ABOUT | June 2016 by ABOUT the River Valley Magazine

Ripples

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley June 2016

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SUMMER LEARNING ACTIVITIES Summer is the ideal time for students of all ages to strengthen their academic skills while still having plenty of time left over for summer activities. Recent research indicates that students, no matter their backgrounds, lose academic ground if they do not stay engaged in educational activities during the summer. Parents can bridge this gap by encouraging academic activities during the summer.

READING

WRITING

u Read. Set aside 15-30 minutes each day for your child to read or for you to read to your child.

u Keep a journal. Have your child write a creative paragraph each week.

u Visit the Pope County Library. Ask about their summer reading programs and activities. www.popelibrary.org

u Practice spelling skills. Have your child write words on the sidewalk with water and a brush.

u Visit a museum online. One example is the Smithsonian Institution kids site. www.si.edu/Kids

u Plan a trip. Have your child use travel books, maps, and brochures to plan their dream vacation.

SCIENCE

MATH

u Map the weather. Have your child keep a running log of the weather.

u Go shopping. Have your child find out what they can buy for $5 at different stores and figure out what the change would be.

u Answer a question. Have your child form a hypothesis and do an experiment to see if they are right. For example: how long does it take an ice cube to melt outside? u Become an inventor. Have your child invent items for a particular situation. For example: an invention that can only be used in the summer.

u Write and draw a comic strip.

u Measure distance. Using a map have your child calculate where you will be if you traveled 20, 50, 100, or 1,000 miles. u Make a meal. Have your child read a recipe, make a shopping list, buy items at the store with a budget, and measure ingredients.

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

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

905 E. MAIN, RUSSELLVILLE • 479.968.7071 1003 S. ROGERS, CLARKSVILLE • 479.754.7075 JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

JUNE 2016 EDITION

Pg16

Pg8

Pg30

8 Ripples

There’s something about a fly fisherman that’s different from a typical angler. Part philosopher and part sportsman, there is a Zenlike quality to their nature. Meet Jerry McKaughan, grandfather of five and president of the CADDIS Fly Fishing club.

14 A Card for Uncle Dad

16 Pope & Yell Co. Single Parent Scholarship Fund

22 Serendipity Strikes Again

Subscribe Today! Have every issue of ABOUT...the River Valley delivered to you monthly! Subscribe online today at www.aboutrvmag.com or send a $20 check for a One-Year Subscription (11 Issues) to ABOUT Magazine 220 East 4th Street Russellville, AR 72801 Call 479.219.5031 for more information.

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

30 Creating an Artful Life

In a comfortable country home between Dardanelle and Centerville and surrounded by twenty acres of the prettiest woods and pasture land lives Brenda Morgan, is an artist of national renown who churns vignettes of everyday life into art.

42 Sowing Seeds of a Family Legacy

FEATURED MERCHANT Lemley Funeral Service Pg. 40

JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

A PAGE FROM

The Editor’s Notebook

Way cooler than I could imagine

That kid with the guitar is my dad. And in this picture he looks… cool. I don’t remember ever thinking of Dad as “cool” when I was a kid. He listened to the very uncool Hank Williams Sr. and George Jones. He drove a primered 1964 Chevy truck with fourspeed manual transmission that often hung up in first gear. He worked a swing shift at International Paper and, as a result of never having more than two weeks on a consistent sleeping schedule, he was grouchy fairly often. His high school days didn’t include sports so he couldn’t tell me why you run a pick-and-roll only when the other team is in man-to-man defense. He’d rather catfish all night on the sandbar than make cast after cast for bass. And I don’t think he ever really cared if I thought he was cool. We had a tumultuous relationship — two people with just enough similarities to clash and too few commonalities to truly understand each other. And then of course he left this world just as I reached manhood. I often wonder what our relationship would be like today. I think the years and my maturity, my realizing just how much he had to give in heritage and wisdom, would have led to a something special, a friendship but also something much deeper. During one of our last conversations before he fell ill he said we should make plans to drink a beer over a campfire. Of course I was always too busy and he never went beyond the suggestion either so we never did. But this picture makes me smile. It also makes me feel a profound sense of loss. I never really had the chance to know Johnny Carrol Sain Sr. as a man and as a person, as anything other than Dad, and I feel robbed. I’m thankful for the candid photos and Mom, Uncle Dennis and Dad’s friends that have helped me gain a better understanding of who he really was. But I know it’s just an image formed in my mind from the picture and stories, that the man is gone forever. Or is he? I see him in the mirror, in my hands and eyes. I hear him when Maddie Carrol sings and I remember his living room sing-alongs when I watch Mackenzie strum his old guitar. And in these glimpses of the good things he left behind along with the stories and pictures, I think I can grasp just a bit of who he was when he was just a boy and then just a man, before he was Dad. The more I learn about him the more I think he was probably way cooler than I could have imagined. Johnny Carrol Sain, Editor johnny@aboutrvmag.com

Celebrating a Decade of Character in the Arkansas River Valley A Publication of One14 Productions, Inc Vol. XI, Issue 5 – June 2016

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

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

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS: JUNE 2016 June 3 — Downtown Art Walk in Russellville Downtown from 6-9 p.m. For more information contact 967-1716. June 4 — Lake Dardanelle State Park Hiking Stick Workshop. Kick off the summer season with an outdoor hiking adventure in Arkansas State Parks. The workshop will be from 9 a.m.-1p.m. Start the day by selecting your “perfect” hiking stick. The workshop has limited space. Please register and pay $20.00 fee for the workshop by May 27. Children 18 and under must have a guardian at the workshop. For more information contact 967-5516. June 10-12 — Lightning on Ludwig hydroplane boat racing and outdoor recreation. This event will be held on Lake Ludwig in Clarksville. Admission is free. Please note the lake will be closed to the public during these three days. For more information contact 754-2340. June 14-18 — Annual Auto Show and Swap Meet from 8 a.m.- 8 p.m.This annual antique car show is co-hosted by the Mid-America Old Time Automobile Association and the Museum of Automobiles on Petit Jean Mountain. Admission is free. For more information contact the museum at (501) 727-5427. June 17 — Sunset Cinema at Lake Dardanelle State park from 6:30-10:30 p.m. Outdoor movie theater on the lawn of the Lake Dardanelle Visitor’s Center. The cost is $1 per person, children

ABOUT...the River Valley

under 12 are free. The two showings scheduled this summer are Friday, June 3 (family movie), and Friday, June 17 (family movie). Each showing will begin at approximately 8:30 p.m. Activities will take place prior to each showing starting at 6:30 p.m. For more information contact 968-2530. June 22-24 —Wonders of Nature Day Camp at Lake Dardanelle State Park. Admission: $65. Have fun exploring the natural world around us. Hiking, kayaking experiencing wildlife, and much more. The camp is open to kids ages 8-12. Camp registration includes meals and supplies. For more information contact 967-5516. June 24-25 — Mount Magazine Butterfly Festival XX at the Mount Magazine State Park Visitor Center. The Mount Magazine Butterfly Festival is one of the most popular nature-related family events in Arkansas. Hands-on, make and take crafts, nature related games, guided nature walks, garden tours, insect exhibits, live music, and more. Admission is free. For more information contact 9638502. June 24-25 — Buffalo River Elk Festival in Jasper. One of Arkansas’s top craft fairs and outdoor sporting events and celebrates the reintroduction of elk to Newton County, the Elk Capital of Arkansas. For more information contact 870-446-6471.

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

June 24 — Music Downtown @ Sundown Summer Concert Series at Russellville Depot Park on the last Saturday of June, July and August. Concerts begin at 8 p.m. Admission is free. For more information contact 967-1437 June 29 — The Arkansas Tech Small Business and Technology Development Center presents two hands-on workshops for QuickBooks desktop software users at Arkansas Tech University in Russellville. The 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. session, QuickBooks for Beginners, includes set up, reconciling accounts, working with lists, customers, vendors, assets, and liabilities. The 1:304:30 p.m. session. Cost per session is $65. Seating is limited with registration required no later than June 28 at 356-2067.

YOUR DREAM. OUR GOAL.

Member FDIC

fsbmybank.com

479-498-2400 JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

Ripples The water was cold. The mountain stream seldom rose above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Perfect for trout. Knee deep in the icy current, the fly fisherman focused on a pool of water thirty feet away. He watched until he saw the small ripples. The trout were feeding. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the moment when an onlooker would see a solitary fisherman transform into an artist as his fly rod begins its dance. The line glistening in the sunlight as it arcs and sings back and forth in nothing less than a poetry of motion. And then, the cord unfurls, gracefully laying the leader and tiny hand-tied fly onto the surface of the water. He hits his target. Rhythm and focus working together.

The rod bends. The hook is set. The fight is on.

Story by BILLY REEDER | Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT A FLY FISHERMAN that’s different from a typical angler. Part philosopher and part sportsman, there is a Zen-like quality to their nature. You seldom hear them talk about the size of fish that they catch, but far more often about their beauty. Gently holding the rainbow or brown trout just pulled from the stream, the fly fisherman will marvel at the early morning sun reflecting on the skin of the multi-colored fish. And then, with silent gratitude, return the fish to the ice-cold water to live and fight another day. But, you can’t catch trout in Russellville, Arkansas. Or can you? Meet Jerry McKaughan, grandfather of five and president of the CADDIS Fly Fishing club. Jerry, who spends his days as the finance director for the city of Russellville, started tying flies in 1996 because he was looking for something to help him relax. That, and he had seen Colonel Sherman T. Potter doing it on the television series, M*A*S*H and thought it looked like fun. For those unfamiliar, in the fly fishing world, flies are the tiny, handmade lures at the end of the fly fisherman’s line. Oddly enough, when he began tying flies Jerry wasn’t actually a fly fisherman. He wasn’t really a fisherman at all. But after supplying flies to some friends who liked to fly fish they convinced him to go with them on a fishing trip to the mountains of southern New Mexico. With a little instruction and a little practice he was hooked. 10

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

And from that week of standing knee deep in an ice cold mountain stream fed by melting snow capped mountains, Jerry became not only a fly fishing enthusiast, but perhaps it’s better stated that he became a fly fishing evangelist. He is, in fact, the best sort of salesman because he is one who truly believes in what he’s selling. Fishing is good for the soul.

