ABOUT | May 2013 by ABOUT the River Valley Magazine

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May 2013

8 The Russ Bus

There’s nothing special about the van. It’s a 1993 Chevy with faded blue paint. There are a few marks of distinction though. In particular, the moniker “Russ Bus” written on the side in bright crimson.

8 14

about | our cover Photo by Steve Newby

One big blue van plus five caring people equals hope for the homeless in the River Valley. Pictured left to right are: Shelby Davis, Ashley Francis, Fred Teague, Melanie Sorrells, and Victor Whicher. Making a difference is hard work, but from the smiles on their faces, it’s easy to see that giving of your time and your resources is its own reward. Read ABOUT the circumstances surrounding the homeless situation and the work that is being done to help in our story featuring the Russ Bus and Crew.

4 ABOUT | May 2013

Oh, Now I Get It!

For the Love of Logan

ABOUT...Food

A Dream Come True

You Only Get So Many

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Stories abound of mothers willing to sacrifice their lives for their children, but sometimes the bond between siblings is just as strong. Brothers, Logan Collins age 10 and Ethan Collins 8 of Dardanelle, have that kind of bond.

Most girls dream of going to the prom with a handsome prince, but Kaylee Murphy isn’t an ordinary 10 year old. Kaylee has Oculoauricular Dysplasia (OAV ) or Goldenhar Syndrome, a congenital birth defect which deforms the face, and in Kaylee’s case, twists the spine. This is the story of her special prom . . . a dream come true.

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RUSSELLVILLE, MAY 2013 – Chevrolet completes the transformation of its North American passenger car lineup with the introduction of the all-new 2014 Impala, now available at Phil Wright Autoplex. The redesigned flagship sedan builds on the strong heritage of the Impala nameplate by offering expressive style, a more-refined interior, easy-to-use technology, and an exhilarating driving experience. “For Russellville area drivers the 2014 Impala re-establishes the iconic Impala as a design leader that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes,” said Danny Hipps of Phil Wright Autoplex. “Add to that, the Impala delivers the comfort, safety, fuel efficiency and technology. With that combination, we are sure the Impala will make Russellville very happy.” The all-new Impala, now on sale at Phil Wright Autoplex, is the 10th generation of one of the industry’s most enduring – and popular – nameplates. Impala was America’s best-selling full-size sedan in 2011, with sales of more than 171,000, which also made it one of the 10 bestselling cars overall in the United States, along with Chevrolet Malibu and Cruze. Designed on an award-winning global platform, the 2014 Impala introduces Russellvilledrivers to new levels of comfort, refinement and technology. Highlights include:

All-new exterior design that represents the next evolution of Chevrolet’s design vocabulary. It features a sleek proportion, sculpted body sides, standard 18-inch wheels and projector-beam headlamps, with HID headlamps and LED daytime running lamps standard on LTZ models A range of three direct-injected engines, including a 3.6L V-6, new 2.5L four-cylinder and a 2.4L four-cylinder with eAssist, that deliver enhanced performance and efficiency All-new interior with flowing design and integrated center stack that incorporates an available eight-inch touch screen display with available Chevrolet MyLink Chevrolet MyLink, which includes Bluetooth audio streaming and available navigation among many other features, is controlled via a touch screen on the eightinch display Quieter environment with a greater emphasis on comfort – including active noise cancellation with four-cylinder powertrains 360 degrees of active safety features with 10 standard air bags and OnStar, along with available features including full-speedrange adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, forward collision alert, lane departure warning, side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, rear camera and rear-park assist.

The 2014 Impala is offered in LS, LT and LTZ models, starting at $27,535, including an $810 destination charge. About Phil Wright Autoplex Family tradition continues at Phil Wright Autoplex - Honesty, Intergrity, Respect and Customer Satisfaction. “Phil Wright founded this dealership on those principles back in 1975. Now almost 38 years later, a second generation of the Wright family and their staff will continue to treat every customer on those same princiiples”, Says Russ Wright and Danny Hipps, Managers who now oversee the dealership’s daily Operations. “The sales department will sell the customer their fist vehicle, but it’s the service department that will sell them the next one. About Chevrolet Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

May 2013 | ABOUT 5

A PAGE FROM

The Editor’s Notebook

ABOUT

the River Valley

A Publication of Silver Platter Productions, Inc Vol. VIII, Issue 4 – May 2013 Owner/Publisher: Nolan Edwards 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 Looking Forward To our loyal family, friends, subscribers, and clients – First and foremost, we want to thank all of you for the incredible outpouring of love, care, and support you’ve given our family during the very difficult time surrounding the loss of our mother, wife, friend, and colleague. These expressions of generosity show the spirit and future of the River Valley is in safe hands, and should serve as an inspiration to us all during the not-soencouraging times we sometimes live in. Dianne was passionate in everything she did – whether writing and editing ABOUT...the River Valley magazine, loving her family and friends, or serving in her community. The feedback our family has received from all of you has been remarkable. So many of you sent words of encouragement, prayers of faith, and cherished stories of the wonderful woman that Dianne was. It’s been absolutely humbling to hear the individual accounts of how you met Dianne, and the times that you enjoyed her company and wisdom over the years. Losing Dianne has been and will continue to be a daily challenge for her family, friends, and many of the community. For those of you who spent any time with Dianne, you likely know that she was never known for her idleness,

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: editor@aboutrvmag.com Postmaster: Please send address changes to: SPPI, P.O. Box 10176, Russellville AR 72812.

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Steve

Kechia

Connie

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Newby

479. 880.1006

Bentley

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Las Schneider 4 7 9 .4 9 7 .1 1 1 0

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Chris

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6 ABOUT | May 2013

Zimmerman

479. 264.2438

Thomas

479.890.3630

Zimmerman 4 7 9 .2 6 4 .2 4 3 8

about | may 2013

not even in times of stress and heartache. In that spirit, we want to acknowledge the continual effort made by the ABOUT magazine staff in her absence to continue forth her vision of sharing stories of the wonderful people that surround us every day. That being said, we want to address any concerns that our readers and merchants have. Since Dianne’s diagnosis last July, the ABOUT magazine staff has continued to produce a high-quality hometown production that showcases the culture and heart of the River Valley. Comprised of topnotch writers and experienced advertising personnel, we are positive that in the future ABOUT magazine will flourish and represent the things that Dianne and all of us hold dear: your River Valley. You can expect to see the first-class features, stories, and recipes you’ve come to expect from ABOUT in this issue, and for many more to come. It is our greatest wish to see Dianne’s passion for the River Valley and ABOUT thrive, and that you continue to join us. We can’t thank you enough for being the loyal readers that you are, and for supporting your community. As spring arrives and winter’s cloudy days turn into warm breezy afternoons with plentiful sunshine, take a quiet moment and do what Dianne would have done – grab your best Flair ink pen and a blank sheet of paper, and get acquainted with the romance of writing and reading once again. After all, that’s what Dianne’s happiness was always “about”. With our sincere thanks, The Edwards Family

May 2, 4, 5: Cyclone Theatre’s production Beauty and the Beast. At the Center for the Arts. Shows start at 7 p.m. For more info. call 498-6600. May 3-4: Resource Rendezvous at Lake Dardanelle State Park 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Educational Event about natural resources and ways to utilize and enjoy them. For more info., call 967-5516. May 5: Pancake Brunch Fundraiser – Habitat for Humanity of Pope County. From 9 a.m.- 2p.m. at Stoby’s Restaurant. For more info., call 477-0070 May 11-12: AAMVA Red Ball Express Event held here in Russellville. Depart on Saturday from Old Post Road Park and venture out on a 50 mile round-trip of Pope County. Vehicles will be on display and available for viewing. For more info. please call 968-4411. May 11-12: Spring Fling Hang Glider Fly-in held on top of Mount Nebo in the afternoon weather permitting. For more info. call 229-3655. May 13: From Scratch - Classical Cuisine, Hands on cooking classes at Winthrop Rockefeller Institute; Alan Dierks, 10-3; $80 per person; to register for this class visit the website at www.livethelegacy.org, or for more information contact Robert Hall, CEC, Executive Chef/Culinary Director at the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute at (501) 727-5435. May 17-18: Atkins Pickle Fest held in downtown Atkins. For more info. call David Lindsey at 747-2688. May 18: 2013 Banquet hosted by the Arkansas River Valley Friends of the NRA held at the Hughes Center at 5:30 p.m. For more info. call John Stottman, Jr. at 968-2992. May 19: Mustangs on the Mountain – Car show and Shine. No entry fees, no judging. All year models welcome. Held at the Museum of Automobiles on Petit Jean Mountain. For more info. call 489-5874 May 24: Memorial Day activities at Lake Dardanelle State Park. For more info., call 967-5516. May 24-25: Rummage Around the Rails held in downtown Russellville. For more info. call Main Street Russellville at 967-1437. May 24-27: Memorial Day Activities at Lake Dardanelle State Park. The park will be offering a wide variety of programs as visitors come out to begin their summer break. Contact the park for a detailed schedule as the weekend draws near. *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. May 2013 | ABOUT 7

