ABOUT | October 2016 by ABOUT the River Valley Magazine

HO NIKKA

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley October 2016

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

OCTOBER 2016 EDITION

Pg20

Pg10

Pg34

Ho Nikka - The River Valley merman

It was a weird, wet summer. Arkansas summers aren’t supposed to be wet. No one can remember a summer with this much rain. Ever. Weather wasn’t the only strange thing about this summer, though…

16 A Public Service Announcement

20 When the Cemetery Whispers

For some inhabitants of Russellville, life goes on around them with little notice of their existence. They are the voices of the past, these 5,000 souls (plus two dogs) who inhabit Oakland Cemetery.

27 Defining 34 The Master of Luminescence

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

His hands have a mind of their own; they connect with his brain before he has time to think. Every stroke of the brush is a surprise. “I never know what I’m going to paint, I just start painting and whatever comes out, comes out.”

52 The Tarantula’s Worst Nightmare

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A PAGE FROM

The Editor’s Notebook

Local Lore

Creatures and happenings on the periphery of reality always spring to mind as the shadows lengthen in October. It’s the time of year we draw closer to the fire both literally and metaphorically. We yearn for comfort from the chill, from the uncomfortable, from the unexplained, and from the unknown. In this issue of ABOUT, we’ve continued with our October tradition of telling stories about creepy local legends, stories usually whispered in hushed tones accompanied by nervous glances. This is also our second October issue to feature an artist’s interpretation of those legends on the cover as well as an in-depth interview with said artist. It’s sort of a way to get into the mind of the creator, if you will. It’s also a fun way to highlight some of the remarkable talent here in the River Valley. And it’s allowed me the liberties to write about some obscure River Valley folklore. Mark Masters was our pick for this edition and his work speaks for itself. Though I did not write his story, I was able to sit down with Mark during our collaborative effort in this issue, and discovered that besides harboring extraordinary talent and a personable temperament, Mark is an extremely interesting person. Meeting interesting people is just one of the perks enjoyed as editor of ABOUT. Also in this issue is perhaps one of the most intriguing features we’ve ever published. Jeannie Stone goes on a cemetery walk with Stephanie Warwick as Stephanie talks about stories seemingly lost and buried along with the souls of Oakland Cemetery in Russellville. It’s a touch of warmth and perspective from a surprising angle that’s often lacking during this time of year. Folklore and legends play funny tricks on the psyche. I’ve canoed through a flooded Goose Pond in the twilight hours with nary a thought of encountering anything more threatening than a horde of mosquitos. I’ve catfished on the river bank through the darkest hours of a new morning worried only about running out of bait. But as I prowled through Holla Bend in the broad daylight just a few weeks ago, the distinct plopping of footsteps in river water was unsettling. Thick brush and the enormous girth of ancient cottonwoods hid the source of the sounds, but I was certain that something was drawing ever closer and my mind flashed to Mark’s sketches for our story. When I finally made it to the sand bar (a good bit downriver from where I thought the sounds were coming from) and peered upstream, I saw nothing but ripples fading in current… and then maybe just the hint of a shadow under the surface. Johnny Carrol Sain, Editor johnny@aboutrvmag.com

Celebrating a Decade of Character in the Arkansas River Valley A Publication of One14 Productions, Inc Vol. XI, Issue 9 – October 2016

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

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

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS: OCTOBER 2016 October 1 — Fireside Stories at Lake Dardanelle State Park 6 - 7 p.m. Telling stories is a centuries-old tradition created for pleasure, as well as to pass down the history and oral traditions of an area or group of people. Meet a park interpreter at the amphitheater to hear some stories, share some stories, and enjoy the fire light. Bring something to sit on. Admission is free. For more info contact 967-5516. October 8 — Augsburg Fall Fest at Zion Lutheran Church in Augsburg from 10 a.m. 5 p.m. The festival is the primary fund-raising event for its two local outreach mission projects—the Augsburg Food Pantry and the River Valley Christian Clinic. October 8 — Heroes For The Human Race 2016 at the Russellville Junior High School 2000 W Parkway Dr. from 1 - 4 p.m. Fifth annual fundraising 5K to fund all things medical/ultrasound related. Options for runners, walkers, children, and virtual participants. Registration will also be available the day of the race. The race is a 5k open to runners, walkers, families and corporate teams. There is also a 1K superhero race for kids 12 and under (parent can run, too). Capes and tights are optional. For more info contact 967-2255. October 14 — Sunset Cinema: Downtown Date Night at Depot Park in Russellville from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. Admission is $1 per person. For more info contact 968-2530. October 15 — 4th Annual Arkansas Zombie Challenge at Cecil Riley Memorial Walking Trail Hector. Start time is 11 a.m. Complete the challenging obstacle

