the mountains, experiencing some of the best scenic views Arkansas and Missouri have to offer. Although it was rainy and the temperature didn’t come up above 45 degrees our entire trip, we were snug inside our hotel room and the kids had a blast swimming in the indoor pool. My friend Liberty and I set up camp near the hot tub and watched the kids play while we relaxed in the bubbly water. We were all a little sad when it was time to head home and return to our normal lives. So we waited until the very last minute to check out, letting the kids swim one more time before the long car ride home. Then we packed the kids, wet heads and all, into my SUV and got on the road back to Russellville. On the way back to the highway, we passed a few antique stores and we stopped to peek inside and browse around the ones that caught our fancy.

Our last stop was an antique store that was a few miles off the highway and what a gem it was! I found all kinds of mid-century glassware, and Liberty stumbled upon some fantastic vintage jewelry. It was nearing dusk when my friend said “We better head home, or we will be driving these winding roads in the dark.” “Very good point, let’s head home. For real this time.” I told her. I put our destination back into the GPS and drove as instructed by the automated voice. About an hour into our journey, I started noticing that nothing looked familiar. I had made the drive to and from Branson so many times that I knew the landmarks by memory. I hadn’t passed anything that jogged my sense of direction at all. “Lib, I don’t think we’re going the right way.” I said quietly as not to frighten our kids. One glance in the rear view mirror revealed they were all slumped over sound asleep. I breathed a sigh of relief.

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

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“Yeah I noticed that a while back.” Liberty said. “But I think this is just taking us the back way, because we got off the main highway when we went to that last antique store. This highway was probably closer so the GPS routed us this way.” “Ok…” I said, still feeling slightly uneasy. “But do you have any idea where we are?” I hadn’t seen a sign in miles that gave any indication about what towns might be near. “Yeah, I think we are up around Mt. Judea and Lurton, which is where I’m from and a bunch of my family still lives. All of this looks pretty familiar to me, but it’s a little unnerving out here at night. So as long as we don’t stop anywhere or go down any strange roads we will be just fine.” I glanced over in her direction. “WHY would I go down any stra---” “Lookout!” Liberty shouted. I jerked back to the road just in time to see the flash of a deer. I yanked the wheel to the right to miss the deer and veered off onto the shoulder slightly. My tire ran over something making a loud thunk and we heard a pop. The flat tire sensor in my car instantly started flashing and I pulled off the road. “We must have hit something that popped my tire.” I said. “This is not good…” Liberty said. I turned around and checked the back seat. All three kids were still sound asleep. “I have no idea how they managed to sleep through that.” I said. “Sarah,” Liberty said seriously. “This is not a good place to have a flat tire, in the dark, with no cell phone reception.” I glanced down at my phone. Sure enough, no reception. “Well we can’t stay here all night. We are just going to have to put the spare on and hope for the best.” I said. “I have a flashlight in the back of the car. Hang on.” I got out and walked to the back of the car and dug around until I found my flashlight. I turned it on and located my car jack and spare tire then hauled them to the right side of my car.

Liberty helped me jack up my car and remove the lug nuts and slide the tire off. Just as we were hoisting the spare onto the axle, we heard the sound of a shotgun cocking behind us. We froze. “Oh Lord in Heaven, please help us and---” I began to pray. “What are y’all doing out here?” Came a low, gravelly male voice with a heavy southern accent. “We’re on our way home from Branson and we had a flat tire, but we called for help and there are lots of strong men coming to help us and there are tons of people who know right where we are!” I lied. I swore I could hear banjos playing in the distance. My hand was shaking but I had to see the face of the person holding the gun. I raised the flashlight and shone it on the man’s face. “Leroy?” Liberty asked. I was so stunned by the thought of her knowing this man I whirled around shined the light on her without thinking. “Jailbird?” Leroy asked. “Yeah it’s me!” Liberty said excitedly. Jailbird? The two exchanged a quick hug while I stared in confusion. “Sarah, this is my cousin Leroy. Leroy, this is my friend Sarah.” We said hello to each other and before I knew it Leroy finished changing the tire, loaded everything back in the vehicle for us, and had us back on the road after saying goodbyes. None of the sleeping children even opened an eye during the whole ordeal. I finally let out a huge sigh of relief and relaxed my tense shoulders. “I’m glad we ran into Leroy.” Liberty said. “I had no idea we were close to his house. Everything looks so different at night. But everybody in these parts is either related to you or they hate your whole family because of something that happened a hundred years ago.” I looked at her with wide eyes. “Remind me to never come this direction again. It’s like a whole other world out here in the boonies!” I said. “Now, about this Jailbird thing…” l APRIL 2017 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

Dardanelle Story by MEREDITH MARTIN-MOATS | Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN

I GREW UP IN DARDANELLE THROUGH THE 1970S AND 80S. MY PARENTS CAME OF AGE IN THE SAME SMALL TOWN IN THE 1950S AND 60S. Back in the early 1900s, their parents grew up in the logging community of Harkey’s Valley and the cotton farming community of Carden Bottoms, outlying rural communities for which Dardanelle was the commercial center. Later on in life my maternal grandparents left the bottoms so my grandfather could find employment in the newly created chicken plant in town. It was called Janet Davis Kitchens then, and he worked the overnight maintenance shift. My paternal grandparents stayed in Harkey’s Valley, coming to town for whatever couldn’t be grown in the garden. 16 16

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017 ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