8 ABOUT | May 2013

HELP ON WHEELS T

here’s nothing special about the van. It’s a 1993 Chevy with faded blue paint. There are a few marks of distinction. It’s blue hide is emblazoned with the moniker “Russ Bus” written in bright crimson, and on this muggy April evening the tangy smell of tomato sauce permeates it’s interior. White Styrofoam containers filled with spaghetti and stacked neatly in a box are the source of the smells. Next to the box of spaghetti containers rides a box full of rolls and eating utensils zipped up in plastic baggies. Toward the back of the van are plastic tubs filled with a selection of toiletries: Toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, soap – the basics of hygiene that most take for granted. A bag of diapers sits next to the tubs. The van is full to overflowing with food, necessities, and compassion. Ashley Francis is behind the steering wheel of the van. She flicks the blinker switch and turns onto busy East Main Street in the middle of Russellville. “And of course we have toilet paper on here too,” giggles Ashley. “That’s just something else that’s so important, but that we all take for granted. Most of us don’t give a second thought about these things unless we run out at home.” Ashley is one of five individuals that drive a van, and a program called the Russ Bus. Fred Teague, Victor Whicher, Shelby Davis, Mellanie Sorrels round out the crew. The Russ Bus is what you could call “help on wheels” and its help is focused on a group of people that are often overlooked, ostracized, or ignored. The word Homeless conjures negative images and opinionated speculation. It’s a sad fact that those on the margins of society often stay on those margins for various

Story by Johnny Sain Photos by Steve Newby and Johnny Sain

reasons. But, the Russ Bus crew is injecting hope into the lives of many homeless people in the River Valley. That last sentence may have been a bit jarring. Yes, homeless people live in the small town communities of the River Valley. Most are in Russellville, and while there is no official count, the numbers

"Sometimes people are like why? Why do you help them? And I’m like,

that’s what we’re supposed to do."

receiving help from the Russ Bus keep the crew busy. And, the number grows every week “We don’t know where all the homeless people are, and we probably never will, and new people come every day,” said Fred Teague. “There are different situations and different degrees of homelessness. Some are actually on the street, some are about to be evicted, some live in cars.” >> May 2013 | ABOUT 9

MAKING IT HAPPEN Ashley, Fred, Shelby, Melanie, and Victor are the core of the Russ Bus, but they can’t do it all alone. Several organizations, churches, and businesses in the River Valley help out as well and the Russ Bus crew insisted that these folks be recognized. Here they are. The Journey APEX Communications The Crossing Photos by Manda Electric Ink Help Network First United Methodist Sorrells Body Shop West Side Church of Christ Manna House Salvation Army Main Street Mission Stoby’s Brangus Steakhouse CSI Insurance Lee’s Trash Service Clarksville Family Medical Radiologists of Russellville Ranger Freewill Baptist River Valley Screen Printing South Side Baptist in Alma Wesley Foundation One Nerd Bakery Posey Printing Super 8 First Baptist Church of Russellville Kiwanis of Russellville Russellville Junior High Spanish Club

10 ABOUT | May 2013

“And a lot of the people we help don’t look homeless,” added Ashley. Misconceptions about the people they help are a constant battle for the Russ Bus crew. “A business owner that hired one of the people we help asked me where the homeless are,” said Fred. “I said, they walk in front of your building every day.” Many wake up in the morning and go to work. “We have people that live in tents and then get up and go to work every day,” said Fred. “We have a few people that do look homeless, and they will probably remain homeless because they don’t want to change their way of doing things.” Bad luck and bad decisions, working either separately or in concert, can lead to homelessness. “One thing that blows me away is how some of these people have just burned every bridge,” said Fred. “They don’t have anyone to call. We helped a guy from Springdale with a bus ticket so he could get back there. I mean, who doesn’t know someone that can take them to Springdale from Russellville? I can’t imagine that, and I don’t know all the circumstances involved in every situation, but the bottom line is that they are completely isolated. They don’t have anywhere to go and no one to call.” Ashley adds that sometimes misfortune is the culprit. “We helped this family of six; mom, dad and four kids. Dad was the maintenance man for an apartment complex and the complex sold to another owner. Well, the new owner decided her husband would do the maintenance. That’s how the family was paying for their apartment. The guy lost his job and the family lost their home

all in one day. They moved into a car for a while and then we found them and were able to get them in an apartment. The dad is working, working good hours, and now they’re making it. And, aren’t most of us just one or two paychecks from being homeless? I know how things are with me and I’m in no position to judge anyone for their circumstances.” Sometimes a life on the street is the only alternative to escape addictions or bad situations. “Everybody always asks me how many drug addicts I deal with,” said Fred.” And, the truth is, we don’t deal with a ton of that kind of thing. Sure, there are some that have addiction problems, but we talk to a lot of people that are like, I’ve got a place I can stay with friends that are doing drugs, but I’m trying to get away from that. Or sometimes they just need to get out of a bad situation, they just don’t have any place to go, so they do the only thing they can do” The Russ Bus is patterned after The Van, a similar program in Little Rock. Other mobile units include the Mission Machine in Searcy and VanLanta in Atlanta Georgia. The goal is the same for all: helping people get back on their feet. This includes delivering food, providing shelter (often just a tent), help with job placement, and sometimes just someone to talk to. Ashley had been working with homeless folks for about 8 months prior to the creation of the Russ Bus. “I was just doing what I could,” said Ashley. “I was delivering food and other things. Fred came to me after he saw pictures of a homeless camp on Facebook. He wanted to help, so, he helped me feed people on Christmas,

and then he asked me what I wanted to do with this thing. I told him I wanted to branch off of The Van in Little Rock. So, that’s what we did.” The Russ Bus operates under the nonprofit tax umbrella of The One Inc, along with The Van, The Mission Machine, and VanLanta, but all donations and all people helped are here in the River Valley. It’s a volunteer activity, no one is paid, and long hours every week are the norm. The Russ Bus runs a food route at least twice a week, and sometimes more often, depending on the availability of

food and help with food preparation. Various day-to-day living products are on the van and available to anyone that needs them. “Diapers are a big thing too,” said Ashley. “Families with babies always need diapers and diapers are expensive.” If someone literally has no place to go they can stay in a tent provided by the Russ Bus. They also get a shower once a week, laundry done, help with finding housing, and help with securing employment. Every person in need has a backstory; actually, every person on Earth has a backstory. But, sometimes those who need help are wary of being judged. “Once we do know their story, we still don’t judge them,” said Ashley. “Who are we to judge you? We don’t care that you were a drug addict, we don’t care that you were a prostitute, we don’t care if you’re gay.” Shelby agrees, “Sometimes people are like why? Why do you help them? And I’m like, that’s what we’re supposed to do.” “The longest recorded conversation Jesus had was with the woman at the well that nobody would have anything to do with,” said Ashley. “Those are the people that we are reaching out to and those people are the ones I’m going to be associated with, people like the woman at the well”

Working with people that have nothing makes a person grateful for even the simple things that most take for granted. “When you hear a little boy get excited about getting a toothbrush, because he doesn’t have to share with his sister anymore,” said Shelby. “It’s things like that really make you see what needs to be done”. Shelby gazes out the van window at a teenage girl walking outside of the hotel office. It’s a homeless girl and one the crew knows. Shelby is 19, only a few years older than the girl. One girl is giving from abundance and one is receiving with gratitude. The only difference in their lives to this point has been the stroke of luck. To the casual observer, they both look like typical River Valley Kids. Poverty doesn’t have a distinctive look. The Blue van finishes it’s run in about an hour and a half. Most of the meals are gone, and those remaining will find their way to others in need. But, full bellies are only a small part of the Russ Bus mission. It’s a mission of love and it’s a mission of compassion. It’s a mission that requires full hearts, and the hearts of the Russ Bus crew are clearly overflowing. You can contact the Russ Bus on Facebook or at their website www.russbus.org. n