ABOUT...the River Valley

course 5k while being chased by zombies. Register to be a runner or a zombie. Each runner receives three flags - those who finish with at least one flag will not be “infected.” There will be waves of 75 runners every 15 minutes. There are two waves open with intentions to open more as those fill up. Live music and food. All proceeds benefit abused and neglected children through CASA of the 5th Judicial District, which covers Pope, Johnson and Franklin counties. CASA is a United Way Agency. For more info contact 880-1195. October 21 — Music on the Square in downtown Clarksville. A free event offering musical groups an opportunity to share their talent on the downtown court square in Clarksville. For more info contact 754-2340. October 22 – While being a block party, Pop Up El Paso will be used as a community opinion gathering spot. The Pop Up will be a collaboration with Arkansas Tech University and Miller Boskus Lack Architects, P.A. as a live rendering of what is possible on El Paso Ave. linking downtown Russellville and ATU. Shops, services, parks, food trucks, music, and transportation options will all be demonstrated in a festival atmosphere. By creating a fully functional space for a day, the citizens of Russellville will be able to envision the future of El Paso Ave. The Pop Up will take place from 11am-5pm and will be followed by an al fresco Farm to Fork dinner from 6pm9pm. For more info contact 968-2530” October 29 — Halloween Fun at Petit Jean Rec Hall from 6 - 8 p.m. Celebrate the

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

“spooky season” on Petit Jean Mountain. Family-friendly, nature-focused activities are provided. Costumes are welcome. Admission is free. For more info contact 501-727-5441. October 29 — 9th Annual Harvest of Hope Food Drive for the Conway County Care Center in Morrilton. A full day of activities, entertainment and community awareness. For more info contact Leann Haynes at 5021-354-1239, Raymond Chambers at 501-977-6842, or the Care Center at 501-354-1454. October 31 — Happy Halloween! Please watch out for our little ghosts and goblins roaming the streets.

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OCTOBER 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

Story by JOHNNY CARROL SAIN Illustrations by MARK MASTERS

t was a weird summer. If you were looking for one word to describe it, that word would be wet. Arkansas summers aren’t supposed to be wet. As one River Valley resident said, “You don’t hear any old timers talking about how this is the wettest summer since ’43 or whenever because no one can remember a summer with this much rain. Ever. Weather wasn’t the only strange thing about this summer, though…

OCTOBER 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

“You ever saw a catfish out in the middle of a flooded cow pasture?” asked Lore Folkson.