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17 17

'm the first person in my family to earn a history degree, but my respect for research and storytelling is a product of my upbringing. My maternal grandparents frequently told stories about picking cotton; my paternal grandmother recounted my grandfather singing songs at the rural Church of Christ on Sundays. My father always has a story about the logging woods, the water systems of the county, and is an all-around walking encyclopedia of local knowledge. My mother passed away eight years ago, but made sure I knew the town's historic landmarks: Council Oaks, the WPA mural in the downtown Post Office, the Rock, and the old gin. It would have been easy for me to grow up next to these spaces and see them only as background. But my mother had a way of integrating history into everyday life. When we'd go to the post office she'd point at the large WPA mural hanging on the wall: â&#x20AC;&#x153;You're grandparents were sharecroppers,â&#x20AC;? she'd explain as we stood and looked at the 1930s painting of a man picking cotton. Long before my family ever lived in the area, the region belonged to the Osage, Caddo, and, later, the Quapaw and the Cherokee. Though they repudiated the treaty, by 1820 18

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

part of Arkansas was given to the Choctaw in anticipation of their removal from land in Mississippi. By the mid 1800s all the tribes had been forcibly removed to make way for white settlers who wanted the rich bottomland for their farms and settlements. Nearby communities such as Chickalah still bear the linguistic marks of a life before white settlement. Near the banks of the river, not far from the Dardanelle Rock, sits a large oak tree. There used to be two (maybe more) until lightening killed them. Some of my earliest memories take place at this small city park by the Arkansas River known as Council Oaks. Local oral history claims it was the site of a treaty between the Cherokee and the white settlers. Back in the 1980s, it happened to also be one of the only places a kid could go swing. So my mother would take me down there to play and remind me of what this space held.

It turns out the park we call Council Oaks may not have actually been the site of the treaty, though, records indicate it did take place somewhere in the vicinity of what is now Dardanelle. The treaty wasn't an official treaty but rather a not-so-diplomatic meeting taking place on June 25, 1823 between then governor Robert Crittenden of the Arkansas Territory and representatives from the Cherokee: John Jolly, Black Fox, Wat Ebber, Waterminnow, Young Glass, Thomas Graves and George Morris. Both the Cherokee representatives and the Governor wanted an audience with Secretary of War John C. Calhoun, the man who had authority of Indian affairs in the county. The Governor sided with many of the white settlers who were blatantly pushing for the removal of Native Americans, including the Cherokee who were living on what was federally considered Choctaw land. The Cherokee wanted a better treaty deal, and they came to the meeting knowing that Governor Crittenden had no power to remove them from the Choctaw land. The meeting didn't really address the concerns of any of the parties, but it was seen as a monumental gathering in the region at the time. The park itself was named years later, and whether or not the park was the actual spot of the gathering, it serves to remind countless Dardanelle residents of a time when Native Americans still occupied this land. By the mid 1800s all of the Native American tribes had been forced out. White settlers came to sell, trade, and work the rich bottomland. No one knows exactly where the name of the town comes from, but local historian Dr. Diane Gleason notes that it could have come from the 300-foot rock face near the edge of the river that reminded travelers of the Dardanelles in Turkey. Or perhaps it derived from the French explorer Jean Baptiste Dardenne who held a 600 acre Spanish land grant that encompassed much of what is now Russellville. According to the 1840 census, the small town boasted 39 heads of household. The town was officially platted in 1847 and incorporated in 1855. As a port town, Dardanelle became a rich trading post and the economic center for a prosperous cotton farming region. Records show that both rum and gin were big business and the town was home to several mercantile shops, taverns, a weekly newspaper, a doctor, and a Masonic lodge. Most of the settlers came from Tennessee and North Carolina. Slavery was prevalent in the nearby farmlands, especially in the regions growing cotton. According to an 1860 census, 74 slaves lived in Dardanelle. Another 869 slaves lived on cotton farms outside of town. During the Civil War Dardanelle was home to a great deal of activity with both the Union and Confederate Troops seeking control. About 100 men in the town fought in the Confederate Army, but by 1864 the city was captured by Union troops. Cotton crops continued to bring in money long after the Civil War, and many families depended on cotton as sharecroppers and small scale farmers. At one time, Second Street had at least three cotton gins, maybe more. I remember as a child passing by the old gins, which sat not far from my grandparents home. >>

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The cotton economy died out in the 1970s, says, David Merritt, the current owner of Yell County Gin Incorporated. The gin itself was built in 1947, and his family purchased it in 1966 when Merritt was thirteen years old. “I loved it here as a kid,” he recalls. “I got to drive the tractors and pull the trailers.” When his family first bought the gin he says there was still a lot of what his father called “upland cotton.” This was cotton grown an acre or two at a

time by mostly self-sufficient, small-scale farmers near the river bottoms and Fourche Valley. They raised a little cotton as a cash crop to purchase what they couldn't grow or make at home. “They were probably still hand picking it,” he explains “When they got here you had to break the line of the bigger farmers so you could gin theirs off their truck,” he says. Within 10 years, Merritt explains, the small scale farms had all but gone. “I think 1976 was the last year we ginned,” he says. Cotton was growing too expensive to produce even for the large farms which dominated the area by that time. “You had mostly your bigger farmers. They had mechanized pickers and tractors and were growing hundreds of acres of cotton.” Rice, soybeans, and chicken farming begin to dominate the region. Merritt says by that time his family had diversified the business, taking on a tractor dealership along with selling feed, fertilizer and farm supplies. These days he says his biggest business comes from “rural lifestyle people.” “They may have five acres or ten acres or twenty acres but they're not farming. They're maintaining their piece of property.” He noted that these days farming in the region is dominated by the Walmart model: Huge corporate farms that cover large swaths of the county. Merritt says he never expected to take over the business, but as the owner he wants to bring business back to the town. He says one of his favorite things about running the space is the connection to the town. He notes the changing demographics, but says immigration is nothing new to the region. “Dardanelle has always been

welcoming to immigrants. If you go back to WWI, the eastern Europeans came. We always called them bohemians, but they were Czechs and several different eastern countries. They became a huge part of this community. And now we have a Hispanic population.” Merritt says he wants to make sure his business showcases the store's history and becomes a destination for people in the area looking for small tractors and other lifestyle equipment needs. He plans to turn the front area of the store into a historical museum of sorts and help educate people about the history of the area. “We want people to come not just to buy a tractor. We want people to come to see our unique building.”