His feet may have been planted on a hardwood floor, but I could tell his soul was moving closer and closer to a fishing hole somewhere in the mountains. When I asked him what it was about fly fishing that’s so addictive he didn’t hesitate. “The serenity,” he said. The thing that’s immediately noticeable is the glee with which he talks about trout fishing. The more we talked the more I realized that he was drifting further and further from his City Hall office. His feet may have been planted on a hardwood floor, but I could tell his soul was moving closer and closer to a fishing hole somewhere in the mountains. And so I asked him where his favorite fishing hole was located. Again, no hesitation. “The Big Thompson in the Rocky Mountain National Park,” he said. “The atmosphere, the nature, it’s just beautiful. It’s crystal clear. It’s gin clear. It’s amazing you can’t see the fish. They’re there, but you just have to really focus because it seems like they’re chameleons. They just blend right in. The fish aren’t huge, but I’m not after huge fish. I’m after the experience and the time, taking the kids there and let them fish it. To me, it’s just a total outlet for getting away from everything. The first time I went out there I hired a guide and he took me out there for a day. I told him that you have the best office in the whole world.” As it also happens, in 1996 there was a group of River Valley anglers and conservationists who got together and formed the CADDIS Fly Fishing Club. CADDIS, which stands for Central Arkansas Dead Drifters Ichthyological Society is a mouthful. The name is the result of a bunch of creative fishermen. A caddis is a type of fly and ichthyological means to study fish. So basically, they came up with a clever acronym that means they use fake bugs to catch fish. Sometimes you just have to be in the subculture to keep up

with the lingo. Which, when it comes to tying flies, at times seems limitless. The cleverness of the name is indicative of the cleverness of its members. They’re not just a group of people who like to fish. They’re a group of people who want to give others an opportunity to fish. And in the minds of the members, there was a problem with Russellville that probably only they were aware. You couldn’t catch trout here. The members of CADDIS fixed that problem once and for all. In 2004 they teamed up with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and the Russellville Parks and Recreation Department to put on what would become the annual event known as Trout Day.

And since that time, from the first Saturday of December until as long as cool temperatures keep the water below 52 degrees, a person can catch a limit of trout in Russellville, Arkansas, at Pleasant View Park. 2015 marked the eleventh year that anywhere from 130-250 people, mostly children with their moms and dads, show up on a cold December morning and cast a line in the pond stocked by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. For the kids who don’t have fishing gear, CADDIS takes care of supplying them with all the tackle and bait they need. Jerry, now president of CADDIS, gets a smile on his face every time he mentions it. “The Trout Day is an awesome deal for kids,” he said. “We have a clinic the week before and we try to give out certificates to get kids to come to the clinic and teach them about the fish. It’s not just fly fishing at that point. It’s about the fish. It’s about what they eat. It’s to hand out a certificate to them that they can bring back the following week and collect their rod. >> JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

If you come out there and you don’t have a fishing rod, we’re going to see that you get to fish.” Handing a kid their first rod and reel brings a special level of joy to Jerry when they realize that it’s theirs to keep. “They love it, they really love it.” Jerry strikes me as the best grandfather any kid could hope to have. Gentle and kind hearted, there seems to be few things that makes him smile more than helping children

“The kids in wheel chairs struggle to get down to the bank and I think they ought to be able to fish as much as anyone else.” fish. I watch his computer screen as he flips through photos from years past of community children standing on the bank, proudly holding their freshly caught fish. Catching the fish, it seems, is the path to getting kids hooked on fishing. “Look at that girl’s face. How can you not…” His voice trails off. He’s back at trout day and no longer in his office. “Look at that. I bet that kid never held a fish in his life. That’s what it’s about.” “Look at this little one there. They’re involved.” “That’s what I’m talking about. How many times is that kid going to catch one of them?” 12

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

He laughs like a grandfather watching his grandchildren open Christmas presents. By showing me the photos he’s trying to help me experience a sample of the joy he feels. It seems obvious, but I ask him why they do this. He tells me,“The kids. Of course we all like trout fishing, but for me it’s the kids.“ CADDIS, like Jerry, wants as many kids as possible to get the most out of Trout Day. Currently they’re working on securing funding for their portion of a $90,000 project to match the 48 percent the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has committed to build two handicap accessible fishing piers at Pleasant View Park. He told me, “The kids in wheel chairs struggle to get down to the bank and I think they ought to be able to fish as much as anyone else.” But CADDIS is something that, like Trout Day, he hopes to see increase its numbers. The club’s youngest member is in his twenties, and the next youngest is in his early fifties. “I’d like to see CADDIS grow,” he said. “We’re 20-years-old. Our

membership got as high as 50. Since I’ve been here it’s averaged about 20. We’re all old.” CADDIS meets at 7 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month at Western Sizzlin on East Main Street in Russellville. If

you’re interested in learning how to fly fish or want to connect with a group of men and women who like to get together and “tell lies and tie flies” they would love to help you get started. If fact, I’m not sure much would make them happier. l

JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

EVERY DAY LIFE

ABOUT...the River Valley

A card for Uncle Dad Story by SARAH CHENAULT | Illustration by CLIFF THOMAS

Sometimes a greeting card can say something that most people cannot convey verbally. Finding the right words to express our emotions is often very difficult so it’s easy to see why Americans purchase 6.5 billion cards a year. Two of the most important occasions to buy cards are Mother's Day and Father's Day. We want to show our parents the love and appreciation they deserve, and let the other parent of our children know that we think they are doing a great job. I often let my son pick out cards he wants to give because I feel it makes them seem more genuine and heartfelt. However, he can spend all day perusing through the greeting card aisle, finding it essential to read each and every missive. Perhaps he is afraid he will miss out on the perfect card if he doesn’t open and read each one, but he usually ends up picking the very first card that caught his attention. One Saturday my son and I were browsing through Hobby Lobby, picking up art supplies for his gift to his father. He reminded me we had yet to purchase a card to go with his gift so we made our way to that aisle. He immediately went to the musical birthday cards and insisted on opening each one, releasing a melee of sounds across the store. One particular card was especially annoying (why do children have a knack for rooting out the most vexatious noises/smells/ behavior?) and he opened it and closed it several times, starting the cacophony all over again. I began to lose my patience and insisted we move on to cards for the appropriate occasion. He immediately spotted a card featuring a fuzzy green dinosaur with googly eyes. He read it to himself and announced, “I found the perfect card for Daddy!” He proceeded to read it again, this time aloud: “Happy Father’s Day to the best uncle! I love you more than Dinosaurs! Love, your favorite nephew.” He beamed up at me, and I sighed. “Raff, we are shopping for a Father's Day card. For your father.” I said. “But this says 'Happy Father’s Day,’” he argued. “Yes, I know, but it’s for an uncle. And you don’t have an uncle,” I argued back. “I might have an uncle! How do you know? Why don’t I have an uncle?” The questions came flooding in, and I just looked up, mentally begging the heavens to heap patience on my head. “Well, the main reason we cant get this card is because it’s for an uncle, and your daddy isn’t your uncle. So we need a card that is for a dad... Not an uncle.” I felt like this explanation was pretty simple and clear. Raff looked at me with a determined look. “Well my daddy IS my uncle,” he proclaimed. 14

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

The handful of people also in the greeting card aisle simultaneously looked toward us and regarded Raff with interest. Suddenly, the sound of a banjo's twangs and the image of a creepy boy on a porch sprang to mind. “Raff,” I whispered, “you need to find another card. We need to leave soon so please choose a different one.” “But this one is my favorite, and it’s the only one with a dinosaur on it,” he pleaded. I sighed again. Sure enough, after looking through nearly all of the Father's Day cards that were for fathers, we failed to find one that had anything resembling a dinosaur on it. I rubbed my temples, trying to ease my frustration and heard my inner mom voice — pick your battles. “Fine, if this is the card you want, then its fine with me. Let's go checkout.” Raff grinned delightedly and we made the trek to the front of the store. We waited in line, and when it was our turn Raff placed his card and other purchases on the counter. The cashier rang up his art supplies, and then picked up his card. “That's for my dad. It says uncle but that’s OK because my dad is my uncle.” Raff stated, matter of fact. The cashier's eyes grew round and she slowly turned to look my direction. Before I could offer up any sort of explanation, she said (in a very northern accent),“Well, this is Arkansas, and nothing surprises me anymore.” I started to reply but thought better of it. I wasn’t sure how to even begin to explain the uncle/dad/dinosaur situation. I paid for our items and left the store hoping I wouldn’t run into the same woman again on any future Hobby Lobby visits. And if I did, hopefully she would forget Raff's Deliverance moment in the check out line! l

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JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

Single Parent Scholarship Fund

Providing opportunity and support for students and the community Story by STEPHANIE BAKER | Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

“Money is the number one reason single parents don’t make it through college. Our funds help fill that need. The money can be used for academic and non-academic expenses.” – SABRA BARTLETT Executive Director of the Pope & Yell County Single Parent Scholarship Fund

JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

The Pope & Yell County affiliate of Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund is a nonprofit organization that, since 1990, has raised $23 million in order to award 40,000 scholarships to assist Arkansas' single parents attending college. This scholarship fund helps single parents have the opportunity to attend college by providing support and a minimum scholarship of $700 per semester to recipients. Sabra Bartlett is the Executive Director of the PYSPSF and she, along with a five-member board, assist approximately 30 single parent students per academic year. "Money is the number one reason single parents don't make it through college. Our funds help fill that need. The money can be used for academic and nonacademic expenses," said Sabra. Sabra, who runs the operation out of her home office, will celebrate her fourth year as executive director in July. "I had the opportunity to make a difference. The organization really spoke to me because my dad was a single parent, he raised me, and then I was a single parent. I understand the struggles from a child's perspective and from a parent's perspective. I think that helps me do my job better," said Sabra. "I fell in love with it. I can't imagine myself doing anything else.” 18

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

The students in the program are academic achievers with many making the dean's list and receiving other honors. Scholarship recipient Brandy Linker is a nursing student and single mother to her son, six-year-old Aiden. "Single parents make great students,” said Brandy. “They are so much more driven because they have a little one at home who needs them to succeed. Aiden is the reason I am in school right now." Brandy, who will graduate in December of 2016, has been on Arkansas Tech University's dean's list every semester, with a cumulative GPA of 3.969. "Even with all the schoolwork, the kids always come first. Being in college does not change the fact that I am a mom. Dinner still has to be served, and bedtime stories still have to be read. Everyone says 'it must be so hard to do it all,’ and sometimes it is, but they are the reason you do it," said Brandy. Ambar Diaz is also a recipient of the scholarship and a parent of two children, Julio, age eight, and Amber Lee, age seven. "I am so proud of my kids. They work so hard in school,” said Ambar. “I want to set a good example for them by studying hard and getting my degree. They are the reason I decided to come back to college and major in nursing. I need to do this for them." Most single parents qualify for traditional financial aid but

very often do not qualify for other funding sources like the Arkansas Academic Challenge because of enrollment requirements and less money allocated for nontraditional students. This scholarship aims to fill the need of these full time nontraditional students. "I would not be in school if it wasn't for this scholarship,” said Ambar. “The members are like family. Anything you need they are there.” The program goes beyond simply providing monetary assistance. The board offers additional support to the recipients, which is a value in itself according to Brandy. "It's something we can rely on every semester, which I really value, but what I value more than the money is the support. My community recognizes I am struggling and I am doing something hard, and they do not just look down on me for being a single parent. There is so much empowerment and respect rather than embarrassment," added Brandy. "This scholarship empowers us to be proud of being both single parents and students. It is so encouraging to know there are people who support you and want you to succeed. There is a stigma that comes with being a single parent; many people think you were oh so irresponsible. This scholarship says, 'we are proud of you for changing your life for the better.’ That means so much.” It means much to the River Valley community as well according to Sabra. ”People may assume we are just another human service agency, and, of course, we do serve people, people in great need, but we also offer a great advantage to the local economy. For example, picture one of our single parents. They are scraping by making $10-$12,000 a year to make ends meet. They are probably receiving food stamps, housing assistance, maybe free breakfast and lunch at school and daycare vouchers for the kids — all of which is being paid by us taxpayers. Now this same single parent comes to us and gets into college or a professional training program. We support them with small scholarships, around $700 a semester, and we help with professional and personal development workshops along the way. >>

"Being in college does not change the fact that I am a mom. Dinner still has to be served, and bedtime stories still have to be read. Everyone says 'it must be so hard to do it all,’ and sometimes it is, but they are the reason you do it," – BRANDY LINKER Scholarship Recipient

JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

“I would not be in school if it wasn’t for this scholarship,” said Ambar. “The members are like family. Anything you need they are there.” – AMBAR DIAZ Scholarship Recipient

Fast forward four or five years, even less if it is a technical certificate program, and you have an educated person who, depending on major, starts work at $40,000 a year. Now they are off public assistance, out of poverty and paying taxes just like the rest of us. They move to a bigger house, maybe over in Timberwood or Western Hills, eventually they will probably buy a house from Tabatha at Re/Max. They can afford to buy new furniture at Peter's Family Living. They buy new clothes at Lavish or Belk and maybe a car from Phil Wright's,” said Sabra. “See how this is working?" It’s a huge return on investment said Sabra. "For a relatively small financial investment of around $7,000, plus some support from our wonderful volunteers, this parent is now making three to four times as much annually. The kids are doing better in school. The family is living in a healthier place. The kids are far more likely to complete high school and are already thinking of what college they want to attend one day.” The affiliate also receives support from outside of the River Valley adding to the longtime positive effects for community, in addition to the recipients. “For every dollar we raise locally, our state organization doubles it up to $14,000, and they send us grant money from larger statewide donors,” said Sabra. “That brings even more money into our local economy. So we are good for the single parents, we are good for their kids, but 20

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

we are also good for Tech, UACCM, and the business community who, in turn, will hire our graduates. It all comes full circle for the benefit of all of us,” said Sabra. The recipients of this scholarship work extremely hard to balance and excel in both raising a family and gaining a degree said Sabra. ”These parents are not looking for a handout. We are so much more than that. We are a hand up. Sometimes we are the only support they have. With a 98 percent retention and graduation rate, our affiliate ranks as one of the highest in the state. We are more than just money. They can call me at any time. This is a mentor program, and they are like family. We do absolutely whatever we can to support them. If they need something, they call, day or night, it does not matter. We are available 24/7. Ambar recently needed help; I notified our board, and they blew up my email offering assistance. They were really rallying around and supporting her. They wanted to make sure she was okay, not only that she stayed in school, but that she was taken care of," said Sabra. One of the best ways for the community to support the Single Parent Scholarship Fund is by attending the 19th Annual Catfish Fry and Silent Auction. This year's fundraiser will be at the Hughes Center on Thursday, July 28, from 5-7p.m. It will feature an allyou can-eat buffet of catfish, peel n' eat shrimp and all the fixings, followed by a sundae bar, and over $10,000 worth of silent auction items donated by local businesses.

Tickets are available at the door, $20 dollars for adults, $10 for children and free for children six and under. All funds raised go directly to single parents in the River Valley. The catfish dinner is the biggest local fundraiser to support the scholarship fund. "We really appreciate all the local businesses who donate to our cause,” said Sabra. “Our local community pitches in to make sure our fundraiser is the best, and they volunteer their time to put the whole event together. One of our greatest needs is for more individuals, businesses and corporations to donate to the fund through the event sponsorship.” The scholarship fund hopes to expand their assistance to include scholarship money for summer terms, funding for part time students and increased amounts available for recipients. More information on how to donate, volunteer and apply is available online at aspsf.org or call (479) 970-8800. l

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VALLEY VITTLES

Serendipity strikes again

ABOUT...the River Valley

Story by JOHNNY CARROL SAIN Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN

THE GRAPEVINE RESTAURANT | 105 E. Walnut, Paris

“Made from scratch” always gets my attention. Acknowledging the creative and getting-your-hands-dirty effort required to make something from scratch is, in my opinion, something that is not done enough in our world of frozen-to-microwave convenience. And that’s why a signature sandwich from The Grapevine Restaurant in Paris is this month’s Valley Vittles. It’s called The Grapevine pocket burger. Have you ever heard of a pocket burger? It’s a handmade beef patty with swiss cheese, bacon, house barbecue sauce, and whatever else you want wrapped in a grilled flour or all grain tortilla. Think of it as a Southern cheeseburger quesadilla. The blended flavors and textures are unique. The combination of that savory 22

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

from-scratch barbecue sauce and subtle mellowness of swiss cheese meld with the burger and are somehow enhanced by the grilled tortilla. Don’t ask me how. Maybe it’s because there’s no bread to get in the way, I don’t know, but the result is a distinctive sandwich experience, and it is delicious. Not surprisingly, The Grapevine owner, Kenneth Vines, said the pocket burger didn’t come from a measured and deliberate effort to create something new. Nope, it was the result of “playing around” with different components in the kitchen. Like so many other culinary delights, this “made from scratch” recipe is the result of pure serendipity. I say Kenneth needs to play around in the kitchen as often as possible. l

JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

COUNTERTOP CREATIONS

ABOUT...the River Valley

MAPLE BACON CINNAMON ROLLS For crispier bacon, par-bake the bacon for 1 to 2 minutes before tucking it into the cinnamon rolls. 1 tube store-bought cinnamon rolls, such as Pillsbury Grands! 10 slices of bacon 2 T unsalted butter 1/4 c pure maple syrup 1 c powdered sugar

Bacon… MMMM Story by LYDIA ZIMMERMAN, Food Editor

nce only a breakfast standard, bacon is now served for lunch, dinner and desserts. Known for its cholesterol enhancing qualities, here are some other facts about bacon that most people may not know: ~ 70% of bacon in the U.S is eaten at breakfast time. ~ Bacon bits sold at the supermarkets are actually vegetarian. ~ More than 2 billion pounds of bacon is produced in the U.S each year. ~ Bacon is one of the oldest processed meats in history. ~ Bacon contains Vitamin B12, Vitamin B1, Zinc and Selenium. ~ The earliest reference of bacon was in 1560. ~ Choline, a micronutrient found in pork products likes bacon, could actually boost the intelligence of an unborn child. In celebration of all those bacon-loving fathers, I have researched and gathered some delicious recipes that kids, with mom’s help, can prepare to honor their father on the day that we show them how much we care. Happy Father’s Day to all those wonderful dads out there! 24