I had not and answered accordingly. “Well, that’s what it looked like. And it was ginormous, way over 200 pounds and probably closer to 300. And it was colored like a yeller cat [flathead catfish] except it didn’t move like a catfish until it hit the slough.” Folkson rambled on. The wad of Copenhagen bulging from his bottom lip rendered the receiving end of the story a lot of guess work. But through the mumbles and spitting I made out a line of words that demanded a repeat. “Wait, did you say something about arms on that catfish?” I asked. “You meant to say fins, right? A fish that size is sure to have some long pectoral fins.” “Well, they looked like arms,” said Folkson. “I just got a glimpse, though.” Folkson’s encounter happened during one of the deluges of August 2016 along a blackwater finger of Goose Pond, an Arkansas Game a Fish Commission Natural Area between Atkins and Blackwell, that curves around the easternmost 40 acres of Folkson’s leased pasture. The main body of Goose Pond sits less than a quarter mile away. Relentless rain had pushed Goose Pond beyond its normal summer reach and left little dry land for his cattle. Folkson was checking on his herd, during one particularly drenching evening shower, when he noticed motion in the bitterweeds near the slough. “I was shining the Q-beam across the pasture, and then, as I shined it toward the cows, I thought I saw something get up and could’ve sworn I saw arms. Then it hunkered down in a low spot about 50 feet from the creek, and it took me a while to find it with the light. Had a whiskered but weird looking head on it, looked almost like it had shoulders. And then it slithered into the creek like it got caught someplace it wasn’t supposed to be. The only other thing it might have been is a big old mudpuppy (an aquatic salamander). But I ain’t never seen a mudpuppy near that big.” Folkson’s eyewitness account of strange happenings near cypress-crowded Goose Pond are eerily similar to other reports from this summer along Point Remove Creek and the Arkansas River near Morrilton upriver to Russellville. People have reported seeing a large catfish or something like a giant salamander near the water. The creature is said to have glistening olive green to yellowish brown skin, long and agile pectoral fins that resemble arms, whiskers like a catfish and apparently bipedal locomotion.

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

That’s right, gentle reader: Some folks here in the River Valley claim to have seen a two-legged, walking catfish this summer. There is indeed something in the water. Looking for answers, I was lucky to find professional contacts that introduced me to internationally known cryptozoologist Dr. Ellen Piscivore. Piscivore is a former biologist that specialized in native North American fishes, but in recent years she’s turned her attention toward searching for more secretive creatures. The River Valley merman has been on her sonar since a single sighting in 2013 and another in 2014, but 2016 offered three encounters. “It’s because of all the rain,” said Piscivore. Rain is the common denominator. Every sighting of the creature has happened either during or shortly after a soaking shower. “And every sighting was only a short distance from the Goose Pond, Point Remove Creek, or the Arkansas River,” said Piscivore as she pointed to the tattered map on her desk. Red marks checked off the location of sightings along with notes scribbled in graphite regarding time of day and weather conditions. Late evening was the time frame cited for the three sightings, and every one of them was during or just after a rain event. “There is most definitely a pattern,” said Piscivore as she chewed on a pencil eraser. “And it’s a bit disturbing. It harkens back to some Native American legend about a river god, a man-catfish, if you will, that visited villages all along the Arkansas River and even up into the tributaries.” said Piscivore.

Digging through impossible to find records, Piscivore discovered that the Osage, Caddo and Quapaw all spoke of the man-catfish when Hernando De Soto came through what is now Arkansas. “The Osage called the river god ‘Ho Nikka,’ which means ‘Man Fish,’ but they treated it like a deity,” said Piscivore. According to Piscivore, Osage legend says that the Ho Nikka only comes on land during extremely wet periods and only during the warmer months. And then only if there is an imbalance in the circle. According to legend, it seeks to right the wrongs in a brutal manner. Attempted abductions have accompanied the sightings in 2016. Fable Mae’s home sits near the confluence of Point Remove Creek and the Arkansas River. Her unfortunate dog, Elmer, was abducted from an open yard at approximately 11:15 p.m. on a late summer night that saw 1.23 inches of rain fall in the river bottoms south of Morrilton and Atkins. “It was, like, the strangest thing, like that show ‘Stranger Things,’ ” said Mae. “One minute Elmer was, like, yapping his head off and the next thing I know, I hear, like, a yelp — it sounded kind of, like, muffled — and then, like, this big splash from the river. And the dog was, like, gone.” A normal, rational person would lock the door and wait on the light of dawn to check things out. But Fable Mae couldn’t leave well enough alone and courageously walked to the river bank, guided by the silver beam of light from her cell phone, in search of her furry companion. >>

“The Osage called the river god ‘Ho Nikka,’ which means ‘Man Fish,’ but they treated it like a deity.”