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The cotton gin isn't the only place where you can see the markers of the popular cash crop. Our local post office boasts an original mural from the WPA Percent for Art funding, which put artists back to work during the Depression. Any time a new federal building was created, one percent of its budget had to go to original art work. A whole of series of murals — 1,400 to be exact — were created around the nation. Many are still hanging in post offices from Dardanelle to California. Several years ago I had the chance to meet with Dr. Gayle Seymour, an art historian at the University of Central Arkansas, who studies and advocates for the 21 Depression-era murals found

around our state. According to Seymour, the mural in Dardanelle was created by Ludwig Mactarian, an Armenian man born in 1908 in Smyrna. His family escaped the Armenian Genocide before coming to New York when he was 13. Like most mural artists who applied for the Federal Art Project, Mactarian was an unknown and out of work. Later in life he worked for the military, documenting battles. The center panel is what makes the Dardanelle mural particularly daring, Seymour told me. Because the murals were federally funded, there was little room for challenging the status quo or calling the government in to question. Most of the pieces focused on showcasing industry, growth, or well known stories from local history. But the Dardanelle mural features a black man carrying a loaded basket of cotton high on his back. Mactarian, a man intimately familiar with injustice, focused on the economically poor black and white families whose labor fueled the industry. From an art historian’s perspective, Seymour explained, the man is a reference to “Atlas supporting the globe.” The artist’s intent, Seymour argues, “is to show [that] the African American sharecropper carries the weight of the world on his shoulders.” A few years back the Dardanelle Historical Society raised the funds to have the mural restored and it looks beautiful. I live in Little Rock these days, but my family and I plan to move back to the region in the near future. I know I have only begun to skim the surface of the region's history, and I can't wait to dig deeper into the history of tribes in the region, the world of

cotton, and the stories of the logging woods outside of town. I want to sit down with my father along with other people of his generation and further document the wealth of stories they posses. I want to learn more about not only the physical structures of the region, but also the stories that have slipped through the cracks with little visual reminders upon the landscape. I want to take the stories of the past and learn what it means to live here in this moment. l

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COMMUNITY PAGES

ABOUT...the River Valley

Nichols named vice president for student services at ATU Dr. Keegan Nichols, associate vice president for student affairs at Fort Hays State University (Kan.), has been selected as the next vice president for student services at Arkansas Tech University. Nichols will take office on June 26, 2017. She will provide leadership for ATU’s programs in campus life, diversity and inclusion, public safety, residence life, student conduct, student wellness and veteran services. “We are excited to welcome Dr. Nichols to the ATU community and our executive council,” said Arkansas Tech President Dr. Robin E. Bowen. “She will play an integral role in the continuous growth and improvement of our student services operations with a focus on creating experiences that complement classroom instruction through a co-curricular model.” Amy Pennington, who has served as interim vice president for student services since Sept. 1, 2016, will continue in her role as dean of students upon Nichols’ arrival at Arkansas Tech. “Amy is a tremendous asset to Arkansas Tech University,” said Bowen. “We are appreciative of her willingness to serve in an interim capacity for these past six months and for the next three months. Her leadership qualities allowed us to make

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

progress in the Division of Student Services during the 2016-17 academic year and build toward a future that will provide even greater opportunities for our students.” A native of Vilonia, Nichols holds a Bachelor of Science in Education degree from the University of Central Arkansas, a Master of Science degree in college administration from the University of Central Missouri and a Doctor of Education degree in adult and higher education from Northern Illinois University. Nichols has served in her current position at Fort Hays State University since June 2013. She was previously vice president of student affairs at Colby Community College (Kan.) from 2010-13, and she has additional experience working in student services at Northern Illinois University and Rockford College (Ill.).

POPE COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION HOSTS ARKANSASGIVES FESTIVAL

The Pope County Community Foundation will host the ArkansasGives Festival from 8 a.m. - to 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 6 at the Russellville Depot. ArkansasGives is a 12-hour online giving event. Donors must go to ArkansasGives. org between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

on April 6 to make a donation. They’ll be able to search for their favorite nonprofits and assign their donation to the nonprofit of their choice. During the Festival, the majority of the 32 Russellville nonprofits eligible for donations during ArkansasGives will be in attendance as funds are collected toward Arkansas Community Foundation’s goal of $5 million. There will be computers available for guests to log in to ArkansasGives. org and donate while at The Depot along with games and live entertainment beginning at 4 p.m. Pope County Community Foundation Executive Director Madelyn Ginsberg in-

vites the community to join in on the fun. “ArkansasGives has been such a great opportunity for our nonprofits to rally donor support through an online giving day,” said Ginsberg. “Help support your favorite nonprofits in the River Valley on April 6th and join us at The Depot and get to know some of the many people making a difference in our community.” ArkansasGives is a project of Arkansas Community Foundation, a nonprofit organization promoting smart giving to improve communities. The Community Foundation offers tools to help Arkansans protect, grow, and direct their charitable dollars as they learn more about community needs. By making grants and sharing knowledge, the Community Foundation supports charitable programs that work for Arkansas and partners to create new initiatives that address the gaps. Since 1976, the Community Foundation has provided more than $156 million in grants and partnered with thousands of Arkansans to help them improve our neighborhoods, our towns and our entire state. For more information about this topic, please contact Madelyn Ginsberg at 9673083 or email at popecounty@arcf.org.

BASH AT THE BALLPARK 2017

The Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce will host the 2017 Bash at the Ballpark at Arkansas Tech University on Saturday, April 8.