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease an eight-inch round casserole dish. Gently separate the dough into five rolls. Unravel the rolls and lay two strips of bacon onto the cinnamon sugar side of each piece of dough. Roll the dough back up with the bacon tucked inside. Evenly arrange the cinnamon rolls inside the casserole dish. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Meanwhile, whisk together the melted butter, syrup, and powdered sugar until smooth. Drizzle over the baked cinnamon rolls and serve warm. Recipe courtesy of popsugar.com SMOKED BACON WRAPPED ONION RINGS WITH SRIRACHA SAUCE 1 pack Bacon 4-5 Sweet Onions 2 T Black Pepper 1/2 c Sriracha Hot Sauce 2 T Mayo 1 tsp Lime Juice Cut onions into 1/2 inch thick rings and pop the internal rings out until you have a nice sturdy onion ring. Brush onion with hot sauce. Wrap each onion ring with bacon and secure with a skewer or toothpick. Heavily cover the onion rings with pepper and smoke, grill or bake for about 90 minutes at 250-350 degrees. To make the spicy sriracha mayo, combine 2 T of mayo, 1 T of sriracha sauce, and 1 tsp of lime juice. Mix well. Recipe courtesy of grilling24X7.com

PANCAKE LASAGNA 3 c buttermilk 1/2 c milk 12 eggs, divided 1/3 c butter, melted, plus more for greasing the pans 3 1/2 c all-purpose flour, divided 4 T granulated sugar 3 tsp baking powder 1 1/2 tsp baking soda Kosher salt 30 strips smoked bacon 30 links breakfast sausage 1/2 bunch fresh sage, chopped 2 1/2 c heavy whipping cream 4 c maple syrup, plus more for serving 2 lbs sharp cheddar cheese, grated For the pancakes: Mix together the buttermilk, milk, three eggs, and melted butter in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together three cups flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and a large pinch of salt. Slowly whisk the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until incorporated. In a large buttered skillet, ladle one cup of batter at a time. Brown each side, flipping when browned and beginning to bubble. Remove the pancake, and repeat until all of the batter is cooked. Square off the edges of each pancake. For the bacon: Preheat oven to 375°F. Fit a cooling rack into a half-sheet pan. Arrange the bacon on top of the cooling rack and bake until crispy, 15 to 20 minutes. Reserve one-half cup of the rendered bacon fat.

For the sausage: Line a half-sheet pan with sausage links, and bake in the oven until cooked through. Roughly chop the sausage, and add it to a food processor with the sage. Pulse until finely chopped. For the eggs: In a large bowl, whisk nine eggs with a large punch of salt until smooth, and cook in a large buttered skillet, stirring frequently, over medium heat until fluffy and cooked through. Transfer to a blender, add one-half cup cream, and purée until smooth. For the maple béchamel: And the reserved bacon fat to a large sauce pot set over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in flour. Cook for three to four minutes, whisking frequently to get rid of the raw flour flavor. Add two cups cream, the maple syrup, and a large pinch of salt, and cook over low heat, stirring until thickened and

the consistency of gravy. To assemble the lasagna: Butter a casserole dish, and completely line the bottom with a single layer of pancakes. Lightly spread the béchamel over the pancakes until covered. Arrange the chopped sausage on top of the pancakes, spreading evenly. Spoon one-half of the egg mixture over the sausage, and spread until evenly distributed. Add another layer of the béchamel, and then add a layer of shredded cheese. Add another layer of pancakes, then béchamel, then bacon strips, béchamel again, then the rest of the eggs, and finish with a liberal covering of cheese. Bake in a 375°F oven until the cheese has melted on top and begun to get crispy. Let cool, then slice into portions. Reheat each portion before serving, and serve with maple syrup. Recipe courtesy of popsugar.com

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COSMO CRISTOS 1 Thomas’® Plain Bagel 4 strips bacon ¼ apple, sliced into ¼ in slices 2 slices white Cheddar cheese Buttermilk Batter 1 T melted butter 2 T Rosemary Maple Syrup Buttermilk Batter: 1 c buttermilk 4 lg eggs ¼ c honey 1 T vanilla Rosemary Maple Syrup: 1 c pure maple syrup 4 rosemary sprigs Buttermilk Batter Combine all ingredients in a small mixing bowl. Whisk until all incorporate. Refrigerate until ready to use. Rosemary Maple Syrup Combine all ingredients in a small sauce pan. Heat over medium heat for 5-6 minutes or until rosemary is fragrant. Reserve. To Assemble Cook bacon in 350° F oven on parchmentlined cookie sheet for 8-10 minutes until desired crispness. Reserve. Cut Thomas’® Plain Bagel in half. With

inside of bagel facing outward (sliced center), layer white cheddar (one slice), apple slices, bacon strips and remaining slice of cheddar onto bottom bagel half. Top with remaining half of Thomas’® Plain Bagel. Dip sandwich into buttermilk batter, being sure to let both sides of bagel soak up batter. Heat butter in non-stick skillet. Sauté each side of sandwich approximately 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Place into 350° F oven for 7-8 minutes, or until cheese is melted and sandwich is hot all the way through. Drizzle with rosemary maple syrup, and sprinkle with powdered sugar. Recipe courtesy of thomasbreads.com MAPLE-CANDIED BACON 1 lb good quality bacon, sliced 2T pure maple syrup (not pancake syrup) ¼ c brown sugar 2 tsp Dijon mustard ½ tsp Kosher salt ¼ tsp cayenne pepper Preheat your oven to 350 F. Wrap a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and top with a wire rack. In a large bowl, add the maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix well. Add the bacon to the bowl and toss gently with your hands. Make sure that all of the

slices are evenly coated* See note below. Place the bacon in a single layer onto the wire rack. Bake in the center of the oven for about 20 minutes. The bacon will be a bit brown, but will most likely need to bake for another 10-15 minutes. It should look slightly dark (not burnt) and crispy. If you take it out too soon, the texture will be chewy. Be patient! Remove from the oven and cool for 5 minutes on the rack. Don’t let them sit too long or else they will stick. Once cool enough to handle, you can break the bacon into chards (you’ll have about 32 pieces). Alternatively, you can leave them whole. Serve at room temperature. Recipe courtesy of theclevercarrot.com

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TRIPLE BACON MEATBALLS ½l b peppered bacon ½ lb maple bacon 1 lb ground pork 4 oz canadian bacon ½ c green onions, loosely packed ½ c red onions, loosely packed 1½ T chopped garlic ¼ c bbq sauce 1 tsp salt ½ tsp ground black pepper Cut bacon into 1” chunks and process in food processor until resembles ground meat. Mix all ingredients together, preferably with hands to ensure complete mixing. Roll into 1.5” balls and either grill or bake. If using grill rack, grill for about 13 minutes or until turning golden-brown. If baking, place on baking sheet and bake at 375 for 15 minutes or until turning goldenbrown. Recipe courtesy of hungryharps.com BBQ CHICKEN AND SMOKED GOUDA MACARONI AND CHEESE WITH BACON 16 oz box dried pasta 3 T butter 3 T flour 2 c half and half 2 c shredded smoked Gouda cheese 1 c shredded cheddar cheese 1/2 c grated Parmesan cheese FOR THE CHICKEN LAYER: 2 cooked chicken breasts; shredded 1 c BBQ sauce FOR THE TOPPING: 6 slices crispy cooked bacon 4 oz cheddar cheese cut into small cubes 4 oz cheddar cheese shredded Prepare dried pasta according to package directions. In a medium sauce pan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour until a paste forms. Whisk in half and half and bring up to a boil. Once boiling reduce heat to low and whisk in Gouda, 1 c of cheddar and 1/2 c of Parmesan cheeses. Once everything has melted and is smooth remove from heat and toss with pasta. Mix in cheddar cubes. Pour into a large

casserole dish. In a mix bowl toss chicken with BBQ sauce. Spread over the top of the macaroni and cheese. Top with remaining shredded cheese and crumbled bacon. Bake at 350 for 20 minute or until the sides are bubbly. Recipe courtesy of bakeaholicmama.com

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BEEF RAVIOLI WITH BACON BUTTER SAUCE 5 oz thickly sliced bacon, chopped into 1 inch pieces 4 T unsalted butter 1 T of fresh sage, finely chopped 17 oz of Beef Ravioli (can be found in frozen food section) Kosher Salt Pepper, preferably freshly ground Olive Oil 2 T Shaved or grated Parmesan 1 T Parsley Add 6 quarts of water, about 2 Tbs. of salt, and 2 Tbs. of olive oil to a pot. Bring the pot of water to a boil. While the water is heating up, sauté the bacon in a medium-size pan over medium heat. Tip: This recipe works best if the bacon is not crispy! Add the butter to the pan and let it melt until it begins to foam. Add the sage leaves to the pan and lower the heat to the lowest setting. Tip: use low heat when cooking with butter because it cooks quickly and can burn. When the pot of water is boiling, lower the heat until the water is just simmering. Tip: Unlike other pastas, ravioli should never be cooked in boiling water. Add the beef ravioli to the simmering water and cook for five minutes. Tip: The ravioli is ready when it begins to float and the pasta has turned a light beige color. It is best to try it to see if it is ready. Drain the ravioli and add them to the pan with the bacon and butter sauce. Coat the ravioli with the sauce and sprinkle with some salt and pepper, to taste. Add 1 tablespoon of parmesan. Serve the ravioli and top each plate with the left over parmesan and parsley. This can be modified to taste. Recipe courtesy of nu.spoonuniversity. com >>

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JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

RACHAEL’S SWISS AND BACON DIP 8 slices center cut bacon, chopped 8 oz softened cream cheese 1/2 c mayonnaise 2 rounded tsp prepared Dijon style mustard 1 1/2 c shredded Swiss cheese, available on dairy aisle 3 scallions, chopped 1/2 c smoked almonds, coarsely chopped Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Brown bacon in nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Drain crisp bacon bits on paper towels. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon, Swiss and scallions with cooked bacon. Transfer to a shallow small casserole or baking dish and bake until golden and bubbly at edges, 15 to 18 minutes. Top with chopped smoked almonds. Place dip on a platter and surround warm casserole with breads and carrots for dipping. Variation: Swiss and Bacon Dip with Horseradish - Stir in 2 rounded teaspoons prepared horseradish when combining cheese and bacon. Recipe courtesy of Rachael Ray/ foodnetwork.com BACON AND CREAM CHEESE STUFFED MUSHROOMS 8 oz bacon 1/2 c finely minced sweet onion 1 clove garlic, minced 16 oz white button mushrooms 4 oz cream cheese 1/4 c grated parmesan cheese salt and pepper