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www.nebo2.com May 2013 | ABOUT 11

Oh, Now I Get It! Story by Kechia Bentley | Photo by Steve Newby

The suddenness of the “ah-ha” moments in my life keep me quite entertained. I had one of these moments just recently. The perplexing thing about these moments is how it’s taken 49 years of my life and 28 years of marriage to finally understand these situations clearly. In truth, my husband is glad I’ve finally seen the light. Here is how it played out. It was a Sunday afternoon. My husband and I were headed to Springdale, Arkansas where I teach ACT prep classes on the weekends. I had a full day of classes ahead of me – 1:00pm - 7:00 pm. I’ll blame the behavior I’m about to confess on the full class schedule (you know how we women always have a reason for our bad behavior) and let my husband off the hook this time. For some reason, my husband decided an interesting topic for discussion would be tires. Really? Tires? OK, I will play along. Now, it might be important for me to add that my husband is an engineer. As many of you that have been reading my column for any length of time know, I am not. He proceeds to discuss -- in great detail -- good tires vs. bad tires, the proper way to balance tires, how tires are made... When he reached the last point, I thought, “Does he remember who he is talking to?” Translation: “This is going way over my head and, more importantly, it has gone way past my ability to even pretend to be interested.” As he continued to talk about tires, I began to think about my lesson plans, then about each student I would be meeting with and their individual strengths and weaknesses. Now, please understand, I did not ignore my husband completely. I continued to nod in agreement at the appropriate times and chimed in with the customary, “Oh really” and “That’s interesting.” At one point, he did say something about our son Adrin’s tires, and I reengaged in the conversation briefly. Shortly after, he turned the conversation back towards tire construction and I was quickly gone again, into my own little world of thoughts, with one of those thoughts being, “Please stop talking about tires!” All of a sudden, the “ah ha” moment hit me. This is what he must feel like when I am telling one of my stories! I began to think of how I have been torturing this man for years. I actually thought, “Oh my, how in the world did he endure this long?”

12 ABOUT | May 2013

“ I won’t stop talking but I will

understand that all he is hearing is, “Wah wah, wah wah, wah wah.

“

about | family

At this point, I began to laugh out loud and it dawned on him that I had not been listening to a word he was saying. The conversation in my head was way more interesting. Oh, this poor man. How many times have I gotten so upset when he wasn’t listening to what I was saying? Now I fully understand why he wasn’t paying absolute attention; most of what I was saying didn’t interest him. He really doesn’t care about what everyone was wearing, where everyone sat, what everyone ate. He certainly doesn’t care what everyone talked about down to the tiniest detail. I finally get it. It really does all start to sound like a Charlie Brown cartoon, “Wah wah, wah wah, wah wah.” What will I do with this information now that I have it? I’ll tell you what I’ll do. The next time I see his eyes start to glaze over, or he has said “that’s interesting” one too many times, I will stop and say, “It’s kinda like tire construction.” Then I’ll just stop talking. Oh, who am I kidding? I won’t stop talking but I will understand that all he is hearing is, “Wah wah, wah wah, wah wah.” n

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A true odor neutralizer, not a masking perfume. Kills the worst odors yet Kid & Pet Safe, biodegradable and hypoallergenic. D & R PAINTS; Russellville; (479) 968-7071; Clarksville; (479) 754-7075

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May 2013 | ABOUT 13

"The bond between mother and child is an unbroken circle and each new sibling keeps the wheel turning." Story by Connie Las Schneider | Photos by J. Tillman Photography/Collins family

tories abound of mothers willing to sacrifice their lives for their children, but sometimes the bond between siblings is just as strong. Brothers, Logan Collins

age 10 and Ethan Collins 8 of Dardanelle, have that kind of bond. Ethan is very protective of his brother. Logan has Down syndrome, which is complicated by thyroid problems and defects in his ears and teeth. But, more serious yet is Logan’s diagnosis of a variation of NEMO (NF-κB Essential Modifier,) a fatal chromosome disorder that attacks his immune system and systematically destroys his body.

14 ABOUT | May 2013

What is Down syndrome? One in every 691 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome, the most common chromosomal abnormality found in the general population. Physical traits of Down syndrome are easy to spot in newborns and infants and include an upward slant to the eyes, low muscle tone, small stature, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm. Developmental delays always accompany the “NEMO is terminal because one day he will eventually get an infection his body can no longer fight,” said their mother, Teri Collins Kuras. Teri learned of Logan’s additional diagnosis last year while he was being tested for allergies because all his hair was falling out. While there, the doctor noticed certain features about Logan that he found odd and tested Logan for three rare genetic disorders. The NEMO test came back positive, but with a variation in one of the markers. There has not yet been anyone else tested with the same results. Logan’s results are kept in a national database in the hopes that when someone else has the same results, they can find similarities and/or possible causes and treatments. The only known cure for NEMO at this time is a dangerous and painful bone marrow transplant with the best possible match coming from a full sibling. When Ethan found out he might save his brother’s life with the bone marrow transplant, the then seven-year-old bravely offered to cut off his arm to donate his bone marrow to Logan. “Ethan said he would die for him because that’s his brother,” said Teri, who also has a 3 year old half-sister to the boys, Caysen Kuras. “All my children are healthy except Logan,” she added. “Ever since Ethan was old enough to understand Logan was different, he’s been a fearless protector of his older brother. The bond between Logan and Ethan is so crazy they still sleep together every night. Ethan has become this amazing sympathetic soul and there is nothing he would not do for his brother,” said Teri. “Ethan even offered to give one of his baby teeth to Logan so the “tooth fairy” would put money under Logan’s pillow,” said Teri. Logan has only has three permanent teeth because he suffers from Ectodermal Dysplasia, another complication of NEMO. The cause of NEMO is unknown at this time and Teri does not carry any markers for Down syndrome. However, she said she had been very sick just before she conceived Logan and wondered if the radiation she was given affected Logan’s chromosomal disorders. “Only 30 people in world have NEMO, and Logan is the only person with this variation,” said Teri. Despite her worries as a mother, Teri has managed to maintain a positive outlook. >>

condition and people with Down syndrome have an increased risk for certain medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, respiratory and hearing problems, thyroid conditions, childhood leukemia and Alzheimer’s disease, according to the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). Despite the serious problems facing children with Down syndrome and their families, those with the condition attend school, work, participate in decisions that affect them, and contribute to society in wonderful ways. To help fight this disease and show your support of this and other childhood disabilities, join us for upcoming 2013 Logan's River Walk. To learn more call 479-453-0041 or email riverwalk0110@yahoo.com.

Early

registration

begins in June, 2013.

www.ndss.org May 2013 | ABOUT 15

“People often don’t know what to say to you when they find out you have a sick child, but I’m not looking for sympathy. Just as I love my other children, I love Logan just the way he is. Logan has definitely taught me a lot more things in life than he would have if he had been the Logan I had anticipated before he was born,” said Teri, who did not find out about Logan’s condition until 45 minutes after he was born. “Of course, there is a grieving process you have to go through before you can move on, but you quickly learn to accept your child’s limitations and love them completely,” said Teri. “I’ve had people reach out to me who also have children with disabilities and we immediately bonded. A lot of our experiences are the same so it’s like we are all part of one big family.” To keep that camaraderie going and draw attention to children with Down syndrome, autism and all disabilities, Teri started Logan’s River Walk four years ago. This year’s Walk will be in October, at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Dardanelle. Pre-registration starts in June. Walkers of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate and Teri encourages healthy children to come so they can learn about disabilities of other children. “It’s a really beautiful moment when you take off on the walk and have 400 people behind you!” said Teri. Teri also wants to start an afterschool/ summer facility for disabled children and the Dardanelle School District is working with her on that. “Regular day care facilities do not accept special needs children in this area. Having a facility like that would open up a thousand possibilities for these parents,” said Teri. n

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Annual Fundraising Banquet another Success