The 4th Annual Bash at the Ballpark will bring music, food, prizes and other activities in conjunction with the Arkansas Tech Wonder Boys’ baseball game at Tech Field against the Southeastern Oklahoma State University Savage Storm. Event sponsors include EAB Radio, Asurion, McDonalds, MedExpress, Russellville Tourism & Visitor Center, Reaves Enterprises, Sorrell’s Body Shop, Sherwood Urgent Care, Suddenlink, Tyson-Tyler Road, and Vista Place Apartments. Bash at the Ballpark festivities will be from11 a.m. - 1 p.m. All youth baseball and softball players are invited to come meet the ATU baseball team and get autographs. Kids ages 5-12 can enter for a

chance throw out the first pitch which is scheduled for 1 p.m. Admission to both Bash at the Ballpark and the game will be free and open to the public. If April 8th’s game is rained out, there is a rain date set for 5 - 7 pm Friday, April 28. The Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce stands as a voluntary organization of businesses and professional men and women who have joined together for the purpose of promoting the civic, economic, professional, cultural, and industrial progress of our community. For more information about RACC programs call 968-2530 or visit www. russellvillechamber.org. >>

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NEW BOOK DETAILS THE HISTORY OF ARKANSAS TECH UNIVERSITY

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A member of the Arkansas Tech University faculty has authored a history of the institution. Dr. Thomas A. DeBlack, professor of history, has completed a work entitled “A Century Forward: The Centennial History of Arkansas Tech University.” “A Century Forward” is available for purchase weekdays at the Barnes and Noble College Bookstore at ATU, which is located in the W.O. Young Building at 209 West O Street in Russellville; and the ATU Alumni House, which is located at 1313 North Arkansas Ave. in Russellville. Cost is $45 per book plus tax. The new book tells the story of Arkansas Tech University, beginning with the events that led to its creation as the Second District Agricultural School in 1909 and continuing through its evolution to become Arkansas Polytechnic College in 1925 and Arkansas Tech University in 1976. The ending point of the book coincides with the conclusion of the presidency of Dr. Robert C. Brown in 2014. A member of the Arkansas Tech faculty since 1995, DeBlack is a past president of the Arkansas Historical Association and the Arkansas Association of College History Teachers. DeBlack is also an award-winning author. In 2003, he received the first Butler-Remmel Arkansas History Literary Prize for his book “With Fire and Sword: Arkansas 1861-74.” He co-authored the college-level textbook “Arkansas: A Narrative History,” which was recognized by

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

the Arkansas Library Association with its Arkansiana Prize in 2003. DeBlack’s areas of teaching and research emphasis are Arkansas history, the Old South, the New South, the Civil War and Reconstruction.

FOUR INDUCTED INTO BEAUX ARTS ACADEMY

The River Valley Arts Center will induct a performing artist, two visual artists, and a patron of the arts into the Beaux Arts Academy at an awards banquet and presentation on April 13 at Lake Point Conference Center. “We have another impressive lineup this year,” said John Gale, a member of the Arts Center board of directors. “For more than 35 years the Arts Center has worked to improve the understanding, appreciation and importance of the arts and especially our local artists and patrons who add so much to the quality of

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life and economy in the Arkansas River Valley. And we want to honor them,” he said. This is the tenth year for this prestigious award recognizing achievement in River Valley art, and it has become one of the biggest and most memorable annual art events. Members and supporters are vital in allowing the Arts Center to bring services, activities and programs to the public. All are deeply appreciated and so important to the success of the Arts Center. This year’s inductees include: Patron of the Arts — Judy Murphy

Visual Artists — Mr. & Mrs. Neal Harrington

Performing Artist — Vicky Kiehl

All inductees will receive a unique blackware pottery piece featuring a spirit bear emblem designed and created especially for this honor by artist-in-residence Winston Taylor. Winston has the distinction of being chosen as Arkansas’s 2011 Living Treasure and our own 2012 Visual Artist of the Year. Anyone wishing to express a personal tribute to an inductee can sponsor one of the three awards for $250. The sponsor may or may not choose to present the award but will be recognized in the printed program and in all press releases. Due to space limitations, reservations are required. Tickets are $50 per person and can be reserved by calling the Arts Center at 968-2452, mailing a check to PO Box 2112, Russellville, Arkansas 72811, or coming by 1001 East B Street, Russellville.

RUSSELLVILLE SYMPHONY GUILD ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP BRUNCH

The Russellville Symphony Guild will hold their annual membership brunch at the home of Mrs. Cynthia Blanchard, 202 E. Shore Dr. in Russellville. The event begins at 11 a.m. The brunch serves as an opportunity for individuals to join RSG, to support their role in promoting music in our schools, and to sponsor music scholarships. One year memberships may be paid at the brunch, or the $20 may be mailed to treasurer Judy Murphy at 126 Lakeview Circle, Russellville, AR 72802. For more information, call board member Judy Murphy at 967-1177. l APRIL 2017 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

VALLEY VITTLES

ABOUT...the River Valley

Sweet Pastels

Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN | Story by JOHNNY CARROL SAIN KNEADING HANDS BAKERY | 411 W Parkway Dr, Russellville

Pastel sweetness has been a hallmark of Easter since the 1800s when eggshaped sugar pastries starting popping up in German immigrant bakeries. The pastries celebrated the return of “der Osterhase” or “ the Easter hare,” which soon became everyone’s favorite bunny… before Bugs of course. Since those first egg-shaped pastries, the spring saccharine scene has been mostly dominated by chocolate because apparently Valentine’s Day just wasn’t enough. But lately, there’s been a resurgence in baked goods for all occasions. And it only seems appropriate that bakers around the world reclaim their former stronghold as creators of a welcome indulgence after 40 days of sacrifice, a well-kept (so far) New Year’s 26

