ABOUT | April 2009 by ABOUT the River Valley Magazine

Arkansas Tech University: A Century Forward

April 2009 a publication of SILVER PLATTER PRODUCTIONS, INC. www.aboutrvmag.com

April 2009

contents 7 Text: What’s in a Word? 8

A Century Forward

Shelter from the Storm

Because “I said so...”

The Home Love Built

Rising From the Ashes...

Shure Crowned Miss Tech

Wholly Yolks It’s An Eggs-Travaganza

Triathlon Kids

Symphony Event Noted

n Easter Gifts and Décor by Jim Shore These richly colorful hand painted and old fashioned gifts will rekindle warm thoughts from years ago.

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Car Show Benefits Dive & Rescue

National Volunteer Week

38 Common Pursuit of Eagle Rank Forges Lasting Bonds 42 Engagements

ABOUT our Cover

Photo by Steve Newby

Join the celebration as Arkansas Tech University begins the Centennial Kickoff Celebration with activities scheduled throughout the month of April. Everyone is invited to participate in the community picnic, attend ball games, view the centennial memorabilia collection and more as the University begins a New Century of Moving Forward. Don’t miss the fun outlined on pages 8-9.

Our Associates Dianne EDWARDS

Chris ZIMMERMAN

Melanie CONLEY

edito r

graphic design

advertising

4 7 9 . 9 7 0 .6 6 2 8 e d it o r @ ab o u trvmag .c o m

479.264.2438 chr is@zimcrea t ive.com

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Jeannie STONE

Steve NEWBY

Cliff THOMAS

fre elan c e w r i t er

photography

illustrator

4 7 9 . 7 4 7 .0 2 1 0 j e a n n ie @ ab o u trvmag .c o m

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4 ABOUT...the River Valley

April 2009

ABOUT

the Arts

Visions from Arkansas to Alaska, Part III interactive Slideshow by Terry Boyd Thursday, April 9 Terry Boyd, a self-taught photographer from Russellville, is back by popular demand for his third visit to UACCM to present this original 35mm slide presentation on Thursday, April 9, at 6:30 PM in the UACCM Fine Arts Auditorium. Boyd spent several months in 2008 in Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska, and will be making an interactive visual presentation of his newest images while at UACCM. Admission is free. Shirley Chauvin & S’Wonderful Big Band Concert Thursday, April 16 Shirley Chauvin and her six-piece little big band, S’Wonderful, will swing into the UACCM campus to perform songs made famous by the great big band vocalists of the 1940s through the 1970s such as Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn, Peggy Lee, and Billie Holiday. Chauvin also performs tunes by modern sensation Diana Krall.

S’Wonderful has grown to include trumpet, saxophone, and trombone to perform with the rhythm section and create a big band ambiance in support of the arrangements of this dynamic musical era. This concert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for an audience of all ages. Chauvin and company will perform at 7:00 PM in the UACCM Fine Arts Auditorium. Admission is free. Beaux Arts Event April 17 The movies have their Oscar and Golden Globe, Music Awards has Grammy, Television has Emmy, and Arkansas River Valley Arts Center has “Beaux.” “We are so excited to announce those chosen to receive the honor of being inducted into the Beaux Arts Academy hosted by Arkansas River Valley Arts Center,” said Betty LaGrone, director The induction ceremony, “A Beautiful Evening,” will be Friday, April 17, beginning at 7 p.m. at Russellville Country Club. The Arts Center has selected three Artists and a Patron of the Arts for the 2008 honor.

They include performing artist Holly Green Gale, Visual Artist Sarah Keathley, Lifetime Award Polly Loibner Patron of the Arts, Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center, Mike McCoy, CEO. This is the second year for this prestigious award recognizing the greatest achievement in art, which is expected to become one of the biggest and most memorable annual art events, said LaGrone. Dedicated to the advancement of all art forms, the coveted award is to encourage excellence in art and recognize and honor the many enormously talented artists in the Arkansas River Valley. The Patron of the Arts is awarded to honor an individual or business that has made a significant contribution in support of the arts whether with manpower, finances, expertise and talent or equipment. It also expresses appreciation for their understanding of the importance of the arts in enriching lives, increasing learning, fostering economic development, adding beauty and vibrancy and enhancing the River Valley in significant and lasting ways. Continued on page 21

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ABOUT...the River Valley 5

ABOUT the River Valley

A Publication of Silver Platter Productions, Inc Vol. IV, Issue 3 – April 2009

OWNER/PUBLISHER Nolan and Dianne Edwards Advertising Sales Melanie Conley Dianne S. Edwards Graphic Design Chris Zimmerman Zim Creative Contributing Writers Kechia Bentley Dianna Qualls Jeannie Stone Johnna Walker Contributing PhotographerS Steve Newby Assistant to the Publisher Melissa Edwards

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. Subscriptions are available by sending $20 for one-year (10 issues) to: SPPI/ABOUT Magazine P.O. Box 10176 Russellville AR 72812 Material contained in this issue may not be copied or reproduced without written consent. Inquiries may be made by calling (479) 970-6628. Office: 417 West Parkway Email: editor@aboutrvmag.com Postmaster: Please send address changes to: SPPI, P.O. Box 10176, Russellville AR 72812.

6 ABOUT...the River Valley

A PAGE FROM ___________________________________________________

The Editor’s Notebook These days, it is not terribly uncommon to hear of an individual living to celebrate their 100th birthday. In an age where technology and medical advancements are unveiled daily, we have begun to expect the quality of our lives to lengthen as well as improve. One such celebrant is not an individual but an entity. Arkansas Tech University, known as one of the state’s fastest growing universities, has begun celebrating its centennial history. The official recognition of the event, a joint gathering with representatives of three other state universities created by Act 100 of 1909, was held Jan. 14, 2009, at the State Capitol in Little Rock. While the re-enactment of the signing of Act 100 launched Tech’s centennial celebration, centennial “kick off month” begins this month. On Feb. 10, 1910, the board of Trustees announced that the Second District Agricultural School would be located in Russellville. Construction began on the Main Building on April 21, 1910, with the first day of class being conducted the following October. There were 186 students and 9 faculty members. Arkansas Tech formed its first football team in the Fall of 1911. That following spring, 11 students formed the Second District Agricultural School’s first graduating class in school history. Skip forward to Feb. 10, 1925, when Gov. Thomas J. Terral signed a bill changing the name of the Second District Agricultural School to Arkansas Polytechnic College. The first 20 students to graduate from Tech with Bachelor of Science degrees in agriculture go through commencement exercises in the Spring of 1925. Shortly thereafter, the four-year degree program was phased out and would not return until after World War II. In the Fall of 1928, Tech institutes a freshman orientation program for its new college students. In 1929, the junior college program at Arkansas Polytechnic College is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. In July 1948, the post-World War II “trailer cities” that sprang up on the campus to house veterans studying at Tech and their families hit their peak with 151 mobile homes in three locations. The following

year, class offerings at Arkansas Tech were re-organized into eight academic divisions --agriculture, business administration, education, engineering, fine arts, languages and literature, science and mathematics and social studies --and one vocational division. The first African-American students to attend Arkansas Tech enrolled in the fall of 1957. Also, Tech tops 1,000 in student enrollment for the first time. In the fall of 1965, Tech reached the 2,000-student mark. On July 9, 1976, the name was changed from Arkansas Polytechnic College to Arkansas Tech University. In 1985, Tech reorganized its class offerings into five schools: the School of Business, the School of Education, the School of Liberal and Fine Arts, the School of Physical and Life Sciences and the School of Systems Science. In the years that followed, ATU added one more school to its current line-up: the School of Community Education and Professional Development. By June 1996, one of the most significant moments in the history of the university occurred when the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation announced a gift of more than $13 million to Tech to fund construction of a new library and technology center. By the Fall of 2006, Arkansas Tech topped the 7,000-student mark for the first time in school history in the fall of 2006. Arkansas Tech announced in the winter of 2007 plans to build a new facility to house its Academic Advising Center, the School of Business and two floors of classroom space. The building is scheduled to be ready for spring 2010. By fall of 2008, Arkansas Tech University celebrated its 10th consecutive record enrollment with a school-record 7,498 students. For a complete historical time line – from the April 1, 1909, signing of Act 100 to modern-day Arkansas Tech University – visit http://www.atu.edu. The public is invited and encouraged to participate in all the upcoming centennial events. For a list of all the family-friendly activities, see page 8.

Dianne Edwards, Editor/Publisher

April 2009

Out and ABOUT

Text: What’s in a Word? My, haven’t we changed? From the early years in 1909 when Arkansas Tech was a two-year college with emphasis on agriculture, the word “text” had a very different meaning. Both students and professors lugged heavy school text books around. The words emerging from such “texts” filled their minds with knowledge and the search for the truth, illuminating a world of learning that could be found in ‘greener pastures.’ Today’s ‘text’ has quite a different meaning for students crossing the campus of a sprawling four-year accredited university. Remember when walking and chewing gum at the same time was a major accomplishment? Today’s college-bound men and women not only walk and talk, they text and twitter. Today’s students have the choice of class offerings from six schools, including

April 2009

the School of Business, the School of Education, the School of Liberal and Fine Arts, the School of Physical and Life Sciences and the School of Systems Science and the School of Community Education and Professional Development. Consider the contrast in the illustration above provided by talented artist Cliff Thomas. Are students in search of an improved life really so different now than they were a hundred years ago? We challenge you to visit the campus today and measure the experience against your own, or imagine the comparison to those 186 students forming the original class of 1911. Young, excited and eager... not so different after all.

April 1,8,15, 22 and 29: Spring Lunch series, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Williamson Dining Room, 1205 N. El Paso, ATU. $6.95. Menu varies weekly. Reservations required for parties of 5 or more, call (479) 938-0378. For weekly menus, email: rmoll@atu.edu. April 2, 9, 16 and 23: ATU Hospitality Program Spring Guest Chef Series, Williamson Dining Room, 1205 N. El Paso. Reserved seating times 6-7 p.m. Call (479) 968-0378. $25.95 per person. For weekly menus, email rmoll@atu.edu. April 3: Country Dance Workshop, 7:30-10:30 p.m., $10 pp. Dance with Joy Studio. RSVP (479) 968-1620, (479) 264-7287 or email: dancewithjoy@suddenlink.net. April 4: ABOUT... the Best Cooks Recipe Contest, 2-4 p.m., Russellville Depot samplers plates $2 and $4; proceeds go to ATU Hospitality Scholarship and the Shelter for Battered Women and Children. (479) 970-6628. April 4: Ballroom Dance Party, 7:30-10:30. $10 pp. Dance with Joy Studio. RSVP (479) 9681620, (479) 264-7287 or email: dancewithjoy@ suddenlink.net. April 10-11: 26th annual ATU Plant Sale, 8-6; ATU Greenhouses at Red Hill Farm; proceeds benefit the Tech Agriculture Department. (479) 968-0251. April 17: ARV Arts Center Beaux Arts Academy, 7 p.m., Russellville Country Club. Tickets: $35; (479) 968-2452. April 18: A Mile of Dimes fundraiser; March of Dimes. 1-5 p.m., Jones Hall, ATU. Donations accepted. lmurrill@atu.edu. April 18: ATU Centennial Celebration April 23: Community Bingo, all seniors 55 and older invited; 2-3 p.m. 4th Thurs. of each month; door prizes, grand prize and refreshments. Wildflower, 240 S. Inglewood, Russellville; 890-6709. April 25: Annual Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Performance, Witherspoon Auditorium, ATU; (479) 229-2041. April 30: Award-winning Taste of the Valley, 5-8 p.m.; tasting party featuring area restaurants, caterers, delicatessens and food service institutions. Tickets: $20 advance, $25 at the door. Visit www.aboutrvmag.com for a list of activities updated as they are received. To have your event included in the ABOUT Calendar of Events, email: editor@aboutrvmag.com or fax to (866) 757-3282. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication. April 2009

ABOUT...the River Valley 7

The

story

Arkansas

Tech

University has much left to be written, but the pages of its 100-year history reveal great progress – even before the school had buildings. That’s because a century ago, Act 100 was passed by the Arkansas General Assembly and signed into law by Gov. George Donaghey. This crucial act had one primary aim: to establish a set of schools that would broaden educational opportunities across the state. What you know today as Arkansas Tech University was a direct result of this legislation. And ever since the college’s founding in 1909, it has more than lived up to Act 100’s edict. Now celebrating its centennial anniversary, Arkansas Tech has become a top choice for students seeking an academically progressive fouryear education. Tech is all about progress – building off past successes to create a better future and, at times, starting anew in emerging areas of importance for the state. This vision is what has both set the university apart and brought it together. After all, having a bold vision really only matters if that vision becomes reality. As Arkansas Tech moves forward into the next 100 years, academic excellence and a commitment to preparing students will continue to shape our reality and influence our future. But new ideas and constant improvement are what drive Tech; they’re what led to our founding and what will lead us forward.

