ABOUT | June 2013 by ABOUT the River Valley Magazine

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8 Good and Grungy

The Sound of the Mountain is the name of the band. It’s an interesting name that came from a moving quote in the film The Bucket List, and it speaks to what the band is striving for.

8 14

about | our cover Photo by Steve Newby

The Sound of the Mountain is just your typical progressive, psychedelic, shoegaze, grunge, instrumental, award winning River Valley Band. They are young men with passion as well as a strong work ethic. And, add dauntless to that description. The band has fabricated a unique sound with a combination of talent and creativity that pushes boundaries; they are always looking for a rogue chord to harness. The Sound of the Mountain band members stand on the cusp of music making as a career.

4 ABOUT | June 2013

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Before there was a Lake Dardanelle, a nuclear power plant, or an interstate that joined towns across Arkansas, there was a small business supply store owned by H.D. Coffee. A young, determined soldier made a decision to purchase that store on Sept. 8, 1953. The young soldier was Troy Burris.

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A PAGE FROM

The Editor’s Notebook

ABOUT

the River Valley

Moving Forward

A Publication of Silver Platter Productions, Inc Vol. VIII, Issue 5 – June 2013 Owner/Publisher: Nolan Edwards

I don’t know where to start, so I’ll start with the obvious. Dianne Edwards can never be replaced. There will be no attempt at trying to do that, the shoes are too big and I have no illusions about growing into them. I can only forge ahead on the path she has cleared. ABOUT... the River Valley Magazine was the essence of Dianne. Looking through the pages it’s clear that her fingerprints are everywhere, just as her fingerprints can be found throughout our community. I imagine that those fingerprints will still be visible many years from now. But, we must go forward. I am honored to take the helm here at ABOUT. Though my career path has taken lots of twists and turns to get to this point, being an editor/writer is a dream come true. Stacks of magazines stole time away from stuff like algebra as I grew up. I’m sure that somewhere, in a dusty corner at Atkins High School, there are still copies of my Field & Stream magazines confiscated by Mrs. Wilson way back in 1985. Just a few years ago, I took a chance and called Dianne, requesting an opportunity to write for a real magazine. Her acceptance of that first article and encouragement along the way inspired me to pursue a career out of making words come together in a (mostly) coherent form. Her guidance helped me realize something else about myself: I loved writing. I like the way words come together to make the perfect phrase. I like the way syllables bounce around to make a passage seem almost poetic. I like writing about a lot of different subjects. I like hearing other folk’s stories, and helping to share those stories with readers. All of this was kindled by Dianne’s words, “I would love to publish your article, Johnny.” ABOUT is moving forward with our tagline, reflecting the character of the Arkansas River Valley, as our mission statement. This is the magazine ABOUT our community. It’s ABOUT our history, our culture, and our people. And you, the ABOUT reader, have a promise from all of the staff that this will remain our focus into the future.

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

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

Johnny Sain, Editor 479.857.6791 johnny@aboutrvmag.com

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Steve

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6 ABOUT | June 2013

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about | june 2013

ABOUT...Facing Giants Most River Valley residents know Troy Burris as the proprietor of Burris Inc., and most of us know Burris Inc. as Burris Office Supply. I’m still not sure if “office supply” was ever officially in the business name, but it caught on and to this day, calling it "Burris Office Supply" is a sure-fire way to distinguish yourself as a longtime local. Troy Burris would be an interesting guy even without his business. Troy grew up in Appleton, a “suburb” of Hector, meaning that Appleton kids are in the Hector school district. This wasn’t always the case, as Troy was quick to point out when I asked if he was related to that Burris bunch in Hector. “No,” said Troy. “I graduated from Hector in 1939, but I’m from Appleton, went to school there until the ninth grade.” My mom was an Appleton kid too, albeit about 30 years behind Troy, so I understand the distinction made between the two communities. Growing up on a farm in rural Pope County molded Troy, and this upbringing -- along with a fierce competitive streak -- is the reason for his business success. Troy is a scrapper. Hector High School offered only basketball back in the 1930’s, and that just wasn’t Troy’s game. Later, at Arkansas Tech, he was exposed to football, “I had never seen football before then,” remembers Troy. The pigskin held no appeal either, but then he saw some fellows in the gym with

gloves on. “One man against one man; I really liked that,” said Troy. And so, into the ring he went. Three-time National Amateur Boxing champion Ragon Kinney was Troy’s first coach at Tech. Ragon’s brother, Neal, took over the coach’s job when Ragon left. Troy excelled under Neal’s guidance and lettered in boxing for two years at Tech. They were drafted into the U.S. Army at the same time and Neal coached Troy for three more years. Stationed in the Aleutian Islands, Troy fought up and down the west coast as a light-heavyweight. But, Troy rarely fought in his weight class, preferring instead to tangle with the biggest fighters. He found a strategy that worked against those lumbering giants, and it’s a strategy that has parallels in Troy’s business career as well. “I always wanted to fight the heavyweights,” said Troy. “I was always quicker and faster. I’d just get in there, hit em two or three times and get out. They hardly ever laid a glove on me.” It’s a safe bet to think that a young and feisty scrapper from Appleton, Arkansas never envisioned a day when strategies used in the ring would carry over to holding your own in the business world. I’m sure that Troy’s college degree has given him an edge, but in a business world increasingly filled with corporate giants, there is no substitute for fight experience. –Johnny Sain

June 1: Benefit Breakfast for Carter Nucklols presented by Knights of Columbus 7:00 -11:00 a.m. at St. John Church Hall 1900 W. Main St. Russellville. Proceeds go to the family of Carter Nuckols, a four-year-old boy who is battling an inoperable malignant brain tumor. For info. call 964-0063 June 6: Summer I Grilling Series - Grilling Beef 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Williamson Hall Kitchen on the campus of ATU. Call 498-6035 for info. June 8: Sunset Lake Cruise, 7:00 PM Lake Dardanelle State Park; 967-5516 June11-13: Petit Jean Mountain 55th Annual Auto Show and Swap Meet. Free admission, classic and vintage vehicles from all over the region will be on display. Call the museum at (501) 727-5427 for info. or contact (501) 727-5441, petitjean@arkansas.com June 13: Sunset Cinema presents “The Lorax” 7:00 p.m.10:30 p.m. at Lake Dardanelle State Park. The cost is $1.00 for ages 12 and over, all others free. 968-2530 June 16-20: Colossal Coaster World VBS at Second Baptist Church Russellville. 5:45-8:45 p.m. June 25: Forget Me Nots Alzheimer’s Support Group, 6:30 p.m.- 8 p.m. at Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center Cafe 2. Call 498-2050 for info. July 4: Community Fireworks Display. Time: TBA. This is the community Fireworks display put on by the Russellville Recreation and Parks Department. If there is a burn ban, NO fireworks can be discharged. Call 968-1272 for info. July 7: Exhibit Opening Reception for Picture This Photography, 1 p.m.-3p.m. at the River Valley Arts Center. Call 968-2452 for info. July 25:16th Annual Peel & Eat Shrimp and Fried Catfish Dinner from 5p.m.-7 p.m. at the Hughes Community Center. Fundraiser for the Single Parent Scholarship Fund of Pope/Yell Counties. For info., call 857-7037 July 27: Sizzling Summer Steaks Culinary Workshop from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute on Petit Jean Mountain. Call (501) 727-5435 for info. July 27: International Bowhunters Safety Program at Lake Dardanelle State Park. For info. call (870) 540-6385. ABOUT the River Valley Magazine would like to offer a sincere apology for errors made in the May issue regarding the Mustangs on the Mountain car show on Petit Jean mountain. *Unless otherwise indicated, all area codes are 479 Visit www.aboutrvmag.com for a list of activities updated as they are received. To have your event included in the ABOUT Calendar of Events, email: editor@aboutrvmag.com or fax to (866) 757-3282. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication. June 2013 | ABOUT 7