Preheat oven to 350F degrees. Using scissors or a sharp knife, cut raw bacon into small pieces. In a large saute pan, over medium heat, cook bacon until nice and crispy. While bacon is cooking, remove mushroom stems from caps and chop stems into small pieces. When bacon is done, remove from pan and set aside; reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon grease and pour the rest from pan. Saute onion until soft about 5 minutes, scraping up any brown bits on bottom of pan. Add chopped mushrooms stems and garlic and cook a few minutes longer. Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese and parmesan cheese and stir until cheeses are melted. Add reserved chopped bacon and season to taste with salt and pepper. (Mixture can be made, cooled, and stored, covered, in the fridge for up to two days.) Remove mixture from heat and stuff each mushroom cap generously with mixture. Bake at 350F for about 20 minutes or until mushrooms are soft and filling is nice and hot. Recipes courtesy of mountainmamacooks. com BACON BOURBON BREAD PUDDING 6 strips Bacon, diced 1 KING’S HAWAIIAN Original Hawaiian Sweet Dinner Rolls 12 pack 1 c Heavy whipping cream 1 c Milk 4 Eggs 1/2 c Granulated sugar 2 T Bourbon 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract 1/2 tsp Kosher salt 1/4 tsp Ground nutmeg

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Heat a non-stick skillet over mediumhigh heat. Cook bacon until crispy. Transfer to a kitchen plate lined with paper towels. Set aside. Into a large bowl add: cream, milk, eggs, sugar, bourbon, vanilla, salt and nutmeg. Whisk to combine Add bacon. Stir to combine. Grease a 1.8 liter ovenproof casserole dish. Place King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls into casserole dish. Pour liquid mixture over rolls making sure rolls are evenly coated. Set aside for 5 minutes. Bake for approximately 40 to 45 minutes OR until set. Serve warm. Refrigerate any uneaten portion. Recipe courtesy of kingshawaiian.com PULL APART BACON FRENCH TOAST MUFFINS 5 c of bread cut into 2cm/1” cubes (fresh or stale - see notes 1 and 2) 3 rashers bacon, diced Oil spray Egg Mixture 3 eggs

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

1¼ c milk (low or full fat) 1 tsp sugar 2 pinches salt To Serve Maple syrup (optional) Combine the Egg Mixture ingredients in a bowl and whisk with a fork until combined. Add bread cubes and mix well to each piece of bread is well coated with the Egg Mixture. If using fresh bread, set aside for 10 to 30 minutes in the fridge. If using stale bread, set aside for 20 minutes to overnight. If you’re in a rush, use your hands to gently squeeze the cubes to help them absorb the egg mixture faster. Preheat oven to 180C/350F. Spray a medium fry pan with oil spray and heat on high heat. Add the bacon and cook until just starting to brown. Don’t cook until it is very brown because otherwise it will overcook in the oven. Remove bacon from fry pan and drain on absorbent paper. Spray 6 holes in a muffin tin. Mix the bread-egg mixture to evenly disperse the egg mixture that will have settled at the bottom of the bowl. Divide 1/3 of the bread-egg mixture between the 6 muffin cups. Sprinkle with half the bacon, then press the mixture down with medium pressure using the back of a spoon. Top with the remaining bread mixture. Use your fingers to lightly compress them. Each muffin should be slightly mounded even after lightly compressing them. The bread cubes on top will puff back up when

you bake it. Sprinkle with remaining bacon. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the top is golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before removing from the muffin tin. Serve with maple syrup, if using. Recipes courtesy of recipetineats.com BREAKFAST OMELET CHEESY GARLIC BREAD 1 loaf of Italian bread ½ c unsalted butter, melted 1 to 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 6 lg eggs, beaten 2 T whole milk salt pepper ¾ c sliced white mushrooms 1/3 c chopped ham ½ c chopped green bell pepper ¾ c chopped tomato (I used Roma) ¼ c chopped green onions 4 slices bacon, fried or baked, broken into large pieces 1 c shredded mozzarella cheese ½ c shredded cheddar cheese Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Cook bacon in the oven or fry it up in a pan.(I always cook bacon in the oven. Simply place bacon on a rack lined baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until nice and crispy.) Set on a paper towel to drain the grease. Set aside. Cut the bread lengthwise and place both parts face up on the sheet. Brush both pieces with melted butter. Sprinkle with garlic powder.

Cover with a piece of aluminum foil and place in the oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. In the meantime, melt 1 T of butter in a pan. Add mushrooms and ham. Cook until mushrooms are soft and hams is slightly browned. Transfer onto a plate. Set aside. To the same pan, add more butter and melt. Add eggs and green pepper. At the end, when the eggs are almost completely set, add the milk and gently stir up. It prevents the eggs from drying out. Season with salt and pepper. Uncover bread. Top with eggs, spreading them evenly. Top with half of the mozzarella cheese. Add mushrooms and ham, spreading evenly. Top with bacon. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and cheddar cheese. Place bread back in the oven for 2 to 4 more minutes, to melt the cheese. Remove from the oven and place on a cutting board. Let cool for few minutes. Top with fresh, chopped tomatoes and chopped green onions. Slice and serve. Recipe courtesy of crunchycreamysweet. com

JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

Creating an Artful Life

In a sense, as we are creative beings, our lives become our work of art.” - JULIA CAMERON

In a comfortable country home between Dardanelle and Centerville and surrounded by twenty acres of the prettiest woods and pasture land, there is an artist of national renown who churns vignettes of everyday life into art. This is the home of Brenda Morgan: wife, mother, neighbor, and recently named 2015 Beaux Arts Visual Artist of the Year.

Morgan exudes a gentle warmth and quiet determination that is laced with Midwestern sensibilities and rooted in rural landscapes, which she adroitly captures on miniature canvas.

Story by JEANNIE STONE Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN

The youngest of five children, Morgan was raised in Oklahoma City, but for a short time, the family lived on a remote farm. It is those pastoral scenes, most often inhabited by animals and particularly horses, that have catapulted Morgan’s artwork into meticulously curated exhibitions in high-end venues stretching across the country from Washington State to Pennsylvania and North Carolina. The patience she exhibits in faithfully rendering the details of her beloved world, one brush stroke at a time, is the hallmark of Morgan’s gentle persona, but it wasn’t always so, she said recently, at least not toward people. That was until Matthew. Two days after Matthew was born, his parents were told that he had Down Syndrome. “We were informed of all the things he wouldn’t be able to do,” Morgan said, “but Sam and I set out to see just what he could do,” That is when, according to Morgan, she felt compelled to slow down. “I thought I had patience toward my artwork, and I really didn’t,” she said, “but being Matthew’s mom has improved my patience all the way around.” >> JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

Morgan is accustomed to hard work: sweating at a chicken plant, drafting maps for an oil company, tending a farm, keeping a home. Before she allowed herself to paint full time in 2008, Morgan sketched during lunch breaks and painted in the evenings. Matthew played at her feet. Now 35, he attends Bost, Inc. in Dardanelle and trains for Special Olympics track and field events. Patience and a steady hand have guided Morgan into the world of miniature painting where 25 square inches is the customary canvas requirement. Her detailed equine oil paintings have earned her a strong following among Western art collectors. The competitions she enters are 32

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

highly selective, the judging intense, and Morgan’s paintings are closely scrutinized; hence, there is a large magnifying glass stand and a bright light beside her easel. To replicate the look of individual strands of hair, blades of grass, and prominent veins requires the smallest of brushes, some with only one or two bristles. It is attention to detail that elevates her art to masterpiece status. Even when Morgan paints still lifes, each thread of a crocheted doily is articulated. A roomful of awards and a ledger of strong sales attest to the quality and popularity of Morgan’s work. Because most of her diminutive paintings sell before the shows open to the public, Morgan cannot simultaneously submit her

artwork into more than one competition. She believes part of her success lies in the fact that miniatures are more affordable and are, therefore, treated as collectibles or as gift items. Another benefit to the small size is that a miniature painting lends itself to the decor of even the most extravagantly furnished home. There always seems to be room for scaled-down items. “I used to wonder why people were so attracted to miniatures,” Morgan said. But she has caught the bug and started collecting other artists’ miniature works. Gallery sales are not her only revenue. Word gets around between horse people, and Morgan is considered one of the premier equine portrait artists in the region. Many

“Although Brenda is selftaught, a better description might be that she is gifted from youth to convey the gentleness and beauty in all she paints.”

of the friendships she has forged have been owners who have sought her talent to paint their prize stallions, colts, fillies, or mares. Horse owners are sentimental about their horses, and Morgan’s skill at capturing a horse’s personality and unique markings have engendered gratitude and loyalty from her clients. And so the commissions keep pouring in. Morgan not only developed her own art style without the benefit of formal training, but she has also attained a reputation as a first-class artist with her usual aplomb. Among the professional organizations that she is a member of are Oil Painters of America (OPA), International Guild of Realism, (IGOR), National Oil and Acrylic

Painters’ Society (NOAPS), Miniature Painters, Sculptors and Gravers Society (MPSGS), and Miniature Art Society of Florida (MASF). The miniatures have become her signature genre, but they require almost as much time as larger canvases. Morgan’s painting studio is situated in her expansive yard, and she spends countless hours bent over her work. The photographs she has amassed in her travels to visit horse farms,

horse races, and horse lovers are displayed on a large monitor next to her easel. Her own landscape of pasture, woods, and loving home are framed in the studio windows. Soft and soothing music plays in the background. Her favorite song The Prayer, sung by Andrea Bocelli and Katharine McPhee, loops often. Visitors whisper here. “I used to work as fast as I could,” Morgan said, “but now I am the slowest painter.” >> JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

In the past year, however, Morgan has spiced up her routine. At least once a week, while Matthew and Sam are involved in their own pursuits, she joins the women painters in Lori’s Loft behind Gallery 307 in downtown Russellville. The vibe is noticeably different from her home studio. Jazz, blues, and vintage rock and roll serenade them; chatter, cocktails,

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

and laughter abound. Loads of laughter. She also has a built in audience as her girlfriends cluster around the newest horse painting to “ooh” and “ah.” Each vein and each hair on the horse come to life. A wine glass in her hand, gallery owner Rita Goodman exclaimed, “God, those horses! She takes that powder puff brush that she uses and creates magic.