OCTOBER 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

What she saw was unexplainable. “It was a catfish, like, I know it was a catfish. But then it stood up on a rock, and, like, it sure enough had legs… I mean, like, it sure looked like legs. And I could, like, see Elmer’s tail sticking out of its mouth,” said Fable Mae. “I thought about trying to video, like, you know something like this would go viral and get all kinds of ‘likes’ on Facebook, but then I, like, thought about poor Elmer.” According to Mae, she then reluctantly put down the phone and grabbed a burly piece of driftwood. With a lucky hurl, a glancing blow to the creature caused it to spit up the confused and utterly terrified canine, and Elmer doggy paddled to shore in record time. Mae said that Elmer has not eaten one frozen fish stick, his former favorite hot-weather treat, since the experience. Luckily, Mae was able to curb her fright and longing for social media fame enough to get a clear mental picture of the beast. And with the help of a sketch artist, Dr. Piscivore finally had an image of just what lurks in the currents and murky depths of our local waterways. The illustrations accompanying this article are the first publication of these images. There is no known scientific classification or even hypothesis as to what it is. Dr. Piscivore said dognapping was commonly part of the Native American legend as well. “A lot of the villages had a kind of dog clean up service, if you will, where the teenage boys would scoop up the poo and throw it the water,” said Piscivore. “Well, coincidentally, or not, it seemed like the Ho Nikka would show up when the villages had a lot of dogs and a lot of dog poo, and a lot a dogs would disappear right around the time of the sightings.” A connection to poo seemed rather far fetched. 14

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

What is there about poo in the waterways that could trigger the return of an ancient being? Could manure from Folkson’s cattle have found its way into Point Remove Creek during the flooding and summoned the creature up from the river? Was the Ho Nikka trying to eat a cow when Folkson’s Q-beam interrupted its nocturnal hunt? How the heck could a 300-pound anything even think about swallowing a full grown cow? Folkson answered some of those questions as he explained that late summer-born calves were in the pasture where he witnessed the fantastic beast. And though Folkson has not lost a calf, he has noticed peculiar markings around some of the calves’ tails and hind quarters. “It looked like they was scraped with 40-grit sandpaper,” said Folkson. Rain and manure still seemed like an odd combination to summon a river god, but one final element crystalized the hypothesis: Canadian geese. The last sighting happened around Old Post Park in Russellville, right beside Army Corp of Engineers Lock and Dam 10. The resident flock of Canadian geese in the park are legendary around the River Valley. They make an awful ruckus when anyone gets too close. They steal lollipops from children. And they poo on an epic scale in the pond/faux stream that serves as a fish viewing area and central attraction of the park. “That goose poo goes into the river right at Lock and Dam 10,” said Piscivore.

“I heard this muffled honking along with splashing and what sounded like someone beating an old rug with a broom...I turned just in time to see what looked like a goose wing slowly sink into the water,”

This piece of the puzzle fit disturbingly well with what local amateur naturalist Allegory Smith witnessed on the sand next to Lock and Dam 10 one damp mid-August evening. “It was a quiet night of midland water snake observation,” said Smith. “Actually, it was too quiet. I had yet to see a single snake, which was odd considering atmospheric conditions were optimal. Anyway, as I stealthily and carefully picked my way across the rocks, I heard this muffled honking along with splashing and what sounded like someone beating an old rug with a broom. So I focused the red filtered beam of my light toward the sound just in time to see what looked like a goose wing slowly sink into the water,” said Smith. After the ripples faded, Smith cautiously eased over to a location near where the alleged goose wing had disappeared into the depths of the river. “There were some weird looking tracks in the sand,” said Smith. “They were nothing like any other animal spoor I’ve ever seen. And I would know. I’ve got a minor degree in biology and watch Animal Planet religiously.” Piscivore believes evidence for why the Ho Nikka has reappeared is clear. I asked her if there were any mentions of human abduction in Osage legend. “None that I could find,” said Piscivore. “It appears that the Osage got the message, if you will, and I wouldn’t worry about it too much anyway. I think the drier weather of late summer has maybe sent the Ho Nikka back to the wherever it came from.” No other sightings of the aquatic monster have been reported as of this writing on September 19. But Piscivore’s parting words of caution echoed through my head as I planned for a few fishing trips this autumn with an eye toward the weather: “Whatever you do,” said Piscivore, “don’t go in the water.” l OCTOBER 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