Danie

matt

john

n a g o l

SOUND of the MOUNTAIN y g n u r G d n Good a The Sound of the Mountain is the name of the band. It’s an interesting name that came from the movie, The Bucket List. “But, you don’t have to put that in the article,” said guitarist Daniel Cox. I don’t have to, but I will. It is a moving quote from Morgan Freeman’s character in the film, and it speaks to what The Sound of the Mountain -- the band -- is striving for. I think. I ask Daniel more questions about the band’s sound as we wait for the other members to arrive here at Bugsy’s Wings and Things in Russellville. It’s a sound that surprised me when I first heard them on YouTube via their Facebook page. I’m still groping for a definition even after multiple listenings. “Bold and unpredictable?” I ask. “Atmospheric is a good way to describe it” said Daniel. Atmospheric is a puzzling word when it’s used to describe music. If you haven’t actually heard The Sound of the Mountain, then the word does nothing for forming an auditory picture. So, let’s see…They’re from the Arkansas River Valley. They’re an instrumental band --no vocals. They have the word “mountain” in the name. It’s got to be bluegrass, right? Maybe folk-music, but definitely some kind of country/acoustic/ down home strumming, right? Wrong. I pose the question to other band members as they arrive. “Words to describe us,” muses bassist John Pounder, “I’d say instrumental, psychedelic, progressive, and shoegaze.” Shoegaze is a subset of alternative rock. It’s called shoegaze because the musicians stand relatively still, heads down – like they’re looking at their shoes – and they’re also looking down at effects pedals for their guitars, of which Sound of the Mountain has quite the collection. I’m still scratching my head for a definition of their music when John nails it. “We’re good and grungy.” After seeing The Sound of the Mountain on stage, here’s my take: The band members don’t stand around looking at their shoes. Shoegaze might describe a component of the music, but not their antics on stage. Think power rock with massive doses of creativity and yes, grunge. Each song is a story, and the musical twists and turns will keep you guessing as to where it’s going next. But, like any good story, the uncertainties tie together and it all makes sense in the end. An Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase Judge came up with the best description when he said he wished this music could be the sound-track to the movie of his life. >>

Story by Johnny Sain Photos by Steve Newby & Johnny Sain

"Words to describe us...

instrumental, psychedelic, progressive, and shoegaze.

With a description like that, it’s no surprise that The Sound of the Mountain won the 2013 Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase. An all-genres, head-to-head, battle-of-the-bands competition with the only stipulations being that the band is from Arkansas and that they perform original music. John and Daniel, both 25, are part of a quartet that make-up this band with River Valley roots. John is from Ola. Daniel and drummer Matt White, both 25, are from Russellville. Guitarist Logan Shipley, 27, is from Atkins.

"We want people to our music"

FEEL

The band members have known each other for several years. John and Logan were first introduced at age twelve, but discussion with the guys about much of their history prior to the formation of The Sound of the Mountain four years ago gets hazy. Hazy isn’t a good word. It gets confusing. They all played in a band named Bear Flag Revolt, but not all at the same time. From there, the guys were in various other bands in various combinations. Bands with names like the Friendly Friends, a piano-pop group that Matt and Daniel played in. John and Logan played together in a band called Fashion Show, a hard rock band that, “was on the edge” according to John. The relationships formed through the River Valley music scene lead to the formation of Sound of the Mountain. “Basically, I called Daniel and wanted to start a band,” said Logan. “It was mostly because I’d heard him play before and I wanted to play in a band with him. It’s like, we have really different styles, but I thought we would sound really well together.” Matt joined up because of his experience with Daniel. “Those two were sharing some ideas and they asked me to come and practice with them,” said Matt. “So like, the three of us got together and kind of made the first song.” John joined up last. He claims it’s because they just needed somebody to hold down the bass line. “Well, John is hanging around, so he can do it,” said John. “That’s what they were thinking.” But, John brought more than a foundation to the music. John came in while he was still playing with Fashion Show and brought some big news with him as well. He had already booked their first gig.

“The day John come in he says like, ‘oh yeah, so Fashion Show has a show booked, so I went ahead and booked us as well. The show is like in two weeks’, said Daniel.” Bottom line, the band had practiced together for a total of nine days before the first show. Not long after that, Fashion Show fell apart and John found himself playing bass for only one band. Four years later and it appears that everyone was a good fit with similar artistic goals. Creativity is the fuel behind their music and the blend of genres and styles makes vocalists a position that the band has yet to fill. “Once we got going, we didn’t think that anyone we knew could do vocals as well as we want,” said Logan. “So, we thought, let’s just write songs that don’t need a vocalist. A lot of instrumental bands have a good sound, but like, after a few songs you kind of get bored. We simply write our songs so they stay interesting. Mood changes happen, and like, the songs get really big and then squeeze down the big parts. We have interesting grooves and almost jazzy parts. We try to write it so that you’re not missing anything by not having a vocalist.” As Logan talks about the inner workings of what makes The Sound of the Mountain stand out from other bands, it’s obvious that it starts and ends with innovation. “When we write a song, we want the music to sound natural. One of us on guitar will come up with some riffs, and then we build the structure around those riffs.” Whatever the method, the results are a melodic journey that is big, dramatic, and emotional. It’s a modern version of classical, minus the kitsch that often muddies the music of those bands trying to cover classical greats. And, there lies the difference. The Sound of the Mountain is not, and has not ever been a cover band. Everything they perform is written, tried, and melded original work. It’s an extension of their personalities.

Family-Owned and Operated Burris Inc. has offered our customers the best in office furniture and supplies for over 60 years. Come see us for all of your office needs.

www.burrisinc.com • 113 S Arkansas Ave, Russellville, AR 72801 • (479) 968-4888 10 ABOUT | June 2013

“We want people to feel our music,” said Logan. Mission accomplished. That Arkansas Times Musician’s Showcase win provided the notoriety needed to catapult the band into high demand. Winning the competition secures the stage at some high-profile venues around Arkansas including Riverfest, Valley of the Vapors, Arkansas Sounds, and The Arkansas State Fair. It also means that the band is in high demand at the hundreds of clubs and stages around the state. More venues not only means more exposure, it means exposure over a broad area. The band has played in most corners of Arkansas including Little Rock, Hot Springs, north Arkansas, and Monticello. True to their River Valley Roots, the band is booked at Creekfest on the Big Piney Creek north of Dover for Memorial Day weekend.

find us

Not surprisingly, long-term plans for Sound of the Mountain include making more music. “We want to get to the point that we can make the same amount of money playing, that we do at our jobs,” said Matt. “And we don’t need to make a million dollars doing this,” added Logan. “Just playing like we are and making a living is fine.” The band is close, which is to be expected from musicians that depend so heavily on each other. Everything has to be tight and everyone must be accountable, because the chain is only as strong as the weakest link. Matt and John lay down a bass and percussion foundation that must be precise. Logan’s lead guitar is a burst of colorful notes that weave themselves within the framework of that foundation. And Daniel is the glue; filling the gaps with chords that hold it all together. When it does all come together, it is not hard to

Information for show/tour dates and a sample of music from The Sound of the Mountain can be found on their Facebook page and

www.thesoundofthemountain.bandcamp.com/

“Since that win, we’ve been booked pretty solid,” said Daniel. “We’ve had to turn down some places.” A regional tour is also in the works starting on July 5 with stops in New Orleans, Richmond, Lexington, and St Louis already slated and others to follow. The band has no manager. All dates, tours, and marketing is done by the band members, and they all have jobs besides making music. Vacation days are used for tour dates and morning shifts often start only a few hours after a show. It sounds exhausting, but after a couple hours of conversation, it’s clear that the music is a passion.

see that the connections between them go beyond the music. Or, maybe the music is the connection; four young men drawn together by a pursuit of perfect harmony. Here is that quote that spawned the band’s name: “He experienced this profound silence; it was like all sound just fell away. And that’s when he heard it; the sound of the mountain.” It’s more enlightened than what you would expected from a bunch of bearded and sometimes barefoot musicians, but after spending some time with the guys, I’m not surprised by the depth. These musicians are a reflection of their music: complex, unpredictable, yet euphonic. Artistic souls disguised as a grunge band. n

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www.nebo2.com June 2013 | ABOUT 11

a cleaning fairy will come in “ Maybe... while I sleep and see that I have left

“

about | family

everything she needs within easy reach.

I Need "Professional" Help!