Those horses just pop off that canvas. It is complete realism.” The other artists nod in agreement. Goodman introduced Morgan at the Beaux Arts Academy Induction Dinner and is quick with praise for the artist whom she also represents. Referring to Morgan’s lack of formal education, Goodman said, “Although Brenda is self-taught, a better description might be that she is gifted from youth to convey the gentleness and beauty in all she paints. I would compare her talent to those who play musical instruments by ear. No amount of teaching or training can improve on the gift that God has given: the gift to transform life forms to canvas for others to feel and enjoy, and the gift of unconditional love to those we nurture on a daily basis and those we encounter on life’s journey. Brenda’s passion and love for her family, friends, and for her art inspire us all to live each day in a more loving and compassionate way.” Brenda has been welcomed into the fold. Fellow painter Bonnie Haines agrees

with Goodman and added, “Brenda is one of the kindest women I have ever met.” Artist Debbie Weibler said, “Brenda is an amazing artist and humble of her skill, and her detail is unbelievable.” The admiration is mutual. Morgan considers the group as close as sisters. “I do find that I need a little respite from time to time, and painting with these wonderfully talented ladies fits the bill,” she said. “When Rita asked me to come paint with everyone I was hesitant. I'd always painted in the solitude of my studio and didn't know if I could paint with all the distractions and conversation, but luckily, I was wrong! I've found that I can talk and laugh and paint all at the same time!” Morgan considers herself blessed. “I am surrounded by Matthew’s joy and

happiness, my husband’s love, and my crazy painting friends. There is no other way for me to feel,” she said. Indeed, Pope and Yell counties share in that good fortune, for it would be hard to imagine our

community without Brenda Morgan. To see Brenda Morgan’s artwork, visit www.brendamorganart.com or visit Gallery 307 at 307 W. C St. in downtown Russellville. l

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COMMUNITY PAGES

Seven Arkansas Tech graduates commissioned as officers

Seven graduates of the Arkansas Tech University U.S. Army ROTC program were commissioned as second lieutenants during a ceremony at the Doc Bryan Student Services Center Lecture Hall on Saturday, May 7. The commissioning ceremony preceded Arkansas Tech spring 2016 graduation across the street at Tucker Coliseum. All seven commissioned officers also earned their degrees from Arkansas Tech on Saturday. Congressman Steve Womack served as speaker at the commissioning ceremony. A 1979 graduate of Arkansas Tech and 2014 inductee into the Arkansas Tech Hall of 36

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

ABOUT...the River Valley

Distinction, Womack is a product of the U.S. Army ROTC program at Arkansas Tech. Womack retired from the Arkansas National Guard at the rank of Colonel in 2009. As he spoke to the commissioning officers on Saturday, Womack shared three main points: that they are embarking upon a challenging yet rewarding experience, that deployments are the norm in today’s military and that they will build lifelong friendships through their service to country. “I offer my congratulations to this commissioning class on completing a challenging and rigorous curriculum while simultaneously completing another, and that is completing your undergraduate degree,” said Womack. “I’ve been where you are, and I’m proud of you. Thirtyseven years ago my father pinned my gold bars on me and I became the first second generation ROTC graduate of Arkansas Tech University. It is a special moment for me to return here today.”

Bryant Calito of Russellville will join the Arkansas National Guard as an engineer officer. He earned a Bachelor of Professional Studies degree in interdisciplinary studies and an Associate of Science degree in criminal justice. Caleb Land of Springdale will be an engineer officer in the U.S. Army Reserve. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in recreation and parks administration. Thomas Payne of Springfield, Mo., is commissioning into the Missouri National Guard as an engineer officer. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering degree. Zach Plumlee of Little Rock will be an aviation officer in the Arkansas National Guard. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in emergency management. Robert Risinger of Clarksville will serve as an engineer officer in the U.S. Army Reserve. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history.

John Turney of Salem is commissioning into the Arkansas National Guard as an infantry officer. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in emergency management. Kristen Vick of Greenwood will be a signal officer in the U.S. Army Reserve. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in graphic design.

CAPTURE THE SPIRIT - DOVER OLD GYM MEMORIAL SERVICE

The Dover Old Gym Memorial Committee will host a memorial service for the old gym scheduled for June 4 at 7 p.m. The event will take place at the old gym and the building will be open from10 a.m. - 6:30 p.m and a candlelit procession to the high school gym will commence at 7:30 p.m. This will be a Capture The Spirit event as well as a memorial service for the old gym. The building will be open so the community may take one last look around and record their memories. Memories will be collected in a memory box and carried to the high school gym. Demolition of the old gym is scheduled for June 6.

CASA HOLDING INTERVIEWS FOR COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS

CASA of the 5th Judicial District is holding interviews for Court Appointed Special Advocates in Pope County with training to start July 12th. The mission of CASA of the 5th Judicial District is to provide abused, neglected and dependent children who are in foster care a voice in the court process in order for these children

Old Dover Gymnasium

to find a safe, permanent home as quickly as possible. Our mission is accomplished through community volunteers who are trained to advocate for the best interests of each child. CASA will hold a training night for 21 and up who are interested in being an advocate for abused or neglected children in foster care in Pope County. Advocates train for 30 hours plus 6 hours court observation. Training nights are Tuesday and Thursdays from 6pm – 9pm at the Pope County Courthouse and will run for five weeks. If you are interested in CASA and what we do, please call to schedule an interview at 479-880-1195 or email casa5cw@suddenlinkmail.com or find us on Facebook at CASA5th. CASA is a United Way partner agency.

TYSON FOODS AWARDS UACCM $200,000 GRANT FOR GIVE MEANING CAMPAIGN

The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton is excited to announce the receipt of a $200,000 grant from Tyson Foods Corporation’s Ways We Care

corporate giving program. This generous support of the campaign gives them a naming opportunity for the workforce training and conference space in the future Workforce Training Center. The Tyson processing plant in Dardanelle, AR is an industry partner with UACCM, and several of the technical programs align with their workforce needs. Currently, six of their employees serve on technical advisory committees for the college. These programs include industrial mechanics and maintenance and commercial refrigeration. In addition, they serve on a focus group for a potential diesel mechanics program, as Tyson maintains their own fleet of trucks. “As an Arkansas company, it’s important for us to invest in the people of our state,” said Annetta Tirey, director of corporate social responsibility for Tyson Foods. “This training center will not only help close the skills gap for many already in the workforce, but also provides new opportunities for those seeking careers in high-demand job fields.” >>

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According to Tyson Foods’ website, they provide charitable investments in their communities through a strategic grant process. The majority of these donations focus on specific target areas within the following categories: hunger relief, health and nutrition, education, community development, and environmental and sustainable agriculture. In education, the Ways We Care corporate giving grant focuses on areas that are important to their business, their industry, their communities and the students who may be future team members. Of the donation, UACCM Chancellor Dr. Larry Davis said, “Our partnership with Tyson Foods has been a mutually beneficial endeavor. Almost 25 percent of Tyson’s maintenance staff is set to retire over the next year. This partnership is a great opportunity for UACCM to help fill that gap with students who have been trained, with Tyson’s help, to exceed industry standards. Their donation to the Give Meaning campaign, as well as their industry partnership, helps to ensure we are able to continue to offer the most comprehensive technical training available in Arkansas.” The estimated 53,000 square-feet Workforce Training Center at UACCM will house many of the college’s existing technical programs including automotive service technology; welding; industrial mechanics and maintenance technology; and heating, air conditioning and refrigeration technology. In addition to technical programs, an open space for workforce training will be included in the facility for use in recruiting new industry to the area, as well as assisting current industry with workforce development needs.

Thanks Dads!

We know you want the best for your children, and so do we.

Neylon S. Pilkington, M.D. | Robin Kirby, M.D.

www.rpa.clinic • 479.498.0858 220 N. Sidney, Russellville

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

Tracie White, Nathan George and Ronda Hawkins, of the ASBTDC

For more information about the “Give Meaning” campaign, including ways to support the fundraising efforts, visit www.uaccm.edu/GiveToUACCM, or contact UACCM Development Officer Morgan Zimmerman at 501-977-2085 or zimmerman@uaccm.edu.

ASBTDC AT ARKANSAS TECH WINS REGIONAL AWARD

The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center regional office located at Arkansas Tech University in Russellville received a 2016 Small Business Development Center Excellence and Innovation Center Award from the U.S. Small Business Administration during a luncheon at Embassy Suites in Little Rock on Tuesday, May 3. The award recognized the center at Arkansas Tech as No. 1 in a five-state region that includes Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Texas. According to the U.S. Small Business

Administration, the honor is designated for high achieving small business development centers “for their excellence in providing value to small businesses and advancing program delivery and management through innovation.” Nominated entities are judged upon their ability to meet or exceed performance milestones, develop innovative techniques in promoting small businesses and serve as an advocate for the small business community. >> Nathan George serves as director of the ASBTDC regional office at Arkansas Tech. Ronda Hawkins is the office’s training specialist and business consultant, while Tracie White fulfills the duties of administrative assistant. The ASBTDC regional office at Arkansas Tech serves a nine-county region — Conway, Crawford, Franklin, Johnson, Logan, Pope, Scott, Sebastian and Yell. The office is located on the fourth floor of Rothwell Hall at 106 West O Street in Russellville. Among the services offered at ASBTDC

Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce Sunset Cinema

regional offices are consulting, training and market research. Arkansas Tech has been home to a regional office of the ASBTDC since 2010. For more information about the services offered by the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center regional office at Arkansas Tech, call (479) 356-2067 or visit www.atu.edu/asbtdc.

RUSSELLVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES SUNSET CINEMA 2016 SEASON

Season Kicks off June 3 with “Inside Out” The Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce announces the 2016 season of Sunset Cinema at Lake Dardanelle State Park Visitors’ Center beginning Friday, June 3 with the Disney film “Inside Out.” The season continues June 17 with Disney’s 2015 live action version of “Cinderella.” Sponsor activities, including games and snacks, begin each night at 7 p.m. and the movie begins shortly after sundown. In case of inclement weather, the events will be rescheduled for their respective rain dates: “Inside Out” —

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June 10 and “Cinderella” – June 24. Sunset Cinema is open to the public, free for kids 12 and under, and $1 for adults. RACC is also introducing Sunset Cinema: Downtown Date Night on October 14th at the new Depot Park. The details for Downtown Date Night will be released at a later date. “We always look forward to hosting this great community event each summer, and we’re especially excited to present something different with Downtown Date Night, which will be this fall in a great new location,” said Stephanie Beerman,

Millyn’s

executive vice president of RACC. “Each movie offers a great opportunity to spend time with loved ones and we couldn’t continue to host Sunset Cinema without the help and support of our sponsors.” Sponsors for the 2016 Sunset Cinema Season are Tyson Foods - Tyler Road, Saint Mary’s Regional Health System, Russellville Tourism & Visitors’ Center, Waste Management, Sherwood Urgent Care, Arvest Bank, Advanced Collision Solutions, Kids’ Stuff Preschool & Childcare, Suddenlink, Drs. Johnston & Richardson, Save The Children, Happy Jumpers, and Lee’s Trash Service. The Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce stands as a voluntary organization of businesses and professional men and women who have joined together for the purpose of promoting the civic, economic, professional, cultural, and industrial progress of our community. For directions or more information about Sunset Cinema and other RACC programs call 479-968-2530 or visit www. russellvillechamber.org.

Your Store for Tabletop

Millyn's adds yet another new dish line...

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Come see the wonderful color -- we can monogram these dishes for you!

Millyn's offers: THE BEST SELECTION in dishes, glasses and flatware. THE BEST PRICE. All tableware is always on sale at Millyns. THE MOST CUSTOMER EXTRAS, FREE gift wrap, FREE delivery for registered brides, excellent record keeping. IMPECCABLE CUSTOMER SERVICE. At Millyn's we know what we are selling. At Millyn's you will find friendly and knowledgeable help.

Visit Millyn's new building at the old location on Front Street, Dardanelle. Call Millyn's for wedding gifts.

(479) 229-4144

Millyn’s www.millyns.com

JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

COMMUNITY COMMERCE

ABOUT...the River Valley

Lemley Funeral Service 1401 N. Church Street Atkins, AR (479) 641-2589

Lemley Funeral Service 2016 marks the 100th year that Lemley Funeral Service has helped the River Valley celebrate life. Founded on transparency, understanding and respect, Lemley Funeral Service continues to cater to the needs and wants of what fifth-generation funeral director, Chris Lemley, calls family. “We’re providing a service beyond the day of the funeral,” Chris said. “We’re here as part of the community.” Lemley Funeral Service was built upon the work of W.M. Lemley and Sons Mercantile, a hardware store that did business in what is now downtown Atkins. The store opened in 1904 and supplied the needs of the railroad community that emigrated away from the Arkansas River. It was there that house-made coffins were built. It was there that the first hearse began operating. The hearse also doubled as the only working ambulance in town. While downtown Atkins grew, the hardware store grew with it. That growth eventually brought change. In the 1970s, Medicaid put a stop to the ambulance/hearse and Carl Rackley, who has been a part of the Lemley Funeral Service 40

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

Story by Sierra Murphy

family for 54 years, bought the hardware portion of the store from Chris’ grandfather. In 1988 both Lemley Funeral Service and the renamed Rackely Furniture relocated to North Church Street, just a few streets over from their original storefront location. Now, amid pen and ink death records dating back to the early 1900s and sepia photos showing the original Lemley hardware store, Chris is working toward prolonging the legacy of his forefathers. “We’re still taking care of people the same way we always have,” Chris said. Lemley funeral service recognizes that while standards and expectations of funeral services have evolved over the last century, family traditions have not. Lemley provides cremation, embalming, chapel services and various hearse and burial wishes. “We want people to know we honor those traditions, but we can customize [services],” Chris said. Customizations include variations of hearses taking loved ones to burial sites or the burial process itself. All customizations can be worked out with Chris and his employees.

Lemley’s services don’t stop there, though. Other services not incorporated or specified in burial packages include legal advice on action after a loved one’s passing and help with counseling and grief therapy. These non-profit services are another way Lemley works to care for its community — a service, although happily done, is often not easy. “This job gets harder and harder every year because we bury more of our loved ones,” Chris said. “We aren’t just taking a call on a customer; these people are our friends, neighbors, teachers, coaches. We’re serving our community.” Chris and his staff plan to continue their service as one of the oldest, and friendliest, funeral service staff available to the state of Arkansas. Future endeavors include pre-planning options and continued highlighting of their staff, who combined have more than 100 years of professional experience in the funeral service world. Anyone seeking Chris or his staff are encouraged to visit Lemley Funeral Service’s Facebook page or call Lemley Funeral Service at 641-2589. l

(479) 967-5575 3115 E. Main St. Russellville, AR 72802

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BACKYARD LIVING

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Sowing seeds of a family legacy

Read more from Jill at www.journeywithjill.net

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

By Jill McSheehy

It was one of the last weekly lunches I remember sharing with my mom before her fight with cancer took a downward turn. Sitting together in the City Mall, I ate my egg roll salad and Mom nibbled at her chicken salad sandwich from Nothing Fancy. Conversation buzzed all around us but, as it was with all of our lunches, we sat enthralled in our conversation with one another. I told her my husband and I were considering adding pigs to our homestead. If you have a large garden and chickens, does that qualify as a homestead? Mom gave me a skeptical smile. "You know, my daddy raised pigs for a time." "He did? I thought he just farmed cotton?" "Yes, he did, but he had pigs, too. All I remember was the awful smell. I'm not sure how many years he did it." My grandfather died years before I was born so what I knew about his simple life as an eastern Arkansas cotton farmer was what Mom had told me. Until that moment, I had no idea he raised animals. As moms do, she let me rattle off our great ideas, of how we would have one pig butchered for our meat supply and sell the other to offset the feed costs. I'd compost the manure to fertilize the garden and be one step closer to a homesteader's dream of self-sufficiency. A few weeks later, on a lone drive through town, a thought occurred to me: I want to become a Master Gardener. I looked into the program through the Pope County Extension Office. It would require a few weeks of class work, an exam, and volunteer hours. The knowledge would be good for my own gardening

efforts, and I could also pass it on to the readers of the garden portion of my blog. I let myself dream a bit further. How ironic it would be if I became a Master Gardener. Me. Sure, I was the granddaughter of a farmer and the daughter of a prolific flower gardener. But I am also the one who wanted nothing to do with growing anything until four years ago, in my early 30s. Me. But I knew it was a dream for another time. My mom was getting sicker and my focus needed to be on her and my own family, not a pipe dream of getting a Master Gardener certification. But someday... Mom lost her battle with cancer just as the jonquils began to fade. Losing a parent tends to make one evaluate one's heritage to some degree. I find myself staking tomatoes the way my mom taught me, thinking of her and of my grandfather I never met. It took three decades to get here, but I am carrying on their legacy -- their love of the earth the Lord gave them to work. I'm finding beauty in the flowers and finding satisfaction in the food. While we didn't choose to have pigs this year, it isn't out of the question for the future. Sometimes I envision my mom and my grandfather trading stories up in Heaven, and perhaps God gives them a birds-eye view of me working the soil from time to time. I imagine Mom telling her daddy, "Look at that. Did you ever think you'd see her growing anything?" And then they'd laugh. Sometimes my own children eagerly help me in the garden, but most of the time they find their way to the swing set or trampoline. And I'm fine with that. Whether they carry on the legacy they see me living out is their decision to make, but my own late appearance in the gardening world gives me hope. We just never know, as parents, what our children and grandchildren will take from us. It may not take root until decades later. I may not even see it come to pass while I'm living. But like everything else in this life, what we sow will be reaped in one form or another. What my mom and my grandfather sowed, both in their love of the land and in their love of the Lord, is growing in me. And I believe they'd be proud. l

Thanks Dad.

Your guiding hand on my shoulder will remain with me forever.