About 350 supporters and volunteers of Choices Pregnancy Resource Clinic gathered April 16 at First Baptist Church for the 2013 Chosen fundraising dinner of the non-profit organization. More than $42,000 was raised as a result of the event, announced Christy Renfroe, executive director. Supporters enjoyed a dinner catered by Italian Gardens and listened to Dr. David Nelson of Russellville give his donor testimonial. Video testimonials from clients and volunteers also demonstrated how donations impacted lives throughout the year. The highlight of the evening was featured speaker Henry Jernigan of Nashville, Tenn. He and his wife, Elizabeth, were offered the option to terminate her pregnancy when tests determined the unborn child would be born with Spina Bifida. Instead, the couple chose life for their son, Pierce, and trusted God with the unknown medical complications that would result from the neurological condition. Justin Myrick, family pastor of college and international students at First Baptist, served as

master of ceremonies, and Mark Dollar, youth pastor at Fellowship of Christians, gave the prayer of blessing for the event. Mrs. Renfroe ended the evening’s event with a report on clients who received assistance throughout the past year. “Last year, we had 137 clients come in for pregnancy tests,” she said. “This year, from January until March, we have already given 60 pregnancy tests. This gives us the potential to help over 700 clients through pregnancy tests, ultrasounds and classes.” “The Choices team would like to thank all of the event underwriters, table sponsors, event supporters and donors that have made our event so successful. We are so blessed to be saving lives and protecting futures in the River Valley two lives at a time.” n

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about | community Greek organizations come together to feed local elementary students

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. (April 18, 2013)-Some of them were gathered around tables or sat on the floor, filling bags and cardboard boxes with food. Others were carrying armload after armload of food from their cars into Tucker Coliseum. Still more were organizing the 22,000 donated food items so that they could be delivered to the correct elementary school. Regardless of which Greek organization they are from, students from Arkansas Tech University fraternities and sororities had a common mission on Tuesday evening --- fighting hunger among the youth of Russellville. When the “Greeks Give Back” collection event was finished, Arkansas Tech students had accumulated more than $16,000 in food items such as toaster pastries, snack crackers, pudding, fruit cups, cereal, fresh fruit, cheese and breadstick snacks and microwaveable macaroni and cheese. The food will be used to stock the pantries for programs at five elementary schools in the Russellville School District that ensure that children have take-home meals and snacks for weekends and other times when they are not able to eat at school. “I was speechless last year when I saw the final result, and this is probably four times the amount of food that was brought in then,” said Jamie Beck, coordinator of Greek life in the Arkansas Tech Office of Student Services. “There is a little bit of a

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18 ABOUT | May 2013

competition between the groups because they want to be the one that contributes the most. That’s their nature. But, at the end of the day, it’s awesome to hear them talk about this project and understand why they are doing it.” The event was part of a week-long Greek Madness celebration on the Arkansas Tech campus. Fraternities and sororities have participated in a variety of social and service activities throughout the week. “I am overwhelmed in a great way,” said Caroline Vining of Marshall, a member of Delta Zeta sorority at Arkansas Tech. “Based upon what I had heard, I had a feeling coming into the night that our students were going all out for this event. It melts my heart. I had an opportunity to be one of the students who went and dropped off the food last year, and one of

the guidance counselors almost started crying because she was so excited and she knows how many kids it will help. It makes a difference here in Russellville.” Vining said that students used their own resources, donations from parents and contributions from local businesses to make the event a success. “I think the best thing for me is that we are going to make a genuine difference in the community,” said Taylor Phoumivong of Fort Smith, a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity at Arkansas Tech. “To know that we have all of this food that is going to be feeding children, that is probably the most inspiring part of this. Our Greek organizations are philanthropy and service driven. These are the values that we preach, and so it is important that we put them into practice.”

For more information about Greek The NRA Liberty Level Sponsorship organizations at Arkansas Tech, visit www. for $250 includes sponsor desktop organizer, sponsor hat, and Traditions atu.edu/greeks or call (479) 964-0828. Magazine subscription. Does not include dinner ticket. Can be added to above ARV FRIENDS NRA BANQUET The ARV Friends of NRA Committee packages. For additional information, invites everyone to attend the 2013 please contact Chad at (479) 968-7071 Arkansas River Valley Friends of NRA or John at (479) 968-2992 Banquet set for Saturday, May 18th at the Hughes Center. The social hour begins COME ON GET HEALTHY at 5:30, with a dinner, live auction, silent Fun, combined with fitness and nutrition auction, raffles and drawings to follow. for the entire family, is the concept for the “Come join your friends & fellow gun Come on Get Healthy 5K/Community event owners in support of our 2nd Amendment, on May 4 at Bona Dea Park. youth shooting sports, Women on The event begins at 8 a.m. with a 5K run/ Target, Eddie Eagle, shooting range walk, followed by a kids’ fun run at 9:30 development in Arkansas & much more,” a.m. and interactive demonstrations from 9 invite organizers. “Over 40 firearms will a.m. – Noon. be raffled and sold.” Educational booths will also be set Those planning to attend are encouraged up from 8 a.m. – Noon, along with live to make reservations as soon as possible. entertainment and free healthy snacks. Tickets may be reserved by mail (with forms Event co-organizer Lyndsay Cochran available from D & R Paints, 905 East Main, said the event is sponsored by the River Russellville, or online at www.friendsofnra. Valley Prevention Coalition and several org/ar) or by calling (479) 968-7071 (Chad) local organizations, including the city of or (479) 968-2992 (John). Credit cards are Russellville are partnering with the coalition also accepted. to promote the half day of healthy fun and Ticket prices include: Advanced Event learning opportunities. Ticket, $40, regular $45; BigShooter For more information call (479) 967-3370 Ticket (advanced only) for $100, includes or email lcochran@communityserviceinc. one dinner ticket plus $160 in white raffle com. tickets plus one blue bonus ticket and one Forms can be downloaded from the city Big Shooter gun ticket. The Super Shooter of Russellville’s website at www.rsvlar.org Ticket, advance only for $250, includes one and a complete schedule of events and dinner ticket, $360 in white raffle tickets, demonstrations is listed on the River Valley one red bonus ticket and two blue bonus Prevention Coalition Facebook Page. tickets plus one Big Shooter Gun ticket. Corporate Table Packages are available, "PASS THE PORCELAIN" advance only for $750, and includes eight Bost, Inc. is a community-based, nondinner tickets, $400 worth of white raffle profit agency for services to individuals with tickets and choice of one gun from the intellectual and developmental disabilities Corporate Package gun list. or other related conditions. Currently, the

agency works with over 700 men, women, and children with disabilities in 34 counties of Western Arkansas. The Bost Waiver Program serves children and adults with Developmental disabilities and was developed to provide in-home and in-community support needed for those at risk of institutionalization. Bost offers programs and services for both children and adults with disabilities so that they can live, work and thrive in their own community. Bost Inc. Russellville Location is currently in the process of fundraising in hopes that it can bring affordable housing to the area for individuals in need. “The name of the fund-raiser is “Pass the Porcelain,” said Jennifer Paterak, South Central Waiver Director for Bost Inc. “A toilet branded with the Bost logo and agency colors will be delivered for a delivery fee of $20, paid in advance, to a specified individual within a 15 mile radius. It is left in their yard for 24 hours unless the person calls to request it be picked up earlier. Since Bost is a non-profit organization, we do supply a tax write off form to the individual that pledges for the toilet to be sent. This fundraiser is specifically for our housing project and a fun way to get awareness out to the community”

RIVER VALLEY ARTS CENTER MAY EVENTS

The Arts Center will host an artist reception Sunday, May 5, from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. to give the public an opportunity to meet the exhibiting local artists and hear their gallery talk and enjoy a juried touring show from Arkansas Arts Council, “Small Works on Paper.” Continued on page 30

ServingThe River Valley F O R OV E R 22 Y E A R S

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Hwy 64 East • Russellville Service Department Open Monday-Friday 7:30-5:30 and Saturdays from 8-1 May 2013 | ABOUT 19

about | food

May, we Celebrate

Story by Lydia Zimmerman, Food Editor

he month of May brings us warmer weather, spring flowers, picnics, and school graduations. My graduation was many years ago, but I won't give the year, as a southern lady never reveals her true age! This Month's issue will include recipes for finger foods one might serve at a graduation reception. Most of the recipe selections are “quick and easy," but will accommodate a variety of tastes. I have also included a couple of Mother's Day breakfast ideas in my "mommy and me" section that Daddy and his "little helper" can make and serve to Mommy on her big day! Hope you enjoy!