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

resolution, or just making it through the winter. Whatever the reasoning, you deserve some sweets for spring. You can get those sweets — in mindboggling array — at Kneading Hands Bakery in downtown Russellville. We ate scones and we ate cupcakes and we ate sugar cookies too pretty to eat but too scrumptious not to eat. And then we ate cake. It was a light-almond flavored cake with butter cream frosting, chipped bars of white chocolate nestled in its gossamer crown and sprinkles all over. It is indubitably the most prized of gifts that could be left behind by der Osterhase. And after one bite you’ll know that springtime sugary goodness should always and forever be left to the baker’s hands. l

APRIL 2017 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

COUNTERTOP CREATIONS

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Italian Brunch Casserole

Easter Sunday meals made easy Story by LYDIA ZIMMERMAN, Food Editor

aster morning is generally like Christmas morning — chaos. It may start with the kids racing to see what the Easter Bunny left in their baskets, then breakfast, then getting ready and attending church services. Your afternoon may consist of coming home to serve lunch followed by the big egg hunt. This was my childhood experience. Easter traditions may vary, but the question from moms is “who has time to prepare a meal?” To help out the busy mom on such an occasion, I’ve compiled some easy put-together-ahead-of-time recipes that will fuel your family for those afternoon festivities. As always, enjoy! 28

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

1 (8 oz.) package sweet Italian sausage 8 green onions, sliced (about 1 c) 2 zucchini, diced (about 3 c) 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp pepper 1 (7 oz.) jar roasted red bell peppers, drained and chopped Cooking spray 1 loaf Italian bread, cut into 1-in cubes (about 8 c) 2 c shredded sharp Cheddar cheese 6 large eggs 1 1/2 c 1% milk Preheat oven to 325°. Remove and discard casings from sausage. Cook sausage in a large skillet, stirring until sausage crumbles and is no longer pink; drain. Add onions, zucchini, salt and pepper. Sauté for 4 minutes. Stir in roasted peppers; drain and cool. Spread 4 cups Italian bread cubes in a lightly greased 13-by-9-inch baking dish. Top the layer of cubes with half of the sausage mixture and half of the cheese. Create another layer with remaining bread, sausage and cheese. Whisk together eggs and milk. Pour egg mixture over cheese. Cover and chill for 8 hours. Bake, covered, for at least 1 hour or until bubbly and hot. Recipe courtesy of myrecipes.com

TWO-POTATO GRATIN 1 large onion 1 T Olive oil Salt Black Pepper 1½ lb baking potatoes (about 3 medium) 12 oz sweet potato (about 1 medium) 5 oz shredded Gruyère cheese (about 1½ cups) 1 c half-and-half 2 tsp cornstarch 1 T butter Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Trim and peel onion, keeping root end intact. Cut onion into thin wedges through root end. In 12-in. skillet, heat oil on medium. Add onion in single layer and sprinkle with 1/8 teaspoon salt. Cook 6 minutes or until golden brown and just tender, turning often; cool slightly. Meanwhile, peel potatoes; cut into 1/8-inch-thick rounds. Arrange half of potatoes and half of onion in shallow 2-quart baking dish in single layer, overlapping slices. Sprinkle with half of Gruyère. Arrange remaining potatoes and onion on top, creating pattern if desired. In 2-quart saucepan, whisk half-and-half into cornstarch to dissolve. Add butter and ¼ teaspoon each salt and black pepper. Heat on medium-high until bubbles begin to form around edge, whisking. Pour over potato mixture. Cover with foil; bake 30 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle remaining Gruyère on

top, and bake 25 minutes or until golden and bubbling. Cool slightly to serve warm, or cool to room temperature, cover, and refrigerate up to overnight. Reheat, covered, at 350 degrees F for 40 minutes or until hot. Recipe courtesy of thetimesnews.com EASY HAM PASTA SALAD 8 oz ziti pasta 1 lb cooked ham, cubed 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1 in pieces 1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1 in pieces 1 large red onion, coarsely chopped 15 small sweet pickles, chopped, juice reserved 1 c cherry tomatoes, halved 1 c mayonnaise 1/2 c sour cream

2 1/2 tsp beef bouillon granules 1 T white vinegar 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp ground black pepper 2 cloves garlic, minced Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain. In a large bowl, mix together the drained pasta, ham, peppers, onion, pickles and tomatoes. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, beef bouillon granules, vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic and 1/2 cup of reserved pickle juice. Fold into the salad and toss gently until evenly coated. Chill overnight to allow the flavors to blend. Serve near room temperature. Recipe courtesy of myrecipes.com

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SKINNY BAKED BROCCOLI MAC & CHEESE Nonstick cooking spray 12 oz. whole wheat pasta (elbows, rotini, shells, etc.) 12 oz. fresh or frozen broccoli florets 2 T butter 1/4 c freshly minced onion 1/4 c flour 2 c fat-free milk 1 c low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth Salt & freshly cracked black pepper, to taste 8 oz. (2 c) reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese 2 T grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 c panko bread crumbs Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Coat a 9 x 9 baking dish with cooking spray. Set a large pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and broccoli together; cook according to pasta’s package directions for al dente. In a large skillet set to medium heat, melt butter. Add onion and cook 1 minute. Whisk in flour and cook another minute. Whisk in milk and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cook sauce about 5 minutes, or until smooth and thick. Season with salt and pepper. Once sauce has thickened, remove from heat. Add cheddar, stirring until well blended. Add pasta and broccoli; mix well. Pour into prepared baking dish. Top with

MAMA’S CHICKEN POULET 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded 1 c Shredded Cheddar Cheese ½ c Mayo ¼ c Green Onions 4 eggs 1 stick margarine 2 C Chicken Broth (a )) ounce can 16 oz pkg Peppridge Farm corn bread stuffing mix 1 c milk 1 c water 1 can cream of mushroom soup Sprinkling of salt

grated parmesan and breadcrumbs. Lightly coat top with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, then broil for 2-4 minutes to get the breadcrumbs golden. TIPS: This freezes very well! Just cover the assembled, unbaked mixture with foil and place in your freezer. Reheat from frozen, covered, in a preheated 350 degree F oven for 30-40 minutes. You can toss some cooked, chopped ham or chicken into the mac ‘n cheese to make it a hearty, delicious full meal! Recipe courtesy of comfortofcooking.com

