ABOUT | August 2013 by ABOUT the River Valley Magazine

REMEMBERING

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August 2013

8 Remembering Dianne

We wanted to honor our founder, mentor, and friend, but we struggled mightily with just the right way to do it. Anyone that knew Dianne knows that she would never go for a story all about her. So, with much deliberation, we decided to let the community tell her story with their words.

More than band-aids & ice-packs

ABOUT...Community

The Russellville Public School System took a bold step and instituted a school-wide policy to place a nurse in every school in the district. This decision makes Russellville schools unique.

22 ABOUT...Food

14 about | our cover Photo by Steve Newby

A mug full of pens, a yellow note pad and a planner full of events and meetings in the River Valley. You could walk into Dianne Edwardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office any time of the day during any day of the week and this is what you would find.

Forward Thinking for a Growing City

Big Brownie on the Bayou

For jobs and for shopping, all roads in the River Valley lead to Russellville. With a population of over 28,000, Russellville is the largest city along the river corridor between Little Rock and Ft. Smith.

32 Tech Travel visits Ireland

ABOUT...Engagements

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4 ABOUT | August 2013

A HEALTHIER FUTURE FOR OUR COMMUNIT Y

STARTS WITH A STRONGER HEALTH SYSTEM

Cristina M. Clark, M.D. OB/GYN

William Sosebee, M.D. OB/GYN

Fauzia Qadir, M.D. Family Practice

Michael Hromanik, M.D. Ahmed Athar, M.D. Orthopaedic Surgeon Interventional Cardiologist

Shuja Rasool, M.D. Cardiologist

As a regional health system, our commitment to your health goes beyond caring for you at our hospital. This requires bringing the communities we serve the highest quality and most comprehensive care possible. To achieve this, we are aggressively recruiting highly skilled specialists, investing in the most advanced treatments and technology, and building new medical facilities. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re creating a stronger regional heath system today so that the River Valley can enjoy a

Eric Graham, M.D. General Surgeon

Heath Stacey, M.D. Plastic Surgeon

Nathan Nielson, M.D. Family Practice

Call to set up an appointment today with one of our new doctors. Dr. Clark: Dr. Sosebee: Dr. Hromanik: Dr. Athar: Dr. Stacey: Dr. Qadir: Dr. Rasool: Dr. Graham: Dr. Nielson:

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R E G I O N A L

H E A L T H

S Y S T E M

A PAGE FROM

The Editor’s Notebook

ABOUT

the River Valley

Knockwhat?

A Publication of Silver Platter Productions, Inc Vol. VIII, Issue 6 – August 2013 Owner/Publisher: Nolan Edwards

Some folks have an eye for spotting items of value. I’m not talking about items of monetary value, like shiny rocks or parcels of land to subdivide. I’m talking about items that add value to our lives in less tangible yet profound ways. The things that bring a smile to our lips or a memory to our hearts. It takes a keen eye to spots these items. We are fortunate that Mr. Van Tyson possess such an eye. Mr. Tyson kept some columns written for Arkansas Tech University’s student paper, The ArkaTech, from his days as an instructor at Tech. Those columns were written by one Dianne Siler, this was before the Edwards addition to her name. Mr. Tyson was gracious enough to share those columns with the ABOUT staff. And we thought that you, the ABOUT readers, would appreciate a dose of nostalgia and a glimpse into the mind of a young journalist already displaying a talent for choosing just the right words to express a thought. Dianne’s column title and her reason for choosing it I found especially interesting. We want to thank Arkansas Tech University for allowing us to use Dianne’s column in ABOUT. You can find her column on the page opposite this editorial, in the space usually reserved for our Cliff Thomas cartoon. Read it. Enjoy it. Further into this issue we have devoted a few pages to remembering Dianne, and what she meant to those who knew her. These pages are filled with words and thoughts directly from her friends. If you didn’t know Dianne, you can read the words and get a faint understanding of who she was, but that’s all you can get. Just an outline. The words, though poignant, can’t replace knowing her. I only knew Dianne for about 3 years, but what a difference those three years have made in my life. I only wish, as all who knew her do, that I could have just a little more of her time.

DIANNE EDWARDS | founding editor NOLAN EDWARDS | publisher nolan@aboutrvmag.com JOHNNY SAIN | managing editor johnny@aboutrvmag.com CHRISTINE WOJTKOWSKI | advertising christine@aboutrvmag.com LYDIA ZIMMERMAN | advertising/columnist lydia@aboutrvmag.com KECHIA BENTLEY | columnist kechia@aboutrvmag.com CONNIE LAS SCHNEIDER | freelance connie@aboutrvmag.com STEVE NEWBY | photography stevenewbyphotography@aboutrvmag.com CLIFF THOMAS | illustrator maddsigntist@aboutrvmag.com CHRIS ZIMMERMAN | layout/design chris@zimcreative.com

ABOUT… the River Valley is locally owned and published for distribution by direct mail and targeted delivery to those interested in the Arkansas River Valley. Material contained in this issue may not be copied or reproduced without written consent. Inquiries may be made by calling (479) 970-6628. Office: 220 East 4th Street Email: johnny@aboutrvmag.com Postmaster: Please send address changes to: SPPI, P.O. Box 10176, Russellville AR 72812.

Johnny Sain, Editor 479.857.6791 johnny@aboutrvmag.com

www.aboutrvmag.com

Nolan

Steve

Kechia

Connie

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6 ABOUT | August 2013

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about | august 2013

KNOCKWURST By Dianne Siler Knockwurst...A Mid-Summers night dream. No, actually it was an offthe-wall comment that was nurtured and grew with care. Thank you my friend for bringing the subject up... We should have known that the search would end eventually. Regardless of the source, it seems appropriate since knockwurst, according to Webster, refers to a type of meat "whose skin cracks open when bitten." My own temperament has a tendency to "crack open" when harassed. Many people are that way in that they often find it hard to keep their mouth shut when they disagree with someone. Enough of this, Huh? Back to the "Real World" of Arkansas Tech...(Yes, a laugh may indeed be in order at this point.) I suppose I should begin with the traditional "Welcome to Arkansas Tech," but most of you have put up with those words until the very sound of them makes you cringe. However, I am glad you are at Tech. You have just become a part of one of the most friendly campuses in the nation. (Thought I would get through that paragraph without saying that...oh well.) You are here, (sounds like one of those maps at Six-Flags, doesn't it?) And the fact that you have chosen Tech to further your education says a great deal. Many of you have come for the very same reasons that I came - you were searching for an alternative to the "Cruel World" and you wanted to learn a way to make your mark upon society. Maybe this is my attempt to do just that - for I know that I will make both friends and enemies through the semester - I ask for your patience and tolerance. Just remember that we ALL must speak out to the world in whatever way possible. The important thing is that we do SPEAK OUT on whatever it may be that we do not like. Sitting back and being silent, practicing tolerance, is okay to some point, but there comes a time when you need to voice your opinion. If this column accomplished nothing more than urging each of you to stand up for what you believe in, then it will be worth it. Our number has increased drastically with the enrollment of a new class of freshmen and a number of transfer students. We all need to learn to speak up and tell our friends, our family, and the community (including the Arkansas Tech community) just what it is that we expect and want for the rest of our lives. Whew...up on the soapbox already! Seriously though, don't expect the world on a silver platter unless you stand up and set the table. It will be a good year, but only if we - THE STUDENTS, THE FACULTY AND THE STAFF - make it one. Many new improvements have been made. We will be more crowded than ever before with the onset of larger numbers. We ALL will have to learn to make adjustments and I know that if anyone can do it, WE CAN. So, this year, face whatever comes with determination. Don't let anyone or anything stand in the way of getting what you want. Success is important, but what is most important is that you make your decisions and stick to them. If somebody does something you don't care for, then go ahead and tell them. You should expect the same from them. But on the other hand, when someone does something you like, tell them about that too. There are still flowers among the weeds.

ArkaTech Student Newspaper...September 6, 1979

Aug. 2: Trail of Tears video showing at Lake Dardanelle State Park. The visitors center orientation room 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. For more info call 967-5516. Aug. 3-4: Sales-tax Holiday. Please support the community and shop local Aug. 6: Adult Pottery Class at River Valley Arts Center, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. For more info call 968-2452 Aug. 7: GLO Run/Walk 5K. Russellville Junior High School East Side Parking Lot . 2000 East Parkway. Registration at 8 a.m., race at 9. For more info call 264-9987 Aug. 7: River Valley Business Expo 2013. Tucker Coliseum at Arkansas Tech University 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. The expo provides the perfect opportunity to stay-in-touch with the best of what is available to businesses and consumers across the River Valley. For more info call 968-2530 Aug. 8-10: Bargains Galore on HWY 64. Highway 64 from Fort Smith to Bebee. For more info call (888) 568-3552 Aug. 10: Just For Kids Painting Party. River Valley Arts Center 10 a.m. – noon. For more info call 968-2452 Aug. 16: Stargazer’s Challenge at Lake Dardanelle State Park. Meet at the Swimming Beach. Admission is free. Lake Dardanelle State Park provides a great setting for viewing the night sky. Join Master Naturalist Debra at the swimming beach area to learn stories and uses of the night sky objects as we explore the sky. For more info contact 967-5516 Aug. 16: BurgerFest from 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. 1010 North Rochester Russellville, AR 72801. We aren’t sure what this is, so call 968-5039 for more info. Aug. 17: International Bowhunters Orientation and Proficiency Test at Lake Dardanelle State Park. For more info call (870) 540-6385 Aug. 24: Music Downtown at Sundown. Music starts at 7p.m. in front of the depot. For more info call 967-1437 Aug. 27: Forget Me Nots Alzheimer’s Support Group at Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center Café 2. From 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. For more info call 498-2050 *Unless otherwise indicated, all area codes are 479 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. August 2013 | ABOUT 7

Remembering Dianne Siler Edwards 1957 ~ 2013

VONNA MARPEL: It was an honor to call Dianne my friend. She was such an amazing and admirable mentor, confidant, and boss.