A candidate for merry maids, apparently, I am not. Now, if you were to walk around my house at this moment you would think that there were all kinds of cleaning activities in the works. And granted, I do like to keep my house neat and tidy. Some have even said that I have a compulsive tendency to clean, but lately, things have been-a-changin’. So, it is now time for a little self-analysis. Oh don’t fret, this won’t hurt much. I never think too deeply about these matters; usually just enough to amuse myself. Take a look at the pictures accompanying this story. Those are actual pictures from my home that I took just minutes ago. Looks as if someone is planning some serious cleaning, right? It is all an illusion. You see, those cleaning tools have been in those exact locations for almost three weeks. Oh, I meant to use them the day I put them out, but other things kept getting in the way. And by other things I mean any and all things… such as watching my fingernails grow. I just can’t seem to get my cleaning groove on. You would think that I would put the cleaning products away, but no, I leave them out so they can taunt me every day. Well, let me just be honest here. They did taunt me the first week, but by the second week I began to see them as interesting addition to my home décor. If these poor items wanted to get my attention these days they would have to do a song and dance number. Maybe I’m hoping the cleaning will happen by osmosis. Or, better yet, a cleaning fairy will come in while I sleep and see that I have left everything she needs within easy reach. Yeah, I wouldn’t bet on that. Ok, enough with the nonsense. Here is the reason --or at least what I am telling myself is the reason -- I procrastinate so much when it comes to cleaning. I have two border collies. No, they don’t hang out in my shower or lay on top of my wood furniture, but they create so much dog hair that they have beaten me down. The shedding is monumental! Every week there is enough hair on the wood floors of my home to cover another dog. Yes, I am exaggerating, but only just a little. It is disgusting! Vacuuming is a regular, mandatory chore, or it should be. But, because it is a never ending battle, and I truly have had too many irons in the fire, vacuuming has been at the bottom of my to-do list. For example, while I am writing this, I am also baking 88 peanut butter cookies for a wedding shower tonight, and I am doing laundry so I can go to Springdale for the weekend. All the while the vacuum sits just behind me, patiently waiting its turn. 12 ABOUT | June 2013

Story by Kechia Bentley

I set that vacuum in the foyer a couple of weeks ago with the idea that when I had a spare moment I might actually use it. But, as I mentioned earlier, I have become very adept at doing everything but cleaning during my spare moments. The day came and went with no vacuuming. I decided to leave the vacuum out in the hope of getting to it tomorrow. Well, tomorrow came and went. Still no vacuuming. This process went on for several days until one night my husband got up in the middle of the night and thought he might have forgotten to lock the front door when we went to bed. As he went to check -- yes, by now I am sure you have guessed -- he tripped over the vacuum. The next morning he asked me what the deal was with the vacuum. I feebly tried to explain my intentions to vacuum and promised I would get it done that day as to remove the safety hazards from our home. But, later that day, as I went to plug in the vacuum, it occurred to me that the dogs would be going to the groomers in three days. They would be getting their summer haircuts, which meant they would be shaved. No hair. It just seemed reasonable to wait three more days to vacuum, right? Yes, it is true that by this point there was enough dog hair scattered around my house to make a whole litter of puppies. But, what could three more days hurt? Grooming day came, along with a myriad of other things begging for my time, and not one minute of vacuuming was done. At this point, I was beginning to think I might need professional help. By professional help I mean mental health, but you know, a professional cleaning service would take care of some of my issues. It has now been a few more days, and no real cleaning has been performed. But, I have met my story deadline and I do have 88 peanut butter cookies ready to go. This little cleaning dilemma is really not that hard to solve. As a matter of fact, I am absolutely positive every woman reading this right now knows how to solve it. The answer is company. Yes, that’s right. We all know that if I had company coming over I would be on that vacuum like white on rice and no one would ever know I had dogs in my house. Well, that would be true if I hadn’t already told you about the “dog hair puppies” growing under my couch. Hey, you wanna come see them? They are really cute. n

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June 2013 | ABOUT 13

Burris Means Business IN THE RIVER VALLEY Story by Angie Self | Photos by Steve newby

efore there was a Lake Dardanelle, a nuclear power plant, or an interstate that joined towns across Arkansas, there was a small business supply store owned by H.D. Coffee. The store sat at the corner of Highway 64 and Highway 7; the crossroads of Russellville. A young, determined soldier made a decision to purchase that store on Sept. 8, 1953. The young soldier was Troy Burris. And, 60 years later, customers, can still chat with Troy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; age 91 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; at the business now located just across the street from the original.

14 ABOUT | June 2013

Troy and a partner purchased the store, but within a year, Burris and Rigdon became Burris Inc. when Troy’s partner decided to move back to his home state of Kansas. Troy, a Pope County native, added repair and maintenance to the business and sold just about anything and everything needed to keep a typewriter or adding machine operational. Troy took to the roads in order to build his clientele, visiting businesses from Morrilton to Fort Smith as well as north to Harrison. He often left machines with the business owners to try out for a while, in order to make an informed purchase.

"I was an honest salesman. If you are dishonest, it is going to catch up with you." “I remember taking some adding machines over to the manager of a hatchery on West Main Street,” recalls Troy. “I had a full key machine and a 10-key adding machine. I demonstrated the 10-key and left it with him for several days to see how he liked it. When I was on my way back, I was trying to think of a way to get him to buy one of the machines. I thought to myself that if I asked him which machine he was going to take, then I wouldn’t be giving him a chance to say no. So, that’s what I did. He asked the prices, and settled on the 10-key machine. Anytime I would talk to a potential customer about a machine, I would refer to it as ‘their’ machine. This also helped me in the selling process.” Building trust was also a key to success. One day, Troy stopped at a grocery store outside of Morrilton to demonstrate a cash register. During the demonstration, Troy bought a soda from the store. “I intended to pay for it before I left, but didn’t. I got down the road about 10 or 12 miles before I realized it. Cokes cost about 10 cents back then. I knew on my way home, I wasn’t coming that way and it would be about a week before I could pay him back. So, I just turned around at the next wide spot in the road and went

back and asked him how much I owed him for the Coke. He said, ‘Oh, it was just a Coke.’ I said, no, those add up. So, I gained his confidence, and by word of mouth, I gained the confidence of the community that I was an honest salesman. If you are dishonest, it is going to catch up with you.” Troy also trusted his customers. He offered lease/purchase agreements on machines that many small business owners could not afford to pay for with cash. One of the adding machines with paper tape cost $500, but with his lease-to-own program, customers could pay only $7.50 to $10.50 per month. This allowed Troy to sell hundreds of machines across the River Valley, and it helped many owners get their businesses up and running. >>

June 2013 | ABOUT 15

“I started out leasing the Hugin cash register at $10 a month,” said Troy. “The National brand cash register representative wasn’t allowed to lease his for less than $30 a month. Although this was the best brand cash register, the representative told me that he just couldn’t beat my lease agreement and would usually just move on when I was selling in a particular area.”

Troy and his siblings learned about hard work growing up on their parent’s dairy farm. He and his brother also joined the Arkansas National Guard to help pay their tuition while attending college at Arkansas Tech University. But, with only a semester left to graduate, Troy’s unit mobilized to the Aleutian Islands in Alaska. “When I was stationed there, most guys spent their free time gambling,” recalled Troy. “I decided to spend my time working to finish my degree. Arkansas Tech didn’t have any correspondence classes, but I found out that the University of Arkansas did. I took 30 hours from U of A in 11 months. So, when I got back, I had enough hours for a two-year degree.” After being activated again during the Korean Conflict and serving overseas, Troy furthered his education at Fayetteville, earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in business/marketing. His education helped him operate Burris Inc. through decades of change in technology. Today, nearly weightless digital and pocket calculators have replaced bulky 10-pound adding machines. Computers and printers have replaced the typewriter. "I never would have envisioned that the office business and machines we sell would have changed so much in my life time," said

Troy. "I worked hard to stay one jump ahead of the changes in technology. If not, I would have been forced to close like some of the other businesses over the years." Diversity has allowed Burris Inc. to stay ahead of the game in the business world. During the early years, John's Recording Studio was located in one of the adjacent buildings. So, Burris Inc. sold music records at the store. The store used to be the only place in town where you could purchase art supplies as well. Office furniture has also been a major part of the business since the days when Burris Inc. used the lease/purchase program. "A new business owner could come in to our store and purchase everything he needed to get set up in a business from furniture and machines to file-folders and paperclips," said Troy. Today, phone orders are still taken, but customers can order from an on-line website of nearly 40,000 products as well. The company prides itself on free local delivery said Troylynn McSpadden, Troy’s daughter and Burris Inc. employee since her high school days. "A local banker can get on-line and log in what he needs for five different locations," said Troylynn. "If it is placed by 1 p.m., we can deliver that same day."