With outstanding faculty and accomplished students from around the state, the country and even the world, Arkansas Tech University is extremely proud of the past 100 years. A unique story has been told since 1909, and since Tech has always been more about looking to the future, there’s no doubt that the next chapters in its history are destined to be even more exceptional. Arkansas Tech University, along with Arkansas State University, Southern Arkansas University and the University of Arkansas at Monticello, recently recognized 100 years of service to the people of Arkansas with a ceremonial re-enactment of the signing of the bill that created all four institutions in 1909 The ceremony was held inside the State Capitol Rotunda. Gov. Mike Beebe spoke to the assembled crowd about the importance of higher education to Arkansas and expressed optimism for the future of the four institutions celebrating their centennial. Gov. Beebe then participated in the ceremonial resigning of Act 100 of the 37th Arkansas General Assembly. Members of ASU’s theater department re-enacted some of the legislative debate over Act 100 of 1909. As the actors demonstrated, the bill was not universally popular with the members of the 37th General Assembly. “I regard it as the worst blunder the Arkansas Legislature could make to build four schools that will fight themselves to death in six years,” said an actor playing the part of Sen. Robert W. Glover of Grant County. Beebe, a graduate of ASU in Jonesboro, re-signed the measure, which originally was signed into law by Gov. George Washington Donaghey. Beebe praised the legislators of the time for their vision. “More important than what we’re celebrating today is the legacy and the history of countless individuals over the last 100 years that have benefited from that vision and attended those colleges and universities and then passed on to subsequent generations a better quality of life,” Beebe said. Other speakers included Dr. Robert C. Brown, president of Arkansas Tech; Dr. Jack Lassiter, chancellor of UA-Monticello; Dr. David Rankin, president of Southern Arkansas; and Dr. Robert Potts, chancellor of Arkansas State. “What these visionary legislators really created a century ago was opportunity for future generations,” said Jack Lassiter, chancellor of the University of Arkansas at Monticello. Additional centennial activities have been planned for the month of April (See sidebar.) -- Information courtesy of Arkansas Tech University and arkansasnews,com.

April - Centennial Kick-Off Month

April 1

100th birthday of the signing of Act 100

April 4

Senior Art Show Opening 6:00 pm

April 7

Tennis, OBU 2:00 pm Baseball, University of the Ozarks 6:00 pm

Softball, Northeastern State

April 9

April 10-11

Spring Plant Sale (tentative date)

April 12-16

Battle of the Halls

April 13-17

Greek Week

April 14

Baseball, Rockhurst (DH) 2:00 pm Softball, Roger’s State

April 16

Combined band/choir concert 7:30 pm Guest conductors—past Alumni Board Presidents

April 18

Community Celebration/Picnic on the Plaza Museum Opening at 2 pm Senior Art Show Opening at 6 pm Baseball, Delta State (DH) 2 pm Football, “Green & Gold” game at 3 pm 100th Birthday Bash at 4 pm

April 19 Baseball, Delta State at 1 pm April 23 Softball, Central Baptist University

April 25

Baseball, Harding (DH) at 2 p.m.

April 26

Baseball, Harding (Senior Day) at 1 p.m.

April 28

University Choir Spring Concert at 7:30 p.m.

April 30

Taste of the Valley

Not inclusive of Student Services and SAB activities, intramurals or events on the Witherspoon calendar

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Shelter from the Storm Story by Dianne S. Edwards Photos courtesy of Barbara Nunnelly

Barbara Nunnelly of Atkins remembers the ominous day like it was yesterday. She shudders as she recalls the events of Feb. 5, 2008, and the tornado aftermath now known as the longest tracked tornado in recorded Arkansas history. She was having lunch in Russellville with friends and began to feel nervous about the approaching storm front. Weather reports predicted the possibility for an outbreak of tornadoes and Barbara urged her dining companions to go home.

“I felt something in the air,” she recalled. “I wanted to go home and urged them to do the same.”

10 ABOUT...the River Valley

Shortly after reaching her Atkins home, Barbara began making preparations to move herself and her dogs to the storm shelter that she and her husband Billy had placed on the 14 acres on which their home was built at 1306 SE St. “We had waited for 13 years to build that home,” Barbara said fondly. Now, a year after the devastating F3 tornado that took the lives of friends and neighbors, the home stands a damaged shell of the once beautiful 3-story stucco home was constructed. The tornado that struck Atkins was an EF3 which means winds were from 136 to 165 mph. The tornado that hit Atkins was just one small part of a nearly 140 mile long path from Yell County to Sharp County. The storm traveled 123 continuous miles from 5 miles E-SE of Centerville in Yell County to 3.2 miles northeast of Highland in Sharp County. The last F3 in Pope County was on Feb. 14, 1956 -- ironically another February tornado. Reluctantly Barbara admits that their inability to rebuild is a direct result of insurance failure to settle. The home has been inspected and will have to be taken completely to the ground because of the “racking” which moved the house off its foundation. And, because tornado damage left the home inhabitable and red tape has put repairs on hold, the multitude of rain and ice that ravaged the area over the past year has only compounded the problem.

April 2009

She and her husband, along with their pets, are living on the property in a travel trailer while they conduct their businesses and try to move forward. The Nunnellys are the owners of Home Services Storm Shelters and Saferooms. Irony found them beginning the business more than 15 years ago with Billy’s father asked them about possible local tornado shelter installers. Not finding a local distributor, the Nunnellys called the state chamber of commerce office in Oklahoma to inquire. It took a number of calls to installation businesses before she located Hausners Pre-Cast Concrete, a family-owned business based in Drumright, Okla. The company was a “great operation,” with generational employees in their 55th year of business. “And they won’t let just anybody sell their product,” Barbara exclaimed. What followed her visit to Hausners has led to 15 years as one (if not only) of the federal and state certified female contractors in the Arkansas. Billy, a certified millwright who travels and works world-wide as an employee of Siemens Power Generator Systems out of Orlando, Fla., had worked for Russellville Steel for 20 years previously. After owning another small business, the Nunnellys formed their storm shelter company in 1994. Since Billy travels worldwide, Barbara has taken over running the business, managing crews, evaluating shelter locations and talking to the families to determine their specific needs for shelter. Billy helps whenever he is home but it is Barbara’s primary responsibility to run the company. She still feels the sting of working in a male-dominated contractor’s role. “Sometimes when I get onsite, I still get the ‘oh, great. It’s a woman doing man’s work,’” said Barbara, “but I never let it get to me. I know I have to work harder, longer, smarter... but I don’t mind. I love what I do.” Her vibrancy and energy exude from her as she speaks of more than a decade and a half of helping families. And, the Atkins storm brought things too close to home, said Barbara. The Cherry family that lost their lives in the Feb. 5th storm lived right next door and were close friends whom they had known for more than six years before settling in. Barbara was devastated when they realized the family had not survived. With the storm front approaching, Barbara began preparations to move into the shelter, offering a place of respite for all those she could reach.

“There were two young men working close by our property who ran for the shelter as the storm approached. My step-son Billy Bob was the last inside the shelter, with his hand closing the door just as the storm approached. Her shelter held 14 people and two dogs, she recalled. Husband Billy had gone to the house for extra batteries and the couple’s two small dogs. He could not hear Barbara’s calls to his cell phone or to the answering machine. “I was crazy, knowing the storm was headed right for us,” Barbara recalled. “I just knew Billy wouldn’t survive.” But he did, hunkering down inside a closet under the staircase of the couple’s home as the storm lifted the roof and whirled violently into their house. “At the first sound of silence, you are tempted to step outside. Never, never ever open the door until you are certain the storm has passed. What most folks don’t know is that a tornado has an ‘eye’ just like a hurricane, and often you are lulled into the sense that it is over when it becomes quiet – and then suddenly, it’s there all over again,” stressed Barbara. When the storm ended, Barbara was relieved to see the home was still standing. Soon Billy emerged without a scratch. Both dogs had been sucked out of the garage but remained unscathed. She credits the quick actions of friends, neighbors and especially the Atkins Fire Department, heavy equipment volunteers, and the Pope County Road Department and County Judge Jim Ed Gibson with fast recovery actions immediately following the tornado. >>

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ABOUT...the River Valley 11

Before the Feb. 5 storms, Barbara had sold a number of shelters around the area, including the Jerusalem area which experienced a January tornado just previous to the Atkins storm. Since the local devastation last winter, she has lots of calls inquiring about her products. The first year of business the Nunnellys sold 25 shelters. Since January of 2008, they’ve probably installed 200 in Pope, Johnson and

Conway Counties alone. They can cover the surrounding six-state area. Saferooms can be installed for anyone with limited mobility, are wheel-chair bound or or those who don’t want to go outside to access the shelter. Sizes range from small to jumbo and can be designed to fit the owner’s needs and limitations. They are constructed of 3/16” plate steel with design factors built to withstand winds of up to 300 miles per hours.

Pre-cast shelters are constructed of reinforced fiber and steel rebar with a minimum of 6,000 psi concrete. They range in size from a jumbo shelter 6’8” W x 10’ L x 6’2” H down to a flat-top that measures 5’x7’x6’2”. (For additional specifications, contact the Nunnellys.) All are designed with protection in mind. Following the devastation near Lake Atkins, the Nunnellys intervened when the McLaine family who had lost everything was in peril. “We drove to Lake Atkins to survey the damage and came up of Mrs. McLaine who was crying and saying they had no insurance and her kids were terrified.” “First, we donated a storm shelter so their kids could feel safe again,” said Barbara. Then, along with the help off friends, neighbors and the Union Grove Church, they provided financial assistance when they were ineligible for a FEMA trailer. “Because they were renting the mobile home in which they lived and were not the owners, they did not qualify. The owner of the trailer did not have insurance so it left them homeless.” The family, which includes four children, is now living with their parents in a motor home because of the generosity of the Nunnellys and others like them.

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But it didn’t stop there. When Renee Preslar, Deputy PIO of the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management called, Barbara stepped up once again. “There was another family who lost everything, and because their son has extreme medical bills, were having trouble getting back on their feet. The nine-yearold son had bone-marrow transplants and multiple organ transplants in an effort to find an ever-advancing cancer,” recalled Barbara. “Ty Pennington and the team from Extreme Makeover were rebuilding the family’s home and we were asked to donate a storm shelter. Of course we said ‘yes.’” And the Nunnellys lowered the price of the shelters following the storm, bringing on site additional shelters so that the installation could be handled more quickly.. As Barbara and Billy continue to help calm the frazzled nerves of a community ravaged by the Tuesday Super Tornadoes, she continues to recover from a broken ankle. Finished with therapy now, she

worked tirelessly following the Feb. 5th storm despite stepping sideways and breaking the ankle in the days that followed last year’s storm. They work toward building their own home as others around them have resettled into new construction. She admits the area will never be the same again, so great is the sense of loss and emotion. Her new home will have a full basement this time with more steel and other safety features. She urges everyone to have a storm safety kit stored and ready for such emergencies. And, even though she installs storm shelters and saferooms for a living, this was Barbara’s first experience riding out a tornado. And although storms are her ‘job security,’ she’d prefer that no one has to experience another without shelter from the storm. n

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14 ABOUT...the River Valley

April 2009

ABOUT Because

“I said so...”

Story by Kechia Bentley

As a teenager I swore I would never do or say some of the things my parents did. I was convinced I could be a better parent. For instance, I would understand my kids and listen to them. (How many of you are laughing already?) I informed my parents of all the things they were doing wrong and how I was going to do it differently. They would just laugh. It would make me so mad and I would think to myself, “You just go ahead and laugh. I will show you.”