CHRISTINE WOJTKOWSKI: Dianne had the ability to make instant connections with people. From the first time I met her, it just seemed like we had always known each other and been friends.

JOHNNY SAIN: I remember accusing Dianne of being a softy one time. The look in her eye told me I was mistaken long before the words came out of her mouth. “You just keep thinking I’m nice,” she said. Then she smiled her sweetest Dianne smile, “Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to never see the other side.”

e, the ABOUT staff, wanted to honor our founder, mentor, and friend, but we struggled mightily with just the right way to do it. Anyone that knew Dianne knows that she would never go for a story all about her. Dianne Siler was born blah, blah, blah.... (Can’t you hear her saying that?) So, with much deliberation, we decided to let the community tell her story with their words. After all, what better way to know Dianne than through her impact on the folks that called her friend.

KECHIA BENTLEY: Dianne, you were the reason I could write; you were my anchor. You, my dear, were what I call a “God thing” in my life. I couldn’t have written a script wild enough to have you just one day, out of the blue, ask me to write for your magazine. JOHNNA WALKER: I first met Dianne in 1978 in a journalism class at Arkansas Tech University. We hit it off immediately and became fast friends and were friends ever since. If my math is correct, that is 35 years! We had many fun adventures throughout those years. KECHIA BENTLEY: Nolan, Dianne’s husband, told me it was time for me to learn what Dianne had tried to teach me, to study how she edited my work and then make myself a better writer. Well, there is a part of me that just doesn’t want to do that because that would just be another moment of realizing Dianne is gone, and I am on my own in this writing thing. VAN TYSON: Dianne Edwards was the kind of student who made teaching worthwhile. She was Dianne Siler when I taught her journalism at Tech. As a student she did what was asked of her readily, because she enjoyed doing things well. But she didn’t stop there. She was the rare student who also looked for more work to do to enhance her learning experience.

CHRIS ZIMMERMAN: When I first decided to go to school to become a graphic designer, my dad asked me what I’d do with that degree in these parts. I didn’t have much of a plan then, but I told him I could work at the local newspaper. My mom chimed in and said “Dianne Edwards works there. You remember her, don’t you?” I don’t know why that exchange has stuck with me nearly 18 years later, but it has, probably because Dianne became such a big part of my career. Looking back, of the three jobs I’ve held as a graphic designer, I worked alongside Dianne at each. She was influential in taking two of those jobs, and probably an indirect influence on me taking that first job with the newspaper. It wasn’t until I began working with her on ABOUT that I really got to know her though.

CHRISTINE WOJTKOWSKI: She was optimistic and enthusiastic about everything, and just made everyone around her feel important. I only knew her for a short time before she got sick, but her impact on me will be life-long. I feel very fortunate to have had her in my life, and remember her for the kind hearted, hard working, dedicated, loving, and spunky woman that she was. KECHIA BENTLEY: I was safe because you were here. I knew you would keep me on track. I knew you would fix my mistakes. You made me believe I could do it. Just spending time with you made me believe everything would work out just fine, and not just with writing but with my boys, my work, and even with the crazy pace of everyday life. You had a resolve about you that made us believe just about anything was possible. VAN TYSON: An example was column writing. She asked, and I readily agreed to supervise a special problem in column writing. As a result, she wrote a column every week, which I critiqued. There never was much wrong, maybe my own preference for focus or organization. Typical of Dianne, she accepted my critiques as constructive and heeded most of the points in future columns. There were some exceptions, in which she insisted on her choices, and I accepted those as valid expressions of her creativity and independence. That project was so impressive that I saved it in a folder, which emerged recently in my searches through boxes of material from my Tech years.

BETSY MCGUIRE: She was a friend and a mentor to so many that knew her and benefitted from her caring nature. She helped us discover what our community was about by making sure that the stories were told that we might not otherwise have the opportunity to know. She loved her community and supported the things she believed in as she demonstrated by her ardent support of Main Street Russellville and the renewing of our Downtown. VONNA MARPEL: Family was always most important, and always came first. If I can be just a bit like Dianne, I will have accomplished a very huge goal. CHRIS ZIMMERMAN: When I left The Courier, Dianne was quick to open another door to the next part of my career. When I was ready to move on, there she was holding the door open to the next. I can’t reiterate enough how big a part of my career, and my life, that she was. I owe a great deal to her for where I am today. JOHNNA WALKER: Speaking about Dianne in the past seems so very odd to me. She is still a friend on Facebook. She is still a contact on my cell phone. Dianne was my friend for most of my life. VAN TYSON: People who have read her columns in the ABOUT magazine have seen that she developed into a creative and insightful columnist. I was particularly moved as well as impressed with the column she wrote about me in the issue that focused on mine and Ginnie’s work at The Atkins Chronicle. This was during the time she was dealing with her terminal disease. VONNA MARPEL: Dianne and I always looked forward to serving in the Coke booth at Taste of the Valley, it always ended up being a ton of fun, not work. KECHIA BENTLEY: You drew people to you; not in some loud flamboyant way that I seem to do, but in a strong, kind, and gracious way. Everyone talks about your graciousness and kindness, but I don’t want anyone to, for one minute, think of you as some soft, bunny-like creature. You were a force to be reckoned with. You stood by your convictions and you believed in your dreams.

VIRGINIA TYSON: Dianne seemed to me perfectly suited to be the person behind ABOUT…the River Valley magazine. Her interest in the community and in the people working to improve it always seemed natural and genuine. She was unfailingly gracious. CHRIS ZIMMERMAN: It can be hard to find that someone who you can just talk to…about anything. When you’re lucky enough to find someone who cannot only share in the experiences of your life, but has been there and can help give you guidance as well, then I think that’s something special. That’s who Dianne was to me. We always had a professional relationship, but she was more friend than anything. JOHNNA WALKER: Several years following our days at Tech, Dianne was working at The Courier newspaper and I had a public relations job for a local agency. Not to sound ancient, but back then, Clip Art was exactly that. If you wanted a picture to use in a newsletter, you had to go to the newspaper office and dig through a gigantic book until you found what you wanted and actually cut it out and take it with you! I didn’t mind because this gigantic book was close to Dianne’s desk and we always took an opportunity to chat. She was already a mom to Laura and Stephanie at this time. One day I went to her office and plopped down in a chair and announced, “Well Dianne, I think I am pregnant!” She said, “Well, I think I am too!” I was in shock! Consequently, her daughter Melissa and my son Will were born just a few weeks apart. A side bar to that story is that we had signed up to join a fitness center but immediately quit because we were going to get fat anyway, so we didn’t see the point of meeting there at 5:00 a.m. each day as originally planned! VONNA MARPEL: I remember two of my kids were sick, and I was frantic to get my mother in law to stay with them. Dianne reassured me it was ok to stay home with them, and reminded me family always came first. KECHIA BENTLEY: What blows my mind is you never seemed afraid. I can remember you saying, more than once, “gotta get your big girl panties on, and get out there and do it.” JOHNNY SAIN: I knew Dianne for only three years, but she was and continues to be a profound influence in my life and career.

In Downtown Russellville and the Community as a whole, your impact is evident and your presence is missed. ~ Your Friends at C&D Drug Store

10 ABOUT | August 2013

CHRIS ZIMMERMAN: Years back, at a potluck at The Courier, she had brought a pan of cornbread that I thought was just perfect. I was sure to let her know as well! From that day on, every birthday, Dianne made it a point to bring me a pan of her cornbread. VAN TYSON: As others have said, she was not only an excellent journalist, in her work at The Courier as well as ABOUT, but also a wonderful human being, as evidenced by her devotion to her family and her courage in dealing with the agony of cancer. KECHIA BENTLEY: And oh, I loved how you made me laugh. You always saw the humor in every situation. Sometimes we laughed even when we shouldn’t have. While I would stand there thinking, “That person is crazy,” you would say, “Well bless their heart,” and really mean it! Whatever we did, the Chamber Expos, Main Street Russellville, the Coke booth at Taste of the Valley, the Chili Cook Off, Charity Ball, it was always better because you were there. Yes, my dear YOU were fun, but you and Nolan together were even better. I loved being with the two of you. There was always something mischievous about you two. I never had to drag Donald anywhere if he knew Nolan was going to be there too. We had so much fun hanging out with you both. VONNA MARPEL: If I ever needed help with ‘a play on words’ for an ad, Dianne always had the perfect answer. JOHNNA WALKER: One day out of the blue, Dianne told me I should join Junior Auxiliary. She said, “we mostly do things in schools and you are at the school all the time anyway, so why not?” I thought – well, OK, I guess it could be fun. Dianne put me up for membership and we served side by side in the Russellville chapter for many, many years. She was right, we did have fun, and I’m still involved with Junior Auxiliary today. It’s ended up being a big part of my life and I would have never known about it if Dianne hadn’t invited me to join. CHRIS ZIMMERMAN: Along the topic of food, I'm also a very picky eater, and she knew that. We would often visit Dixie Cafe for lunch to discuss the magazine, and life in general. My favorite dish was chicken parmesan, so much that I'd get it nearly every time we visited. When we would have those same meetings at

her home, she always insisted on cooking for me. I'll give you one guess what she would make me every time. To me, it was just a tasty meal, to her it meant a way to make me comfortable. VONNA MARPEL: Nolan, Dianne, Junior and I had a great time bringing back our youth at the Jimmy Buffet concert. We had a pre-picnic, and Dianne flipped over in her chair. We had a good laugh and thank God she wasn›t hurt. JOHNNA WALKER: Another thing Dianne invited me to was the THANK GOODNESS IT’S THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL BREAKFAST at Stoby’s. She invited me and I didn’t know many of the ladies, but it didn’t matter. We were doing the Happy Happy Joy Joy dance because it was that magical day in August when the little kiddos returned to school! I attended several of these fun breakfasts! KECHIA BENTLEY: Like so many, we are left wishing we had done it more often. We should have made time, all those times we said, “let’s get together soon.” Soon is gone and I am left with the regret of not having more memories of you. CHERYL PLEDGER, GIFTS ON PARKWAY: She was a lovely person and even though I knew her only professionally, I have thought of her many times since her passing. I simply miss her and can›t quite believe she won’t be around. CHRIS ZIMMERMAN: I could go on and on about the wisdom that she passed to me on a daily basis in our chats. If only I could remember it all. I had a lifetime of experience and knowledge right there in front of me that I could have learned so much more from, and I regret not having done so. It's cliché, but life is short. I never expected to be here today in this position, nor did she in hers, or her family in theirs. KECHIA BENTLEY: I will think of you and talk of you for the rest of my life. You have woven yourself into my life story in a way that you can never be removed without removing a part of who I am. I wish I had told you that while you were still here. I only hope that somehow in heaven you are allowed to know all the good you have done in my life and each of the lives of those who loved you.