EVERY DAY LIFE

ABOUT...the River Valley

A Public Service Announcement

Story by SARAH CHENAULT | Illustration by CLIFF THOMAS

OCTOBER BOASTS some of the best weather Arkansas has to offer. The temperatures drop to a balmy 70 degrees and even lower in the crisp autumn evenings. The weekends are packed with football games, corn mazes, and drives through the countryside. One Saturday afternoon, I decided it would be a perfect opportunity to have a picnic and go hiking. I packed the perfect lunch for my son, loaded our bicycles just in case a riding opportunity arose, and headed out to our favorite hiking spot. Along the way Raff chattered about potential Halloween costumes for himself, what he thought I should dress up as, and of people nearby, taking advantage of the fantastic weather. I spread out a thin blanket different ideas for Halloween parties. After nearly 30 minutes of driving, we and started to pull lunch items from our finally reached our destination. Raff jumped rucksack. out of the car, eager to stretch his legs. I “Mom,” Raff said. “That man over there unloaded our rucksacks, already equipped is smoking!” with bottled water and our lunch. I handed I glanced in the direction Raff was rudely Raff’s bag to him, sprayed us with a little bug pointing. spray and sunscreen, and headed toward the “Stop pointing!” I hissed. The man was in a group of other hikers hiking trails. I cherish the time I have with my son in lounging in the grass a few feet away from the outdoors. I love the simplicity of nature where Raff and I were seated. We started and getting to spend one on one time with eating, but I noticed Raff couldn’t take his him in such serene settings is a great change eyes off the man and his tobacco. of pace. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the “Hey!” Raff yelled out. bustle of day to day activities — school, “Raff!” I said. “You need to mind your work, sports. So much time is spent getting own business!” This is something I have kids from one location to the next. I really reminded him of often. However, he paid enjoy hearing about the world through his me no heed. “You know, smoking is very bad for eyes as we traipse through wooded trails. This particular Saturday was exceedingly you!” Raff yelled again. This time the man pleasant. The temperature was perfect and knew exactly who Raff was referring to. the foliage had begun its yearly progression I’m not sure if the man heard exactly from green to a medley of oranges and what Raff had said to him, but he looked yellows. Raff and I had hiked a couple of our way and flashed a smile exposing miles before we reached our intended picnic sparse and rotted teeth. site. I walked toward an area that looked “Wow!” Raff said. “Those are some soft and flat. There were a few other groups great Bubba Teeth!” 16

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

(If you aren’t familiar with such a thing as “Bubba Teeth,” visit any Halloween aisle at just about any store and you will find a horrid selection of fake rotted teeth.) Raff got up and walked the few feet to the man, perhaps to find out where he had purchased those teeth. “Hi, I’m Raff,” he said, extending a hand. The man shook his hand. “It’s nice to meet you, I’m Rob.” When Rob opened his mouth to introduce himself I think Raff had the realization that he was not wearing a set of Bubba Teeth. “Ya know,” Raff said, “smoking ruins your teeth. I think it might be too late for yours, but you should still quit.” “Uh…” Rob looked blankly at Raff. “You’re right. I’m sure I need to quit.” “Yes,” Raff affirmed. “You’ll feel much better if you do.” With that, Raff returned to his spot on the blanket beside me and finished his lunch. I didn’t have the nerve to look back at Rob’s face after the Tobacco Task Force (AKA Raff) got ahold of him. We enjoyed the rest of our afternoon tremendously and, thankfully, didn’t come across another set of Bubba Teeth. l

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

OCTOBER 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

Story by JEANNIE FOWLER-STONE | Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

or some inhabitants of Russellville, life goes on around them with little notice of their existence. They are the voices of the past, these 5,000 souls (plus two dogs) who inhabit the thirty acres known as Oakland Cemetery that sits smack-dab in the middle of town. Built in 1847, the historic resting place was just a quiet background of the community until one self-declared Yankee with a penchant for digging around developed a passion for this silent community and began unearthing secrets — and unknown graves.