Good thing I just thought those words instead of speaking them out loud, because I would have never lived them down. I am already having trouble living down the comments that did come out of my mouth. You know that old saying, “The older I get the smarter my parents get.” Well it’s an “old saying” for a reason – it is true. I have been living with teenagers and a young twentysomething for several years now. I have learned the hard way what my parents knew so well – the teenage years are God’s way of making it easier to kick them out of the nest. I think that is the only way with teenagers. Now this doesn’t mean that you love them any less or that you wouldn’t still lay down your life for them in a heartbeat. It just means there can only be one king and queen of the domain and they are not it. When my precious boys were born and I gazed into their sweet little faces, never once did I envision the turmoil of the teenage years. Yes, there was a lot of joking about the “terrible twos” and much advice to enjoy these days of infancy before the chaos hit. But no one said anything about preparing for adolescence. I wasn’t too worried. Remember, I had a plan for the teenage years. For those of you who have had teenagers – yes it is time to start laughing again. For those of you not quite there yet, pay close attention. I was going to reason with my children and explain our rules. I was going to make compromises and let them express themselves. This all sounds so good on paper and as you discuss it theoretically, but in practice, it is a disaster. After many hours, days and months of trying to reason with my children and get them to see the logic of our rules and decisions, I now know why my parents went straight for the, “Because I said so,” answer or the “As long as you live under my roof” reprimand. I always thought that was so unfair. But thinking back, I realize I was just like my kids. There would have been nothing that they could have said to make me see things their way. I wanted my own way!

April 2009

Family The only reason a teenager asks the question, ‘why?’ -- as in; “Why can’t I go to the party?” “Why can’t I stay out as late as everyone else?” “Why can’t I go see that movie?” “Why do I have to go to bed now?” -- is so they can argue and try to get you to change your mind. The list is endless. There is no telling how many hours I have wasted trying to get my kids to the point where they would say something like, “I understand why you and dad have these rules. I don’t really like them, but I understand you want the best for me and I will respect that.” It never happened. They don’t really want to know why, they just want the opportunity to try and wear you down so they can get their way. I will confess I have lost a few of these battles by becoming weary. My parents obviously knew there was no argument with, “Because I said so.” Oh, it may make your teenager really mad, but here’s a news flash: they will be really mad anytime they don’t get their way. What’s funny is there are times my children seem to think I have spent my entire life plotting and planning ways to make their lives miserable. Instead of fighting these manipulative accusations, I have now begun to respond with, “Yes, you have figured it out. As I rocked you to sleep when you were a baby I was planning all the ways I could ruin your life.” This will usually result in a momentary reprieve from the fighting. Notice I said momentary, so enjoy the peace and quiet while they storm off to their room, slam the door and think of another reason “you are so unfair.” Let me end with a little encouragement here. I have learned it is my job to be “unfair”, “old-fashioned”, “controlling”, and even occasionally “stupid.” I have also learned, the saying is true, “the older they get, the smarter I get.” So hang on, do your job and wait it out. Those of you not yet living with teenagers, remember your two best friends will be, “Because, I said so” and “As long as you live in my house.” Also while you’re at it - learn to take a door off its hinges. Not having a door for a few days is a real quick way to cut down on that annoying door slamming. n

ABOUT...the River Valley 15

c The Home Love Built c

Story and Photos by Jeannie Stone

risti Crissup, 37, is bathed in golden streams of sunshine. Her one-year-old home is meticulously appointed to reflect her youthful energy and trademark optimism.

Uplighting mimics the rising sun and creates a soft glow around her blonde, page-boy haircut and her sparkling green eyes. This home is a product of love built by her architect father and modified for his paraplegic daughter. Jim and Maryann McKenzie of Russellville didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what to expect 12 years ago when they received the phone call about their daughter, Kristi. 16 ABOUT...the River Valley

April 2009

Crissup recollects that time with her unusually mature grace. “I broke my neck at C-1,” she said. “If the spinal cord injury had been at that level I would have been long gone or on a respirator and unable to hug my boys. We are truly blessed.” She often recounts her many blessings. “First of all, my babies were unharmed.” Twins Hunter and Chase Crissup were 2½ years old and strapped in their car seats when the vehicle impacted another and rolled four times. “It was a miracle,” she said. “Because I was a full-time student, and I worked full time. We lived out of our car, and there were heavy boots, big textbooks and even a tire iron that could have instantly killed either or both of them.” She paused. “When my best friend visited me in the hospital she told me that the boys had been wrapped in the wings of an angel, and I believe her to this day.” At the time, Crissup worked as a waitress at the Russellville Country Club and was a student at Tech majoring in physical therapy.

“This was going to be Kristi’s house and she needed to be happy with the location,” he said. “Personally, it would have been a lot easier if it had been on a more level lot. There’s a little too much slope in the front as you can tell by the driveway and an even greater slope in the back.” The house is nestled on Comet Street in The Center, a newly-developed subdivision between Sequoyah Way and Western Hills. Crissup is pleased with the neighborhood. “I really wanted something that was close to the schools and to the grocery store,” she said, “and of course it had to be something I could afford.” “This is contrary to what I ever wanted before,” she said. “I always wanted to live in the country with lots of acreage.” She doesn’t sound disappointed. The usual complications normally inherent with construction projects were magnified because in many instances, McKenzie was instructing the builders to go against the status quo. “There were several times they had to tear out what they’d just completed,” he said.

“If the spinal cord injury had been at that level I would have been long gone or on a respirator and unable to hug my boys. We are truly blessed.” “It was a drawn-out process. The threshold had to be lower, the garbage disposal had to butt against the wall, and pull-down shelves and grab bars to pull down clothes racks had to be installed. All counters and work spaces had to be lowered, sinks had to be shallower, closets had to have ample turn around room, and everything had to

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“That is so ironic,” she said. “And I was a full-time mother,” she added. “It was Jesus, my children, and the love of my family that carried me through it all,” she said. “A seed was planted long ago, and through it all, my faith has not wavered.” McKenzie applied his know-how once his daughter and wife had selected a lot.

be modified to allow for room under sinks, tables and counters for knee space.” The proposed three-bedroom house quickly morphed into a two-bedroom house with the boys sharing a bedroom. The single-story, 1,750 sq. ft. space lives large mainly due to the purposeful layout. “We were living in an open plan house long before it was the style,” McKenzie said “That was back when everyone had rooms that were sectioned off. This design was a natural choice for Kristi because in opening up the floor plan, she can see what‘s going on with the boys.” >>

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The ability for his daughter to escape should an emergency arise was of paramount concern for McKenzie, who consciously mapped out escape routes in his mind before he put pencil to paper. “Wherever she might be in the house, there are two different paths to access the outside,” he said. “And I always have my phone on me,” Crissup said, “even when I sleep.” She is paralyzed from her chest down. The airy feel to the home is also due to the unifying color scheme. “Yellow is my favorite color,” Crissup said. “It‘s bright and sunshiny and happy, and it‘s full of life. At night it has this wonderful warmth and soothing quality.”

18 ABOUT...the River Valley

All lighting in the house is fluorescent for energy efficiency. “And they give a brighter and truer light,” she said. The tile in the backsplash is unique due to its rectangular shape. “The yellow in that tile is really understated,” she said. “It’s really just a yellow undertone. The yellow walls accentuate that, and it brings the color out.” The tile in the master bath is the traditional one inch squares also with a little yellow in the design. McKenzie, of Jim McKenzie Architect, P.A., is a Kansas State University graduate and has worked on projects centered on new institutional constructions and renovations over the years, primarily of healthcare facilities.

He has designed the cath lab at Saint Mary’s hospital, the original plans for Central Arkansas Hospital in Searcy, and, 30 years later, renovated their new entry and designed a heart unit. He has also designed the new school in Helena. “I specialize in the health care industry, and most of it has been moderateto-low budget, which in healthcare, presents a challenge. I was well-versed with the Americans with Disabilities Act regulations,” he said.

April 2009

“I’ve learned a lot building an accessible home for all us and now this. They’re just coming out with new regulations, but, honestly, what we had before wasn’t good for anybody.” “There are three designs to consider when building for accessibility,” McKenzie said. “You need to consider fire safety, accessibility and functionality, and the importance of providing an uplifting atmosphere that allows for personal reflection.”

McKenzie invoked the noted architect Frank Lloyd Wright: “He preached that form follows function, and that’s true. Design the building from the inside out to meet the needs of the resident, and the exterior will take care of itself.” In the wake of Kristi’s accident, McKenzie built a large home, completely accessible, overlooking Dardanelle dam on the Arkansas River where he and his wife helped Kristi and the twins. “It was actually a four-generation house with my mother living with us until her death,” he said.

“And I couldn’t have done it without their help,” Crissup said. “I was blessed with everything I needed to take care of myself and my children. I couldn’t have done it by myself. It was wonderful to have a couple of extra set of hands especially when my children where sick. Now that Hunter and Chase (now 14½) are older, they’ve become such a big help themselves.” Managing her own health often took more energy than Crissup had. The exhausting early years were filled with physical therapy and untold number of health glitches due to her damaged body. She spent over a year in and out of the hospital because of a brown recluse bite. Because the bite was on her upper thigh where she has no feeling, it was not immediately noticed and serious infections, surgeries and hospital transfers took up a big chunk of her family’s life. Crissup admits to being spoiled by her parents. “Living with my parents for eight years really opened my eyes to the little things I needed to make my life easier. My mother would help me reach things I couldn’t and helped me change sheets. I knew I wanted a sink in a large laundry room like theirs,” she said. “I knew I needed countertop space to put clothes on and a place to hang clothes.” “It’s the little things, like the drive-in window connecting the sink and the patio, which make me feel included in everything here,” she said. The mudroom, a necessity for two active teenagers, and the concrete floors further ease the flow of traffic and the ease of maintenance. Space is a necessity for Crissup who insisted on large bedrooms, so she could maneuver around and between the two beds in the bedroom her sons share. “Daddy didn’t understand why I kept insisting on two sinks in the master bathroom, but I figured I wouldn’t be alone for the rest of my life,” she said. In fact, it doesn’t look like she will be. Recently, Crissup has rekindled an old friendship. “I’m looking towards the happily ever after,” she said.

When asked to explain how difficult it was to accept the circumstance of living in a paralyzed body, Crissup paused and said, “I just don’t go there. Don’t get me wrong. Everything, I mean EVERYTHING is harder because of my limited mobility. “There’s not anything that’s not a challenge. Getting in and out of bed, loading the dishwasher, just every little thing is harder, but I never asked why it happened to me. Acceptance is the only answer. You either pick yourself up and live, or you feel sorry for yourself and don’t. I’ve chosen to live, and my daddy has helped me to do that.” Touring the home triggers words from an ageless melody, “good, good, good vibrations.” After nearly twelve years of roller coasting on a medical mystery tour, Crissup has landed on her own two wheels and is grateful to be alive. n

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ABOUT...the River Valley 19

h A March 6 “Let’s do Lunch” trip to Ouachita County was the perfect beginning for the 2009 Royalty schedule. Forty-three travelers enjoyed a garden luncheon at Grace Hill Estate, and then visited Daniel Gardens to gaze at millions of daffodils and several hundred types of trees. Upcoming spring day trips include: April 16th – Paula Deen Styles & More, Tunica, MS May 14th – Antique America: Har-Ber Village, Grove, OK June 9th – P. Allen Smith Garden Home Retreat, Little Rock

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Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center and luxury travel company Royalty Tours, Inc. hosted a Vintage Club Valentine Tea on February 17, providing over 50 Vintage Club members and their guests information regarding Royalty travel opportunities in 2009. Each year, Royalty Tours and Saint Mary’s work in conjunction to provide an array of exciting trips for Vintage members and travel enthusiasts. Before the program, which was held in the Saint Mary’s annex, guests were treated to a variety of treats ranging from fresh fruit and assorted

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cheeses to platters of rich chocolate and decadent petit fours. Royalty owners Parker and Sandy DeVore were on hand with information regarding trip pricing and dates. Tour sign-up sheets were also available for those interested in traveling. Vintage Coordinator Stephanie Beerman issued a brief welcome, and then turned the program over to Evonna Surrette. Surrette, Royalty’s Director of Tours, highlighted the extensive travel schedule and provided an in-depth presentation on upcoming one-day and multi-day trips for 2009. Expanding across Arkansas and into neighboring states, one-day trips known as “Let’s Do Lunch” provide a wide variety of destinations to travelers for that quick get-away. Each trip includes motor coach travel, attractions and meals. Upcoming “Let’s do Lunch tours include “Paula Deen Style & More” in