Melt stick of margarine in cup of water by heating in the microwave. Place stuffing mix in bowl. Pour water and margarine over and stir. Add 2 eggs and chicken broth, stir. In separate bowl, combine shredded chicken, mayo, and onions. Stir well. Place ½ of stuffing mix in bottom of a 9x13 pan. Top with all of chicken mixture. Dash salt over chicken. Top with remaining stuffing mix. Beat together remaining two eggs and milk. Pour over mixture in pan. Cover and place in refrigerator for at least eight hours. Before baking, remove cover and spread cream of mushroom soup over top. Place in 350 oven, uncovered, and bake for 45 minutes. Remove from oven and top with shredded cheese. Return for another five minutes, or until cheese is melted. Recipe courtesy of southernplate.com

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oven shelf 1 foot from the heat source. Remove turkey breast from the slow cooker into a heatproof serving dish. Place on the oven shelf and broil for 3 to 5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Keep an eye on it - it browns very quickly! Serve immediately with gravy on the side.

SLOW COOKER TURKEY BREAST 4 lb turkey breast, skin on, bone in or boneless (if using frozen, thaw it) 1 head of garlic, cut in half horizontally 1 onion (brown, yellow or white), unpeeled, cut in half 5 sprigs of thyme (or 2 tsp dried thyme leaves) Rub 1½ tsp garlic powder 1½ tsp onion powder 1 tsp paprika 2 tsp salt 5 grinds of black pepper 1½ - 2 T olive oil Gravy Chicken stock/broth (or water), for topping up liquid (see Gravy step 1) 4 T butter ¼ c flour Salt and pepper Place Rub ingredients in a bowl and mix to combine, it should be a wet paste. Pat the turkey dry all over with paper

towels. Slather with the Rub, using most for the side and top. Place the garlic, onion and thyme face down in the slow cooker. Place the turkey breast on top so it is elevated. Cook on low for 6-7 hours. Remove turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest for 20 minutes before crisping the skin. Crisp the Skin Preheat grill/broiler to high. Place an

Gravy Strain the liquid into a measuring jug, squishing the garlic etc to extract all the flavour. If you are short of 2 cups, top up with chicken broth (I usually get 2 cups of liquid from a 4 lb / 2 kg turkey breast). Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and mix to combine. Pour about ½ cup of liquid into the flour mixture and mix until it forms a paste. Slowly add remaining liquid, stirring as your go. Use a whisk if required to make the gravy smooth. Simmer until thickened - take it off before it is as thick as you want because it will continue to thicken. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve with turkey. Recipes courtesy of recipetineats.com

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COMMUNITY COMMERCE

ABOUT...the River Valley

Advanced Collision Solutions A

dvanced Collision Solutions is the very definition of growing a business from the ground up. What started as an empty lot on the outskirts of Russellville is now a thriving automotive collision repair enterprise. Richard Shilling had a vision for the lot in 2005 and recruited Dwane Ahrens to manage the budding business. “I left Cogswell Motors after 17 years with them and teamed up

Story by KAREN RICKETTS

with Richard,” Ahrens said. “We started cleaning the blank piece of property in 2005 and opened in February of 2006.” Eleven years later Advanced Collision Solutions is still going strong. Providing River Valley residents with a multitude of vehicle services. His response to being asked if it felt like 11 years was, “do you see all of this gray hair?” He added that, “it isn’t easy but we have a fun time.” Advance Collision Solutions is currently looking to expand on four acres of land that connects to the current location. Ahrens said they are in need of more working space Advanced Collision Solutions to keep up with production. (479) 968-9732 “We need more space to get 2731 S. Ark. Ave., Russellville more cars in because we are booked at all times,” Ahrens said. “I need to add more personnel so we can continue to take care of the public’s needs.”

For Ahrens it’s not about the sale, but building a long-term relationship with clients. 32

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

The business provides repair services for: automotive, recreational vehicles, fiberglass restorations, motorcycle, heavy truck repair, paint jobs as well as reflex truck liners. The shop won’t turn away any job. “We’ve had patrons come by wanting lawn furniture painted,” Ahrens said. “We will do just about any spray or liner job. By building a relationship with people, they will come back when they need collision work done. And that’s our whole theme, taking care of the customer. So if it involves paint we can usually do it.” Eleven people make up the Advanced Collision Solutions team. “We have three people working in the paint department and everyone else works in the body department,” Ahrens said. “I have a good group of guys, they all laugh, cutup and get along. It’s a fun place to hangout.” All of the employees are Gold Class certified and stay up to date on the latest technology. “For certification we either travel to workshops or bring people in to

train our employees on location,” Ahrens said. “You just build on each segment. It’s not a one-time certification. New cars are always bringing something new to the table.” The repair shop is open Monday through Friday and a half-day on Saturday. “Saturdays I come in a half a day for customers who can’t get off work,” Ahrens said. “Take care of them; get them scheduled or delivered, whatever we need to do.” For Ahrens it’s not about the sale, but building a long-term relationship with clients. Being in the business for thirty years, it is easy to see how treating customers like family comes second nature to Ahrens. “If they have any issues, guarantee it and take care of it for them,” Ahrens said. “That’s always been my drive, to make someone happy. There are times when you’ll lose, but you take care of the customer. Just like our logo says, ‘you bend them, we mend them.’ It doesn’t matter what it is, we’ll try to take care of it.” l

SAVE THE DATE! 25TH ANNIVERSARY Award-Winning Tasting Party

of the

Thursday, April 27, 2017 • 5pm until 7:30pm Featuring Area Restaurants, Caterers, Bakeries, Delicatessens, Food Service Providers & Vineyards.