Stephanie Warwick, with the assistance of a dedicated cemetery commission, is the person who has breathed life into this sacred place. A legal clerk for City Attorney Trey Smith, Stephanie was gifted the cemetery four months after she started her employment in 2014. “To tell you the truth, I was petrified of cemeteries,” she says, “but I thought that if I needed to do this to keep my job I better learn to like it.” Like it, she does and she shares her mantra. “I always say that how you care for your dead reflects on how you care for your living. If your cemetery is run down and overgrown, then your city is run down and overgrown.” She hastily adds, “In my opinion.” Warwick learned on the fly. She wrote a standard operating manual where there was none and keeps all the forms and policies updated. She has big goals: working on becoming a historic site, creating a database, replacing broken bits here and there and reaching out to families to discuss needed repairs on monuments and stones. “We really can’t touch the monuments and grave stones. Those

are the property of the families,” she says. Warwick might have received a clue about her future career when after a random drawing for a ninth grade career day assignment she and a friend were tasked with shadowing the town mortician. Warwick was scared, but the job included a few perks. “We got to try out the caskets, and that was fun,” she says. But then she encountered the baby caskets. Warwick remembers asking the mortician how he could deal with the babies. “I remember the answer was, ‘there is something heavenly given when you care for the dying, especially the children.’ That has always stuck with me,” she says. Although the majority of souls at Oakland are adults, there are children. Many lived mere months. The Davis family lost four infant children between the years of 1884-1892. Any number of reasons could be cited for such high mortality rates in the community’s early days. Could the mother have been weakened by illness? Could lack of proper nutrition or prenatal care have been the culprit? Warwick feels called to learn these answers and to know the stories. Cemeteries do talk, she assures me as we stroll through Oakland Cemetery. There are clues, and there are enigmas. Suddenly, Warwick falls to the ground, “Here they are!” she exclaims. The stone pieces are half-buried and face down as she scrapes dirt away from the lettering and assembles the headstone. “These are the two children I’ve been looking for.” Willie (deceased in 1878) shares a headstone with his sister Claudia (deceased in 1876).“Oh my God, hello children” Warwick says, a little out of breath. The siblings’ infant brother Charles lies next to them. They are listed as the children of W.C. and J.B. Renfrow. Could the babies be casualties from the Yellow Fever epidemic that hit Arkansas hard during those years? We may never know for sure. >>

OCTOBER 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

We do know these pioneers lived in exceedingly challenging times, particularly for the women. Cultural norms of the day are evident at the Renfrow site. William Cary Renfrow (1845-1922) lies beside his wife. “Back in those days, a woman would leave her home and to honor her husband and his family, she would be buried with his family,” Warwick says. “She was always buried to his left (from the mourner’s perspective), as during a marriage ceremony, because she was believed to have been created from his left rib.” Since around the 1940s, Warwick has noticed a trend for wives to lie to the right of their husbands. Her curiosity is piqued, and she admits, “I want to find out why that is.” There are hints about the past, especially in traditions that sometimes last many generations and others which are unique to a certain timeframe. However, one tradition does not sit well with Warwick. In early American cemeteries the names of women were often omitted. Even if the women were mentioned, their lives were not elaborated upon. The resting place of Lewis W. Davis and his wife are not unusual. On his side of the monument Lewis is described as “a great lawyer, a loyal friend, and a kind father,” but the other side reads only, “Elizabeth, wife of Lewis W. Davis.” It’s as if she had not lived outside of his existence. Warwick is determined to fix that erasure, so when she finds information that enhances brief mentions on the stones she documents it. “I can’t fix the tombstones, but at least I can give them back their names in my records,” she says. “Future genealogists will know who they are.” Many clues point to social practices that no longer exist. The marble tree trunks, for example, are easily recognized by past generations but not so today. From 1890-1900 Woodmen of the World, a fraternal organization open to all men, offered an insurance policy which provided a free monument in the shape of a tree trunk to its members upon death. Membership was especially prevalent in the South. Between 19001920, the company continued to offer the service for a fee of $100 but stopped after the 1920s due to rising costs of the stones. There is etiquette to visiting the cemetery, and Warwick gingerly steps between graves as we talk. “There are areas not platted here, and nothing is in a straight line,” says Warwick. In the oldest part of the cemetery, which will be the area covered in an upcoming interpretive 22