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Troylynn’s husband, Roy McSpadden, joined Burris Inc. in 1980, and does much of the delivery work. He said he follows the influence of his father-in-law to be handson with the customers. Troy’s grandson, Ed McSpadden, joined the business in 2004. He continues the traditions that made Burris Inc. a River Valley success. “My grandfather's philosophy has always been, if we can sell it, then we will carry it,” said Ed. The flood of 1981 was a turning point in the decision to relocate the business from the original downtown West Main Street building. "When I looked out and saw a boat going by in front of my store, I decided it was time to do something different," recalls Troy. The current site at the corner of East Second Street and South Arkansas Avenue provides more parking space for customers, a larger warehouse, and higher ground. Burris Inc. donated the original store site to Main Street Russellville for a park; a lasting memorial to some dear friends who lost their lives in a Little Rock plane crash. "I don't know anything I could have done over the years that has benefitted me more than donating that land for the park," said Troy. "It has meant a great deal to me." Troy has served on several governing boards and has always been eager to give back to his community. He was named Russellville Citizen of the Year in 1988 and served as chairman of the Arkansas Ethics Committee. Troy was president of the Russellville Chamber of Commerce when the decision to build Arkansas Nuclear One was made. "All that was out there where the power plant is today was corn fields," said Troy. "The Chamber and other city leaders drove

a big flatbed tractor/trailer into the middle of those fields to stand on and have a big welcoming ceremony to the company representatives who would be constructing the power plant. Most of those leaders are now gone, except me and Bill Newsom (past editor of The Courier)." A handshake is a promise to “Mr. B” recalls Troylynn. "It has been wonderful working with my father. He is such a sweet man. I'm not going to say it's always been easy opening and closing the business each day and having the responsibility. Things have changed so much since Dad started the business." One of the hardest workers of the family business was Margie Burris, Troy's wife, who passed away earlier this year. "She wasn't physically at the store 8 to 5 like we were, but worked harder than anybody

on making our presence known in the community," said Troylynn. "Mom loved the Chamber functions and going to social events. It sometimes wasn't on our radar to go to a banquet or a Business-After-Hours of the Chamber after a full day of work, but she was always there." Burris Inc. will continue to modify its business to keep up with the changing world and providing products that customers need. "I remember us buying a skid of copy paper and it lasting about six weeks," said Troylynn. "Now, we go through about six skids in a week and probably make less than we did on the one skid in the past. They say we will eventually go to a paperless society, but I don't see that happening soon. I am so thankful that we've had this business and been able to keep it going." n

June 2013 | ABOUT 17

about | community River Valley Team Wins Outback in the Ozarks Relay

The Ozark Wild Hogs, a River Valley running team sponsored by Cargill Pork and Hogan Trucking, won the Outback in the Ozarks Relay. The event was a 12-man, 200-mile, two-days, and one night relay starting in Eureka Springs and stretching through the mountains ending in Prairie Grove. The team finished the race first in their division and first place overall. Team members in photo from left to right: Brad Vines, Cambre Thrasher, Tony Weldon, Bryon Murders, Randy Krueger, Thad Hinkle; captain, Joe Wolfe; co-captain, Todd Mathews, Eric Pieper, Cody Lawlis, Will Berry, and Jarrod Toland

RIVER VALLEY ALZHEIMER’S WALK

The River Valley Alzheimer’s Walk is Saturday, August 24, 2013. It will be held at the L.V. Williamson Boys & Girls Club located at 600 East 16th Street in Russellville. The morning will include activities for all ages. There are no fees to participate; however, commemorative T-shirts are available with a donation of $25.00 or more while supplies last. Registration begins at 9 a.m. the day of the event. The public is invited and to attend. Proceeds from the River Valley Walk support Arkansas family caregivers and help fund educational programs and services available at Alzheimer’s Arkansas where ALL FAMILY SERVICES ARE PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE. Alzheimer’s Arkansas services include: toll-free 24-hour telephone support, patient and caregiver support groups, financial assistance grants,

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family and community education, in-service training for professional caregivers and The File of Life Program. Walk Teams are forming now and sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information on the River Valley Alzheimer’s Arkansas Walk, contact Tara Dollar at 479-264-4247 or Tammy Smith, Development Director at Alzheimer’s Arkansas at 501-224-0021 / 800-690-6090. You can also visit Alzheimer’s Arkansas website at www.alzark.or

16TH ANNUAL CATFISH DINNER FUNDRAISER ON JULY 25

The 2013 Pope-Yell County Single Parent Scholarship Fund fundraising event will feature great food catered by Fish House that includes all-you-can-eat fried catfish, peel-and-eat shrimp, fries, hush puppies, chicken strips, coleslaw, baked beans, pickles, onions, green tomatoes, and sundae bar for dessert. The event will be held at the Russellville Hughes Community Center, 1000 E. Parkway, from 5p.m.-7p.m. “This year’s event will be unlike any that we have ever attempted before,” said

Executive Director, Sabra Bartlett. “It is an opportunity for the community to come and enjoy a spectacular catfish dinner, dessert, live auction, and chance to win an extraordinary door prize!” The door prize will be drawn for at the end of the evening; need not be present to win. The all-you-can-eat event is the main fundraiser for the scholarship fund, which has given 660 scholarships worth over $398,000 to low-income single parents going to college in the 21 years of its existence. Ticket prices are $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 7 to 10. Children under 6 are free with paid adult. The organization is seeking corporate sponsors for the event in exchange for free advertising and free tickets. All proceeds of the event benefit the Pope-Yell County Single Parent Scholarship Fund—a 501(c) (3) non-profit affiliate of Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund and a River Valley United Way partner organization. The Pope-Yell County Single Parent Scholarship Fund was founded in 1992. It is dedicated to enabling low-income single parents gain self-sufficiency through post-

secondary education, which improves their income earning potential, and brings them and their children out of poverty. To apply for a scholarship, to get involved, or to learn about scholarship eligibility requirements and deadlines for each semester, go to http://pycspsf.org. For more information contact Lisa Cochran at (479) 857-7037 or email pycspsf@gmail.com.

CREATION OF MUSEUM NEEDS COMMUNITY SUPPORT

A committed group of Russellville veterans and friends are busy laying the groundwork for a Museum of Military History. They call their vision “History on Display.” Their aim is to honor the personal sacrifices, hardships, and glories of the men and women from the Arkansas River Valley who have served in the American Armed Forces. Operating from an office donated by local businessman Ken Campbell, volunteers bustle around the collection of military memorabilia already donated in anticipation of the museum’s opening. Where that museum will be is still a mystery, says director Lee Fields. “We are currently looking for someone to donate a 10,000 square foot building with ample parking for the cause.” Preserving American military history on a worldwide scale is at the core of Fields’ mission. The most important project, according to Fields, is the Wall of Honor consisting of plaques commemorating the 17 wars of engagement, from the Revolutionary War to the War on Terror. Additional military memorabilia, such as photographs, maps, charts or books are needed. Donors have the choice of donating outright or lending.

“It doesn’t matter what condition stuff is in,” said Fields. “We’re into preservation of documents and photographs. We can take a letter someone wrote during World War II, restore it, blow it up, and make a full display out of it. It’s amazing what some people have in their possession.” Volunteer work is needed as well according to Fields. “We are looking for a person with a library or museum background to volunteer to become our first curator,” said Fields. “It would be a great opportunity for a recent college graduate to gain some experience.” The museum is in need of community support and volunteers in order to become a reality. The organization has also announced a contest to design a monument for the museum. The deadline for submissions is June 30. The next general membership meeting is planned for 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 25 at 1212 W. 2nd Street in Russellville, between Kroger and Hardee’s on West Main. For more information on volunteering, donating, lending, designing the monument or the position of curator, please call (479) 970-8028, or email to leefields@centurytel. net , in_that_case@yahoo.com or visit www. museumofmilitaryhistoryrsvlarkansas.com. All donations will be tax deductible within the limits prescribed by law. A grant from the Russellville Chamber of Commerce is funding the Museum of Military History’s application for nonprofit status.

$6000. The money raised will fund all food purchases for Neighbor’s Table free Saturday lunches over the next 12 months. Over 150 people were in attendance. The Neighbor’s Table is a free community lunch offered every Saturday at the All Saint’s Episcopal Church in Russellville. Church partners in the program include All Saints’ Episcopal Church, First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ, Central Presbyterian Church, and New Prospect Baptist Church. The partner churches have planned a POSITIVE TURNOUT FOR repeat fundraiser next year on May 2, 2014. NEIGHBOR’S TABLE FUND RAISER For more information about the An art show and silent auction held on Neighbor’s Table program go to May 3, by the church partners of the allsaintsrussellville.net or contact Carolyn Neighbor’s Table program, raised over McLellan at (479) 968-6286. n

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about | food

“Summer’s a comin” Story by Lydia Zimmerman, Food Editor

ummer’s a comin’, the school year is ending, and it seems like just yesterday that I was purchasing school supplies to send them off to school. How time flies! My fondest memories of summer break as a child were family get-togethers. These gettogethers consisted of my parent’s “herd” -- which would be a good term to use, as there are eight of us children, and my parents were ranchers -- meeting together and grilling out. We always had plenty of great eats and good times. One special treat that was often enjoyed was homemade ice cream. It was made by the sweat of our brow, taking turns cranking the maker by hand. We would all take our turn manning the ice cream maker to ensure that we would get a bowl when it was done. I know most of you are probably thinking, “How old is this woman?” I assure you that we did have electricity and indoor plumbing when I was growing up. My parents just preferred making ice cream as they had always done. In this issue, I have put together some yummy recipes to throw on the grill along with some cool side dishes so mom does not have to heat up the kitchen to cook. Also included is my older sis’s homemade ice cream recipe that is to die for! Note: this would be something awesome to make for dads on Father’s Day with the kids help. As always, hope you enjoy!