August 2013 | ABOUT 11

JOHNNA WALKER: When Nolan and Dianne started the magazine, I contributed a few stories here and there. This didn’t really last very long because to write the stories, you actually have to get dressed, leave the house, go talk to someone, take some photos, check facts and then write the story. It was exhausting! I am extremely lazy, so I didn’t take to that very well. Also, I always felt like Dianne’s deadlines were more like suggestions! Then, I had this great idea. Dianne couldn’t attend all of the social events she was invited to, so I told her I would go to some of them and bring back a report. I did this a few times. She was such a great writer that once I literally brought back a brochure and three photos and she wrote a lovely, full-page story about the event! CHRIS ZIMMERMAN: When opportunity presents itself, you have to grab it. From the professional to the personal, that was something that Dianne always encouraged in me, and that I'll always carry with me as well. I regret that I missed the opportunity to learn more from Dianne, to listen closer, to pry just a little deeper. It's for selfish reasons I know, but also because I realize the chances of that kind of relationship, built on respect, longevity and admiration, is something I'll like not find again in my life. VAN TYSON: I am still saddened at her death. It was great loss to the field of journalism as well as those of us who loved her. JOHNNA WALKER: Dianne and I served on several Chamber of Commerce committees together and most recently, we were on the Chamber Board. We sat in the same seats at every meeting, once a month for two years. No one else ever sat there because they were our seats. For those of you who do not know this, the Russellville Chamber Board meets at the ridiculous hour of 7:30 a.m.! Dianne would arrive dressed professionally, not a hair out of place, make-up looking good, ready for her day. I would just sort of be there. I think I might have said more than once, “Dianne, really, do not look at me or speak to me until I have finished this entire cup of coffee!” Being the great pal she was, she always cooperated! CRISTY MILLER: I miss her laugh and quirky humor. And her tenderness for others. She always wanted to make sure that no one was left out. She was truly from the old south with the graciousness that is lived out.

KECHIA BENTLEY: I will never write a word for the rest of my life that I don’t think of Dianne Edwards. And folks, considering that my next story is about lingerie and a church yard sale some of you may want to question her judgment. THE STAFF AT GRIFFIN ELECTRIC HEAT & AIR, INC.: We loved and respected Dianne, and we miss her a great deal. JOHNNA WALKER: My husband, R.D., said Dianne really did have a nose for news. She pretty much knew everything that was going on in Russellville and the River Valley. I’m not exactly sure how she did that. It was actually sort of amazing. I sent her many texts and emails through the years that read something like, “I know you know what’s going on with blah, blah, blah, now spill it!” As another dear friend Christy Miller said, “Dianne had the good sense to only tell you the things that were already out and to not tell you the things that were still under wraps!” Dianne knew that I could NOT keep a secret! BILL PETERS: Dianne Edwards made her mark in the River Valley. She had a dream of presenting her positive perception of the River Valley in the form of a magazine. By surrounding herself with quality, dedicated people and with hard work and leadership, she fulfilled that dream with ABOUT Magazine. She believed in Russellville and the people in the area. She saw “the positive” in virtually everyone. I never heard her say a negative thing about any person. She was an encouraging influence for our downtown and for the entire River Valley. She will not be forgotten, but she will be missed. JOHNNA WALKER: I could go on and on with stories about Dianne and me, our adventures and misadventures through the years, but I won’t. I had a wonderful friendship with Dianne, as did so many others. Perhaps it was because of her many years of interviewing people, but Dianne was the best listener I’ve ever known. When you were talking to Dianne, she made you feel like you were the most important person in the world. That is not something many people can do. I feel blessed to have called Dianne a friend for so many years. I grieve for her precious family who lost her much too soon. I guess I need to remove her from my Facebook account and from my phone. Maybe someday, but not just yet. BETSY MCGUIRE: She was my friend.

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CYCLONE SPIRIT

Madison McKinley is ready for high school in her custom Russellville Cyclone Spirit Wear! MULLEN TEAM SPORTS & SCREENPRINTING; 215 N. Commerce, Downtown Russellville. (479) 967-8326

READY FOR FOOTBALL

Two piece boys football outfit with matching blanket by Mudpie. Football divided serving bowl and dishtowel by DII. ROSE DRUG;

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LADIES ATU GEAR

All American Embroidery Co. sweatshirt pink with cheetah Tech or blue with zebra Tech. ATU BOOKSTORE; Located on campus in the Young Building, West End, across from Chambers Cafeteria. (479) 968-0255

HE’S BIG! (40” TALL)

But he still needs help putting on his Razorback Spirit Fingers. Monkey’s also available in 20” and 8”. GIFTS ON PARKWAY;

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QUITE ENOUGH!

That is to carry all your necessities to the game. Razorback hipster purse. Just add a scarf ! GIFTS ON PARKWAY; 2149 E. Parkway, Russellville; (479) 890-6932

SERVANTS HEART

Burlap & ticking pillow accented with cross. His & Hers frame and dishtowels by Servants Heart. ROSE DRUG; 3103 West Main Place, Russellville; (479) 968-1323

GIANI GRANITE COUNTERTOP PAINT

Now you can give your old, worn countertops the beautiful look of granite. Each kit contains everything you need to easily transform your surface in 3 easy steps. Available in 7 realistic mineral-rich colors.” D & R PAINTS; Russellville; (479) 968-7071; Clarksville; (479) 754-7075

HAVE A KAVU DAY!

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More than band-aids and ice-packs

Story by Meredith Martin Moats Photos courtesy of Russellville School District and Johnny Sain

ita Hugen has been the school nurse for Russellville Middle School for over two years now. Before working with

students she was employed in a hospital, and later as a pediatric nurse. “We lived in Texas for thirty years,” she explains, and “couldn’t wait to get back to Arkansas.” Knowing she wanted to work with children, she jumped at the chance to take this position, making her one of the ten nurses that serve the 5,045 students in the Russellville School District.

On busy days she may see up to fifty students per day. “It’s not just about band aids and ice packs,” Hugen explained. “We do so many things people don’t realize.” Duties include hearing and vision screenings every other year to make sure children can adequately see and hear their teachers. Nurses keep track of students’ shot records and ensure they are up to date on all needed immunizations. They measure for BMI (body mass index), screen for scoliosis, and educate the entire staff on flu prevention measures. Much of the nurses’ job is about providing staff and students with information, resources, and the practical skills to stay healthy. 14 ABOUT | August 2013

In recent years nurses have also begun caring for a growing number of students requiring special medical care, including students with asthma and those requiring tube feedings and daily catheterizations. A large number of students in the school district have Type 1 diabetes and need assistance in checking blood sugar, counting carbohydrates, and administering insulin. Like other school nurses in her district, Hugen describes her days as “nonstop.” Some days it can feel a bit like a “mini-ER, but without a doctor around,” she says. The Russellville Public School System took a bold step and instituted a school-wide policy to place a nurse in every school in the district. This decision makes Russellville schools unique. Currently the state requires one school nurse for every seven hundred students. An interim study in the state legislature will investigate this current suggestion and, depending on the findings, the state may recommend increasing the number of nurses. Russellville Public Schools, however, did not wait for the word to come down from the state. “The more I looked at it,” explained Jenny Barber, director of Federal Programs and the woman in charge of the nurses, “the more it appeared to me that we were pushing these nurses a little too hard.” Jenny Barber was hired in 2004 and began working with the nurses in 2007. When she arrived there were seven nurses and ten buildings, with many of the schools sharing a nurse. Kids were not suffering, Barber explained, but it wasn’t an optimal situation. “I started noticing our nurses were very, very busy,” she added. “And it seemed almost every time something would happen the nurse would be somewhere else.” The school district went from six to eight nurses, which helped a great deal. But lunchtime was still difficult, Barber explained, because of the large number of diabetic students in the schools.