SUPREME PIZZA FONDUE

Original recipe makes 5 -1/2 cups dip 8 oz. Johnsonville® Mild Italian Ground Sausage 1/2 c. finely chopped onion 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 (24 oz.) jars Classico® Tomato and Basil pasta sauce 2 c. sliced fresh mushrooms 1 (3.5 oz.) package pepperoni or Canadian-style bacon, chopped 2 tsp. dried basil or oregano, crushed 1 c. sliced pitted ripe olives (optional) 1/2 c. chopped green sweet pepper (optional) Vegetable dippers, mozzarella or provolone cheese cubes, or whole grain bread cubes In a large skillet cook the Johnsonville® Mild Italian Ground Sausage, onion, and garlic until meat is brown. Drain off fat. In a 3-1/2- or 4-quart slow cooker combine Classico® Tomato and Basil pasta sauce, mushrooms, pepperoni, and basil. Stir in the sausage mixture. Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 3 hours. If desired, stir in ripe olives and sweet pepper; cover and cook for 15 minutes more. To serve, spear the dippers with fondue forks and dip into the fondue. Recipe courtesy of allrecipes.com 20 ABOUT | May 2013

PHILLY BUFFALO CHICKEN DIP Original recipe makes 18 servings

1 (8 oz. package PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened 1 (6 oz.) package OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Oven Roasted Chicken Breast Cuts 1/2 c. hot pepper sauce for Buffalo wings 1/4 c. KRAFT Natural Blue Cheese Crumbles 2 green onions, sliced Spread cream cheese onto bottom of microwaveable 9-inch pie plate. Mix chicken and sauce; spoon over cream cheese. Top with blue cheese and onions. Microwave on HIGH 2 min. or until heated through. Serve warm with celery sticks and WHEAT THINS Original Crackers. Recipe courtesy of allrecipes.com

CRUNCHY POTATO CHEESE BALLS Yields: 20 Balls

8 large potatoes, cooked and peeled 1 tsp. salt 1 c. milk 1/2 tsp. onion salt 1/4 c. butter, melted 8 oz. American cheese or 8 ounces cheddar cheese, block 1 c. corn flakes, crushed 1/4 c. utter, melted Mash potatoes with salt, milk, onion salt and 1/4 cup butter. Chill until firm. Cut cheese into 1 inch cubes. Shape mashed potatoes around the cheese cubes into 2 1/2" balls. Roll in corn flake crumbs. Brush with remaining 1/4 cup melted butter and place on slightly-greased cookie sheets. Bake 20 minutes at 350* or until heated through. Recipe courtesy of Food.com

BACON CHEDDAR DIP

1 c. (4 ounces) finely shredded cheddar cheese 1 envelope ranch salad dressing mix 2-4 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, cheddar cheese, salad dressing mix and bacon. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Serve with crackers and/or vegetables. Yield: 2-1/2 cups. Recipe courtesy of tasteofhome.com

LUSCIOUS SLUSH PUNCH

Original recipe makes 50 (4 ounce) servings 2 1/2 c. white sugar 6 c. water 2 (3 oz. packages strawberry flavored Jell-O® mix 1 (46 fluid oz.) can pineapple juice 2/3 c. lemon juice 1 qt. orange juice 2 (2 ltr.) bottles lemon-lime flavored carbonated beverage Bring the sugar, water, and strawberry flavored gelatin to a boil in a large saucepan; boil for 3 minutes. Stir in the pineapple juice, lemon juice, and orange juice. Divide mixture into 2 separate containers and freeze. Combine the contents of 1 container with 1 bottle of the lemonlime flavored carbonated beverage in a punch bowl; stir until slushy. Repeat with remaining portions as needed. Recipe courtesy of allrecipes.com >>

Daddy and Me Recipes STRAWBERRY BRUSCHETTA

4 slice(s) whole-wheat bread 6 T light brown sugar 1 tsp. grated lemon zest 2 tsp. lemon juice 3 c. sliced or diced hulled strawberries 4 T Cream Cheese (Helper) Toast bread in a toaster. Meanwhile, (Daddy) heat a large skillet over high heat. Add sugar, lemon zest and lemon juice and cook, stirring, until the sugar melts and the mixture begins to bubble, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add strawberries and stir until juices begin to exude and the berries are heated through, 30 seconds to 1 minute more. (Helper) Spread 1 tablespoon cream cheese on each piece of toast. Top with the warm berries. Recipe courtesy of delish.com

EASY CHEESY SCRAMBLED EGGS

4 medium eggs 3 T sour cream 1/2c. finely shredded cheddar cheese 2 tsp. butter 1 3 oz. package of real bacon bits 2 T chopped chives or chopped bell pepper (optional) (Daddy) Preheat skillet on medium

heat. (Helper) Crack the eggs into a medium size bowl (daddy be sure to check for stray egg shells in the bowl). (Helper) Wisk eggs with a fork or wire wisk. (Helper) Add sour cream to eggs, wisk again lightly until sour cream is blended. (Helper) Add cheese and bacon bits, lightly wisk again to mix. (Daddy) When skillet is hot add butter,when melted swirl it around in the bottom of skillet to ensure it coats the bottom well. (Daddy) Pour egg mixture into ready skillet. (Helper) Stir eggs with spatula constantly until eggs reach desired consistency. If you want to add the optional ingredients do so during the final minutes of cooking. Now for the fun! Serve and surprise mommy with breakfast in bed!

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APPLE SPICE MEATBALLS

1-1/4 c. bread crumbs 1 med. sweet red pepper, finely chopped 1 med. apple, peeled and finely chopped 2 eggs, lightly beaten 1/2 c. canned pumpkin 1/2 c. ketchup 2 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice 3/4 tsp. pepper 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes 1 lb. ground beef 1 lb. bulk hot Italian sausage

QUICK SPINACH RICOTTA CALIZONES

Original recipe makes 8 servings 1 (11.3 oz.) can refrigerated dinner rolls, at room temperature Cornmeal for rolling 2 T olive oil 1 medium onion, finely chopped 2 (10 oz.) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry 2 large garlic cloves, minced 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg Salt and pepper, to taste 1 c. ricotta cheese 1 c. grated mozzarella cheese 1/4 c. Parmesan cheese Olive oil, for brushing Your favorite marinara-style pasta sauce Separate rolls onto a cornmeal-sprinkled work surface. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest while preparing filling. Heat oil in 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion; saute until tender and golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Add spinach, garlic and nutmeg; saute, breaking up large clumps with a wooden

spoon, until heated through, 2 to 3 minutes. Add salt and pepper. Transfer to a medium bowl; stir in ricotta. Let cool; stir in remaining cheeses. Adjust oven rack to center position and heat oven to 450 degrees. Sprinkling with cornmeal as necessary, roll out each roll into a 7-inch circle. Spoon a scant 1/2 cup of filling just below the center line, leaving a 1-inch border along the bottom half of the dough circle. Spoon filling just below the center line of the circle of dough, leaving a border along the bottom half of the circle. With wet fingertips, moisten the bottom border. Fold dough over filling and press edges together. Thoroughly seal by using fingertips to crimp and flute the edges or by pressing with the tines of a fork. Place on a large cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. (At this point, can be frozen up to 2 weeks.) Brush tops with oil. Bake until golden brown, about 16 minutes (longer if frozen). Let cool slightly and serve with warm marinara sauce. Recipe courtesy of allrecipes.com

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22 ABOUT | May 2013

Homegrown & Homemade Goods

SAUCE: 1 can (14 oz.) whole-berry cranberry sauce 1 jar (12 oz.) apple jelly 3/4 c. ketchup 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes In a large bowl, combine the first 12 ingredients. Crumble beef and sausage over mixture and mix well. Shape into 1-in. balls. Place meatballs on greased racks in shallow baking pans. Bake, uncovered, at 375° for 15-20 minutes or until no longer pink. Drain on paper towels. Meanwhile, in a Dutch oven, combine the sauce ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Gently stir in 6 dozen cooked meatballs and heat through. Yield: 6 dozen plus leftovers. Recipe courtesy of tasteofhome.com