FANTASTIC CHICKEN BURGERS

Original recipe makes 4 burgers 1 lb. ground chicken 1/2 (1 oz.) package guacamole seasoning mix 1/2 c. chopped fresh cilantro, divided 1/2 lime, juiced 1/4 c. minced onion 8 slices ciabatta bread 1/4 c. prepared salsa, divided 4 slices Cheddar cheese Preheat an outdoor grill for medium heat, and lightly oil the grate In a bowl, mix the ground chicken, guacamole seasoning, half the cilantro, lime juice, and minced onion until thoroughly combined. Form the chicken mixture into 4 patties. Reserve the other half of the cilantro for garnish. Grill the chicken burgers on the preheated grill until the meat is no longer pink inside, the juices run clear, and the burgers show browned grill marks, 5 to 8 minutes per side. About 2 minutes before burgers are done, place slices of ciabatta bread onto the grill to toast, about 1 minute per side. About 1 minute before the burgers are done, top each burger with a slice of Cheddar cheese, and let melt. Serve chicken burgers on the toasted ciabatta bread, topped with about 1 tablespoon of salsa and about 1 tablespoon of the reserved chopped cilantro. Courtesy of Allrecipes.com

CRABMEAT PASTA SALAD

1/2 c. mayonnaise 1/4 c. Italian Dressing 2 T. Parmesan cheese 1 bag (8 oz.) corkscrew noodles, cooked and drained 1/2 c. chopped tomatoes 1 c.broccoli florets,partially cooked 1/2 c. chopped green bell peppers 1/4 c. sliced green onion 1 1/2 c.chopped crab meat Combine dressings and Parmesan cheese in large bowl. mix well. Add remaining ingredients and toss together. Chill before serving.

20 ABOUT | June 2013

SANTA FE STYLED GRILLED PIZZA

1 package McCormick® Grill Mates® Baja Citrus Marinade 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast halves 1med. onion, cut crosswise into 1/2-in thick slices 1 lb. fresh pizza dough or frozen dough, thawed or 1 prepared thin pizza crust (12-inch) 1 T olive oil 2 c. shredded Monterey jack cheese, divided 1 T chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

grilled chicken, onions and remaining cheese. Close lid. Grill 3 to 4 minutes longer or until cheese is melted and crust is browned. (Check pizza often to avoid burning. Rotate pizza, if necessary.) Slide pizza onto baking sheet. Sprinkle with cilantro, if desired. Slice and serve immediately. Courtesy of mccormick.com

Mommy and Me Recipes

GRILLED CHICKEN CORDON “BLUE”

4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, thawed and split on one side 16 oz. deli thin sliced ham 8 oz. crumbled blue cheese Prepare Marinade Mix as directed 1 can Rotel (mild, medium or hot your preference) drained on package. Place chicken in large resealable plastic bag or glass dish. 1 chopped medium green onion Add 1/2 of the marinade; turn to coat 1/4 c.chopped cilantro well. Reserve remaining marinade for brushing. Refrigerate chicken 15 Spray four pieces of aluminum foil minutes or longer for extra flavor. with olive oil (pieces of foil large enough Remove chicken from marinade. Discard to accommodate individual chicken breasts). Place one chicken breast on remaining marinade. Grill chicken over medium heat 5 to 7 each piece of foil. minutes per side or until cooked through. Lay flat 3-4 pieces of deli ham, staked Grill onion slices 2 to 4 minutes per on one another. Sprinkle 1-2 T of crumbled side or until tender-crisp. Brush chicken Blue Cheese in ham slices and roll them up. and onions with reserved marinade. Cut Stuff into chicken breast. Do this for each chicken into bite-size cubes. Separate chicken breast. Combine Rotel, onion and cilantro and onions into rings. Stretch or roll dough on floured baking spoon desired amount of mixture over sheet to a 12- to 14-in round, about 1/4- chicken. in thick. Brush top of dough with oil. Seal up in foil and set on ready grill for Place oiled-side down on the grill. Close approximately 30-40 minutes. lid. Grill over medium heat 1 to 2 minutes Note: For a different spin on this recipe or until grill marks appear on the bottom you can stuff chicken with fresh spinach of the crust. Carefully flip crust over and pepper jack cheese instead of ham and blue cheese. using tongs or spatula. >> Layer crust with 1/2 of the cheese,

HOMEMADE VANILLA ICE CREAM

1 carton of Heavy Whipping Cream 1 can Sweetened condensed milk 6 eggs 1 c. sugar 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla milk (Little helper w/ mommy’s help) Crack eggs into bowl and beat well with wire wisk. Add whipping cream, sweetened condensed milk, sugar and vanilla, beat together. (Little helper) Pour mixture into your clean ice cream freezer canister. Pour milk to fill line in the freezer canister. Proceed to make ice cream as directed. Dad will love it! Courtesy of Kathy Bewley (my older sis)

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onions 2 to 3 minutes per side or until slightly charred. Grill tortillas 1 minute per side or until warmed. 4. Slice steak into thin slices. Slice onions into thin strips. Serve steak and onions in tortillas. Top with Salsa. Courtesy of mccormick.com

CHICKEN CONFETTI SLAW

ANCHO ADOBO TACOS DE BISTEC WITH GRILLED CORN AND TOMATILLO SALSA Step 1: 3 ears fresh corn 3 fresh tomatillos, papery skin removed, rinsed well and diced (about 1 c) 1/4 c. chopped fresh cilantro 1 green onion, chopped (about 2 T) 1 radish, halved and thinly sliced (about 2 T) 2 T diced red onion 3 T fresh lime juice 2 T olive oil 1 T McCormick® Gourmet Collection Diced Jalapeño Peppers 1/4 tsp. salt

Step 2: 6 cloves garlic 1/4 c.fresh cilantro leaves 6 T fresh lime juice 2 T water 1 T McCormick® Gourmet Collection Ancho Chile Pepper 1 1/2 tsp. salt 1 tsp.McCormick® Paprika 1 tsp. McCormick® Red Pepper, Crushed

1/2 tsp. McCormick® Black Pepper, Coarse Ground 1/2 tsp. McCormick® Cumin, Ground 1 1/2 lb. boneless beef sirloin steak 3 boiler onions, halved 12 corn tortillas (5 1/2-in)

2 c. shredded green cabbage 1 c. shredded red cabbage 1 1/2 c. chopped cooked chicken or turkey 1 (8 oz.) can sliced water chestnuts,drained 1 (6 oz.) package frozen snow peas or pea pods, thawed and drained 1/4 c. julienne-cut carrots 1/4 c. sliced green onions 1 c. mayonnaise or salad dressing of choice 1 (5 oz.) can chow mein noodles or lettuce leaves

In large bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. Add dressing gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate for an hour. Serve slaw on a bed of chow mein noodles or 1. For the Salsa, remove husks and spoon each serving of slaw onto a lettuce silk strands from corn. Soak in water for leaf. 15 minutes. Grill corn over medium-high heat 10 minutes or until tender and lightly GRILLED TALAPIA WITH SUMMER charred, turning occasionally. Cut kernels VEGETABLES off cobs (about 2 c). Mix corn, tomatillos, 4 Talapia steaks,thawed cilantro, green onion, radish, red onion, lime 1c. Fresh chopped zucchini juice, oil, jalapeño peppers and salt in large 1c. chopped yellow squash bowl until well blended. Cover. Refrigerate 1 c.chopped onion at least 15 minutes to blend flavors. 2 T Real butter(optional) 2. For the Steak, place all ingredients Lemon Juice (optional) except steak in food processor. Cover. Dash of Garlic salt (optional) Process until smooth. Reserve 2 T and place steak in glass dish. Add remaining adobo; Spray four pieces of aluminum foil with turn to coat well. Cover. Refrigerate 15 olive oil (pieces of foil large enough to minutes or longer for extra flavor. Remove accommodate individual steaks). Place steak from adobo. Discard any remaining each steak on an individual piece of foil adobo. and spoon desired amount of vegetables 3. Grill steak over medium-high heat 3 to 4 on each steak. You may add the optional minutes per side or until desired doneness, ingredients listed to top each steak brushing with reserved 2 T adobo. Grill before wrapping them up. Place the foil

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22 ABOUT | June 2013

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packages on the ready grill for approximately 30 minutes Courtesy of Amy Manson (my little sis)