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Tunica, “Antiques America Har-Ber Village” in Grove, OK, “P. Allen Smith Garden Home Retreat” near Little Rock, plus several other interesting and exciting destinations. Multi-day trips include the popular October “Mystery Tour” and a San Antonio Christmas journey. Dodie McSpadden of Dover is a frequent traveler with Vintage Club and Royalty Tours. “I love to travel with Royalty whenever I can,” she said. “We often travel to unexpected places, but even when we tour familiar places there is always something that makes each trip unique.” The Royalty Tours office is located in Dover, AR. To inquire about upcoming tours, or to make travel reservations, please call 479-890-6774. For information regarding Saint Mary’s Vintage Club, call the Vintage Line at 479964-9355. n

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Last year’s winners, Lodema Jensen and Simmon’s First Bank, were the first Artist and Patron of the Arts to receive the award which was created and designed by Winston Taylor. The Beaux Award designed and created by Taylor depicts a Spirit Bear topping the glow of polished blackware vessel. “Come and celebrate these inductees and our rich artistic and cultural heritage in the River Valley,” encouraged LaGrone. Tickets are $35 each and there is also an opportunity to sponsor and present your favorite Award. Call the Arts Center at (479) 968-2452 to sponsor an Award or purchase tickets on your credit card, or send a check with your ticket order to: P O Box 2112, Russellville 72811. Business/cocktail dress is recommended. “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” musical production Thursday, April 23 thru Sunday, April 26 The Theatre Department at UACCM has announced the dates for its upcoming musical production of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown. Shows are scheduled for Thursday, April 23; Friday, April 24; and Saturday, April 25, all at 7:30 PM and on Sunday, April 26 at 2:30 PM. Each performance will be held

in the UACCM Fine Arts Auditorium, and tickets are $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for non-UACCM students. Tickets are free for UACCM students, faculty, and staff. For more information, contact UACCM Theatre Instructor Jim Harris at (501) 977-2118 or at harris@uaccm.edu. 7th Annual Arkansas Wine Country Bike Tour; Saturday, May 2, 2009, Altus, AR (I-40, Exit 41) Get your bicycle shining and your legs pedaling! Bicycle enthusiasts will have an opportunity to participate in the Arkansas Wine Country Bike Tour scheduled on Saturday, May 2, beginning on the square in Altus, AR and ending at the Post Familie Winery. Pick your own pace as you ride through a panoramic tour of scenic Arkansas Wine Country along the Arkansas River Valley. Areas along the various routes include Altus, Ozark, Paris, Subiaco, Scranton, Hartman, and Coal Hill. This event now offers several tour routes – 17 miles, 35 miles, 100k, 80 miles, and 100 miles. Registration will be held from 7:00 to 8:00 a.m. at the gazebo on the southeast corner of the square in Altus. The early entry fee is $30 with registration online at www.active.com/ event_detail.cfm?event_id=1696331. T-shirts are guaranteed to all who register early. Entry

fee on the day of the tour is $35. The 100 mile ride will begin at 8:00 a.m. followed by the other tours within minutes of each other. Rest stops along the routes in Morrison Bluff, Paris, and two in Ozark will be stocked with drinks and snacks. Helmets are required and all equipment must be in working order. Poppa Wheelies of Russellville will be available during registration to help with last minute repairs. The course will close at 2:00 p.m. and after that time riders will be on their own. Upon completion of your tour, or until the course closes at 2:00 p.m., EVERY participating cyclist will be treated to a champagne brunch sponsored by Post Familie Winery with food and refreshments provided by Circle of Friends and sponsors. The Arkansas Wine Country Bike Tour coincides with the Altus Springtime Gala, an annual celebration of spring which also features a 5K run and fun walk, arts and crafts show, live entertainment, games, antique car and truck show, food booths, and more. This event is presented by the Arkansas River Valley Circle of Friends, a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit chapter of the Arkansas Children’s Hospital. ALL proceeds will benefit Arkansas Children’s Hospital. The Arkansas Wine Tour is a rain or shine event. n

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estern décor, family treasures and our Attic Heirloom Collection by Broyhill have helped to complete the stylish rustic home of Leland and Mary Bean. Mary, a retired school teacher, is quite the decorator!!! Combining their love of cowboy collectibles and Mary’s eye for detail make this Lutherville home a “show stopper.” Thank you, Leland and Mary for your loyalty throughout the years. We certainly enjoy working with you!

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April 2009

“When we were searching for furnishings to create a rustic ranch interior, we discovered Attic Heirlooms by Broyhill at River Valley Furniture. We knew the rustic pieces would be a perfect mix with our old family heirlooms and our cowboy and Native American collectibles. We liked the vintage look with the weathered and distressed details, and were impressed with its durability which assured us that these Attic Heirlooms would be around a long time to come. The warm and friendly atmosphere at River Valley Furniture makes shopping a pleasant and rewarding experience. We appreciate all the wonderful folks there for their help in furnishing our home.”

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ABOUT...the River Valley 23

Rising From the Ashes,

A Story of Resurrection

Story by Jeannie Stone

Just after midnight on Friday, Feb. 8th, 2008, Pam Turner of Russellville jolted out of bed at the sound of glass breaking. Hoping she wasn’t running into a burglar, she ran down the hall and followed an eerie orange glow to the family room located in the center of the house. On that eve, still raw from the catastrophic tornado that let loose on nearby Atkins only three days earlier, Pam stood frozen -- torn between her 19 year-old-son Kirk on one end of the house and her 10-year-old twins Kevin and Kendall on the other. A raging fire, ignited by a shorted outlet on the deck, had stolen into the peace of the Turner home and, as the smoke detectors shrilled, Pam screamed. Joe Turner, Arkansas Master Florist with Cathy’s Flowers and Gifts, was finishing the funeral arrangements for the tornado victims when he received his wife’s call. “I sped through town, it was about 1 a.m., with my flashers blinking going as fast as I could,” he said. “It was just a nightmare.” Meanwhile, neighbor Kevin Crafton, who lives with his brother and sister-in-law had seen the flames engulf the roof of the Turner’s house and called his brother and 911. “Kyle (his brother) came running to make sure we were all out of the house,” Pam said. “He and Kirk went under the deck to get the dogs minutes before a propane tank on the grill blew up.” Pam had backed up the truck into another neighbor’s driveway to allow room for the fire trucks, and so that her children, in their night clothes, could stay warm. “Kendall looked up at the house and said, ‘Mama, our blankets and our dogs.’” Each of the children had a special stuffed dog he had been given as an infant, and the dogs had become treasured possessions traveling from crib to bed and accompanying the children on travels. “Now, I wouldn’t recommend what I did, but I saw the despair in my children’s eyes, and I ran back into the house to retrieve the stuffed dogs,” Pam said. By the time Joe got home, every local fire truck was at the house. “I know the Pottsville and London fire trucks were even there,” he said. “We go to church with several of those firemen, and when our address was announced they knew it was us.”

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April 2009

Joe told the firefighters about two large trunks in the dining room which were filled with photos. “Pam is a big scrapbooker,” he said, “and I knew if there was any way we could save those photos it would mean the world to her.” The firefighters threw burn tarps over the trunks and, miraculously, almost all the photos were saved. During the ordeal, a couple of firefighters were injured by falls. “I found out later than one fireman Ozzie Picton fractured his hand, but he wouldn’t stop working to try and save the house,” Joe said. “These people were awesome. It’s the wonderful thing about living in a small town, and in this town, in particular, everyone cares.”

they ever had,” Pam added, “and the school brought Legos.” Saturday morning family members drove to the Little Rock airport to pick up 91 cases of flowers shipped for the coming Valentine’s week. The timing of the catastrophe seemed to be slightly more than a little prophetic. “The week of Valentine’s Day is just a madhouse for florists anyway,” Joe said. Little did he know that scores of friends from the community, even his son’s future inlaws, descended upon the flower shop and processed all the Valentine’s orders during the slow hours following the fire when the Turners were still in a state of shock. “I called the shop Saturday afternoon to tell them not to worry about the flowers and

“People came into the flower shop nonstop with donations,” Joe said. “I was breaking down every time that bell rang on the door. We were humbled by this community.” Perhaps in small towns, children are raised to be more aware of the plights of their friends. Watching his home burn, teenager Kirk called his friend Jonathan Terry. “He was here in 15 minutes, and he brought us hot chocolate,” Kirk said. Friends helped Kirk retrieve the dogs stuck in the back yard. Plug, the family Dalmatian, was completely deaf, and the shingles were melting through the cracks in the deck and dripping hot tar on him. In his

“ You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever.” ~ Psalm 30: 11-12 “Bart Noland (another firefighter) fell in the house, and he wouldn’t come out either,” Pam said. “It was a really hot fire,” Joe said. “All the TVs in the house melted, even those on the other end of the house away from the fire. The refrigerator door just melted away.” Throughout the house, all the glass shattered and even the clothes kept in closed closets were covered in soot. Fire proved to be a ravenous thief, but the beloved dogs were saved, both of the fur and blood and the stuffed varieties. “I had these Lego men in a cup, and they were valuable, but they were OK,” Kevin, who collects the toys, said. “The kids basically lost everything but a few Legos,” Pam said. “By noon the Junior Auxiliary ladies had come and brought the kids all new clothes and toys,” Joe said. “They were a godsend.” “By that night they had more clothes than

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Madeleine (Nichols) kept telling me during my babbling that they’d processed the order. Finally, my mouth wound down, and I heard her say, ‘We’re done.’ She must have said it three times before I heard her.” Having gone through the magnitude of that chore for many years, Joe knew the work it had taken. “I just started bawling,” he said. “It hit me pretty hard.” In fact, on that same day, Kirk was nowhere to be found and Joe asked Pam where he was. “She told me he was taking his ACT test, and I felt so bad that through all of that, he had to take that test. He didn’t even have a driver’s license to show them at the site, but they let him take the test anyway.” Pam, an R.N. in the nursery at Saint Mary’s, was equally overcome with the generosity of her co-workers and friends. “The doctors and everyone brought clothes, money and restaurant gift cards,” she said. “We had so much support. We are so thankful.”

anxiety he tried to hide, burrowing himself as far under the deck as he could. Kirk doesn’t know how he managed to do it, but he lifted the huge doghouse out of the way in order to retrieve Plug. “Oh, it was God, no doubt about it,” Joe said. There were other signs of divine mercy. At some point during the mayhem Krystle (Manning), their daughter who’d just married a few months earlier, was sifting through the charred remains in the yard and realized her only wedding album had been on the dining room table. “Oh, she was upset, of course,” Joe said, “and that was a very trying day. A little later, my phone had fallen into the toilet, and on my way out of the house one of the firemen handed the wedding album to me and asked me if I’d been looking for it. Somehow,” he added, “it had been placed in a trunk in one of the bedrooms, and nobody knows how it got there.” >>

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“And we still don’t know what glass broke that cause Pam to wake,” he said. “It wasn’t until a few moments later that the sirens went off and all the glass shattered in the house.” The only piece of furniture to withstand the fire was an heirloom child sized roll-top desk Joe treasured. It was all in pieces, and he thought it was lost, but Pam had it restored to its original state. She and the boys presented it to Joe for Christmas. “I was so touched,” he said. Restoring the surviving photos kept Pam and her mother busy for months . “They must have washed and dried thousands of pictures,” Joe said. “They hung them to dry on a laundry line.” To this day Pam marvels about the photos. “Do you know you can wash photos in water to clean soot off?” she asked. “It was just amazing. Not surprisingly, this mother has put together a telling scrapbook of the damage cause by the fire, the restoration, and the involvement of the community. Call it a ‘gratitude journal.’ Flipping through the pages stokes the intense memories particularly for the children. “I think I was the boy who remembered the most out of this because I talk about it more than anyone else,” Kevin said. “My brother cried when he told his class about the fire. I don’t know why I didn’t cry,” he said, his eyes misting now.

Asked what he missed most, he doesn’t hesitate a second. “I miss all my stuffed animals. For Valentine’s Day my dad got me a big one this year.” The significance of the stuffed dogs extends also to the older boys, Kirk and even newlywed Kyle, whose dog was safe at his then- fiance’s home. “My Legos,” twin brother Kendall said. “I had over a million.” Big brother Kirk weighed in, “My CD player because I used to go to sleep listening to music, and it was too quiet at my grandparents’ house. The Turners lived at Pam’s parents’ home for the year it took to rebuild their house. Sentimental Pam replied, “My cookbooks.” And Joe misses his piano and organ. “I didn’t have room to replace them in the layout of the new house,” he said. “Besides, I have grandkids now, and I’m very protective of my toys. Maybe now is not the right time.” “We bawled and squalled after the fire,” Joe said, “but this community has been good to us.” Joe had nothing but kind words for Kenny Henderson, the builder who rebuilt the home, and Cassandra Burton, their Allstate representative from Marc Campbell Insurance. “I called Cassandra, and she had the adjuster at our house by noon the same day. She wrote out a check on the spot. Now, not many people have stories like that,” he said.