Tickets: $25 Advance ($30 at the door) Russellville’s Historic Missouri-Pacific Depot 320 W. C Street • Downtown Russellville (479) 967-1437 • www.mainstreetrussellville.com

APRIL 2017 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

BACKYARD LIVING

ABOUT...the River Valley

Underappreciated Story & Photo by JOHNNY CARROL SAIN

’ve never had a manicured lawn. I like the hodgepodge of interesting flowers that pop up in my yard starting with the trout lily in late winter to the golden rod that ushers in autumn. Most of my favorites are native plants that have evolved alongside native Arkansas pollinators. But I’ve grown fond of one invasive in particular despite the fact that so many try to demonize their very existence. I love its velvety golden petals that feed my neighbor’s honeybees, and I love its downy puff balls that transport me back to a simpler time. What’s not to love about dandelions? But dandelions are the coyotes of the designer-lawn world. They’re the preferred villain in herbicide commercials and lawn professionals rank them as public enemy #1. They’re assaulted on all sides by a campaign geared toward their extermination. But no matter what measures are employed, they just come back stronger. You’ve got to admire that kind of pluck in a plant. As ultimate survivors, they don’t even need a partner to reproduce. One plant has both male and female equipment, and the process they use for seed dispersal is genius. No telling how many yards have been seeded by seven-year-old kids making wishes. It’s not just seed dispersal that’s impressive. When the seed germinates, it shoots down a taproot. The taproot can be up to ten inches long, twisted, and brittle as dry twig. Most attempts at root removal will result in a broken root and guess what? A broken root leads to more dandelions. Dandelions aren’t going away so instead of trying to fight them I say embrace them.

Get to know our Nurse Practitioners Mallory Cranor and Kristen Sheppard for all your child’s health care needs. Open 8am to 5pm Monday thru Friday Saturdays from 9am to 11am

Mallory Cranor, APRN 34

www.rpa.clinic • 479.498.0858 Neylon S. Pilkington, M.D. | Robin Kirby, M.D.

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

220 N. Sidney, Russellville

Kristen Sheppard, APRN

The hardy plant is found on every continent, transplanted to many locales to help feed honeybees, but what is really amazing about the dandelion is that it ranks as one of the most nutritious plants on Earth. Besides being low in saturated fat and very low in cholesterol, it’s also a good source of folate, magnesium, phosphorus and copper, dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B6, calcium, iron, potassium, and manganese. It’s a powerhouse of goodness, and it’s likely growing — for free — in your yard right now. You can eat almost every part of the plant. The leaves are a vibrant green and have deep notches, which is where the dandelion got its name. “Dent-de-lion” are Old French words that mean “lions tooth.” The leaves can be eaten like any other greens either cooked or raw. The flowers can be battered and fried as fritters. The roots can be boiled like carrots or battered and fried. One spring Saturday a few years back, I decided our family would try eating dandelions. My daughters were thrilled as I told them that weekend plans included squatting and digging in our

front yard. But after more than a few complaints, they caught the spirit and seemed to enjoy it. We cleaned the dandelions along with some wild onions we found in the yard, and I instructed the girls to cut them up and separate the parts. One bowl was for the flowers, one for roots, and one for the greens. We then moved the greens and the onions to a skillet. I sautéed the onions and greens in olive oil along with a little salt and garlic. When the greens went limp I pronounced them done. And you know what? They were pretty good. They were a little bitter for the girls, but I liked them. I suggest serving them as a side dish maybe with scrambled eggs. Combining them with spaghetti noodles and cheese sounds good too. I’m sure I’ll come up with some more combinations as well. We boiled the dandelion roots with some carrots and I really couldn’t tell much difference in taste between the two. Raw flowers have a faintly sweet taste and a pleasant texture, but I still haven’t tried flower fritters. Maybe I can get the granddaughter to pick a few next weekend and then who knows? I might kiss the mower goodbye and convert my whole front yard into a dandelion garden. l

They’re assaulted on all sides by a campaign geared toward their extermination. But no matter what measures are employed, they just come back stronger. You’ve got to admire that kind of pluck in a plant.

APRIL 2017 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

OUTDOORS

ABOUT...the River Valley

Midnight death on silent wing, Melding of shadow and Moonlight beam. Sentinel wrapped in wilderness old, beautiful savage of Mysteries untold. Saffron globes with obsidian holes, Probing for flesh Far down below. Inquiring voice singed with lonesome tone, Whispers terror to whiskered ones Clear to the bone. But the questions you ask eternal and now, bring peace and content for Those you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t prowl.

Silent Wing Story and photo by JOHNNY CARROL SAIN

Whom do you call with notes of velvet and rain, Why do you hide as Sol breaks the plane? To whom do you kneel and lower your glare, Is there none of creation to Challenge your air? Nocturnal monarch and lord of the nethers, Pulsing oak throne and raiment of feathers.

Read more from Johnny at www.aviewfromthebackroads.com

Dusk is your primer and dawn your repose, So â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;til twilight again edges Rest well great bubo.

Your family-owned furniture and bedding store, serving the River Valley for 38 years.

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

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APRIL 2017 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

On a Personal Note Is This Thing On? Guest Written by Rufus Elam

I’m 40 years old, and I’m chasing this crazy dream of being a stand up comedian. I have no idea what I’m doing a majority of the time. However, each time I take the stage I learn something new.