“Nurses were having to rush from one building to another,” she continued. “If someone needed to be gone for training or a personal day or during flu season we could really be scrambling to cover what needed to be covered.” Reiterating her belief that student care was not compromised, she noted that simply looking at the numbers made it clear the situation needed revamping. “If you have ten buildings and eight nurses somebody is going to be without a nurse.” Serving as a supervisor for the nurses Barber has a bird’s eye view and is readily familiar with the diversity of agerelated needs nurses meet. And she’s been witness to the growing number of students requiring nursing care. “There are a number of students who need daily tube feedings; a few kids are on ventilators,” she noted. “Some students need two to three catheterizations per day, and students with asthma may require multiple updraft treatments.” Growing numbers of young students are being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, a topic that came up multiple times from every nurse interviewed for this story. Previously referred to as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, the causes of this autoimmune disease remain unknown. Current research suggests a correlation with genetics, environmental causes, and exposure to childhood viruses. Type 1 diabetes accounts for only 10-15 % of diabetic illness in this country and differs greatly from the more commonly known Type 2 diabetes, which accounts for around 80-90% of all instances. Barber noted there are also a few students in the school system with Type 2 diabetes, an illness typically not diagnosed until after age thirty-five. But most students

have the less-common form, Type 1, a chronic condition wherein the pancreas does not produce adequate amounts of insulin, the hormone that allows glucose to enter cells and produce energy. Despite their differences, treatment for both forms of diabetes remain the same, including regular blood sugar checks and insulin shots. Referring to the full spectrum of special needs Barber sees in the schools, “having direct access to nursing care,” she explains, “allows these students to stay in school.” Not only does the Russellville School System have a nurse in every building, they also offer better pay. Ensuring a strong nursing staff meant more than just hiring more nurses, Barber states. As she began looking for support to make additional

teacher’s salary. “I saw immediate results,” explained Barber. When a recent nurse position opened, the phone began “blowing up,” Barber says, long before the position was even advertised. Jessica Holman is the school nurse for the Upper Elementary building where all the 5th grades converge before going on to middle school. She’s been in the school since November. Before working as a school nurse, she worked in a medical/ surgical clinic and later as a research coordinator at a cancer clinic. She says her current job is “fantastic,” and she “ feels blessed” to work with the students. She regularly travels on fieldtrips, for example, insuring those with special needs can take part in these learning activities. Her days are filled with caring for students with

hires she also sought ways to keep nurses in their positions long term. “Initially the school was paying nurses an hourly rate comparable to LPN pay in the area,” Barber says. But given the school schedule, nurses work fewer hours than nurses in other settings. Despite the great hours and time off, Barber says that most nurses could not afford to stay. “We weren’t paying them very much,” Barber stated, “and there was a high turnover.” For many nurses it made more economic sense to travel to Conway Regional or Children’s Hospital rather than to continue working for the schools. After doing research on regional hospital pay, and exploring other school nursing programs experiencing less turnover, the school board made the decision to put the nurses on a salary schedule linked to the

Type 1 diabetes and helping students with asthma and seizures disorders. There are also regular accidents at that age, she explains, bumps, bruises, and other minor recess-inflicted injuries. She also points to the large amount of poverty she sees, something she finds “shocking,” even though she grew up in the area and is the daughter of a longtime Russellville school teacher. Many children, she explained, do not receive early or preventative care due to lack of resources and/or medical insurance. One of her key roles, is to work with parents and empower them to make the best decisions for their child. When families can’t afford care she often connects them with social workers who can find financial resources for more in-depth care. >>

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She says she’s “proud” of her district for taking this step in ensuring a nurse in every school and wonders how other schools make due with less. In linking the nurses salary to the teachers salary, the Russellville Public Schools also began requiring nurses get the same amount of professional development as all other educators, focusing especially on training to help them effectively work with parents. Cindy Jones has been a nurse in the Russellville School System for nine years now, longer than anyone else currently serving. Over the years she’s seen drastic changes in student needs, including the rise in diabetes. She currently works at the London Elementary School, one of the two rural schools in the district. Being at the same campus everyday, notes Jones, provides nurses a “chance to know the kids and their situations. It’s so much more than just a band aid or a head lice check,” she explains. Nurses work alongside counselors in many cases, helping children when emotional needs may be causing physical symptoms. “School nursing,” she adds, “encompasses the entire person.” Jenny Barber says when looking for people to fill the nursing positions she carefully screens for those who understand the complexities of working with multiple age groups. “Sometimes when you have to meet with the nurse it’s not a happy thing and parents are upset, maybe even going through a grieving process if there is an illness they just discovered. Children have a lot of difficulty adjusting to chronic illnesses such as diabetes,” she explains. Nurses help students and parents understand and implement a doctor’s care plan and educate the rest of the staff, even other students, about that student’s needs. They may also be called on to help

16 ABOUT | August 2013

mediate situations that may be fearful to those unfamiliar with the illness, such as students with seizure disorders. “How do you explain in a cafeteria when a child has a grand mal seizure that you can’t move the child, yet you want that child to have privacy? How do you explain to other adults who may be panicked?” Barber said. When looking for new hires she seeks out those who exert a calming presence in the most difficult or confusing of situations. Delana Rice has been the school nurse at Russellville Junior High for three years. After working in home health and medical case management she found this job, something she’d always hoped to do. Like other nurses, she points to the rise in diabetic students in the schools, but says by the time she sees them as teenagers many are proficient in checking their blood sugar. However she is still needed to help with counting carbs and figuring out insulin doses. While the rise in diabetes is certainly a large part of what makes a school nurse so essential, their daily interactions with students are about much more. Many kids, Rice notes, “overcome many

conflicts just to get there.” Students may have unstable home lives, come from families with untreated drug or alcohol addictions, or may be facing the crippling effects of poverty. They may be experiencing undiagnosed vision problems or reeling from a diagnosis of scoliosis. Nurses on staff mean a familiar face is always there to meet the students’ physical needs and help create an environment where all students can succeed. “School must be a place,” she explained, “where students have everything they need to learn.” Nurses may help young children work through those intense stomach aches they have before every spelling test or help a middle school student gain access to a hearing aid. In the end, the nurses explain, it’s about the bond they develop with the children. London nurse Cindy Jones says she’s continually reminded of how important her work is when a former student emails her from their new home across the country or comes up to say hello when she’s shopping in an area store. When a student reaches out to her, years after graduation, “I know I’ve made a difference,” she says. n

Miss Arkansas Tech University named state pageant of the year

Arkansas Tech University is home to the overall scholarship pageant of the year in the Miss Arkansas system for the year 2013. Dr. Jim Collins, professor of horticulture and executive director of the Miss Arkansas Tech University Scholarship Pageant, accepted the award from the Miss Arkansas Executive Directors Association during Miss Arkansas 2013 in Hot Springs on Saturday. Collins said that factors such as the amount of scholarships awarded and the number of contestants entered are considered in selecting the Miss Arkansas scholarship pageant of the year. The 2013 Miss Arkansas Tech Scholarship Pageant, which was held in February, awarded more than $19,000 in scholarships and gifts to a field of 21 contestants. “I was proud for Tech,” said Collins. “There were 45 pageants this year, and to think that Arkansas Tech won the top award was pretty cool. The Miss America

system is about scholarship. I am happy that our university supports the pageant and our community supports the pageant through advertising revenue so that we can offer educational opportunities to our contestants. I hope we will have even more scholarship funds to award next year.” In addition to the overall pageant of the year award, Miss Arkansas Tech was also named university or college pageant of the year in Arkansas. Two Arkansas Tech students collected individual honors at Miss Arkansas 2013. Claire Hodgson, Miss Arkansas Tech 2012 and Miss South Arkansas 2013, received the overall Service Above Self Award in recognition of her community service projects. Hodgson is a senior psychology and sociology major from Russellville. Kristen Hayes, Miss Arkansas Tech 2013, won the Tony Bowls/Mon Cheri People’s Choice Award and a newcomer talent award for her Irish step dance. Hayes is a senior health and physical education major from Ozark. Hodgson and Hayes were joined in Miss Arkansas 2013 by two of their fellow Arkansas Tech students --- senior Leah Cleaver of Huntsville and sophomore Deidre Holben of Lamar. “We would love to make top 10, but you

just never know how the scores will go,” said Collins. “All four of the girls from Tech really represented us well.” As a veteran of 13 years as executive director for the Miss Arkansas Tech Scholarship Pageant, Collins views the life skills that contestants gain as an added benefit above and beyond the scholarship opportunities. “I’ve seen contestants through the years who really gain a leg up on job interviews because of the interview experience they gain in the Miss America system,” said Collins. “They learn about current events and how to keep up with what is going on in the world. They learn about nutrition. As much as anything, they gain confidence.” n

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about | community Russellville Kiwanis Campaign To Eliminate Tetanus

A baby dies every nine minutes from maternal or neonatal tetanus -- typically infected during birth by cutting the umbilical cord with an unclean blade. Deadly tetanus spores can be found everywhere in soil and dirt, but are more commonly associated with rust. Three million unprotected babies die every year. Kiwanis International has partnered with UNICEF on a project to protect 61 million women and babies from tetanus. The Eliminate Project is a $110 million worldwide campaign to eliminate maternal and neonatal tetanus. It launched in 2010 and is scheduled to run through 2017 with an agreement from the Russellville chapter to donate $64,500. Funds for this global campaign will provide immunization of women of reproductive age, immunization of pregnant women, promote clean delivery practices, educational initiatives, and Kiwanian education and organizational enhancement. For only $1.80, 1 woman and her future babies will be protected from tetanus for life. Maternal and neonatal tetanus has already been eliminated from more than 20 countries. Early immunity is the cure for millions of infant deaths related to tetanus. For more information about The Eliminate Project go to www.theeliminateproject.org or contact Alvin Hill at (479) 970-7796

RUSSELLVILLE ARTIST RECEIVES GRANT, SCHOLARSHIP TO ATTEND WORKSHOP

Russellville artist Jeannie Stone recently returned from a week-long intensive painting class taught by master painter Henry Yan, professor of painting at Academy of Art University and author of Henry Yan’s Figure Drawing-Techniques and Tips, held at the Scottsdale Artists’ School in Scottsdale, AZ. Stone was awarded a scholarship by the school to cover the cost of tuition and a grant from the Arkansas Arts Council, provided through the Sally A. Williams Artist Fund, for travel and lodging expenses. Stone, who paints primarily in oil, has been a fan of Yan’s work for quite a while. “I jumped at the chance to take this class not only because I consider him one of the 20 ABOUT | August 2013

Kiwanis Leaders and Program supporters from left to right: Tom Sullivan, Karen Yarbrough, Roy Reaves, Laurel Harris, Jim Bob Humphrey, Arnold Bowden, Fritz Kronberger

best figure painters, but I was intrigued that he would be teach in the alla prima method,” she said. “Basically, we had a totally different model each day. He was a magnificent teacher.” The Scottsdale Artists’ School was founded in 1983 by a group of Arizona artists and community leaders with the goal of providing a place where artists could learn from the nation’s leading artists. Today, the school is renowned for its adult arts education programs and draws students from all over the world to Scottsdale. Stone is the 2010 River Valley Visual Artist of the Year and received her Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts from ATU. She is represented by Gallery 307 and The Frame Shop and Gallery, both in Russellville. To view her artwork, visit www.jeanniestone.com.