ROTEL CUPS

3 pkgs Filo pastry cups,thawed 1 Can Rotel drained (almost all the way) 1 bag Hormel bacon bits 1 c. shredded Swiss 1 c. mayo Mix the above last four ingredients up real good and scoop evenly into the little cups. Cook at 350 for 15 min. Recipe courtesy of Pintrest

chocolate "glue" on a the top of Reese's and attach a chocolate square. Repeat process for each cap. Cut a few little pieces of Twizzler to make a tassel and trim to size. Attach a "tassel" to each cap with more melted chocolate. Refrigerate or let sit at room temperature to set. One of the simplest, most fun foods to serve for a graduation party! Recipe courtesy of divinedinnerparty.com

FRENCH CREAM FRUIT DIP

MINI GRADUATION CAP CUPCAKES

1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese,softened 1 c. powdered sugar 1 c. heavy whipping cream Prepare 2 dozen cupcakes as directed on 1/4 c. granulated sugar box. When cool, frost with desired frosting 1 lemon, zested and juiced Pineapple juice flavor. (cupcake toppers)

Place Cream Cheese in bowl with powdered sugar and whip. In seperate bowl,whip granulated sugar and heavy whipping cream together until it forms soft peaks. Combine beaten cream cheese, whipped cream, lemon juice and zest; continue to Place your peanut butter cups flat-side- beat, adding just enough pineapple juice to up on a sheet of waxed paper. Spoon your achieve desired consistency. melted chocolate into the tip of a plastic Serve with fresh fruit tray or fruit salad. bag and cut off a tiny corner. This chocolate Recipe courtesy of foodnetwork.com/ n will be your "glue". Spread a small dab of paula-deen

13th Annual Rummage

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To donate items contact Frances Parker at 479-747-3360. All donations are tax deductible.

For more information contact Main Street Russellville at the Depot: 479-967-1437

24 mini Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, unwrapped 24 squares of chocolate (can also use filled chocolate-your choice) 5 Pull and Peel Twizzlers (or as needed) 3 oz. dark chocolate, melted (or as needed)

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A DREAM COME TRUE

Story by Connie Las Schneider | Courtesy Photos

Most girls dream of going to the prom with a handsome prince, but Kaylee Murphy isn’t an ordinary 10 year old. Kaylee has Oculoauricular Dysplasia (OAV) or Goldenhar Syndrome, a congenital birth defect which deforms the face, and in Kaylee’s case, twists the spine.

24 ABOUT | May 2013

Kaylee’s deformities don’t stop her though. Like other fourth graders at Ozark Upper Elementary School, she loves to play at the city pool in the summer. That’s where she met lifeguard Ty Radley, a tall, dark, and handsome Ozark High School senior who gallantly saved her from bullies. Kaylee’s mother, Rachel Graves was so impressed by Ty’s compassionate action she told her boss, who offered Ty an afterschool job at the movie rental store where Rachel works. Months later, Ty was working with Kaylee’s mother when she told him that Kaylee often dreamed of going to a prom, but doubted that she would. “Who’s going to want to take someone with a face like this to the Prom?” Kaylee sadly asked her mother. Ty wanted to help Kaylee, but like many teenage boys, he also disliked proms. “I think proms are highly overrated and stupid so I didn’t attend my girlfriend’s prom. But little Kaylee has so many problems and I wanted to make her happy so I asked her to my prom,” explained Ty.

Unfortunately, Kaylee had a series of major surgeries at a St Louis hospital scheduled around the date of Ty’s high school prom; surgeries that would keep Kaylee in the hospital for at least three months if she survived the ordeal. During a previous operation to remove Kaylee’s tonsils and adenoids, she literally died on the operating table three times. “It was a compressed air way due to the severe curvature of her neck,” explained her mother, who is a single mother of three young girls and also a full time college student. With time running out before Kaylee would be was hospitalized again, Ty decided to throw a Kaylee a “surprise” Prom instead. Ty enlisted the help of other students, borrowed decorations from the high school and Kaylee’s family rented out the fair building for Kaylee’s big night. Meanwhile, Kaylee knew nothing about the prom plans. To keep the prom day surprise, Kaylee’s mother told her they were going to have a “girl’s day” and mother and daughter went shopping for new dresses and were treated to complimentary hairstyles, make-up and nails.

“It’s been amazing how big an impact a 10 year old girl could be on me." Once Kaylee was all dressed up, her mother took her to city hall where the County Sheriff was waiting to give Kaylee a ride in his patrol vehicle. Little did Kaylee know she was heading for the biggest night of her life when the car pulled up at the fairgrounds. Standing on the front steps of the building was Ty, who reached down to ask Kaylee, “Will you go to the Prom with me?” When she agreed, Ty yelled out to the 90 Prom goers hidden inside, “Kaylee said Yes!” and escorted her down a red carpet to a special platform where Kaylee was crowned “Prom Queen”. Kaylee, who is naturally shy, was not happy at first and told Ty, “I’ll get you for this.” However, she was soon dancing and having a wonderful time. In fact, Ty said that she went right back onto the dance floor as soon as she was crowned. Kaylee’s big night lasted almost three hours as she danced and had official prom photos taken with many prom goers. “Regular proms don’t even last that long!” said Ty. “People say I’m Kaylee’s hero, but she’s my hero and inspiration. Jesus loved me first so I am able to love others, said Ty, who is active in the youth group at his church. “It’s been amazing how big an impact a 10 year old girl could be on me. My whole perspective on life has drastically improved. Because of her, I’ve decided to get a BSN (Bachelor of Science Nursing) so I can help people like Kaylee. If Kaylee can get through her suffering with a smile on her face, so can I,” said Ty.

An Emotional Prom Night in Clarksville

According to Kaylee’s mother, this was the best day of her life and while Kaylee was sore from all the dancing, she will have a photo album of prom pictures at the hospital to remind her of that magical day. As it turns out, Kaylee is still awaiting hospitalization. Her surgeries were rescheduled due to insurance liability problems. The first surgery involves a halo of metal rods screwed into her skull for a month of painful full body traction. Next, a trachea will be put in Kaylee’s throat to ease her breathing during the next two major surgeries. The final surgeries will be the most dangerous as her spine will be cut and severed in two places so it can be straightened and rebuilt. If the surgeries are successful, it is hoped Kaylee will be able to live a more normal life. Despite the pain and suffering ahead, Kaylee is anticipating a happy future and told Ty she was looking forward to dancing with him at the pool next summer. A fund to help with Kaylee’s medical expenses and upcoming hospitalization costs has been set up at Simmons First Bank in Ozark. n

Well Done.

High School Proms are usually focused on students getting dressed up and showing off their best moves for their peers, but Clarksville’s recent Prom took an altruistic turn when a very special Prom Queen was crowned. This year’s Prom Queen was Hannah Gibson, a wheel chair bound student with profound learning disabilities. According to Clarksville High School Principal, John Burke, the students started a social media crusade to nominate and vote Hannah the 2013 Prom Queen. “This little girl has been going to Clarksville schools since Kindergarten and all the students love her and try to make her life a little more pleasant,” said Burke. Hannah was escorted by her older brother Michael and twin sister Sarah who in not handicapped. Everyone at the high school participated in making Hannah feel special and the staff took special care of Hannah’s dress, hair and shoes. “This was a school wide project that turned out perfect. Prom King Dedrick Lee, a senior star athlete, was a perfect gentleman. It was an emotional moment for everyone,” said Burke.