At the heart of a good April Fools joke, the goal is to get a real laugh. The kind of laugh that comes deep from within and catches you by surprise. Getting that genuine laugh from others has always intrigued me. From the time I was in first grade, I loved getting in front of the class and making them laugh. Believe me, I still have jokes that can kill in a room full of first graders. Laughter means people are having a good time. My assignment from ABOUT is April Fools. I’ve been chosen because I am at the ripe age of 40, I’m 1/128th Choctaw Indian, and I’m chasing this seemingly ridiculous dream of being a stand-up comedian. So here we are. Although, I doubt my Native American heritage or age had anything to do with me being chosen. At this stage, my life feels like an elaborate April Fool’s Joke. Who in their right mind chases after something like this at my age? Regardless, my goal is the same — to get a real laugh. I’m “on deck” and sitting backstage at The Joint Theater and Coffee House located in the Argenta District in North Little Rock. “I don’t mean to brag, but my doctor says I’m highly functioning.” That’s the opener I have for the set I’ve been going over in my mind for the last two hours. I’m nervous, but in a good way. The cushion on the bench where I sit is warm and worn from the fidgeting of aspiring dreamers like myself who just want a little stage time. Stage time = polished jokes. Polished jokes = smooth bits. Smooth bits = paying gigs. Paying gigs = The Tonight Show. At least I’m told that’s how it works. If I could go ahead and wrap that up in the next few months, it would be great. Unfortunately, that isn’t how it works. The crowd is full of mostly other comics, a few family and friends who were probably forced to come, and a handful of patrons looking to laugh. It’s kind of funny to me that an amateur open mic night is the last place most would expect to get a laugh. So far, the crowd has been pleasantly surprised. The

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ APRIL 2017

comic on stage is looking at his notes for one more joke to get in before the eminent spot light flash reminding us dreamers that we have a day job to get back to tomorrow. I’m getting closer to the coveted stage time. I glance at my notes one last time. I’m introduced and the stage seems like a deserted island as I step across to the microphone stand. The crowd is welcoming, but the alternating red and white lights combined with the spotlight make everyone in the room invisible to me. There are few things quite as startling as being in a room full of people and not being able to see them. To know that they are watching only me and judging me at the same time doesn’t help my nerves. I’m suddenly transported back to the uneasiness of being a late bloomer in junior high. I grab the microphone, pause, and begin. Not so fast. You will have to come out and hear me if you want the whole show! I’m 40 years old, and I’m chasing this crazy dream of being a stand up comedian. I have no idea what I’m doing a majority of the time. However, each time I take the stage I learn something new. I am learning that comedy is a lot of things. I am learning that comedy is mostly writing and rehearsing. It’s more than being funny. Before future Seinfelds get the all important stage time, they must begin writing…and writing…and writing, then rehearsing, then re-writing. A lesson learned pretty quickly by bombing. It happens to everyone. I am learning that the reasons cannot be fame and fortune. I am learning that the most important part of comedy is the emotional connection with the audience. When they laugh, they feel what I feel. We become invested in each other. Knowing that those around me are enjoying themselves, that is the icing on the proverbial camels back. My journey is just beginning and who knows, it may turn into something. In the meantime, I’ll keep writing, rehearsing and aiming for that real laugh.

Look for more interesting features and tidbits in "On a Personal Note" each month in future issues of ABOUT...the River Valley. You'll find short stories, interesting pieces and other great reads from people you know, or would like to know from around the River Valley.

ENGAGEMENTS

ABOUT...the River Valley

Save the Date!

Calendar listings of engagement, wedding and anniversary announcements on the pages of each issue of ABOUT…the River Valley are available at no charge. They may be mailed to: ABOUT Magazine, P.O. Box 10176, Russellville AR 72812 or sent via email to: editor@aboutrvmag.com. (A phone number must be included for verification.)

April 8

May 29

Meredith Grubbs & Philip McKelvy. Lorna Porter & Eli Pierce

Lauren Ossolinski & Foster Pace

April 22

Lexie Mortimore & Jake Fowler

April 29

Erica Whorton & Brett Creekmore Alaina Harpenau & Thomas Meares Lori Wilson & Brandon Hanlon

Kate Benfer & Samuel Frolick Karmen Wyatt & Ryan Goodner

May 6

June 2 June 3

June 7

Hattie Buell & John Raines Tonya Gosnell & Dr. David Oates

Shelly McCraw & Zac Tippin

May 13

June 9

Kirstie Williams & Caleb Norton

Riley Smith & Kyle Ahern

May 14

June 10

Melissa Apple & Corey Harrison

May 20

Rebekah Cole & Ethan Grace

May 21

Alyssa Anderson & Dillon Miller

May 27

Ashtin Kendrick & Nathan Pennington

Sarah Palmer & Todd Robinson Aleksi Stinnet & Hayden Hipps

Photo by Benita's Photography

July 8

Paxton Goates & Hunter Anderson

July 21

Haley Link & Matt Piker

June 24

Alex Carter & Zach McKinney Colleen Perkins & Luke Hoelzeman

July 1

Lacey Mayer & Chris Isbell Meredith Smith & Derek Birginske

November 3

Amanda Jones & JT (James) Stevenson

November 4

Allison Duke & Patrick Long Stacia Martin & Kenneth Mazzia

To have your engagement or wedding published in a future issue of ABOUT Magazine, send your information, photo* and a check for $57.50 to: ABOUT Magazine, PO Box 10176, Russellville AR 72812, or visit www.aboutrvmag.com/forms.html. Word count is limited to 225 words. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication. For additional information, call (479) 857-6791. *Digital files are accepted and will be published upon receipt of payment.

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City Mall • Russellville • (479) 968-3001 APRIL 2017 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

Check your rear if you’re 50 this year.

If you are 50, it is time to get a colonoscopy at Saint Mary’s. This simple procedure is effective at preventing cancer or catching it early, when it is highly treatable. In fact, nine out of 10 people beat colon cancer when it is found early. So don’t put it off. Ask your family doctor about scheduling your colonoscopy with Saint Mary’s Endoscopy Services today. *American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org)

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