Joe took the adjuster up on her offer to be available as unforeseen losses came to light. “Kyle got married in May,” Joe said, “and we assessed the loss in his room as $10,000 because he’d just purchased a new bedroom suite for his new home and lost his computer. The adjuster didn’t even bat an eye. We had that check within three days. There was never a fuss about anything.” He continued, “The icing on the cake was the churches all around.” The Turners, member of Bethel Assembly of God Church, were touched by the compassion of their Christian brothers and sisters. The pinnacle of that love culminated with a community shower orchestrated by Peggy Talkington at the Historic Missouri-Pacific depot. “They encouraged us to register at the various stores, and Pam and I felt very awkward about doing that because we had to go through our story at every location. We were a bit weary,” he said, “but we were assured people really wanted to help us.” “When we walked into that depot, with all those lovely gifts, we felt all that love hit us in the face.” When Pam stood in the middle of her home and screamed, her children awoke. The Turners are convinced that God and his angels heard as well and delivered them n all to safety.

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26 ABOUT...the River Valley

Come Visit Our Showroom 709 South El Mira, Russellville ~ (479) 967-0229 April 2009

Shure Crowned Miss Tech

Junior Naomi Shure of Alma was crowned as Miss Tech during the 54th annual Miss Arkansas Tech University Scholarship Pageant at Witherspoon Auditorium on March 6. Shure won the swimsuit competition and the CenturyTel interview competition. Shure was also presented with the audience appeal award and the Miss Congeniality prize. She tied with junior Shanna Collins of Pottsville for the Nona Dirksmeyer Talent Award. The daughter of Bill Shure and Julia Cress, Shure gave a vocal performance of “And I Am Telling You” as her talent. Her critical issue was promoting domestic violence awareness. She was sponsored by the Arkansas Tech Art Department. With the crown comes a two-semester tuition scholarship to Arkansas Tech, more than $3,000 in gift certificates from area merchants and the opportunity to represent Tech in the Miss Arkansas 2009 Pageant this summer in Hot Springs. Hannah Williamson, a freshman from Russellville, was first runner-up. Sophomore Whitley Robertson of Pottsville (second runner-up), freshman Victoria Costley of Russellville (third runnerup) and Collins (fourth runner-up) rounded out the top five. Other individual award winners on Friday night included junior Lauren Burton (Leslie Miller Harris Leadership Award); sophomore Savannah Frick of Huntsville (Ray Moll Community Service Award); sophomore Kelsea Bruce of Jacksonville (Candace Hodges Riner Dance Award); and sophomore Charlotte Moore of Conway (Virginia Bachman Scholastic Achievement Award). Cheryl Staten, Miss Tech 2008, provided special entertainment and presented the crown to Miss Tech 2009. Miss Batesville 2009 Courtney Buie, Miss Heart of the Ozarks 2008 Lindsey Lee, Arkansas Tech music student Keely Futterer and the Arkansas Tech String Band under the direction of Dr. Deborah Barber provided special entertainment. The event was sponsored by the young women of Delta Zeta. Dr. Jim Collins, professor of horticulture at Arkansas Tech, served as pageant executive director and master of ceremonies. The Miss Tech Pageant is an official preliminary to the 2009 Miss America Pageant. Contestants in the Miss Arkansas Tech University Scholarship Pageant must be full-time female Tech students between the ages of 18 and 24. Contestants competing for the 54th Miss Tech title included: Kelsea Bruce, a sophomore from Jacksonville, daughter of Paula

NOW ENROLLING PREK 3/4 & ABOVE • Academic Excellence w/Biblical World View • Small Student-Teacher Ratio • Ark. State Licensed & Accreditation PreK 3/4 • Before/After Care 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

(479) 968-1429 • www.russellvilleccs.com April 2009

We have a Tremendous Inventory for All Your Planting Needs

Taylor Nursery 130 S Cumberland 479-968-2778

and Bobby Bruce; Lauren Burton, a junior from Jacksonville, daughter of Sherry and Rick Burton; Shanna Collins, a junior from Pottsville, daughter of Cindy and David Collins; Victoria Costley, a freshman from Russellville, daughter of Dana and Kevin Costley; Katie Ford, a senior from Lamar, daughter of Lawania and Doug Ford; Savannah Frick, a sophomore from Huntsville, daughter of Dia Hudson and Doyle Frick; Whitney Hicks, a sophomore from Sheridan, daughter of Susan and Eddie Hicks; Charlotte Moore, a sophomore from Conway, daughter of Carol and Jon Moore; Devin Newman, a sophomore from Mena, daughter of Sherry Newman; Whitley Robertson, a sophomore from Pottsville, daughter of Cindy and Darrell Schembra, and Hanna Williamson, a freshman from Russellville, daughter of Darlene and Mike Williamson. n -- Submitted by Sam Strasner

Emily Lunney Stylist

Now Taking Appointments!

Specialzing in: Color • Highlights • Foiling Haircuts • Fusion Extensions 809 S. Arkansas Russellville 967-5240 ABOUT...the River Valley 27

ABOUT

Food

Wholly Yolks It’s An

Eggs-Travaganza

I enjoy eggs almost any way they are prepared -- poached, deviled, boiled, fried and scrambled; in my Mom’s meringue, piled a mile-high on cream pies; in savory stratas or frittatas, in egg salad -- even hidden for Easter! Their versatility amazes me. Eggs are a good source of protein, and contain vitamins A and D, thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin, as well as lutein and zeaxanthin, which may help us see better as we age. One large egg has 75 calories, 5 grams of fat, 213 grams of cholesterol, and 6 grams of protein. The egg white from one large egg has 17 calories, 0 grams of fat, o grams of cholesterol, 3.5 grams of protein. I hope you will try these EGG-A-LISHOUS dishes for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Enjoy! Story by Dianna Qualls

PERFECTLY EASY POACHED EGGS

BREAKFAST MICE

In a nonstick skillet, pour enough water to measure at least 1-inch deep. Add to water 1 teaspoon of vinegar for each cup of water in skillet. Bring water and vinegar to a boil. Always use fresh eggs. Crack egg into a small bowl such as a custard cup; do not crack egg directly into boiling water. Place egg into boiling vinegar water one at a time. Remove from heat and cover. For 4 eggs allow 5 to 6 minutes for slightly “runny” yolk. For a large batch of eggs, allow an extra egg for a test egg. Always remove eggs with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towel. Poached eggs can be refrigerated in ice water for up to 8 hours, and then reheated in hot water. Do not reboil.

Gently scoop egg yolks into small bowl. Mash yolks, mayonnaise and salt until smooth. Spoon yolk mixture back into egg halves. Place 2 halves, cut side down, on each serving plate. Cut 2 slits near narrow end of each egg half; place 1 radish slice in each slit for ears. Use root end of each radish to form tails. Push raisins into each egg half to form eyes. Garnish with cheese and spinach leaves. Recipe from Fun Food for Healthy Kids.

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Joann’s FASHION BRAS For the Hard-to-Fit

Lavish Lace Distinctive Details in Sizes 34DD to 46H

1704 W. C Place • Russellville AR Call (479) 967-6494 for an appointment Joann Hays, Owner-Consultant

28 ABOUT...the River Valley

Cleaning Woes? We’re All Ears!

Hack’s

cleaners 116 S. Commerce (479) 968-4121

Keeping the Valley Looking It’s Best for more than 50 years!

BLACK BEAN AND TOMATO SALSA

1 c. seeded, diced plum tomatoes (3-4 tomatoes) 1 c. canned black beans, rinsed 2 T. chopped scallions 1 T. chopped fresh cilantro or parsley 1 T. lime juice 1 1/2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil 1/2-1 tsp. minced canned chipotle in adobo sauce 1/8 tsp. salt Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl; stir to blend. Refrigerate until ready to serve. NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per serving: 83 calories; 2 g fat (0 g sat, 1 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 11 g carbohydrate; 4 g protein; 4 g fiber; 283 mg sodium; 118 mg potassium.

Come Knit for your Mom! (Mother’s Day May 10th)

Fashion Bras

2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and halved 2 tsp. low-fat mayonnaise ¼ tsp. salt 2 radishes, thinly sliced & root ends reserved 8 raisins or currants Cheddar cheese and spinach or lettuce leaves

Eggs Water Vinegar

Kim Bailey Murders & Stephanie Bates Closed Mondays Wed, Thur, Fri 10am-6pm Tues 12pm-8pm

Knit Night Tuesday’s 6-8pm Sat 10am-2pm

479-968-Knit (5648) 317 W. Main Street Russellville, Arkansas 72801

April 2009

SCRAMBLED EGG BURRITOS

4 9-inch whole-wheat flour tortillas 4 large eggs 1/8 tsp. salt Freshly ground pepper to taste 1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil 1 4-oz. can chopped green chilies 1/2 c. grated Cheddar or pepper Jack cheese 2 c. Black Bean & Tomato Salsa (recipe follows) or prepared salsa 1/4 c. reduced-fat sour cream

BLACK BEAN AND TOMATO SALSA

HOMEMADE EGG SUBSTITUTE

Preheat oven to 350°F. Wrap tortillas in foil and heat in the oven for 5-10 minutes. Blend eggs, salt and pepper in a medium bowl with a fork until blended. Heat oil in a 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add chilies and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add eggs and cook, stirring slowly with a wooden spoon or heatproof rubber spatula, until soft, fluffy curds form, 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 minutes. To serve, divide eggs evenly among the tortillas. Sprinkle each with about 2 T. cheese and roll up. Serve with salsa and sour cream. Recipe from Eatingwell.com. NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per serving:328 calories;15 g fat (6 g sat, 5 g mono); 232 mg cholesterol; 35 g carbohydrate; 18 g protein; 7 g fiber; 719 mg sodium; 286 mg potassium.

EGGS IN TOAST CUPS

1 T. nonfat dry milk powder 2 egg whites from large eggs 4 drops of yellow food color

6 slices bread Butter 6 eggs Salt and pepper

Sprinkle powdered milk over egg whites, and then beat them with fork until smooth. Add food color, and beat until blended. This makes ¼ cup, which is equal to 1 large egg. If you use this homemade substitute for scrambled eggs, cook it in vegetable oil or margarine so the eggs will not be too dry. Recipe from www.pioneerthinking.com

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Trim crusts from bread; brush both sides of bread with melted butter. Fit into custard cups or large muffin tins. Bake for 15 minutes. Break eggs into toast cups. Season with salt and pepper; dot with butter. Cover with foil. Bake for about 15 minutes or until eggs are set. Loosen toast from sides of cups with spatula. Serve hot. >>

Voted

We’ve Just Been Voted

BEST

of 59 Breakfasts Across the USA by

Magazine!

405 WEST PARKWAY, RUSSELLVILLE (479) 968-3816 • www.stobys.com HRS: MON.-SAT. 6 A.M. – 9 P.M. • OPEN FRIDAY UNTIL 10 P.M.

Homemade Pies & Cakes and Decorated Special Occasion Cakes Deadline for Easter Orders is April 9th! Cakes, Pies & Cookies Balloon Bouquets ~ Message Cookies Specialty Desserts

Best in the River Valley!

Come taste for yourself! Dine in OR CARRy Out

Fonts: Copperplate Serpentine D Bold Colors: PANTONE Reflex Blue C PANTONE Red 032 C PANTONE Black C

Russellville

Pulled Pork ~ Ribs ~ Link Smoked Chicken ~ Family Packs Plate Meals ~ Sandwich Plates BBQ Salads ~ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Come Visit Us During Taste of the Valley on April 30th!

Call Ahead or Carry Out at

411 W. Parkway, Russellville

(479) 967-1273

Hrs: Mon-Thur 10:30a.m.–7p.m. ~ Fri & Sat 10:30a.m.-8p.m. ~ Sun 11a.m.–2p.m. ~ 7206 Hwy. 64 W. April 2009

(479) 968-8945

www.patticakesbakery.net HOURS: Tues. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sat: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. ABOUT...the River Valley 29

SCRAMBLED EGGS

8 eggs 2 heaping T. sour cream or milk Salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 T. butter ½ to ¾ c. grated cheddar `cheese (optional) In a medium size bowl, beat eggs, sour cream or milk, salt and pepper until fluffy. Using a nonstick frying pan, melt butter and cook eggs over low heat, stirring occasionally. Stir in the cheese. Cook until it reaches desired consistency.