RIVER VALLEY ARTS CENTER AUGUST EXHIBIT OPENING

The beautiful watercolor exhibition by Christine Schalk will open with a reception on Sunday, August 4, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. in the Gallery at River Valley Arts Center, 1001 East B Street, Russellville. The exhibit will remain on display during the month of August. Schalk painted some in her early years then took time out to raise a family of five children. She is a local artist studying under the instruction of Darlene McNeely. She says with the encouragement of friends and family, she is back enjoying painting again and McNeely says her progress is nothing short of amazing. I think you will agree. Schalk is a member of St. John’s Catholic Church where she has served as president of the Alter Society for several years. She is a member of the Arts Center and Kiwanis Club. She is also a proud grandmother of 13 grandchildren. The reception hosted by Donna Van Horn and Betty LaGrone is open to the public and all Christine’s friends and family are invited to celebrate with her the opening of her first public gallery exhibit.

The Arts Center has experienced tremendous growth in the past few years as we strive to expand the places where more people are exposed to great works of art and often to the artists who created them. In addition to Gallery Exhibitions the Arts Center brings the community instruction in both visual and performing arts, summer art immersion camps for children, community and cultural events, live theatre performances, storytelling, partnerships to exponentially expand the services and reach of each organization, art critiques and competitions for all students K-college and adults, a monthly Literary and Music Evening, free community festival and Art Walks. An annual grant from Arkansas Arts Council is combined with memberships, corporate grants, and class fees and dispersed with good stewardship. “We owe our existence to the support of area residents who share our belief in the power of the creative spirit and have committed to nurture and support art for all of us to ensure that the arts continue to contribute to our economy and cultural climate and flourish in the River Valley and across America. According to the report “Creativity in the Natural State” by Regional Technologies, arts and creative enterprises are the third largest segment of Arkansas’ economy, ranking ahead of several more well known clusters,” said Betty LaGrone, Arts Center executive director. For information on becoming an Arts Center member contact LaGrone at 479968-2452 or artscenter@centurytel.net.

2013 DOVER CHOIR SENIORS SCHOLARSHIP OFFERS

Several seniors of the 2012-2013 Dover High School Choir will be continuing their musical education through scholarships and fellowships this autumn. Those members include: Roger Marlow -- Arkansas Tech University $28,000, Dan Leavell Memorial Service Award $500, Band Booster Service Award $500 Samantha Smith – Arkansas Tech

University $20,000, Nona Dirksmeyer Memorial Scholarship $500. Madison Sain – Arkansas Tech University $12,000, Choir Boosters Scholarship $200. Eva Hudson – University of Central Arkansas $4,000, Arkansas Tech University $4000, Choir Boosters Scholarship $200. Harrison Jones – Arkansas Tech University $4,000. Justin Walker – Arkansas Tech University $4,800, Choir Boosters Scholarship $200. Jeremy Haymes – Clara Yancey Crews Memorial Music Scholarship $500, Choir Boosters Scholarship $200. Kayli Ann Mathis – Choir Boosters Humanities provided grant funding for Scholarship $200. the project. Pendergraft Library and Technology CIVIL WAR EXHIBIT COMES TO Center at Arkansas Tech was one of just 50 THE RIVER VALLEY Ross Pendergraft Library and locations across the United States selected Technology Center at Arkansas Tech through a competitive application process University will host an exhibit entitled Civil to host the Civil War 150 exhibit. War 150: Explaining the War and Its The free exhibit will be open at Meaning Through the Words of Those Who Pendergraft Library and Technology Lived It and a series of accompanying Center beginning on Monday, Aug. 12. It will remain open weekdays from 8 a.m.-5 events during the month of August. Civil War 150 is a national traveling p.m. through Aug. 23. exhibit presented by The Library of The final opportunities to see the exhibit America in partnership with the Gilder at Arkansas Tech will be from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Lehrman Institute of American History. on Aug. 26-27, from 7 a.m.-midnight on Aug. The National Endowment for the 28-29 and from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. on Aug. 30.

In addition to the national traveling exhibit of primary documents and firsthand accounts from the Civil War, Arkansas Tech will also host a series of special events that will examine the impact the Civil War had on Arkansas. All three programs will be open to the public and take place in Pendergraft Library and Technology Center room 300 south. Admission will be free. Dr. Thomas A. DeBlack, professor of history at Arkansas Tech, will present a lecture entitled “The Civil War in Arkansas: An Overview” on Thursday, Aug. 15, at 7 p.m. Cont. on page 33

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about | food

Getting together to do the “Happy Dance” Story by Lydia Zimmerman, Food Editor

ost Mother’s with school aged children look forward to one day more so than any other during the year, the first day of school, second only to Mother’s Day. They have been stressed to the limits after having their “dear” children home all summer, having to find each item on their school supply list, getting them up (sometimes “dragging” them out of bed that first day) and getting nourishment in them before heading them out the door for their first day back to school. This event brings to mind a treasured memory that a dear friend of Ms. Dianne’s, Ms. Johnna Walker, shared with us. She spoke of a yearly ritual that they participated in after getting their children off for their first day of school each August. This ritual began with a few mothers meeting together somewhere, if I remember correctly it was Stoby’s. This generally means that food you often deny yourself due to a ridiculous amount of fat and calories is consumed in a celebratorial fashion at which time you also do a “Happy Happy Joy Joy Dance” to commerate the occassion. This month’s food section includes “light” and “not so light” breakfast/brunch recipes that you can create to make and take to your mother’s “get together”, whether it be for a tearful “my baby’s going to Kindergarten” comfort party or a “Mom’s doing the Happy Dance party” I hope you enjoy! P.S. Thanks Cliff, for the Iced Coffee Recipe suggestion!!

22 ABOUT | August 2013

PINEAPPLE-BERRY SALAD WITH HONEY-MINT DRESSING

3 T frozen (thawed) lemonade concentrate 2 T honey 1 T chopped fresh mint leaves 1/2 of a fresh pineapple, peeled, cored and cut into chunks (approx. 2 c.) 1/4 c. fresh blueberries 1/4 c. fresh raspberries 1/4 c. fresh sliced strawberries In a 1-cup measuring cup, mix lemonade concentrate, honey and mint. In large bowl, gently stir together remaining ingredients. Stir in lemonade mixture until fruits are coated. Serve immediately, or refrigerate up to 4 hours. Recipe courtesy of bettycrocker.com

EDNA’S EASY CINNAMON ROLLS

2 pkg. quick rise yeast 2 T sugar 1 pkg. yellow cake mix 5 c. sifted flour 2 1/2 c. warm water 1 pinch salt 1/2 c. melted butter 1 c. sugar 3 T cinnamon (I like to use double the cinnamon) Mix the first four ingredients together, add warm water, a pinch of salt and mix well. Place mixture on a lightly floured surface and knead several times. Place back into bowl and let rise for about 15 minutes. Punch dough down let rise another 15 minutes then remove dough from bowl and place on a lightly floured surface. Roll out dough (in a rectangle shape), spread melted butter over dough then cover with cinnamon and sugar. Roll up dough longways (it will look like a log) and cut in slices 1 inch thick. Place in a 9X13 greased pan and bake at 350. After baking is complete but the rolls are still warm I like to top rolls with a glaze. Use 1 lb. powdered sugar, 3 T. milk and 1 tsp. vanilla. Mix well and add extra milk if needed to thin mixture. Then top rolls, Yum!!

LEMON ROSEMARY SCONES

3 c. All-purpose Flour 2/3 c. Sugar 5 tsp. Baking Powder 1/4 tsp Salt 1/2 lb. Unsalted Butter, Chilled And Cut Into Pieces 1 Large Egg 1 c. Heavy Cream 1 T. Finely Minced Fresh Rosemary Zest Of 1 Lemon

PERFECT ICED COFFEE

1 lb. Ground Coffee (good, Rich Roast) 8 qts. Cold Water Half-and-half (healthy Splash Per Serving) 2-3 T. Sweetened Condensed Milk (2-3 Tablespoons Per Serving) Note: Can Use Skim Milk, 2% Milk, Whole Milk, Sugar, Artificial Sweeteners, Syrups... adapt To Your Liking! In a large container, mix ground coffee with water. Cover and allow to sit at room temperature eight hours or overnight. Line a fine mesh strainer with cheesecloth and set over a pitcher or other container. Pour coffee/water mixture through the strainer, allowing all liquid to run through. Discard grounds. Place coffee liquid in the fridge and allow to cool. Use as needed. To make iced coffee, pack a glass full of ice cubes. Fill glass 2/3 full with coffee liquid. Add healthy splash of half-andhalf. Add 2-3 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk (can use plain sugar instead) and stir to combine. Taste and adjust half-and-half and/or sweetened condensed milk as needed. Recipe courtesy of thepioneerwoman.com

Mommy and Me Recipes

GLAZE 5 c. Powdered Sugar, Sifted 1/2 c. Whole Milk, More If Needed For Thinning Zest And Juice From 1 Lemon 1 tsp. Finely Minced Fresh Rosemary Dash Of Salt Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix cream with egg, lemon zest and rosemary and allow to sit for 10 to 15 minutes to steep. Use a pastry cutter or two knives to cut the butter pieces into the flour. Keep going until mixture resembles crumbs. Mix wet mixture with flour mixture; stir gently with a fork until combined. Mix should be crumbly, but if it’s too crumbly to work with, splash in a small amount of heavy cream. Turn dough onto a floured surface and lightly press it together until it forms a rough rectangle. Use a rolling pin to roll into a rectangle about 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch thick. Use your hands to help with the forming if necessary. Final rectangle should be about 18 inches by about 10 inches. Use a knife to trim into a symmetrical rectangle, then cut the rectangle into 12 symmetrical squares/rectangles. Next, cut each square/rectangle in half diagonally, to form smaller triangles. Transfer to a parchment or baking matlined cookie sheet and bake for 18 minutes,