ROSEMARY-DIJON GRILLED STEAK SALAD

1/2 c.dry red wine 2 T Dijon mustard 1 T olive oil 2 tsp.chopped fresh rosemary 1 1/2 lb. flank steak 1/4 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 6 c. baby spinach leaves Dijon-Rosemary Dressing (recipe to follow) Crumbled blue cheese grilled baguette slices Combine first 5 ingredients in a large, heavy-duty zip-top plastic bag. Add steak and seal bag, turning to coat. Refrigerate 6 hours or overnight. Preheat grill to high (450° to 600°). Remove steak from marinade, discarding marinade. Pat steak dry with paper towels, and sprinkle

with salt and pepper. Grill, on greased grill rack, 6 minutes on each side (for medium-rare) or to desired degree of doneness. Let stand 5 minutes before cutting into thin slices. Toss spinach with 1/4 cup Dijon-Rosemary Dressing, and divide among 4 salad plates. Place steak slices on plates, and top with crumbled blue cheese. Serve with grilled baguette slices and remaining dressing. Dijon-Rosemary Dressing 2 T mayonnaise 2 T sour cream 1 T Dijon mustard 1 T cold water 2 tsp.white wine vinegar 1/2 tsp. sugar 1/4 tsp. salt 1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 1/4 c.olive oil 1/2 tsp. minced fresh rosemary Combine first 8 ingredients in a bowl; slowly whisk in olive oil. Stir in rosemary. Courtesy of Coastal Living Magazine n

Mommy and Me Recipe EASY CHOCOLATEE CHIP WAFFLES 3 c. flour 1/2 T salt 2 T baking powder 2/3 c. cocoa powder 2/3 c. sugar 4 eggs 3 1/2 c. milk 1 1/2 c. chocolate chips 1 c. vegetable oil

(Mommy) In large bowl, mix first five ingredients together and set aside. (Little helper) break eggs into a medium bowl w/mommy’s help and beat slightly. (Little helper) add milk and oil to bowl and stir well. (Mommy) Add milk mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well together, but make sure you don’t over-mix. (Little Helper) Add chocolate chips to mixture and stir. (Mommy) preheat waffle maker. (Little helper) Spray the waffle iron with mommy’s help. (Mommy) pour approximately 1 c. of batter at a time onto waffle iron. Close iron and heat until waffle can be lifted from iron with a fork or spatula. (Mommy) when done, place waffle on plate. (Little Helper) Top daddy’s waffles with syrup, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar. When you serve it to him be sure to shout “Happy Father’s Day”!

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Music is the universal language of mankind. ~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

MUSIC MOUNTAIN MusicONonTHE the Mountain Story by Connie Las Schneider | Photos courtesy of Dewey Patton and Sherry Tinerella

Franklin County Arkansas is fast becoming a national hotspot for live music festivals. For the past five years, more than 100,000 music lovers from around the world have traveled up the Pig Trail Scenic Byway (Arkansas Highway 23) to Mulberry Mountain for live outdoor music festivals like Wakarusa, Yonder Mountain String Band's Harvest Music Festival, and this year's Thunder on the Mountain as well as smaller camp-fests at Byrd's Adventure Center. June is peak season for outdoor music on the Mulberry River, and Franklin County expects up to 40,000 visitors back-to back within the first two weeks. Wakarusa runs from May 30-June 2 and promoters anticipate a sold out crowd of 20,000+ music fans. Wakarusa has been called the “new Woodstock” and appeals mainly to alternative young hipster types who camp in designated areas and party all night to the rocked out sounds

24 ABOUT | June 2013

of jam bands, progressive rock, reggae, electronic music, and more. If you love to camp out, wear costumes, and dance until the sun comes up, Wakarusa is the place to do it. The next weekend brings an entirely different crowd to Mulberry Mountain for Thunder on the Mountain. The eagerly anticipated Country Music and Camping Festival offers headliners Toby Keith, Luke Bryan, Big and Rich with Cowboy Troy, Montgomery Gentry, and Thompson Square, plus almost 50 other musical acts. While this 3-day festival will be a different kind of party, this is one country music shindig that good-ole boys and girls of all ages won't want to miss. Yonder Mountain String Band's Harvest Festival, held October 17-19, 2013 has a more laid-back bluegrass/ new-grass vibe and is the most family friendly of the music and camping festivals.

The 650-acre Mulberry Mountain Event Center has come a long way since it opened in 2005. An old blueberry farm turned guest ranch, today it is the largest privately owned outdoor music facility in the state of Arkansas. It features a state of the art amphitheater and smaller stages, plus everything from up-scale amenities for VIP campers, group camping, and primitive camping sites, said Dewey Patton, Event Director for Mulberry Mountain. Festivals on Mulberry Mountain become temporary tent cities, with medical services, police, and daily trash service. Campers will find everything they need on the property, as there is a general store, plenty of shopping and eating booths, and loads of non-musical entertainment like a giant Ferris wheel, huge water slide, disc golf, and yoga. Adventurous outdoor types can hike on nearby National Forest trails to hidden waterfalls or play in the Mulberry River that runs along the perimeter of the property. For those whose idea of camping is a nice motel room, this year both Wakarusa and Thunder on the Mountain are offering hotel packages that provide a room plus optional shuttle bus to and from the events. While Wakarusa will probably be over by the time you read this article, Thunder on the Mountain tickets are still available for the June 6-8 event. For tickets or information on Thunder on the Mountain, contact the Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce at (479) 667-2949.‎ You can also go directly to the Thunder on the Mountain website at www. thunderonthemountain.com or the Wakarusa website at www.wakarusa.com . For information on other musical and non-music, summer events along the Mulberry River go to the Mulberry Mountain website at www.mulberrymountain. com‎ or Byrd's Adventure Center at www. byrdsadventurecenter.com. n

A Brief History of Mulberry Mountain

Bordered by National forest and the Mulberry River, Mulberry Mountain is located in a beautiful area of the Boston Mountains range of the Ozarks. With its ideal location, it's no wonder a former National Park Service Ranger and degreed Agronomist would love this land and want to own it. Add to it the owner's expertise, entrepreneurial spirit and knowledge of consumer tastes and you've got Vernon Patton. Vernon, along with his wife, sons and daughters-in law, own and operate Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events on Hwy 23 (the Scenic Pig Trail Byway), 16 miles north of Ozark. A man of action, Vernon and his family have invested millions of dollars in what was once a blueberry farm and guest ranch. The family came to Mulberry Mountain in 2005, after operating a festival and event facility in Bentonville for 20 years. “With residential development squeezing in and events drawing upwards of 100,000 people, festivals on our 60 acre site in Bentonville eventually out grew themselves and we had to start turning people away," said Vernon. So, with Vernon's keen eye for good land and the support of his family, he founded Mulberry Mountain, a place of extraordinary natural beauty where subdivisions will never encroach. This is not to say the place isn't overrun during the major events. A festival with tens of thousands of people is a big deal no matter where it is, but the Patton family has constantly improved the venue adding water, toilet, and power services along with an acoustically advanced amphitheater and giant circus tents for performers. To maintain order and insure the safety of everyone, Mulberry Mountain works hand in hand with county and state law enforcement and sets up a mobile commander center just outside the park's entrance. Concern for the safety of festivalgoers is also important, and Franklin County EMS teams are at the ready and an Air-Evac helicopter helipad is located on-site. Fortunately, most injuries in past years have been minor. The most common complaints are heat exhaustion, insect bites, cuts and bruises, with an occasional over intoxication, according to William (Dub) Tedford. William and his wife Ramona have worked on site since the first Wakarusa in 2007. “This place sure doesn't look like the hay-field my Dad and I used to cut here many years ago. Once there was a blueberry patch here called Parker Plantation,” Ramona observed. The blueberry patch is long gone and some people worry about the environmental impact of tens of thousands of people camped at Mulberry Mountain and the surrounding area. But, with close supervision and cooperation between the Forest Service, the Patton family and the other committed environmentalists who run nearby campgrounds like Byrd's Adventure Center and Turner Bend Outfitters, the area remains just as beautiful as ever. “The environment is number one for all of us,” said Vernon.

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June 2013 | ABOUT 25

about | outdoors

Instinct

The lair she occupied appeared to be a remarkable example of strategic planning. It was no product of intelligence though, only cold-blooded predatory impulse and the whims of springtime weather. A large lightning struck willow had succumbed to gravity and soil erosion. Its final resting place wedged tightly between two large rocks. This created a buffer for the water and the creatures blown along with it by those southerly spring breezes. It was a perfect collection point for tiny microscopic life forms and the schools of fry that fed on them. The big bass hid among the tangled roots and the boulders as she waited on the prey to come to her.