EGGS BENEDICT LOW-FAT STYLE ¼ c. plain low-fat yogurt ¼ c. reduced-calorie mayonnaise 2 tsp. skim milk ¼ tsp. dry mustard Dash ground red pepper Nonstick spray coating 4 eggs 4 slices Canadian-style bacon 2 English muffins, split and toasted

Follow “Perfectly Easy Poached Egg” recipe at the beginning of this article. For sauce, in a small saucepan combine yogurt, mayonnaise, milk, dry mustard, and ground red pepper; set aside.

2009: Your Year to travel with friends! DISCOVER SCOTLAND

Departs September 14, 2009 – 10-Day Tour – Rolling hills, sea-sprayed islands, ancient castles. Tour Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Pitlochry, Dunrobin Castle, Lock Ness, Isle of Skye, travel by ferry to Orkney Islands – many more sites to see!

Cook and stir sauce over low heat just until heated through, but do not boil. To serve, top each muffin half with 1 slice bacon, 1 egg and one-fourth of the sauce. Makes 4 servings. Recipe from Better Homes and Gardens. Nutrition Facts: Cal 254, Total Fat 12g, Chol 296mg, Sod 563mg, Carb 18g, Prot 16g

EGG FOO YOUNG

3 tsp. vegetable oil, divided 1 slice fresh ginger root, minced 6 green onions, chopped 1 stalk celery, sliced 2 c. bean sprouts 2 mushrooms, sliced 1 green bell pepper, chopped 1/4 c. chopped cooked ham 1 tsp salt 6 eggs, beaten Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté ginger, green onions, celery, bean sprouts, mushrooms, green pepper, ham and salt until vegetables are tender. In a large bowl combine beaten eggs and vegetable mixture. Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Pour in egg mixture to form a small omelet. Cook until golden

brown on each side. Repeat with remaining egg mixture. Recipe from Allrecipes.com.

EGG SALAD

4 hard-cooked eggs, chopped 2 T. sweet or dill pickle relish 2 T. finely chopped red sweet pepper ¼ c. Mayonnaise or salad dressing 1 ½ tsp yellow mustard Salt and pepper to taste In a medium bowl stir together eggs, pickle relish, sweet pepper, mayonnaise, and mustard. If desired, cover and chill for up to 6 hours. Curried Egg Salad: Add 1/2 to 1 tsp. curry powder to the egg salad. Cover. Chill for 2 to 6 hours. Honey-Dill Egg Salad: Substitute honey mustard for yellow mustard and add 1 tsp. dried dill weed to the egg salad. Egg Salad Wraps: Prepare egg salad as directed. Using four 8-inch flour tortillas lay lettuce leaves on tortillas; top with egg salad and roll up. Q’s-Tip: Omit mustard, add sliced black olives, fill Profiteroles (see About… Weddings and Special Occasions February 2009 issue for the recipe) or place on bread for an easy and simple but de-lish sandwich. n

An Award-Winning Tasting Party... 17th Annual

SAN ANTONIO HOLIDAY

December 5, 2009 – 5-Day Tour – The “American Venice,” sidewalk cafes, architecture, beautiful river centerpiece. See The Alamo, Aztec Theater, Mission San Jose, Tex-Mex Cooking Class and create wonderful holiday memories!

PACIFIC NORTHWEST & CALIFORNIA

July 20, 2009 – 8-Day Tour (limited space available) – A region sandwiched between mountains & the sea...the essence of the Pacific Northwest is characterized by lush country & sophisticated city life. You’ll cruise the spectacular Rogue River for a chance to view bald eagles, seals and heron. From there it’s on to the famous Redwood National Park in California. Enjoy a delightful tour of Eureka with its beautiful Victorian architecture before driving over the legendary Golden Gate Bridge arrive in the “City by the Bay.”

IMPERIAL CITIES - 2010 June 10, 2010 – 10-

Day Tour – An opportunity to travel June 10-19, 2010, has been made available to our group through Collette Vacations. Imperial Cities featuring Prague, Vienna, Budapest and the Oberammergan Passion Play will be offered on a first come first serve basis to our group.

ATU Travel

Alumni and Friends of Arkansas Tech For additional information, please contact Dana Moseley, Office of Gift Planning, (479) 964-0532

30 ABOUT...the River Valley

Thursday, April 30, 2009 ~ 5pm until 8pm Tickets: $20 Advance • $25 at the door Featuring Area Restaurants, Caterers, Delicatessens, Food Service Providers & Vineyards. This ad paid for with a combination of state funds and private regional association funds.

Russellville’s Historic Missouri-Pacific Depot 320 W. C Street • Downtown Russellville • (479) 967-1437

April 2009

Alumni, Friends Travel South Photos courtesy of ATU Travel

The South has been known for many years to be one of the most ‘charming’ parts of the county. On November 30, 2008, a total of 15 travelers couldn’t agree more as they discovered “Southern Charm Holiday” to be one of their most memorable trips. Arranged through ATU Travel Alumni and Friends, the group spent six days traveling historic Charleston, Boone Hall Plantation, Beaufort, Savannah, Factors Walk, and the islands of St. Simons and Jekyll. Travelers included a number of mother/ daughter and mother/daughter-in-law pairs as well as others who traveled with other family members. However, according to Dana Moseley, director of gift planning and travel for Arkansas Tech, “the alumni and friends travel groups are a close-knit group that usually always feels like traveling with family regardless.” The group reveled in the hospitality and rich history found in Georgia and South Carolina, starting with Charleston. One of their first stops included Mills Street House, located in a remodeled warehouse built in the 1600s. Nearby was the charming City Market, including an intriguing straw market. And there was the food. “You could almost say we ‘ate our way across the South,’” several travelers said. One of those, Betty Salmeri of Cheyenne, W.Y., agreed. One of the group’s preferred dining spots, April 2009

“Pawley’s Porch,” served typical flavorful Southern fare and a local specialty, “SheCrab Soup.” The Wilkes Boarding House was probably the group’s favorite dining place, they added, serving 35 different dishes in a family-style setting, including “the best fried chicken” many of them had ever tasted. They also dined at The Lady and Sons, a restaurant made famous by Paula Dean and her two sons. Afterward, shoppers enjoyed purchases made in the Paula Deen store attached to the restaurant. Traveler Phyllis Stone said she enjoyed the Southern Charm holiday ‘immensely.’ “This was the first time for me to visit the beautiful Atlantic Coastal region. The scenery was beautiful as well as the wonderful food and history throughout the Charleston and Savannah regions. I was especially impressed with the historical and beautiful quaint town of Beaufort that we visited.” The group toured Charleston for two days, focusing on the City Market, a must for holiday shoppers. Charleston is considered the charm spot of the south with tours highlighting the many historic homes and restored building decorated with outstanding 18th-century decorations. A view of Fort Sumter transported the travelers back to april 12, 1861, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. This was an especially poignant moment for Dana Moseley, whose family roots trace back to the event. During the evening, the group

experienced James Island Country Park where more than 500,000 lights provide an enchanting 3-mile driving tour. The group left historic and beautiful Charleston behind and traveled to Beaufort and Savannah on day three of the six-day tour. They enjoyed a horse-drawn carriage tour of the historic district while learning details of the area. “Our guide told us about the history from the revolutionary and civil war times, as well as the town’s modern-day movie star filming history,” recalled Stone. Following another night of Southern cuisine, the group toured Savannah’s historic district, include strolls of the cobblestone paved Factors Walk and River Street where old cotton warehouses have been converted into shops, taverns and restaurants. Day Five found the travelers touring both Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island. On Jekyll Island, one of the nation’s largest restoration projects, reveled the 240acre river’s edge where grand “cottages” belonging to notables such as the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts and J.P. Morgan could be seen. The St. Simons lighthouse and Museum of Coastal History, followed by a guided tour of the historic Jekyll Island Club, rounded out the evening. “I would have to say that this is one of the best trips overall that I have been on... I really didn’t want to leave,” said Stone. To learn more about ATU Travel Alumni and Friends, contact Dana Moseley at (479) 964-0532 or visit alumni.atu.edu/travel. n ABOUT...the River Valley 31

Racing to Keep Up with the Story and Photos Jeannie Stone

ith summer just around the corner, parents are already scrambling to find camps and activities to fill their children’s free time. The parents of four youngsters in Russellville don’t have that problem, however. They’re just trying to keep up with their kids -- Cameron, Cassie, Carter and Cooper -- also known as the “C Kids.” Cameron Johnson and Carter Burlison, Upper Elementary Fifth Grade students, and Cassie Johnson and Cooper Burlison, Center Valley Elementary students, are not your typical kids. Each is involved in softball or baseball season and the Russellville Sharks swim team as well as being seasoned marathoners. A marathon is defined as a test of endurance, especially a competition, and these young

Triathlon Kids

competitors seem to be unstoppable. Along with running 5K races, bike races and triathlons -- a bit of both with swimming thrown in -- the dynamic quartet have their own web site, ckidsswimbikerun.com. Russellville residents Danya and Jason Johnson and Chris and Jenifer Burlison are very supportive of their children’s activities. Danya had experience swimming competitively and became the trainer during the swim trainings, and her husband Jason, employed with AMERICOLD Logistics, Inc., runs and bikes with the kids. Cameron, 11, aspires to become an Olympic swimmer or perhaps work in a bike repair shop. The eldest of the clan enjoys football, baseball, basketball and soccer, and loves to swim -- excelling in the butterfly. “Being the next Michael Phelps wouldn’t

be bad either,” he said, only half joking. Cameron has quite an artistic side with a love for drawing and music. When asked about his hobbies, he said, “I love guitars, dirt bikes. You, know, guy stuff.” Getting sweaty and dirty may once have been considered “guy stuff” but no more. Little sister Cassie, 10 years old, has fun showing the boys up every chance she gets. In addition to the triathlon trainings, she manages to squeeze in softball, soccer and basketball. She also loves to show horses with her Nana and has plans to become a veterinarian. Her fall-back talent is writing. “It’s very healthful,” Cassie commented on her active schedule, “and we are having fun.” She may not be the lone female on the team for long, however, as her girlfriend Gracie will be joining the crew in an upcoming 5k run.

Living Proof Live Featuring Beth Moore Simulcast of Beth Moore’s Living Proof Live, broadcasted live from Green Bay, Wisconsin. City Mall, Russellville 479-968-3001

32 ABOUT...the River Valley

First United Methodist Church, Russellville AR (479) 968-1232 www.fumcrsvl.org dates: Friday August 28 (7:00-9:30 p.m.) Saturday August 29 (8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) $25.00 Early bird special thru April $30.00 May - August April 2009

Finding Cassie’s sport was a struggle, said mother Danya. “She did gymnastics for awhile, but if she messed up, it was all on her, and that was hard because she takes competition very seriously. We didn’t need that kind of stress. We really just wanted to encourage the kids to have fun, and they really enjoy each other.” Danya confessed, “Cassie’s real motivation is beating the boys,” she said. She’s the one that biked the Downtown Tour de Pumpkin and only rode 15 of the 17 miles because she stepped in fire ants during a water break. She was only 7 years old, but she was begging me to let her continue barefoot because the ants were all over her socks and shoes.” Carter, 10, is the techno junkie and keeps the electronic gears running in the group. Besides playing catcher on his baseball team and taking care of his three dogs and gerbil, he plays drums and is a Boy Scout. Biking is his favorite of the three triathlon events and he likes to “invent stuff.” “Yeah, he does like blowing stuff up,” friend Cameron said, prompting Carter to laugh. Youngest at 8 years old, Cooper has his whole life planned out. “I want to go to Tech and be a swimmer, and after that I want to be a policeman,” he

said. Cooper (aka “Catfish” for his style of goggles) is known for his speed. “Running is my favorite thing,” he admitted. He enjoys hiking, camping, being outdoors and Cub Scouting. And what does he do for fun? “Swimming, biking and running are my hobbies - also playing guitar and drums.” “The last day we trained we swam 750 yards and ran two miles, and Cooper was whining about only being able to run two miles,” Danya said. “An added benefit is that all this running around after them keeps me in shape.” Intense practicing on Tuesdays and Thursdays will certainly keep a body in shape. “They all have their own strengths,” Danya said. “Cameron has a great fly, Carter likes biking, Cassie has an awesome backstroke, and Cooper loves to run. We try to find events that play to each of their strengths.” “And triathlons let them do them all together,” father Chris, regional sales director for C & L Supply, said. This business involves the whole family. Mother Jenifer, employed at M. J. Wellwood & Associates, treasures the bonding over trips veiled as family vacations. “We’ve gone to Tennessee. The kids are really pumped up about an upcoming Iron Kids Triathlon in Oklahoma City,” she said. “I really love the traveling,” Cameron said. “These are, like, my best buds, and we get to stay in fancy hotels and eat at fancy restaurants. I love that.” Another benefit Jennifer notices is that the discipline and exercise carry on into their schoolwork. “They strive a little harder because they know the benefits of perseverance, and that really helps them in school with their concentration.” Danya is quick to tout other benefits. “The health benefits are the first major concern because I’ve always encouraged

The Start of Something Wonderful

Bernice Davis

An Emeritus Senior Living Community 240 S. Inglewood Ave, Russellville, AR 72801 • (479) 890-6709

April 2009

Push More. Pull More. Lift More.