STRAWBERRY BREAD 3 c. flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. salt 1 T. cinnamon 2 c. sugar 4 eggs, beaten 1 1/4 c. oil 2 c. strawberries,sliced

Preheat oven to 350. Mix above all the dry ingredients, then add the liquid ingredients (strawberries included). Pour into 2 greased loaf pans and bake for 1 hour. NOTE: Let your “Little Helper” help you with measuring out the ingredients. Recipe courtesy of Wilma Gray (my mommy) removing from the oven just before they start to turn golden. Allow to cool for 15 minutes on the cookie sheet, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely. >>

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August 2013 | ABOUT 23

LEMON ROSEMARY SCONE GLAZE To make the icing, add lemon zest, lemon juice and rosemary into milk; allow to sit for awhile. Mix powdered sugar with the milk, adding more powdered sugar or milk if necessary to get the consistency the right thickness. Stir or whisk until completely smooth. One at a time, carefully dunk each cooled scone in the glaze, turning it over if necessary. Transfer to parchment paper or the cooling rack. Allow the glaze to set completely, about an hour. Scones will keep several days if glazed. Recipe courtesy of thepioneerwoman.com

Whisk together eggs, milk, dry mustard and pepper. Pour egg mixture over items in pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes. Recipe courtesy of Dottie Zimmerman (my wonderful mother-in-law)

2 eggs, whisked 1 c. ricotta cheese 1/2 c. mozzarella, shredded 1/2 c. parmesan, grated 10 oz. chopped spinach, defrosted 1/4 tsp. salt

SUGAR AND SPICE GREEN TEA

Preheat oven to 350. Melt butter in a saute pan over medium heat, add chopped onion and cook for 4 minutes. Add minced garlic clove and cook for an additional minute. Take saute pan off heat and set aside. Whisk eggs in a bowl and stir in ricotta, mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Add drained/chopped spinach, salt and butter mixture from saute pan. Stir mixture well BREAKFAST PIZZA Pour boiling water over tea bags in and divide among 20 greased mini-muffin 2 cans Crescent rolls heatproof container. Add cinnamon and cups. Bake for 20-25 minutes. 1 lb. cooked sausage, drained and Recipe courtesy of Parenting magazine cloves. Cover and let steep 3 to 5 minutes. crumbled Remove tea bags; strain tea to remove 2-3 c. shredded cheddar cheese cloves. Stir sugar, orange juice and lemon SINLESS SANGRIA 2-3 c. hash brown potatoes 10 eggs, juice into tea. Serve hot with orange slice 1 liter sparkling white grape juice, chilled beaten half in each cup. 1 c. cranberry juice 1/2 c. milk Recipe courtesy of bettycrocker.com 1 c. orange juice 1/2 tsp. dry mustard 1/4 c. fresh lime juice 1/2 tsp. pepper 2 c. assorted citrus fruit ( oranges, lemons, SPINACH RICOTTA BITES limes), thinly sliced Preheat over to 350. Line pan with 2 T butter 1/2 c. fresh strawberries, sliced crescent rolls. Sprinkle sausage over crust 1 small onion, chopped fresh mint sprigs, for garnish and top with hash browns and cheese. 1 garlic clove, minced 4 c. boiling water 4 c. tea bags, green tea 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon 6 whole cloves, broken into pieces 1/4 c. sugar (or sweetener or choice) 1/4 c. orange juice 2 T lemon juice 2 orange slices, cut in half

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In a large bowl or pitcher, stir together the grape juice, cranberry juice, orange juice and lime juice. Add all the fruit to the pitcher. Allow the mixture to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. When ready to serve, fill your glasses with some fruit and liquid and garnish with fresh mint sprigs. Recipe courtesy of cookingchanneltv.com

An added idea is to beat the cream cheese (softened) with 1/2 cup powdered sugar and spread over the bread cubes. Recipe courtesy of allrecipes.com

QUICHE LORRAINE

1 9 in. single crust pie 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (or 6 T. real bacon bits) 1 onion, diced 3 eggs, beaten OVERNIGHT BLUEBERRY 1 1/2 c. milk FRENCH TOAST 1/4 tsp. salt 12 slices day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes and top with remaining bread cubes. In 1 c. shredded Swiss cheese 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, cut into a large bowl, mix the eggs, milk, vanilla 1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese 1 inch cubes extract, and syrup. Pour over the bread 1 T. all-purpose flour 2 T. chives 2 c. fresh blueberries cubes. Cover and refrigerate overnight. 1 dz. eggs, beaten Remove the bread cube mixture from 2 c. milk the refrigerator about 30 minutes before Preheat oven to 325. 1 tsp. vanilla extract baking. Preheat the oven to 350. Leave In a large skillet, cook bacon until crisp. 1/3 c. maple syrup covered and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover Drain, crumble the bacon. Place chopped 1 c. white sugar and continue baking 25 -30 minutes, onion and crumbled bacon in bottom of pie 2 T. cornstarch until center is firm and surface is lightly crust. In a large bowl, mix together milk, salt 1 c. water browned. In a medium saucepan mix the and eggs. In a separate bowl, toss cheeses 1 T. butter sugar, cornstarch, and water. Bring to a boil and flour together, then add to egg mixture. stirring constantly. Cook 3 to 4 minutes. Be sure to mix well. Pour egg mixture into Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Mix in the remaining 1 cup blueberries. pie crust. Garnish with chives. Arrange half the bread cubes in the dish, Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes, until Bake in preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or and top with cream cheese cubes. Sprinkle the blueberries burst. Stir in the butter and until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. 1 cup blueberries over the cream cheese, pour over the baked French toast. n

August 2013 | ABOUT 25

Forward Thinking for a Growing City Story thanks in part to The Nicholson Group and Russellville City Hall

Russellville is the heart and the hub of the River Valley, the center of commerce and the focal point of the region’s economic stability. For jobs and for shopping, all roads in the River Valley lead to Russellville. Russellville is a growing town, though the growth has been steady and gradual. With a population of over 28,000, Russellville is the largest city along the river corridor between Little Rock and Ft. Smith. A growing population creates burdens on the infrastructure. Russellville has addressed those concerns with forwardthinking solutions and the results can be seen at various locations around town. North Phoenix Expansion Project is a good illustration. North Phoenix addressed many concerns for Russellville and Pope County citizens. Mayor Bill Eaton explained the reasoning behind the expansion. “The North Phoenix expansion provided a way to the hospital for those people on the north side of town and the county,” said Eaton. “It really cut down on the number of intersections and traffic lights that you would encounter in getting to the hospital.” Eaton and city leaders recognized the needs and wants of other citizens as well. 26 ABOUT | August 2013

North Phoenix offers solutions for a diversity of transportation options. “We also have a growing number of people that want to walk through the community, or ride a bicycle through the community,” said Eaton. The North Phoenix expansion accommodates pedestrians and cyclists as well as vehicle traffic. A well-lit cycle/ pedestrian lane is clearly marked and utilized on a daily basis. North Phoenix is an example of a holistic approach to city planning. In addition to its utility for autos, pedestrian and bicycle traffic, the street is also aesthetically pleasing. Streetlights and Gingko trees line the sidewalk and asphalt as it curves around the Arkansas Tech University campus. More projects like this are on the table. The improvements and additions, done and in progress, have been funded by a onecent sales tax that has been in place since 1993, with citizens voting to extend the tax through the years. Another extension of the one-cent sales tax will be on the ballot in September. All future projects hinge on the passage of this extension. The following is a list of proposed projects, projects in progress and projects

completed in Russellville Arkansas. All have been and will be funded by the one-cent sales tax. NEW CENTRAL FIRE STATION

The sales tax funding for a new Central Fire Station is set at $6.5 million. The current facility was built in the 60’s for a mostly volunteer force, as only eight firefighters manned full-time shifts. Today, the city operates with 30 full-time personnel, performing an increased list of service/ response duties including hazardous materials (HAZMAT), larger structural designs and an expanded city limits. As with many 50+ year-old structures, there are constant roof leaks, design/space limitations for personnel and equipment and non-ADA compliance issues. The current central station is also no longer compliant with the new ISO standards, which recently changed with the last rating period. A new Central Fire Station would update all these aging conditions, possibly improving the city’s fire insurance rating as well. RECREATION AND PARKS

The one-cent sales tax has been a vital component of the growth of the city’s

Recreation and Parks department in recent years. Continuing the tax will allow the department to embark upon more projects, like walking/biking trails, lighting at the soccer complex, an additional soccer field, backstops for baseball at Hickey Park and other needed capital improvement projects. ($1.3 million) Funding will also address a widespread community need for a new Aquatic Center, serving a diverse demographic spectrum from infants to senior citizens. Plans include a lane pool, diving well, therapy pool, children’s area, two party-rooms, locker rooms and concession area. This facility will provide a center for competitive events and fun activities, as well as improving personal health and fitness. An Aquatic Center should also add to the local tourism impact in Russellville. ($7 million) STREETS & DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS

Although sometimes invisible, improvements to infrastructure indicate the progressive nature of most cities. Russellville, Arkansas is no exception. The city’s onecent sales tax has funded nearly $36 million of street and drainage improvements, some of which are detailed further in this brochure. All across our community -- in residential as well as commercial areas -- new streets, sidewalks, bikeways, drainage ditches, culverts, round-abouts and more have been constructed. Since 2003, these projects have continued to follow the guidelines of the city’s Capital Improvement Program,

which was developed years ago to work in concert with the city’s storm water management plan and the master street plan. By voting for the continuation of the city’s 1-cent sales tax, the Power of the Penny will continue to improve our streets and traffic flow, better manage storm water drainage and enhance the quality of life we all enjoy in Russellville. (51% of projected sales tax revenue / 81.25% of any amount collected above the projected sales tax revenue) CITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1/16 of a cent will go toward funding various economic development projects across our city, such as lighting along the I-40 Russellville exits. Funds will also be used to secure state and federal grants for projects detailed in the recently developed downtown master-plan, as well as other general improvements throughout the community. (6.25% of the funds collected) CITY CORP WASTE-WATER UPGRADES

City Corporation will receive 1/8 of a cent to fund water and wastewater capital improvements. The majority of these funds will be used to comply with a federal Consent Administrative Order, which was recently issued due to violations caused by deficiencies in the wastewater collection and treatment systems. Estimates indicate $40 million will be needed to achieve compliance prior to the 2022 deadline. (12.5% of funds collected) >>

Community Market Homegrown & Homemade Goods

Where local farmers, crafters artists, musicians and food vendors come together.