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OUTDOORS

ABOUT...the River Valley

CWD and Politics As an avid deer hunter and enthusiast of all things wild here in The Natural State, the recent findings of CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) positive elk and deer near Ponca and now three other Arkansas counties including Pope concern me. I’ve Googled “CWD” more times than I care to count over the last few weeks. I’ve spoken with respected journalists who have covered the disease. And I have a fair grasp on current research and methods of slowing the spread of CWD. Despite the enormity of the threat, a measured and thoughtful reaction from deer hunters and wildlife lovers is the appropriate response to CWD. Neither panic nor apathy will do us, or the cervids (deer and elk), any good. While there is still much research to be done, we already know quite a bit about CWD. It’s a disease that is relatively rare in free-roaming herds. We also have a solid idea about how CWD is transmitted, and it’s the same vehicles by which most

Story and photo by Johnny Carrol Sain

diseases are transmitted. CWD is transmitted from diseased animals to healthy through direct animal to animal contact and/ or contamination of feed or water sources with saliva, urine, and/ or feces. Evidence shows that infected carcasses may serve as a source of infection as well. CWD seems more likely to occur in areas where deer or elk are crowded or where they congregate at man-made feed and water stations. Artificial feeding of deer and elk will likely compound the problem. CWD is caused by a prion. I’ll let the reader research what that means, but prions are different from other agents of disease. Prions can live in the soil for in indeterminable amount of time and CWD can find its way into healthy deer through vegetation sprouting around an area where a CWD-killed deer has decomposed. I’ve read claims that total herd annihilation from CWD is near impossible, but the truth is that no one really knows if it’s possible. Researchers in Wyoming have documented how CWD has in fact wiped out over half of a region’s mule deer herd in just 12 years. The disease destroys deer both directly, through disease fatalities, and indirectly through weakening the deer which makes them more susceptible to other dangers. Can this herd annihilation translate

Read more from Johnny at www.aviewfromthebackroads.com 44

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

“Despite the enormity of the threat, a measured and thoughtful reaction from deer hunters and wildlife lovers is the appropriate response to CWD. Neither panic nor apathy will do us, or the cervids (deer and elk), any good.”

over to state level? Probably not in our lifetimes, but looking into the future with CWD infected deer is hazy at best. But what is most alarming about CWD is the potential for politicizing the disease and the measures used to control it. It’s already happened in Arkansas with one well-known writer claiming that CWD is most likely a “political disease created by those who might benefit from it.” This is absurd. What the writer meant by “political disease” is a thinly veiled attempt to create confusion about CWD and the measures used to control it. Often, regulations put in place to stop the spread of CWD ruffle the feathers of groups profiting from commodification of deer and deer products. It’s a simple case of following the money and quite clear that those looking to make CWD a political issue are those for whom it is a financial issue. It is in their economic interest to downplay

the threat and attack measures that might control the disease if those measures threaten their economic livelihood. Arkansas has relatively few deer farms, but baiting deer on private land is widespread, and it’s likely that AGFC will be taking a hard look at the continuing legality of baiting deer at least in the counties affected by CWD. Feeding and baiting deer is big business in Arkansas. The best course of action for all of us that value the whitetail deer and deer hunting is to support measures by Arkansas Game and Fish Commission in their efforts — even if they don’t mesh with our layman ideas — to contain and hopefully eliminate CWD in The Natural State. The discussion about CWD should be built on available science, an overriding concern for the deer herds as a whole and what they mean to the people of Arkansas. Politics — whether explicit or implied — should always be left out of it. l

JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

On a Personal Note The ordinary becomes special Guest Written by Johnny Brazil

The tears I shed the first time I saw my baby girl, the heartwarming love I feel anytime I look at her, and how she makes me look at my world with a whole new perspective confirm all of the clichés.

“The feeling you get when you see your baby for the first time is indescribable.” “You never knew you could love something so much.” “You have no idea how much your world is going to change.” These are some of the clichés we’ve all heard a thousand times from parents. As much as I hate clichés, they’re all true. When my wife and I got married we did not want to have children. We wanted to spoil nieces and nephews and just be happily selfish. As time went on children became a more popular topic in our household. Eventually, eight years into marriage, we decided we wanted to have a child. Being a man while your wife is pregnant is a peculiar situation. You have an understanding of everything that is going on with your wife. You see how she’s changing and read about how the baby is changing. You know that a baby is going to be coming out of that belly. But you don’t have the same connection as your wife. This made it difficult for me to truly share the emotions my wife was experiencing. All that changed when I saw my child, and I instantly realized all of the clichés were true. An overwhelming flood of emotions hit me like water from a breaking dam. It was impossible to keep my composure. The immediate love I felt for someone that I had never really met was hard to comprehend yet made so much sense. The love for my little girl is unfathomable, yet, continues to grow every day. I did not know it was possible for me to love someone so much. I was also abruptly struck with the fact that I was responsible for this baby’s well being. This emotional rollercoaster took place in the first seconds of seeing my baby girl. The feelings I experienced seeing her for the first time were unlike any emotion I have ever encountered — love, joy, fear, courage, excitement, and confusion all weaved into a tennis racket that hits you in the face — and it was truly the best moment I have ever experienced. I used to think it was silly watching parents freak out over the smallest thing their baby did. Yet, almost every day, I’m excited because she

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016

looked at something and grabbed it or because she nearly held a bottle while she was drinking from it. I love this tiny person so much that her nearly accomplishing the simplest task is as if she made it to Everest basecamp. The cliché of “having no idea how much your world is going to change” is very true but it’s also my least favorite. Your world will change—a lot — but you can still be you and do the things you love. Seemingly simple tasks, errands, and chores now require more preparation and planning. Running to the store is no longer a matter of grabbing the keys and wallet, getting in the car and going. Now, it’s check the diaper bag for essentials, get the baby in the carrier (while sniffing around to make sure the diaper is fresh… enough), grab your keys and wallet, load the baby, drive to the store, get the baby and diaper bag out (if she fell asleep try to do it gently), get a buggy or lug the baby around the store, try to avoid strangers who seem to think it is totally ok to poke and grab all over your baby, get the baby and whatever you went to the store for loaded up, go home, unload the baby… and the store items… and diaper bag. Errand still accomplished just with a few extra steps. People expect the biggest change to be that having a baby makes everything more difficult, but what I’ve found is that having a baby can make the ordinary seem special. My favorite hobby is fly fishing. Instead of giving up on my hobby “because I have a baby,” I’ve found ways we can enjoy it together. When she was about a month old I put her in a carrier, strapped her to my chest, and went fly fishing. It was the first of many such trips. She wiggled and squirmed, looked around as much as she could, and eventually fell asleep. That trip became one of the best fishing trips I’ve ever taken. The tears I shed the first time I saw my baby girl, the heartwarming love I feel anytime I look at her, and how she makes me look at my world with a whole new perspective confirm all of the clichés. I was slightly annoyed with how right everyone was because I thought that I was an exception to the clichés about parenting. But, as they say, you won’t understand until you have a child of your own. Look for more interesting features and tidbits in "On a Personal Note" each month in future issues of ABOUT...the River Valley. You'll find short stories, interesting pieces and other great reads from people you know, or would like to know from around the River Valley.

ENGAGEMENTS

ABOUT...the River Valley

Save the Date!

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

June 4

June 25

Autumn Allison & Wyndham Wyeth

Morgan Austin & Tyler Balloun

Katie Crow & Brandon Goates

Catherine Brown & Tyler Clark

Alex Hughes & Michael Killingsworth Hannah Limbocker & Logan Taylor Shelby Statler & Lance Pierce

Lakyn George & Tyler Collins Beth Ann White & Chase Wetzel

Sydney Sulcer & Chris Welk

June 26

Lauren Ossolinski & Foster Pace

Allison Foster & Liz Chrisman

June 11

July 9

Emily Callaway & Alex Enderlin Summer Barton & Joshua Spaeth

Kaci Jackson & Luke Posey

Photo by Benita's Photography

October 1 Julia Lyon & Nick Killingsworth Jessica Ginsberg & Joseph Hunt

Meagan Guarino & Shane Robinson

July 16

Kaitlyn Icenhower & Matthew Johnston

Emily Storment & Nathan Cathcart

Mary Streett & Clyde Tuggle

Taylor Jordan & Derek Bunger

June 18

July 23

October 28

Kathryn Jade Gracie & Justin Roy

Paige Leavell & Brandon Sikes

Maegen Burris & Andrew Pollack

Jenna Spikes & Gabe Barnhart

November 19

Aaryn Gray & Rowdy Gates

October 15

Kaitlin Spry & Nick Hancock

Laura Byrum & Britt Sory

Atalie Knight & Eric Sessions

September 25

December 3

Laura Ridgeway & Niall Blasdel

Melissa Lomax & Cole Sikes

Alexis Sisson & Logan Stuckey

Katie Hall & John Hoyt

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

Kirt Mosley

GOOD DAY SUNSHINE PROMOTION

Interior Design

Winner of Best of the Best Three years in a row!

June 3rd - June 30th, simply try on a pair of Brighton sunglasses and register to win a trip for two to the Surf & Sand Resort in Laguna Beach, California! SEE STORE FOR DETAILS

City Mall • Russellville • (479)968-3001

33 Years Experience Design Work by-the-hour From a Single Room to Your Entire Home

For appointments or consultations contact:

(479) 890-1715

or email kirtm1101@hotmail.com JUNE 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

Saint Mary’s Cardiology & Vascular Services team (left to right): Drs. Shuja Rasool, Dai-Yuan Wang, Sastry Prayaga, and Ravishankar Kalaga.

FOUR BOARD-CERTIFIED CARDIOLOGISTS, TWO STATE-OF-THE-ART CATH LABS, ALL HERE FOR ONE HEART — YOURS. Time is muscle. If you or a loved one experience a heart attack, you must act fast. Experts agree the emergency treatment called angioplasty can be crucial to saving your life. And where you are taken when you have a heart attack matters, because the longer a person waits for this procedure, the more heart tissue dies. Thankfully, Saint Mary’s is just minutes away. Saint Mary’s is equipped with two premiere cardiac catheterization labs, ready for emergency angioplasty, should you need one. The treatment is one of many remarkable cardiovascular services performed every day by our exceptional team of board-certified interventional and invasive cardiology specialists. To schedule an appointment with one of our leading cardiologists, call:

479-968-4311 Caring for the heart of the River Valley.

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ JUNE 2016