“Since moving here, I feel more secure than being alone. I receive help from the caring staff when I need it. I’m happy that I made the move to Wildflower.”

WILDFLOWER

my kids to be active,” she said. “Through every event we learn something. During the first race we stopped to tie shoes five times. We figured out that we needed to prepare for that, and we made accommodations. “It’s very gratifying. We just want to keep it positive. There are so many sports that end when kids get out of high school or that they’re denied because they didn’t make the cut, but swimming, biking and running are lifestyle sports.” When the group decided to add swimming to their repertoire to lengthen the short swimming season, Danya introduced strategy. “We started talking about training regularly to improve our performance, and they were game.” Danya is grateful for the opportunity to spend so much time with her children. “When you put yourself around your kids they’ll open up to you,” she said. “Kids like to talk, and they start spewing information on how their day was - what their homework is, what the teacher said we just chat, chat, chat. “If you were to ask them how often they train, they’d just shrug. They have fun,” Danya said, “and to them this is just a bike ride, going for a swim or running around the block.” Chris added, “Triathlons are a personalbest sport as is life, and continuing this lifestyle can lead to a better quality of life. n

Hardworking Mahindra

Cultivate Your Dreams

1310 West Main Street, Suite 101 Russellville, AR 72801 P: 479-967-3555 • F: 479-967-3556 clarklawfirm@centurytel.net

YELL COUNTY GIN COMPANY South 2nd St. • Dardanelle • 479-229-4841 ABOUT...the River Valley 33

Symphony Event Noted

Photos courtesy of David Snellings

‘Talk of the Town Tables,’ an annual fundraiser for the Russellville Symphony Guild, was held February 7 at Lake Point Conference Center in Russellville. Monies generated from the event are used to promote music in the schools and to sponsor the annual Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Performance. This year’s concert is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, at Witherspoon Auditorium, Arkansas Tech University. Those businesses decorating and providing tables included: Bethany’s Design Center, Cathy’s Flowers & Gifts, Flowers Etc., Gifts On Parkway, M. Hill’s, Millyn’s, PJ’s Corner, Sweeden Florist, Taylor Nursery, Winston Taylor, III’s Company and The Other Foot & More. Contributors to the symphony guild’s silent auction included: the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, ArkaValley Liquor, Bethany’s Design Center, Blackwell Liquor, Ron and Barbara Blalack, Arden Boyce, Ty Brunson, Catherine’s Cakes, Cathy’s Flowers & Gifts, Bonnie Clark, Dr. Mike Cooper, Crown Antiques, Janet Donnangelo, Faces, Flowers, Etc., Friends of the Symphony, Bill Garrison, Gloria Garrison, Gaston’s Resort, Brad and Susan Gessler, Gifts On Parkway, Goldmasters, Italian Gardens, Joshua’s Jewelry, Robert and Anne Keenan, Kentucky Fried Chicken, M. Hill’s, Market Place Grill of Conway, Mike’s Place of Conway, Millyn’s, Judy Murphy and Peter’s Family Living. Also supporting the event were: Petit Jean Meats, Phi Mu Alpha, PJ’s Corner, Reflections Tea Room, Dr. Mary Ann Rollans, Rose Drug, Ruby Tuesday, Savannah’s, Romey and Portia Short, Betty Snellings, Jim Stamps, Earnest Standridge, Chris and Elizabeth Stinnett, Stoby’s, Taylor Nursery, The Courier, The Frame Shop, The Mirage Day Spa, The Other Foot & More, Rick and Harriett Thone, Sue Tucker, UACCM, Valley Motors, Inc. and John and Leigh Whiteside. For information on the April 25th symphony concert or the pre-concert reception scheduled at Lake Point, call Charlotte Linch at (479) 229-3292. n

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Car Show Benefits Dive and Rescue If it shines and sounds good, chances are the vehicles car-show fans love will be featured during the 5th annual Best Ride Car Show. The event will be held Saturday, April 18, at Best Ride, 621 South Knoxville Ave., Rsvl. Organized by Best Ride manager Gene Daughtery and supported by his staff and other local car lovers, the car show is an annual fundraiser supporting the Pope County Office of Emergency Management Dive and Rescue Squad. The event is not limited to cars or trucks. Past entries have included hot rods, vintage and classic cars, VWs, customized golf carts, T-Bucket roadsters and motorcycles. First and second place trophies will be awarded in 16 categories. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Judging begins at 1 p.m. Admission is free and everyone is invited to attend. Anyone may participate in the show and there is no charge to enter a vehicle. For $1 donation, attendees may have the opportunity to drive away in a vehicle donated by Best Ride with any parts needed for reconditioning the vehicle supplied by Advance Auto. The $1 donations are available in advance from Best Ride, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. or day of the event between 9 a.m.

Photos courtesy of Gene Daughtery

to 4 p.m. Several door prizes have been donated by other sponsoring businesses. Vehicle recipient must be a licensed driver and will be responsible for all taxes and licensing. Before Daughtry moved to Russellville from Dallas in 2004, he had coordinated similar charitable fundraising events. More than $5,000 has been raised at previous local shows. The proceeds will be used by the Pope County OEM Dive and Rescue Squad to purchase supplies and fund maintenance needs (not funded through other means.) Savage Pride, a popular local band, will be performing throughout the day, donating their services for the event. Their CDs will be available for purchase. A live remote with KCJC will be held from 10 a.m. until noon “Every dime earned through this fundraiser is for the OEM Dive Squad,” say organizers. In the event of rain, the car show will be rescheduled. For further information, contact Gene Daughtery at Best Ride at (479) 9683192 or Jerry Evans at (479) Cogswell Motors Quick Lane at 498-2555. n

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Suppose you are applying for a position with the nation’s largest employer. In the job description, you read: “this job is non-profit, non-government and non-business.” Hmm, that sounds promising. But there are some who are looking at the potential, the promise and the purpose of such jobs. If they choose this line of work, they know that day in and day out, they will make a genuine difference in people’s lives. Who are the 90 million Americans who accept these positions each year? They are our nation’s volunteers.* For the past 35 years, the volunteers (officially known as auxilians) of Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center Volunteer Auxiliary have focused on service above self. Like their counterparts around the country, they make up an irreplaceable force. “Saint Mary’s volunteers are the face of our hospital,” said Mike McCoy, CEO. “They are here to welcome our guests, comfort our patients and support our staff. They do it because they care – because they want to give back to the community. It is the Golden Rule in action.” The needs volunteers fill are big and small: filling coffee pots in a waiting room, transporting patients by wheelchair, delivering flowers to a new mom, ringing up sales in the Compliments Gift Shop, responding with grace to a patient’s anxiety. By meeting these needs, they make measurable and immeasurable contributions that significantly affect the hospital’s healing atmosphere.

But Saint Mary’s volunteers take their giving a step further. Last year, they awarded eleven $500 scholarships to employees working to obtain degrees in nursing or other clinical studies. They raised these monies by personally donating to their money jar fund, and through their gift shop, used book and jewelry sales. Volunteer President Clarice Cox noted “we want our friends, families and neighbors to have the very best of care. One way we as volunteers can help is to provide a little monetary assistance to help further educate the clinical staff who will be caring for those we love. Our goal is to keep those compassionate, qualified caregivers here at Saint Mary’s.” According to Stephanie Beerman, volunteer coordinator, Saint Mary’s will celebrate the contributions of these often unsung heroes during National Volunteer Week April 19-25. “I’m sure that ever since there have been hospitals and services dedicated to health care, there have been volunteers there to help. With each passing year, hospitals see technologies and techniques advance in medicine. But these advancements cannot replace the value of the human touch,” said Beerman. “Our volunteers epitomize the human touch, and for that, we want to show our gratitude by honoring them.” Throughout the week, the hospital will bring awareness to the service and care shown by the 71 people who make up the active volunteer roster. People like Ernestine Stewart, who after retirement, never slowed April 2009

down. Not only has she gone on to complete her education at Arkansas Tech, but along with it has spent years giving more than 17,000 hours to the hospital. It will go to ones like Daniel Corliss, whose warmhearted spirit continually brings smiles to the faces of guests and employees. He has given more than 14,000 hours of service. Folks like Delphine Zydzik, who joined the auxiliary as it was birthed in the mid-1970s. Her 33 years of service, which includes giving more than 6,100 hours of her time, were especially noted last year when she received the Volunteer Excellence Award. Some, such as Dale Boeh, have served in district and state auxiliary leadership. His wife Barbara, whose daily tasks involve helping the intensive care unit with its supplies inventory, makes sure babies born during the holiday season receive handcrafted Christmas stockings. Regardless of the hours served and the tasks performed, all volunteers will be celebrated throughout the week for their giving spirit. Then in May, Saint Mary’s auxiliary will welcome new members and install officers, Beerman said. The current officers are: Clarice Cox, president; Evelyn Denton, vice president; Julie Daughtry, secretary; and Shirlene White, treasurer.

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Together, Saint Mary’s volunteers contributed almost 17,000 hours last year, and in the first two months of this year, have contributed about 2,300 hours, Beerman noted. The auxiliary has set goals for 2009 that includes recruiting more workers and reaching their service hour goal of 20,000. Many believe and would argue that Americans live in a totally self-absorbed culture. The actions of Saint Mary’s volunteers seem to belie that notion. So what compels them, and others, to become one of these generous givers? The answers are many: • They can help others who appreciate their dedication and positive attitude. • They make new friends and stay connected with the community. • They build self-confidence by sharing talents, gifts and experience. • They stay active, which not only benefits their physical health, but their mental and emotional health as well. • They remember how blessed their lives are. They are able to put aside their tough situations to help others through theirs. Is it time for you to give as a Saint Mary’s volunteer? Applications for volunteer auxilians age 18 and up are available at the hospital’s switchboard office, or can

Celebrating

be downloaded from the auxiliary’s online site: saintmarysvolunteers.blogspot.com, Beerman said. Also, students age 13 to 18 who are interested in the health care professions are encouraged to apply for the Volunteen program, which runs from June to August each summer. Applications for 2009 will be accepted April 1 through May 15, and are also available at the switchboard, she added. Additional information about either group is available at the website or by contacting Stephanie Beerman at 479968-2841. n *Source: National Association of Volunteer Programs

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From left: Jordan McCormic, Michael Norris, Kevin Williams, David Norris, John Kruen, Lewis Purcell, Jeffrey Perkins, Blake Rowley, Gunnar Klemmer and Chris Williams.