Saturdays 8-12 Downtown Russellville

West “C” Street (in front of The Crossing) August 2013 | ABOUT 27

Is remaining independent in your own home important to you? If so, call AMCARE today for your FREE assessment. Our Aides are certified, trained, screened, bonded and insured employees. AMCARE is a licensed private care agency, Medicaid certified, and qualifies for most long-term care insurance. Care plans customized from a few hours a day to 24/7, including evenings, weekends and holidays.

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-- COMPLETED STREET PROJECTS -SOUTH INGLEWOOD

This $2.554 million project provided for the conversion of a two-lane, rural street with open side-ditches...to a two-lane, urban design including curb and gutter, storm water inlets and culverts. It also provided an eight-foot pedestrian/bicycle walk along the east side of the street. $1 million of the project was funded by the Arkansas Transportation Highway Division as part of a cost-share arrangement with the City of Russellville. NORTH PHOENIX

This project, the first “Complete Street” in the city of Russellville, was completed in 2012 for just over $3 million. The Street provides two 11-foot lanes with five and a half foot bicycle/pedestrian walks along each side, as well as curb and gutter. Ginkgo trees every 50 feet line the street along with period streetlights. This provided an additional north-south link to the western portion of the city. SOUTH DETROIT

3521 West Main Street Russellville • 479-967-3744

South Detroit was rebuilt at a cost of $1.7 million. A rural street with open side-ditches, from East 11th to East 19th Streets, was converted into two, 12-foot lanes...complete with an urban stormwater system and sidewalk. The project improved local drainage for the neighborhood and access to Oakland Heights School. -- CURRENT STREET PROJECTS -H AND PARKER STREETS

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Store Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Friday 10am - 6pm, Wed 10am - 5pm & Sat 10am - 4pm

28 ABOUT | August 2013

The H and Parker Streets project is a signature neighborhood revitalization project. It will convert about 1.5 miles of two, aging streets that contain a hodgepodge of several different cross-sections and curb types into a “Complete Street.” When completed, it will consist of two, 10-foot traffic lanes, 5.5-foot bicycle lanes and 4-foot sidewalks along both sides. The street will also be accented with redbud trees and period light fixtures. NORTH PHOENIX OVERPASS

The N. Phoenix overpass accomplishes two pressing transportation related needs: an additional city railroad crossing and a more direct route between W. Main and W. Parkway for emergency vehicles. In doing so, this completes a full connection from 12th Street northward to Arkansas Ave. / Hwy 7. The overpass bridge will consist of two 11-foot lanes, supported by bicycle lanes and sidewalks. It will be enhanced by architectural treatments suggesting Art Deco trains along both sides. The exterior will complement the brick of Russellville’s

historic train depot and other historic downtown buildings.

Emeritus at Wildflower Choosing assisted living at an Emeritus Senior Living community will actually give your loved one greater independence. You will gain peace of mind knowing that they are nearby in a safe and comfortable senior living community.

NORTH EL PASO

This 2500-foot complete street project will provide a vital, multimodal link between Arkansas Tech University and Russellville Downtown. Bicycle lanes and pedestrian walkways are included, along with vehicle traffic lanes. The street will also be accented with landscaped islands, street-side trees and period light fixtures. WACO DETENTION BASIN

A new 11-acre detention basis is being constructed at the south end of Waco Street to help control storm-water flooding in Brookside and surrounding neighborhoods. Projections indicate flows from a statistical 25-year storm will be reduced 50%. It is being designed multi-purpose project. The basin will consist of a flat, rectangular area surrounded by levees, which will contain the water. The low water channel will meander through the bottom of the basin and will be lined with trees, benches, picnic tables and other park amenities. There will also be large areas available for a variety of “pick up” field games. Once complete, evaluation provided to FEMA may result in some possible reduction of the regulatory floodplain.

Call us today to learn more about the benefits of assisted living for your loved one. We will be glad to arrange a private tour experience for you.

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479-890-6709

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240 S. Inglewood Ave., Russellville, AR • www.Emeritus.com • Lic #027

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•

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968-3991

-- TARGETED FUTURE PROJECTS --

East Russellville North-South Arterial -$10,500,000 True F. Smith/Inglewood Retention Basin -- $700,000 I/40 Frontage Road; Arkansas Ave. to SR 124 -- $1,430,000 Lakefront, Parkway & W. Main Intersection Improvements -- $500,000 Annual Neighborhood Sidewalk Retrofit Program -- $2,940,000

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Annual Street Resurfacing Program -$4,900,000 Arkansas @ SR124 Intersect & Drainage Improvements - ATU Gateway -$745,000 N. Glenwood Extension from L St. to W. Parkway -- $1,900,000 Annual Neighborhood Streetlight Retrofit Program -- $2,000,000 N. Arkansas Ave. Streetscapes/ Sidewalks -- $250,000 Total: $25,865,000 ABOUT...the River Valley Magazine encourages all Russellville citizens to be informed and vote. For more information, please contact Russellville City Hall at (479) 968-2098. n

RIVER VALLEY

EQUIPMENT SALES, LLC

4200 E. Main • Russellville, AR 72802 • 479-968-5900 August 2013 | ABOUT 29

Big Brownie on the Bayou

Story and photo by Johnny Sain

I don’t recall the year, but it was a while back. A steamy, late summer day found me waist deep in the cool waters of the Illinois Bayou somewhere north of Hector. The sun was still an hour from setting and the fishing was starting to get good. I had already caught four or five smallmouth bass, or as I like to call them, brownies. They were running big, with a couple of nice ones in the 15-inch range. A 15 inch brownie is big for our clear Ozark streams. As is the case in early August, a few of the hickory trees had started to drop their mast. It had been a poor year for mast. The summer had been very hot and dry. However, the trees on the creek bank had fared better than those on the ridge-tops and the steady “plop” of falling hickory nuts added to the relaxing atmosphere on the creek. The gray squirrels and chipmunks had taken note of this. It seemed that every square foot of creek bank had a foraging rodent on it. As I waded around a bend in the creek, a deep pool opened up. A fallen sycamore jutted into the deepest part of this pool. The tree vibrated in the water with little ripples radiating out. A chipmunk was bounding out onto the sycamore with its trademark start and stop hops. It reached the outermost branches of the tree and there it grabbed a hickory nut, which was conveniently wedged between two twigs. The chipmunk sat there on the thin limbs, casually shucking the hickory nut, when I noticed a wake starting from the middle of the pool. The wake gained speed as it neared the fallen sycamore… and then the biggest smallmouth bass I have ever seen exploded on that poor chipmunk! I stood there stunned. While it was awesome to watch a bass take a chipmunk, what had me amazed was the

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30 ABOUT | August 2013

sheer size of the smallmouth! This fish was easily over 25 inches long! Brownies in the Illinois Bayou aren’t supposed to get that big! As the ripples faded, I shook off my stupor. I had to find a way to catch that monster. Rummaging through my little tackle box brought no answers. This fish wanted a mouthful and my assortment of creek lures were hardly bite size for such a giant fish. All I could do was sit and watch the pool, hoping to see the giant smallmouth again. Now, a 26-inch smallmouth swimming in the Illinois Bayou seems incredible. If word gets out about it, bass anglers from all over the world will be lining the creek banks. If anyone caught the beast, the old world record would be shattered. A brownie that size is, in a word, amazing. But even more amazing was watching that bass swim up and wedge another hickory nut between the limbs. n

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about | outdoors

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ABOUT

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THE LATEST FROM NIKE

Men's and Women's Nike Air Max 2013.

FELTNER’S ATHLETE’S CORNER; 2320 West Main, Russellville; (479) 968-6464

n2 4

COOKING STYLE

Lilly is definitely ready to tailgate in fashion. Apron, chef ’s hat and kitchen towel are available at GIFTS ON PARKWAY; 2149 E.

Parkway, Russellville; (479) 890-6932

KIDS/INFANTS

Infant “minky dot” material baby bunting with hat. Arkansas Tech onesie with matching contrasting bib. “My First Tech T-Shirt” with matching “Go Tech” hat. ATU BOOKSTORE;

Located on campus in the Young Building, West End, across from Chambers Cafeteria. (479) 968-0255

GAME DAY

Game day cooler tote, tumbler and matching frame in Cyclone colors by Mudpie. ROSE

DRUG; 3103 West Main Place, Russellville; (479) 968-1323

MENS ATU GOLF GEAR

Ping mens khaki flat front shorts, Ping proformance 3-button polo and Ping hat/cap.