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May 2013 | ABOUT 25

about | outdoors

You only get so many

Though it doesn’t happen often enough, I like to get an early start. I want to be awake, coffee mug in hand, before the rooster even thinks about clearing his throat. Just like Tennessee Ernie Ford said in "Shotgun Boogie”; I want to be on that ridge (or on the water, or just sitting in my backyard) before daylight. I don’t have a choice in the matter when it comes to a hunting or fishing trip, I’m usually awake before the alarm goes off. It’s a compulsion and I am helpless in its grip. It’s not my fault. All of you that hunt and fish will understand and all of you that don’t will probably call me a liar. My wife tells me this is a cop-out, a way of excusing my addiction by making myself out to be a victim. Think what you want, fellow outdoor junkies will understand. Sometimes I wake up before the alarm on regular days, days that don’t include a trip to the woods or water. I remember those days, when I woke to see the sunrise, as good days. I think it has to do with watching the world wake up. Summer sunrises in Arkansas are a sultry, steamy orange. The air feels thick and the humidity is so high it wouldn’t surprise you to see a catfish finning his way across the yard. The backyard birds are vocal, but not loud now that the spring courting is done. Deer make use of this coolest time of day to forage. The squirrels might be cutting on some early hickory nuts. If you’re on the water, the shallows are alive with baitfish and the predators that chase them before the simmering heat sends them diving for the depths. Autumn mornings are cool and crisp with the spicy smells of the season. The rising sun illuminates a kaleidoscope of color and the forest glows. Dew drops cling to an abandoned spider web and glisten like jewels in the golden rays. Migrating birds are trading shifts and the calls are softer. Busy preparation is the rule, no time for talk. The waters are nearly frothing with activity as calories are consumed in preparation for winter. The silence of a winter dawn can be deafening. A clear morning following the passage of a polar cold front can make you think that God pushed the mute button. The icy 26 ABOUT | May 2013

air fills your lungs and the sun seems only a pale promise of warmth. The backyard bird feeders are busy, but hushed. The forest is silent until light reaches the leaf-strewn floor and then only subtle stirrings. Nothing stirs in the water. The coldest temperatures occur at sunrise and southern fish aren’t designed for cold weather. Metabolism slows, food is on a slow burn, dormancy is the rule. I love sunrises in every season, each with its own distinct flavor, but if I had to pick just one it would have to be spring. Is there a word to describe a spring sunrise? One word? I can try glorious, breathtaking, resplendent, sublime…nope, I can’t pick just one. I don’t think words do it justice anyway. It’s as though the world is reborn. The birds of every species are nearly deafening as the sun crests the eastern horizon. We think the songs are beautiful, we think the birds sing for joy, but we are wrong. Each note is an invitation to a mate and a threat to a rival. The forest is greening before our eyes as chartreuse overwhelms the gray. Every living stem and leaf competes for those first photons that left the sun eight minutes prior. You can almost see them growing as pastel pink light gives way to amber and gold. The last of the whip-poor-wills bid goodbye and the raucous cawing of crows fill the timber. The warming water has triggered ancient urges as nests are made and eggs are laid in the shallows. And, there’s so much more, but as I mentioned, words are a poor substitute for the experience. There is no substitute for the experience. The thing about sunrises -- as someone other than me once said -- is that you only get so many. That statement applies to everything of course; hugs, kisses, good dogs, root canals, etc. We are all mortal beings running along a finite stretch of time and the only thing we know for sure is where it starts. Looking back, I can’t recall a single time that I’ve regretted getting up early to experience all of this but I can think of a few times that I did regret; the times I denied myself the experience by turning off the alarm and rolling over. You only get so many. I plan to see all that I can. n

www.aviewfromthebackroads.com

Story and photo by Johnny Sain

Eastern Europe to the Black Sea In the midst of March, 2013, Arkansas Tech Travelers visited Eastern Europe to the Black Sea. Some of the travelers did a pretrip to Prague and some did a post trip to Transylvania. All travelers went to Budapest and Kalocsa, Hungary; Vukovar/Osijek, Croatia; Belgrade, Serbia; Vidin, Bulgaria plus Ruse, Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi; and the Black Sea adjoining Constanta, Romania and going on to Bucharest, Romania. Our river boat cruise began in Budapest, and we visited several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. After three days in Budapest, the river boat sailed to Hungary. Travelers visited a Hungarian horse farm, paprika museum, and an old porcelain factory that is still operational. While sailing on the Danube, travelers visited Croatia and had a home-hosted lunch with a Croatian family. Onward toward Belgrade, the capitol of Serbia, many interesting sites were visited such as the Tito Memorial and the Sava Orthodox Cathedral. Discovery series were

given on the boat and the travelers went through the Iron Gates while relaxing on board the river boat. As we traveled the Danube, Vidin, Bulgaria, a very old medieval site was visited. Ruse, Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi, Bulgaria was probably the most interesting seen about Bulgarian history. A Bulgarian meal was served and a good time was had by all. Romania was the last country visited and cities of interest included Constanta, located on the Black Sea, and the capital city of Bucharest. During the capitol city tour, we viewed the Ard de Triomphe, Victory Square, Revolution Square, and the late dictator Ceausescu's Palace of Parliament which is the 2nd largest building in the world. "The trip showed what an impact the Communist had over Eastern Europe and their struggle to maintain and move forward," commented Dana Moseley, Director of Gift Planning and Travel - ATU. n

May 2013 | ABOUT 27

6th Annual Beaux Arts Academy

It was a standing-room only ceremony at the Russellville Country Club as River Valley artists were inducted into the Arts Center Beaux Arts Academy. Those inducted were: 2012 Visual Artist – Winston Taylor Introduced by his daughter, Megan Beard 2012 Performing Artist – Robb McCormick Introduced by Wayne Drain 2012 Patron of the Arts – Dennis Overman Introduced by Mary Clark 2012 Lifetime Award – Bonnie Ring Introduced by James Lee Witt The Beaux Arts Academy awards are dedicated to the advancement of all art forms. The awards recognize excellence in art and honor the deserving, talented artists in the River Valley. The presentation award was a piece designed and created by inductee Winston Taylor. “This is one of the most coveted awards and a most prestigious and memorable annual arts event,” said Steve Newby of Steve Newby Photography. “It was the most meaningful, sincere, genuine evening I have attended. It truly inspired me to be better at my chosen profession.” Executive director of the River Valley Arts Center, Betty LaGrone, was master of ceremonies. Rhythms by Rita provided musical entertainment.

28 ABOUT | May 2013

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Continued from page 19 The touring exhibit is showing in 11 different galleries throughout the state during its year-long tour. Local artist Rachel Trusty has a piece featured in the exhibit along with 36 pieces from other Arkansas artists. Always popular pieces by Winston Taylor and his students will also grace the Gallery. Taylor has taught many students from as far away as Little Rock who have themselves developed into accomplished artists. You are sure to know most of them and enjoy their works of art. This year’s Small Works exhibition was juried by Anne Austin Pearce, professor of art and Director of Greenlease Gallery, Rockhurst University, Kansas City, Missouri. “I was especially impressed by the conceptual depths found in these works, as well as the diversity of the media,” Pearce said. “Although the Pottery Exhibition is not a juried show, it is equally impressive in the quality of the work,” said Betty LaGrone, Arts Center executive director. Refreshments will be served by Amy Whitlow and Lynette Griffin members of the Arts Center Board of Directors and exhibiting ceramic artists. Both exhibits will remain open to the public throughout the month of May from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Fridays. Admission is free and the public is encouraged to attend.

ARVEST AQUIRES BANK OF AMERICA BRANCHES

Arvest Bank announced the acquisition of twenty-nine Bank of America Corporation branches on March 22, 2013. All acquired locations are within or near existing Arvest markets, including two new locations in Russellville. The bank has also taken ownership of the deposit accounts such as checking, savings, IRAs and CDs belonging to households and small business

customers who live in the local area and are serviced at these locations. The transaction does not include credit card, mortgage, brokerage or trust accounts. Arvest will work with associates and customers at each new location to ensure that the process of transitioning accounts is as seamless as possible. Steven Sosebee, community president of Arvest Bank in the River Valley said, “With the acquisition of these locations final, Arvest is focused on building relationships with our new customers. We are committed to meeting the financial service needs of both individuals and businesses as we make this transition and we are excited to begin working with even more customers in our community.”