Common Pursuit of Eagle Rank Forges Lasting Bonds Story and Photos by Jeannie Stone

An unprecedented number of Russellville Boy Scouts have earned the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest honor awarded within the national organization. Troop 214, Magazine Mt. chapter, sponsored by Grace Fellowship Church, has 10 young men who have met the challenges and deserve to be called the ‘best of the best.’ The boys, along with Scoutmaster Dr. Stan Gately and Assistant Scoutmaster Sam Kruen, have an accumulated legacy of over 100 years in scouting. How appropriate, since 2010 marks the centennial year of the Boy Scouts of America, an organization dedicated to raising responsible, honorable and capable young men. Scoutmaster Gately has served 10 years in leadership after being steeped in the scouting tradition during his childhood in Ft. Smith. As a teen, he earned the rank of Eagle and is proud his son Hunter, 14, is completing the necessary steps to join the coveted brotherhood. Gately believes the Boy Scouts is “one of the few youth organizations that really teach youth.” The three parts of the scout oath are: duty to God, duty to others and duty to self. Assistant scoutmaster Sam Kruen, on the other hand, was always attracted to boy scouting, but it wasn’t offered in his native southwest Minnesota

38 ABOUT...the River Valley

“Scouting was kind of my childhood dream,” he said. Now, he is part of making the dream come true for the next generation. He signed up to help five years ago when his son John registered. “To see Jonathan develop the self initiative to sell 3,500 cans of popcorn, set goals in attaining merit badges and ranks is very rewarding,” he said. “Whether he makes his goal or not, he is having fun and gaining responsibility.” John Kruen, 14, son of Sam and Debbie Kruen, is also involved in the youth group at Russellville First Assembly of God and acts in the church’s Passion Play. He is a member of the National Honor Society and enjoys playing percussion in the RJH band. One of the younger Eagles, John is grateful for scouting. “It’s made me a better person, and it’s helped my character grow. I know I’m more responsible because of scouting.” John believes the road ahead will be smoother due to the goal setting and problem solving skills he’s learned. “It’s taught me some important stuff I can use later in life,” he said. Compassion seems to be one of those virtues learned. While attending Camp Orr near Jasper one summer, John volunteered to aid a younger camper after the boy got spooked.

April 2009

“They were telling ghost stories, and he really got scared,” John said of the ordeal. “I liked being needed.” John built fish habitats using 100 cedar trees for his Eagle project. “It was hard work because they weighed a lot with the sand and all,” he said. “We had to tie them on boats with sandbags and dump them out at designated spots.” The project required 136 hours. Kevin Williams, 17, son of Patrick and Cori Williams of Russellville is quick to admit, “It takes a kick in the butt to get me outdoors because I’m kind of lazy.” He’s convinced, however, that the time spent in the wilderness and with his friends has been worth a few missed hours of sleep. It is the bonding that Kevin treasures most from his scouting experiences. He gives a lot of credit to his dad who has been heavily involved. His most memorable encounter was during a routine trip to fetch water during their visit to Philmont, a rugged, mountainous scout camp located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in New Mexico. “We took a detour,” Kevin said, “and saw the prettiest sunrise at the Tooth of Time (a prominent rock formation). We ran to get the camera, but, by then, the show was over. We decided the prettiest things, especially in nature, don’t last long, so it’s wise to savor them.” Kevin, a student at Russellville High School, spent 120 hours of his time rebuilding the steps at Bona Dea fitness trail for his Eagle project. He is interested in studying electrical engineering. He’s glad to have scouting on his college application. “It definitely looks good,” he said. “I totally recommend Boy Scouting to everyone. You get so much experience, and you get to see things you’d never get to see without it.” Younger brother Christopher Williams,

14, a student at RJHS, received his eagle rank at the tender age of 13. He chose for his project building the fire ring and benches at the Piney Bay amphitheater, for which he devoted 100 hours. “Campovers are really fun,” he said. “I like to work on merit badges.” Eagle Scouts must have at least 21 merit badges to obtain their rank. The badges are earned upon meeting the requirements in the areas of citizenry, emergency preparedness, fitness and family. Christopher is influenced by his father, an engineer at the nuclear plant. He wishes to study electrical engineering. “Whatever I do it’s going to include music,” he said. Christopher plays trumpet and piano, is a drum major for the RJHS band and plays guitar for St. John’s church. He is a member of the cross country team. Both he and his brother paddle in the Russellville Venture Crews, a water adventure arm of the boy scouts. Patrick Williams, father of Kevin and Christopher, is proud of the self sufficiency the boys have learned through scouting. “It was very evident at Philmont,” he said. “Our boys were cooking their own food, getting their stuff together, setting up camp. Some kids, however, just hadn’t developed life skills and required a lot more help.” Scouting teaches the boys to look ahead said Williams, whose two younger sons are also scouts. “They know when they arrive at camp, what they brought is what they have. They have to learn to make do because there’s no quick trip home to get something you forgot. “And there is some significant bonding going on with this group of boys,” he said. Jordan McCormic, 18, son of Emil and Lesa McCormic of Russellville, credits scouting for bringing him out of his shell.

“I wasn’t the most social kids when I began scouting, but I can talk to anyone now. I’ve really developed into more of a people person, and to a certain extent, you really have to have those skills in the real world.” Jordan’s real world includes a part-time job at PDQ West and freshman studies at Tech. Upon turning 18th, he can register as an adult. The distinction of Eagle Scout, however, is a lifetime achievement. Jordan will always be an Eagle Scout. Jordan treasures the trips and the hiking excursions. “I’d rather be outside,” he said. Right now, Jordan is using the skills he learned to juggle the demands of college and work. Jordan’s eagle project was the renovation of the wildlife viewing center at the Bona Dea trails. Eighteen-year-old twins Michael and David Norris, sons of Jeff and Linda Norris of Russellville, do a lot of things together. Seniors at RHS, they run track and cross country, are members of the National Honor Society and are members of First United Methodist Church. David’s eagle project involved creating fish habitats at Lake Dardanelle. The Corps of Engineers uses the habitats to promote successful fishing. David considers the friends he’s made in scouting to last a lifetime. “I’m going to stay in touch with them forever,” he said. “They’re all pretty cool.” The camaraderie and the adventures, have been David’s favorite memories. He shares appreciation for the roles Kruen and Gately had in his scouting career. Michael estimates he invested between 50 and 70 hours completing his Eagle project, planting 200 – 300 trees and food crops on Corps of Engineer land at Old Post Park. He had a little help from his friends. >>

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April 2009

ABOUT...the River Valley 39

“You can get more things done, collectively, rather than individually. I’ve learned an individual isn’t above the group.” That team spirit impressed Michael. “On our first or second day hiking in Colorado the weather turned on us, and I remember being so cold. The whole troop cheered each other on. We bested the elements,” he said. “Going to the Florida National High Adventure Sea Base in the Keys was just a great experience,” Michael said. Both Michael and David have set their sights on either attending the University of Missouri on NROTC (Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps) scholarships or studying engineering at the Arkansas Tech. “Scouting has really developed me into the person I am today,” Michael said. Lewis Purcell, 18, a senior at RHS and son to Lew and Darlene (deceased) Purcell, has been in scouting “as long as I can remember,” he said, and he remembers a lot. His first high adventure trip, hiking in Colorado, turned out to be another of those unforgettable times. “The first day started out beautiful, but I fell in the water which wouldn’t have been bad if the weather hadn’t changed suddenly on us. It started raining and turned freezing cold. My hands and feet were blue and shaking uncontrollably,” he said. Purcell told a regurgitated camp tale of demented pit bulls and a damsel in distress in the wilderness surrounding Philmont. It’s not surprising he has plans to move to Los Angeles and study film and television, with his colorful manner. Purcell’s eagle project was building and hanging 35 birdhouses in strategic spots in

From top left (behind balloons): Kevin Williams, Michael Norris, David Norris, Lewis Purcell, Jeffrey Perkins, Gunnar Klemmer, John Kruen, Christopher Williams, Jordan McCormic and Blake Rowley.

the park to attract and house a variety of birds, including barn owls. It took him 150 hours. “Scouting has made me a whole lot more patient, hard working and mature. It also taught me the importance of having good friends,” he said. Gunnar Klemmer, 16, a student at RHS and son of Keith and Sandra Klemmer, has been in scouts since Tiger Cubs in first grade. He plays baritone in the high school band. Klemmer said, “I’ve seen stuff I’d never been able to see if it weren’t for scouting.” He has particularly fond memories of earning his scuba certification while in Florida. He is interested in pursuing a career in the U.S. Navy or U.S. Coast Guard “or something to do with science or history,” he said. Klemmer planted 2,000 trees on Corps of Engineers land which had previously burned. “I had a lot of friends and scouts who helped me,” he said. “Scouting will always be a part of me and my future kids’ lives.”

Jeffrey Perkins, 17, son of Darrell and Laurie Perkins, attends RHS where he plays trombone in the Cyclone band, is a member of the National Honor Society and the Teenage Republicans. He is also a member of the YAC (Youth Advisory Council) at St. John’s Catholic church. The whole of scouting has prepared him for life said Perkins. “Sharing my joy at being in the mountains and being a child of God with some of my favorite people was pretty cool,” he said of his Philmont experience. Perkins, whose Eagle project involved 200 hours of planning and planting a rose garden in his church’s courtyard dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe, cited merit badges for awakening in him a passion for science and engineering. His father is an engineer with ANO, and Perkins has chosen to study engineering on an NROTC scholarship at his mother’s alma mater, Texas A&M.

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“Scouting is just a great experience. This journey will be a part of me and who I am forever,” Perkins said. “I’m sure I’ll become a scout leader when I settle down some day.” Blake Rowley, 18, a senior at RHS and son of Phillip and Kathryn Rowley, has plans to attend the University of Arkansas where he intends to enter the pre-med program. Rowley’s eagle project, 120 hours assisting with fish habitats on Lake Dardanelle, is one of the many opportunities which tested the mettle of Rowley’s leadership skills. “Scouting has taught me initiative and how to get things done.” Through scouting Rowley has learned a number of useful skills like first aid. “I even had to use it a couple of times,” he said. “Once, when a kid got knocked in the head with a rock, and when we were facing dehydration on a major hike.” Another thing he learned at the hand of Gately, Kruen and his fellow pack members: “Relationships are everything,” he said, “and I plan on keeping these.” For the most part, the young men have grown up together in scouting having started

as Webelos or Tiger Cubs and crossing over to the Boy Scouts. Whether rafting in the Royal Gorge, backpacking in Colorado, trekking at Philmont, scuba diving in the Florida Keys, “everyone got along really well,” Kevin said, “and we saw a lot of cool things.” It seems high adventure served as the backdrop for major bonding. “My first backpacking trip to Colorado was pretty memorable,” Kevin said. “It was just a gorgeous hike up to Humboldt Peak on a beautiful day.” The weather turned, however, and the boys found the return almost impossible. “It was absolute hell,” Kevin said, “but I wasn’t alone.” No, never alone. Klemmer, Kruen, Perkins and the Williams boys are also members of the prestigious Order of the Arrow, an honor society for Boy Scouts. It is an invitation-only fellowship charged with offering special service to the district such as performing ceremonies and welcoming incoming scout members. Parent involvement is the key to a young scouts success, said Gatley: “The chance of a scout succeeding in scouts is directly

dependent on the support of their parents,” he said. “What makes this troop so strong is that we have two registered adult leaders for every three boys. Without them, I wouldn’t be able to do what I do.” Gately continued, “When I was a kid, everything was foreign to me. I would have never been exposed to everything – and the great outdoors. There were adults who sacrificed their time off to provide the excellent opportunities to us. It’s time for me to give back the gift of scouting – the gift that was given to me.” “What impresses me most,” Kruen said, “is that the values promoted through the scout handbook and laws parallel the foundations of Christianity. They are learning the fruits of the spirit by becoming godly in their responsibility and godly in their character.” Honorable, hard working, responsible, godly, accountable -- scouting continues to teach timeless values at a time when the fast-paced world is losing sight of its guiding lights. In Russellville, Arkansas, the hearts and minds of the Eagle Scouts of Troop 214 are illuminating a path for all of us. n

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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.)

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Registry listings courtesy of Gifts on Parkway/Gifts on Rogers and Millyn’s of Dardanelle. To have your 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. Word count is limited to 225 words. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication. For additional information, call (479) 970-6628. April 2009

With Sincere Thanks! Crown Circle

Thank you to our Crown Circle of Friends. Your generous support enables Junior Auxiliary to implement programs that meet the diverse needs of our community. ABOUT the River Valley Magazine First State Bank – Cynthia and Charlie Blanchard Dr. Carmella Knoernschild Lee Ann’s Fine Jewelry Over Auctioneers – Chad and Charles Over Quick Service Cleaners Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center – Millard Henry Clinic Sweeden’s Florist The Courier Mr. and Mrs. Rick Thone

Benefactors

As you continue to give to Junior Auxiliary, we can continue to give back to the community. The circle of giving is meeting the many needs of our community. Kristy and Brad Allen Bank of the Ozarks Burris, Inc. Duffield Gravel – Blackstone Construction Honda of Russellville Liberty Bank of Arkansas Dr. and Mrs. David Murphy Shoptaw, Labahn & Company, P.A. Tom Bagby Photography Valley Laser/VSPA