26 ABOUT | June 2013

Story and photo by Johnny Sain

An ancient suspicion had served her well in youth when a quick shadow or sudden noise sent her fleeing for the safety of thick cover, but as she grew older and larger, arrogance had eclipsed this sense of self-preservation. She wasn’t arrogant by choice, there was simply nothing in the water for her to fear; except for that sound. The scars in her mouth told stories of past escapes and one capture, but those had happened a long time ago. She had not tasted steel or plastic since her fourth year. Ever since that last capture, the droning sound caused unease. She moved without hesitation when the droning approached too close. Not a logical response, it was an involuntary reaction. It was instinct. Long after the metal flake boat was gone, a jon-boat eased along, parallel to the shoreline. The murky water was peppered with stumps and logs and a lanky boy pitched a soft-plastic bait to each of the targets. His concentration focused on the millimeters-thick fishing line connecting him to the underwater world. A precious free Saturday afternoon had presented itself and he had scraped together enough change to rent a battered old boat from Lucky Landing. He was still in high school and the rigors of school, homework, and a job took their toll on his outdoor interests. Thankfully, school was out for the summer. The only thing standing in the way of daylight-to-dark fishing was the dreaded summer job. But, the job meant money. Money bought reels and lures. Money paid for boat rentals. The boy’s earliest memories were of holding a cane pole with his Grandpa, stringers of bream, and old Folgers cans full of worms. Watching red and white floats bob in the ripples had taught him the meaning of patience. Watching the float dance on the surface taught him the meaning of preparation. Setting the hook as the float disappeared under water taught him the meaning of satisfaction. As the boy grew older, he learned new tactics and it was on this path that the boy became obsessed. An old yellow jitterbug gurgling along and the smashing explosion of the bass sealed his fate. The struggling largemouth came to hand and the boy worked the hooks loose. He held the glistening fish at eye-level before releasing it. As he watched the bass disappear into the depths, something deep inside pulled at him. The boy was hooked. Continued on page 31

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The old bass turned toward deep water on this late spring day. The familiar droning sound was the only thing that made her anxious at this stage in life and it put her on the move. Without hesitation or thought, she slowly sank and casually finned along the point to the old creek channel. She swam directly underneath the metal-flaked bass boat, mere feet from the angler aboard it. Eluding this pursuer required stealth as opposed to speed. In her ninth spring, she was the apex predator in this small lake. The rigors of the spawn had passed, and the last few days were spent replacing lost calories. Normally, she was selective about prey. She preferred a large meal, following the golden rule of predation -- energy gained must be greater than energy expended -- but the warming water temperature had changed that. A faster metabolism and an explosion of food choices made her less finicky. Several species of fry – just hatched young fish -- were an easy meal. They schooled tightly in a writhing ball of protein, which meant that even a poorly executed attack provided a mouthful. It also meant a full stomach without an energy-burning hunt. This was why she had stationed along the point before the droning sound had moved her. The prevailing south wind worked like a conveyer to push schools of fry in open water to her chosen ambush spot.

1 2

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June 2013 | ABOUT 27

about | good eatin'

Newton's Pharmacy Old Tyme Soda Fountain 715 WEST MAIN STREET RUSSELLVILLE

“The cook can’t make anything bad,” said Ormond Peters. Ormond is a long-time customer of the soda fountain/café tucked into the corner of Newton’s Pharmacy on Main Street in Russellville. The 1950’s atmosphere would make Richie Cunningham, Ralph and Potsie feel right at home. A jukebox sits next to the booths, and it’s tempting to try “The Fonz” method of picking a song, but nostalgia aside, the food is why most folks visit. Freda Denney has worked here for 18 years, and it’s been said that Freda could cook a boot and make it taste good. Boots aren’t on the menu though. What is on the menu are sandwiches: pimento cheese, ham and cheese, turkey, chicken, bologna, hotdogs, chilidogs, and burgers on up to a half-pound. A selection of salads: Tuna, chicken, grilled chicken, crab, and chef. Old-fashioned phosphate drinks and soft drinks with a variety of flavorings that can be added like strawberry,

When you combine great food and an inviting atmosphere, you’ve got a recipe for satisfied customers. 28 ABOUT | June 2013

raspberry, cherry, vanilla, and chocolate. Yes, you can satisfy your urge for a chocolate Dr. Pepper at Newton’s. For dessert, there’s a selection of hand-dipped ice cream, brownies, malts, shakes, sundaes, and floats. Perhaps the most popular item at Newton’s isn’t on the menu, because it changes every day. The daily special on our visit was chicken noodle soup, and the pictures don’t do it justice. When you combine great food and an inviting atmosphere, you’ve got a recipe for satisfied customers. Patricia Peters agrees. “What brings you back is good food, great prices, with friendly and fast service,” said Patricia. “The daily special is different every week. You never know what it is going to be, but it is always good.” Newton’s customers were literally volunteering their recommendations as I sat in one of the corner booths. Irene Edgar said that Newton’s was her son’s favorite stop for eats. “My son said that they had the best hamburgers and the best chocolate malt that he’s ever had. He grew up here in Russellville, but he lives in Oklahoma now and he’s eaten at a lot of places.” Patricia Peters is sitting in a table next to my booth. The cozy smell of chicken broth floats through the room. “Seating is always limited here,” said Patricia. “So if you see an empty seat with somebody sitting next to it, you just go sit down and visit. It’s a real family atmosphere here.” It’s a place that even Mr. “C” would appreciate. n

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June 2013 | ABOUT 29

Middle School Shines in Color

Russellville Middle School held their annual art show at RHS Center for the Arts. The event was attended by hundreds of parents, teachers, and other students. Paintings and crafts were available for purchase with total sales reaching $825. Proceeds from a sale went directly to the artist.

30 ABOUT | June 2013

Continued from page 26 As the years rolled along, predawn bike rides to the lake became a summer routine. It was a four-mile ride with a rod and two tackle boxes on a bike with no basket or storage. The trip would have been easier by leaving some tackle behind, but who knew what the fish would bite? No sense in leaving a stone unturned. And so, here he was on this warm June afternoon. The gentle lapping of lake water against the sides of the boat provided rhythm for his casts and retrieves. An occasional paddle stroke kept his heading as he quietly fussed about not having saved enough money to rent a trolling motor. This wasn’t how the pros did it or even the weekend tournament anglers. But, motor or not, he was on the water enjoying this overcast day and he was nearing a favorite casting target along the rocky bank. The big bass had returned to her haunt after an hour suspended in the deep water. She nabbed a small crayfish as it scuttled between the boulders. As she settled into the mass of branches, a distinct “plip” radiated through the water. The nerve endings along the length of her body, the lateral line, picked up the vibrations. Her predatory excitement was building. She sensed movement. The pattern of movement signaled prey and she gained a bearing through the vibrations. As the creature drew closer, the bass became rigid. Her fins flared, preparing for the vacuum of water that would suck the unknowing prey into her gaping mouth. This would be bonus calories -- a large meal delivered to her front door. She could barely see the form of the creature through the murky water as it wriggled in front of her, but it did not matter. Her exceptional hearing marked its location precisely. The massive jaw opened as her gills flared wide. A sudden displacement of water carried everything immediately in front into her mouth. Including the hook imbedded in a length of purple plastic. Focused on his line and lure, the heavy thump of a strike was still jolting to the boy. Like a shock of electric current, it caused his mind to go blank. His years of experience overcame this lapse in conscious thought however. Without hesitation or reasoning, his left hand turned the reel handle to take up slack in the line, and the rod whipped upward in a violent motion. It was an involuntary reaction. You could n call it instinct.

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June 2013 | ABOUT 31

about | education

Arkansas Tech University Honors Top Seniors

Sparks Named Top Female Senior at Tech

She could not have known it then, but in many ways the course of Amanda Sparks’ life in college and beyond was charted by a brief meeting with a faculty member during her second week as a student at Arkansas Tech University. Four years later, Sparks’ journey has led to the 2013 Margaret Young Award as the most outstanding senior female student at Arkansas Tech. She was honored during the Presidential Recognition of Leadership at the Lake Point Conference Center on Thursday night and she will be recognized as the Young Award winner during spring commencement ceremonies on May 11. It all began early in the fall 2009 semester when Sparks was introduced to Dr. Linda Bean, associate professor of business at Arkansas Tech and Sam M. Walton Fellow for the Students In Free Enterprise (SIFE) campus organization (now known as Enactus). “I was meeting with my Bridge to Excellence mentor, and she thought I should think about joining SIFE,” said Sparks. “She took me down the hall to meet Dr. Bean, and she invited me to the meetings. It sounded great, but it was only my second week here. I decided to think about it. I started coming to meetings and getting more involved every year. I was vice president last year and president this year, and that involves a weekly meeting with Dr. Bean. She’s my support system here. She’s played every role for me. She’s been my shoulder to cry on and my psychologist. Just whatever I need, she’s there. I’m going to miss her a lot.” Sparks has served as president and vice president of programs during four years of membership in SIFE/Enactus. She was named SIFE member of the year in 201011 and 2011-12, and she received the Billy Ramsey SIFE Scholarship in 2012. Thanks in part to Sparks’ leadership, SIFE/Enactus at Arkansas Tech has won 32 ABOUT | June 2013