ATU BOOKSTORE; Located on campus in the Young Building, West End, across from Chambers Cafeteria. (479) 968-0255

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

Support your favorite athlete in style! Stadium seats to save your back and spirit items galore! MULLEN TEAM SPORTS &

SCREENPRINTING; 215 N. Commerce, Downtown Russellville. (479) 967-8326

n7 7

BACK TO SCHOOL STYLE

Backpacks by Nike, The North Face and Patagonia. FELTNER’S ATHLETE’S CORNER;

2320 West Main, Russellville; (479) 968-6464 August 2013 | ABOUT 31

Tech Travel Visits Ireland's Coastal Treasures

What a wonderful trip with great travelers! Tech Travel flew to the Emerald Isle on June 6th, arriving in the capitol, Dublin. After thoroughly enjoying the rich history and hospitable culture of Dublin which included St. Patrick's Cathedral, O'Connell Street, Grafton Street, Phoenix Park, and the beautiful homes in Dublin, the group toured the Jeanie Johnston, a re-creation of a famine ship. The group had lunch at the oldest pub in Ireland, Brazenhead, established in 1198. Of course, a tour of the Guinness Storehouse completed the tour for the day. Tech Travel drove to the Curragh region, which was one of our highlights, the Irish National Stud Farm and their Japanese Gardens. Beautiful horses owned by the Irish were stabled there plus previous crown winners were housed there for their longevity. Continuing to Cork, we stopped and had lunch at the historic Rock of Cashel. Upon arriving at Cork, the 2nd largest city in Ireland, we had a city tour and by night we were staying at Kinsale, a charming fishing town along the sea. Venturing out the next day,

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32 ABOUT | August 2013

we visited the Cobh Heritage Centre and the Midleton Distillery to see how Jameson Irish Whiskey was distilled. On day 6, we arrived in Limerick and toured King John's Castle. Continuing our journey, we visited the Bunratty Castle and the Folk Park by experiencing life in Ireland of yesteryear. The afternoon of June 11th, we experienced such a highlight by visiting the Rathbaun Farm and got to interact with a traditional Irish family. The group toured the farm, watched them shear a sheep, bottle fed two lambs, and then had delicious scones and tea. The sheep dogs were a treat to watch as to how they worked the herd of sheep. Our journey led to Galway and for the night entertainment, we dined at a 400 year old castle, Dunguaire Castle Banquet and had medieval entertainment. The next day we visited the Connemara marble, Kylemore Abbey and Killary Harbour. The day concluded with a fantastic cruise of the Killary Harbour. Our last day of the wonderful exploration of the treasures in Ireland included the site of the Cloinmacnoise. This site was of the great monastic settlements and the Irish Celtic Christian traditions. Of course, on our last night we were entertained by the traditional Irish music and food. "A great trip was had by all," exclaimed Jill Brown! n

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Cont. from page 21 DeBlack is past president of the Arkansas Historical Association and the Arkansas Association of College History Teachers. He has authored and co-authored a number of books, including With Fire and Sword: Arkansas 1861-1874, winner of the inaugural Butler-Remmel Arkansas History Literary Prize. Local Civil War historians Wayne Phillips, Paul Staton and Michael Whitaker will participate in a panel discussion at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 22. The discussion will focus on the Battle at Dardanelle and other skirmishes that took place in and around the Arkansas River Valley during the Civil War. The finale in the series of programs will be a performance by HARMONY, a band from Mountain View that will perform music from the Civil War era beginning at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 29. For more information about the Civil War 150 exhibit and events at the Pendergraft Library and Technology Center, call (479) 9640568 or send e-mail to askalibrarian@atu.edu.

A VICTORIAN LADIES LUNCHEON

Phyllis Carruth recently hosted a Victorian luncheon to benefit the Russellville Symphony Guild. Mrs. Carruth donated the luncheon as a silent auction item for the RSG’s “Talk of the Town Tables” fundraiser. Aldona Standridge and Darla Sherry assisted with hostess responsibilities at the luncheon. Joe Turner of Cathy’s Flowers provided flower arrangements.

NEW RUSSELLVILLE SYMPHONY GUILD OFFICERS

The Russellville Symphony Guild introduced three new board members at the annual membership brunch hosted by Doris Lawrence. A record 86 members attended the event. The new board members include: Jeanne Frederic, Patty McCutcheon, and

Naomi Steffy. Second term board members reelected include: President Aldona Standridge, Vice President Ann Squyres, Secretary Betty Snellings, Publicity Paula Stamps, and Historian Mary Barham. For more information about the organization, please contact Judy Murphy at 967-1177.

PEARLS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE: October 10-18, 2013 (9-Day Cruise) Go Next/ Oceania Cruises: Ports of Call: St. Tropez, France Provence (Marseille), France – Portofine, Italy – Florence/ Pisa, Italy – Sorrento/Capri, Italy – Amalfi/Positano, Italy.

NEW DEGREE PROGRAM IN ATU COLLEGE OF BUSINESS

MARLSGATE PLANTATION, SCOTT, AR.: Dec. 3, 2013 (Day Trip) After a guided tour of the gardens and mansion, enjoy a meal prepared by the mansion’s chef. Cost: $55 Per Person 30 Passenger Limit

Arkansas Tech launched its Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree in business data analytics during the 201213 school year. It is the first baccalaureate degree program in Arkansas that approaches data analytics from a business perspective. According to Dr. Stephen Jones, associate dean of the Arkansas Tech College of Business, graduates from the business data analytics program will be prepared to analyze data in a way that allows firms to determine strategy and solve problems. “For example, a data analyst working in the health care sector will be expected to perform data analysis with respect to patient outcomes, customer and insurance payment patterns, drug interactions, infection rates, geographic health care service densities and other types of health care data,” said Jones. “Similarly, a data analyst working in customer relationship management will be expected to perform data analysis with respect to customer buying patterns, identifying the best and worst customers, identifying different customer types, detecting fraud and identifying opportunities for crossselling and up-selling.” Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that employment in the closely related management analyst field is expected to grow 24 percent by the year 2018. The average salary for management analysts in Arkansas is $60,000 per year. Frank Hellmer of Russellville is a senior at Arkansas Tech. He has a double major in accounting and business data analytics, a combination that he believes will enhance his employability after graduation. “Reading the stories of people being without jobs for extended periods of time during the recession has made job security a top priority for me,” said Hellmer. “I do like how BDA points toward a specific career path. For myself, I like to have a sense of direction of where I am headed instead of having a broad selection, analyzing all of those selections and then hoping that the career path I choose ends up being stable and profitable for me.” For more information about the Arkansas Tech Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree in business data analytics, call (479) 968-0490 or visit www. atu.edu/business. n

2013 SCHEDULE

REDISCOVER CUBA - November 10th, 2013 (9-days) Trinidad, pottery demonstration, Cienfuegos, Havana, Cuban Fine Arts Museum, Casa Fuster. Limited space!

CALIFORNIA NEW YEAR’S GETAWAY: Dec. 29, 2013- Jan. 2, 2014 Highlights: Float Viewing – Bandfest – New Year’s Eve Party – Tournament of Roses Parade

2014 SCHEDULE CANYON COUNTRY PREVIEW JULY 31ST AT PENDERGRAFT LIBRARY, 5:30PM ROOM 300 SOUTH! CANYON COUNTRY: Featuring Arizona &

Utah: March 13, 2014 (9-Day Tour);

EUROPEAN TAPESTRY CRUISE: (Lisbon to London) June 23, 2014 (9-Day Tour); EXPLORING SEATTLE & CRUISING ALASKA: Summer, 2014 (11 Day Tour); ISLANDS OF NEW ENGLAND: August 15, 2014 (8-Day Tour); AUTUMN IN AMERICA’S HEARTLAND: American

Queen – St. Paul to St. Louis: October 3, 2014 (9-Day Tour); CHRISTMAS ON THE DANUBE: River Cruise: November 28, 2014 (9-Day Tour) PREVIEW DATES ANNOUNCED SOON

Tech Travel

Alumni and Friends of Arkansas Tech www.atu.edu/travel

For additional information, please contact Dana Moseley, Office of Gift Planning, (479) 964-0532

Morgan’s Fashions Where Fashion is a Distinction Exit 58, 116 E. Main St., Clarksville 479.754.8130 • M-F 9-6 / Sat 9-5:30

Miss Me Back to School Backpacks, purses, jeans, and tops!

FREE ALTERATIONS Large Selection of Rock Revivals for both Guys and Gals August 2013 | ABOUT 33

about | engagements

Save the Date!

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

~ August 3 ~

~ September 21 ~

Allison Hill and Michael Chiuminatto Kelcie McGee and Chris Heflin

Samantha Dennis and Dustin Huggins

~ August 17 ~

Brooke Sherrill and Brandon Graham

Lauren Ragsdale and Michael Allinson

~ September 28 ~

~ August 24 ~ Johnessa Belcher and Michael Boze

~ September 2 ~ Emilie Dayan & Andy Hill

~ September 7 ~ Molly Burns and Christopher Johns Betsy Young and Noel Snyder

~ September 14 ~

Heather Glaser and Andrew Chaffin

Sarah Reasoner and Drake McGuire

~ November 9 ~

~ October 5 ~

Haley McGrew and Logan Hughes Meggan Schuemann and Kaleb Dickey

Leah Epperson & Nicholas Horton

~ December 14 ~

~ October 12 ~

Rebecca Bradley and Jon Shanklin

Jilliann Jacimore & Jimmy Wilson

~ December 28 ~

~ October 19 ~

Kelly Conley and Kevin Martin

Kelsey Coulter & Keith Duke

~ May 31, 2014 ~

Tami Cotton & Rob Kilgore

Lauren Tracy and Jack Mann

Allie Pipkin and Jacob Sparks

~ September 20 ~

~ November 2 ~

~ June 14, 2014 ~

Allison Kimbrough and R.J. Wood

Holly Erickson and Brian Townsend

Amanda Gordon and Brandon Weaver

To have your engagement or wedding published in a future issue of ABOUT Magazine, send your information, photo* and a check for $57.50 to: ABOUT Magazine, PO Box 10176, Russellville AR 72812, or visit visit www.aboutrvmag.com/forms.html. Word count is limited to 225 words. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication. For additional information, call (479) 970-6628. *Digital files are accepted and will be published upon receipt of payment.

E E LY! AT NG ON D A T. H P C SE R FO

2nd Friday September 13th, 5-8pm

Art, Refreshments & Live Music! For more info call (479) 967-1437

CITY MALL RUSSELLVILLE • (479) 968-3001

34 ABOUT | August 2013

HOME GENERATORS Durable, reliable and powerful. These generators are meant to get you through power outages, blizzards and everything in between.

Griffin Electric Heat & Air, Inc. SALES AND SERVICE 2605 S. Knoxville • Russellville (479) 968-8555 • (877) 373-2855 Jay & Dennis Griffin • License #122314

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C E N T E R