POPE COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATIONS SUPPORTS LOCAL GARDEN RESEARCH

The McElroy House: Organization for Folklife, Oral History and Community Action was named a recipient of a Giving Tree Grant from the Pope County Community Foundation for its ongoing Garden Book project. The Garden Book Project seeks to explore the diverse stories of smallscale gardeners and growers in the Yell and Pope County areas, focusing on the people behind the gardens and illuminating the power of sustainable living, the need for teaching youth these skills, and the diversity of sustainable growing traditions in the region. Both Pope and Yell Counties have a longstanding tradition of small-scale growing and backyard gardening. This tradition has waned in recent years, but smallscale food production continues to supply food for many residents and is experiencing a revival in small pockets throughout the community. The goal of the Garden Book Project is to not only document the wisdom of this living tradition, but to also encourage a

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larger community conversation about the importance of local growing, the ways in which the community can come together to support the needs of existing small-scale growers, and encourage conversations that can help us organize for the future. The book will be available in print and online and will feature the beautiful images of Russellville photographer Saira Khan. A series of radio pieces will also accompany the book and the McElroy House will be working in partnership with El Zocalo Immigrant Resource Center to offer bi-lingual books and resources. The McElroy House: Organization for Folklife, Oral History, and Community Action is a research and advocacy organization for the support and exploration of folklife, oral history, sustainability, holistic land use, community action, and inter-cultural and inter-generational partnerships in Yell County and the Arkansas River valley. We seek to explore how the past connects to the present and how we can weave this knowledge into a stronger future for everyone; old-timers and newcomers alike. To learn more visit us online at www.mcelroyhouse. wordpress.com or contact Meredith Martin-Moats, McElroy House Director, 479-957-0551, Meredithmartin_moats@ yahoo.com.

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THE ADVENTURES OF STINKY POO THE LITTLE SKUNK

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Century Forward Circle

Arkansas Tech University hosted a public recognition of its Century Forward Circle donors and unveiled an addition to Centennial Plaza in their honor during an on-campus event on Saturday, April 20. Centennial Plaza is the location of a new set of benches and pavers that were created as a permanent monument to the generosity and loyalty of the Century Forward Circle donors. The Century Forward Circle was established following the centennial celebration at Arkansas Tech in 2009. Alumni and friends of the university who gave or pledged $10,000 during the campaign were included in the Century Forward Circle. “The funds generated during the Century Forward Circle campaign will provide earnings to help meet priority needs of the university and continue our campus beautification program,” said Jayne Jones, vice president for development at Arkansas Tech. “The Century Forward Circle marks the first time in the history of our university that we have asked for this level of commitment for an endowment of this type. The enhancements to Centennial Plaza that were celebrated on April 20 provide a fitting tribute to a group of donors that is dedicated to the further growth and development of Arkansas Tech University.” n

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Bizzy Bee Quilts Dr. and Mrs. Robert C. Brown Bill and Milly Chevaillier Ken and Kellie Coker Matt Cooper – Shelter Insurance B.J. and Claire Dunn Feltner’s Athlete’s Corner – Richard Payne Flowers Etc. – Debbie Osborne Forca Martial Arts and Fitness – Brian Wilson Dan and Pam Fouts FFO Home – Jay Peters Grace Manufacturing / Microplane Rick and Jane Harrell Benny and Lavel Harris Dr. and Mrs. Don Hill Robert and Annette Holeyfield Gary and Pam Huggins – Primerica Mr. and Mrs. Harold Humphrey Italian Gardens – Spence Roberts Joe Mack’s Beach Shack – Christi Williams Joshua’s Fine Jewelry Dr. Stephen and Sherry Killingsworth Leaning Willow Leonard’s Hardware – Lucy Carr Dr. and Mrs. Rudolph Massey McDonald’s – Brad Allen Roy and Troylynn McSpadden Tony and Rebecca Moore Mullen Team Sports – Jami Mullen Judy Murphy Omega Solutions Inc. – Russell and Cindra Roberson Ron and Joanne Ownbey Razorback Tanning and More – David and Martha Kralicek Dr. Tommy and Linda Richardson River Valley Martial Arts – Kyle Bennett Robert and Kay Roberts Rose Drug Salon 121 – Lelan Tinker Ray and Michelle Scheide Dr. and Mrs. Hugh Silkensen Bill and Kathy Smith Jamie and Beth Sorrells Steve Newby Photography Gary and Peggy Stratton Winston Taylor Terri Knight Interior Designs Cornerstone – Dennis Harelson The Home Theater Store / Car Stereo Express Tom and Linda Tyler VSPA White Gardenia Designs – Amy Whitlow Wilkins Brothers Outdoors – Mike Wilkins ZimCreative – Chris Zimmerman

CONTRIBUTORS $1-$99 Arkansas Travelers Cash Saver Chamberlyne Country Club – Mitch Tate Chrissy & Company – Chrissy Clayton Gearl and Arneata Cooper Fat Daddy’s BBQ – Gordon and Decie Shirron Fletcher Oil – Robert Woolsey Gifts on Parkway – Cheryl Pledger Bob and Patty Gordon Sara Gordon Tonya Gosnell Pete and Nancy Grant Mr. and Mrs. Griffin Scott and Suzy Griffin Jeffery and Melanie Hale Ms. Tommie Harms – Oak Tree Bistro Al and Donna Harpenau Harp’s Wayne and Lequita Jones Just Dance Inc. – Ashley Miller Davis Susie Kroencke La Huerta Lavish – Bethany Swindell Dr. Doug Lowrey McAlister’s Merle Norman Cosmetics of Russellville – Shelly Kitchens Newton Tire – Charlie Parker Northwest Arkansas Naturals Charles and Marie Robertson LeeRoy and Sharlot Robinson Sue Stallings Tena’s Gymnastics and Cheerleading – Tena Ragsdale The Dandy Lion – Julie Meimerstorf The Jump Place – Heidi Massey The Other Foot & More – Erin Glover Life and Associate members helping with work day lunch Mary Anderson Jennifer Aquilar Cynthia Blanchard Angela Bonds Gaye Croom Leigh Ann George Beverly Hooten Jalia Lingle Linda Richardson Cindra Roberson Gina Skelton Brandi Tripp Tammy Weaver

THANK YOU ALL! May 2013 | ABOUT 33

about | engagements

Save the Date!

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

~ May 4 ~

Alison Parks and Earnest Taylor

~ May 11 ~

~ June 6 ~ Suzanne Burchett and Garrett Glover

~ June 8 ~

Megan McNutt and Bryan Greathouse Angela Bores & Wayne Brown Jessica Meyers and Ben Kloosterman Amanda Hindsman and Steven Hankins Morgan Prince and Daniel Williams Jenny Redfern & Daniel Fish Jill Taylor and Ryan Evans Kara Shirley and Brant Bauman ~ May 18 ~ Sarah Post and Stephen Borengasser Kelsie Austin and Aaron Sims Jennifer Roberts and Justin Young Sawyer, Vantine to Wed Amber Gibson and Brandon Pellham ~ June 15 ~ Susie Parkes & Josh Virden Angel Jamell Sawyer and Tyler Katelynn Moore and Josh McAlister Randy Vantine of Russellville are Aimee Voisin and Landon Sanders

~ June 17 ~

~ May 25 ~

Laura Cotton and Jim Rowland Lacey Platner and Alston Brown Julianna Root and Steve Gebhardt

~ June 1 ~

Muriel Aston and Blayne Schrepfer Stephanie Corbin and Ben Houghton

Kathryn Ramsey and Brian Sammons

~ June 22 ~ Stephanie Ingram and Blake Driver Angel Sawyer & Tyler Vantine Maggie Taylor & Quint (William) Ashburn

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.

Emeritus at Wildflower Choosing assisted living at an Emeritus Senior Living community will actually give your loved one greater independence. You will gain peace of mind knowing that they are nearby in a safe and comfortable senior living community. Call us today to learn more about the benefits of assisted living for your loved one. We will be glad to arrange a private tour experience for you.

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34 ABOUT | May 2013

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happy to announce their engagement and forthcoming marriage. The bride-elect is the daughter of Steve and Kassen Sears of Pottsville, and the late Roland "Chip" Sawyer of Connecticut. She is the granddaughter of Kay and Virginia Jamell of Atkins, and Wendell and Shirlene Sears of Clarksville. Angel graduated from Pottsville High School and is a junior nursing major at Arkansas Tech University. She is currently employed at Umami's restaurant. The prospective groom is the son of Randy and Tracy Vantine of Dover. He is the grandson of Jim and Rebecca Lee of Russellville and Clint and Carol Hill, also of Russellville. Tyler graduated from Dover High School and Arkansas Tech University with a bachelor's degree in business. He is employed by Bryan Mahan Appraisals and also URS Corporation. The wedding is planned for June 22, 2013 at 6:00 p.m. on Mt. Nebo with a reception to follow. The couple is registered at Millyn's in Dardanelle, Wal-Mart and Bed Bath & Beyond.

R E G I O N A L

H E A L T H

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