Amanda Sparks

Dacen Waters

the GOLD Cabinet, co-executive director of the Greek Programming Board and as an officer for Alpha Tau Omega fraternity at Arkansas Tech. That combination of academic excellence and campus leadership made Waters the winner of the 2013 Alfred J. Crabaugh Award for most outstanding male senior student at Arkansas Tech. He was honored during the Presidential Recognition of Leadership at the Lake Point Conference Center on Thursday night and he will be recognized as the Crabaugh Award winner during spring commencement ceremonies on May 11. “It’s the final outcome of a lot of hard work,” said Waters. “I’ll have two degrees at the end of this, my fraternity and an experience that not many others can say they’ve had. This award is a representation of all that summed up into one. It meant a lot when I learned that I had received this.” Waters Named Top Male Waters graduated from Dover High Senior at Tech School in 2009. He chose to enroll at Dacen Waters owns a 3.975 grade point Arkansas Tech based upon the reputation average and he will soon hold degrees in of the engineering program. mechanical engineering and physics from Murphy, Rothwells Arkansas Tech University. He has served an internship as a research Inducted into Hall of associate in the NASA Robotics Academy Distinction at the Marshall Space Flight Center. On Saturday, May 11, three Arkansas He can tell you about fluid equations Tech University alumni received the greatest for current bearing electron shockwaves honor their alma mater could bestow. and the wonders of interacting dark Jim Murphy of Russellville, Terry Tucker energy models. Rothwell, and Ben Rothwell of Heber Springs In other words, he actually understands were inducted into the Arkansas Tech Hall of the science jokes on the popular television Distinction during a commencement ceremony series “The Big Bang Theory.” at John E. Tucker Coliseum in Russellville. But somehow, the senior from Dover Established in 1964, the Arkansas has also made time to serve as president Tech Hall of Distinction recognizes the of the Interfraternity Council, director of accomplishments of Arkansas Tech alumni three consecutive region championships through competitive presentations of the organization’s community service projects. SIFE/Enactus was named student organization of the year at Tech three times during Sparks’ four years on campus. “I’ve had many different experiences through Enactus,” said Sparks. “A lot of those have involved public speaking and getting up in front of hundreds of people at competition. That’s definitely gotten me over my fear of that. If you can do it in that situation, you can speak anywhere. That’s been beneficial, and then working with Student Government Association and Presidential Leadership Cabinet, networking and interacting with people have made a big difference for me.” Sparks graduated from Berryville High School in 2009. After careful consideration of her college choice, she decided she felt most comfortable at Arkansas Tech.

Ben & Terry Rothwell, and Jim Murphy

and friends in five categories: Distinguished Alumnus/Alumna, Distinguished Alumni Service, Outstanding Young Alumnus/ Alumna, Distinction in Intercollegiate Athletics and Distinguished Service (non-alumnus). The Rothwells were inducted under the Distinguished Alumnus/Alumna category, while Murphy was inducted under the Distinguished Alumni Service category. Terry Rothwell graduated from Arkansas Tech in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science degree in business education. After six years as a business teacher in Mountain Home, she founded Technetics Corporation in 1985 and rebranded the company as Celerit in 2002. Mrs. Rothwell served on the Arkansas Tech Board of Trustees from 2003-08 and is a past chairman of the Arkansas Tech Board of Trustees. She currently serves on the Arkansas Tech University Facilities Foundation Board and on the Arkansas Tech College of Business Advisory Council. Ben Rothwell earned Bachelor of Science degrees in chemistry and biology from Arkansas Tech in 1975. His career in financial

as a member of the Council of Professionals. He was instrumental in the creation of the Arkansas Tech Alumni T-Club in 2010. A participant in the Return to Glory campaign, the Hindsman Tower campaign and the Century Forward Circle campaign, Murphy serves on the Arkansas Tech University Connection committee through the Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce and holds membership in the Arkansas Tech Heritage Society. With the addition of Murphy and the Rothwells, there will be 175 members of the Arkansas Tech Hall of Distinction. Nominations for the Arkansas Tech Hall of Distinction may be made by any graduate of Arkansas Tech, any current or former member of the faculty or administration of Tech, any currently enrolled full-time student at Tech or any member of the Hall of Distinction. Nominations may not be made by a family member of the nominee. services and corporate management has No incumbent member of the Arkansas included work with Merrill Lynch, A.G. Edwards Tech Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, or and Ciba Vision. He aided in the creation administration is eligible for nomination for and management of Celerit, a company that any category of the Hall of Distinction. specializes in bank data services. For more information about nominating Mr. Rothwell serves on the Arkansas Tech an individual for the Arkansas Tech Hall University Foundation Board of Directors of Distinction, visit http://www.techties.atu. and on the Arkansas Tech College of edu/, call (479) 968-0242 or send e-mail to Business Advisory Council. alumni@atu.ede. n The Rothwells have been married for 32 years. Their support of Arkansas Tech, which includes membership in the Century Forward Circle and the Arkansas TRAINS, WINERIES & TREASURES OF NO. Tech Heritage Society, was recognized at CALIFORNIA: July 14-22, 2013 (9-Day Tour) Homecoming 2010 when Rothwell Hall Highlights: San Francisco – Sonora – Yosemite National Park --- home of the Arkansas Tech College – Railtown Historic Park – Napa Valley Wine Train. of Business and the Roy and Christine PEARLS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE: October 10-18, 2013 (9-Day Cruise) Go Next/ Sturgis Academic Advising Center --- was Oceania Cruises: Ports of Call: St. Tropez, France dedicated in their honor. Provence (Marseille), France – Portofine, Italy – Florence/ A 1971 graduate of Arkansas Tech with a Pisa, Italy – Sorrento/Capri, Italy – Amalfi/Positano, Italy. bachelor’s degree in economics and finance, REDISCOVER CUBA - November 10th, 2013 Murphy is a sales executive for Brown and (9-days) Trinidad, pottery demonstration, Cienfuegos, Havana, Cuban Fine Arts Museum, Casa Fuster. Limited space! Brown Insurance in Russellville. As an advocate for his alma mater, Murphy MARLSGATE PLANTATION, SCOTT, AR.: Dec. 3, 2013 (Day Trip) After a guided tour of the garhas served as president of the Arkansas Tech dens and mansion, enjoy a meal prepared by the mansion’s Alumni Association Board of Directors and chef. Cost: $55 Per Person 30 Passenger Limit

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June 2013 | ABOUT 33

about | engagements

Save the Date!

Calendar listings of engagement, wedding and anniversary announcements on the pages of each issue of ABOUTâ&#x20AC;Śthe 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 1 ~

Muriel Aston and Blayne Schrepfer Janie Boyce & Michael Ward Stephanie Corbin and Ben Houghton Karissa Musser & Jonathan Huffman

~ June 6 ~

Suzanne Burchett and Garrett Glover

~ June 8 ~

~ June 17 ~

Kathryn Ramsey and Brian Sammons

~ June 22 ~

~ August 24 ~

Johnessa Belcher and Michael Boze

~ September 14 ~

Stephanie Ingram and Blake Driver Angel Sawyer & Tyler Vantine Maggie Taylor & Quint (William) Ashburn

Samantha Dennis and Dustin Huggins

~ June 28 ~

~ October 5 ~

Emilie Dayan & Andy Hill

~ September 21 ~

Angela Bores & Wayne Brown Amanda Hindsman and Steven Hankins Jenny Redfern & Daniel Fish Jennifer Roberts & Justin Young Kara Shirley and Brant Bauman Sarah Post and Stephen Borengasser

Allie Brooks and Blake Young

Leah Epperson & Nicholas Horton

~ June 29 ~

~ October 12 ~

~ June 9 ~

Laura Brown & Will Wetzel Catelyn Fisher and Lucas Davis

Kelsey Coulter & Keith Duke Lauren Tracy and Jack Mann

~ July 27 ~

~ November 9 ~

Ashley Sumner & Jacob Shatwell

~ June 11 ~

Ashley Boyer & Jack "Drew" Phipps

~ June 15 ~

Chantell Caldwell & Levi Corkern Katelynn Moore and Josh McAlister Emily Orsburn & Nathan Grifford

Krysti Armstrong and Sam Freyaldenhoven

~ July 20 ~

Jill Noles & Mitch Bennett

~ August 3 ~

Allison Hill and Michael Chiuminatto

~ August 17 ~

Jilliann Jacimore & Jimmy Wilson

~ October 19 ~

Haley McGrew and Logan Hughes Meggan Schuemann and Kaleb Dickey

~ November 30 ~

Kelly Conley and Kevin Martin

Lauren Ragsdale and Michael Allinson

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

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