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

tour, the irregular planning, and architectural motifs seem otherworldly. “Some practices go back to the Salem witch trials,” says Warwick, “like encasing the grave.” A crude headstone marks where J.J. Faulconer (1907) rests, and it along with three smaller blank stones protrude from a concrete block surrounded by freshmown grass. “Concrete was hard to get in the early 1900s,” Warwick says, “so what is the significance of this and who do these three blank stones belong to?” Some truths revealed are rock solid, however, and the cemetery certainly delivers for history buffs. There are several mayors, an Oklahoma territorial governor, and Russellville founding fathers Dr. Thomas Russell and Jacob Shinn who built the first store in 1847. “Did you know that the house where the Chamber of Commerce is was the first house built in the city?” Warwick asks. I did not. I was also unaware that Russellville’s first mayor, Joseph Battenfield, (1795 - 1852) ran the first land deed office, an important responsibility in the new territory. In fact, Russellville was a part of a Cherokee reservation between the years 1818-1828. It was not until the Cherokee were removed to a proper Indian Territory in 1828 that the area surrounding and including Russellville became available for settlement. Before it was named for Dr. Russell, the area went by the name Chactas Prairie, and its first white settler was P.C. Holledger. Russellville was incorporated in 1870. From that past, Oakland Cemetery interred its only known Cherokee resident, Evy Hunt. Her husband, William Hunt, is buried in Del City, Oklahoma.

Economic distance between family members is symbolized in the cemetery. Statues, iron fences, and large monuments marking a grave are indicative of money and status, Warwick says. Within the same family, there are those who are buried apart from the others, the craftsmanship of their simple stones in sharp contrast to the more elaborate surroundings a few feet away. If you use all your senses and pay attention, these differences whisper stories, and Warwick is every bit the grave whisperer as she walks in silent communication on this holy ground. The Scott family, one of many prominent families in Oakland Cemetery, rests in an area surrounded by an intricate iron fence. The site is also decorated by one of the loveliest statues in the cemetery. It’s a likeness of the Virgin Mary with an anchor at her feet signifying the saint’s role as protector of sailors, guardian against storms, and as a beacon of safe harbor for those returning home. Patriarch Andrew Horatio Scott, born in 1789, was one of the first Supreme Court judges of Arkansas Territory. He was notorious for twice murdering men in duels. The latter event was unique because he drew a sword from inside his walking cane. The stories of the outcasts, the ne’er-do-wells, and the down-and-outers are often the most telling. There are also cold stories because there are no clues and no family. A widowed sharecropper that raised two boys on her own is one of the cemetery’s residents. She lived until 2014 when Warwick stood with one of the sons for the funeral because the other son was unavailable and there was no one else to pay respects. >>

“There is not a Potter’s Field here, and I would love to be able to form one and accept donations to offer every person the dignity of a funeral.”

OCTOBER 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

The last son died recently. There are other souls who, unfortunately, have no one to care for them except Warwick. She has recently attempted to intervene on behalf of a body that has become a ward of the state. “I asked the funeral home to pass along the information that his grave space was paid for. Even if there is surviving family, sometimes the family doesn’t have the means to claim a person and pay for a funeral,” she says. “I have heard there are cabinets of ashes of those left unclaimed.” The drama of the living carries over into the cemetery. There are no accommodations for those who die penniless. Warwick aspires to address that need. “There is not a Potter’s Field here, and I would love to be able to form one and accept donations to offer every person the dignity of a funeral,” she says. That is one of many hopes she expresses. She is, however, proud of the work she is doing to make sure the veterans are recognized. Oakland is home to 283 war veterans who served this country in conflicts ranging from the War of 1812 to the Persian Gulf War. Warwick is researching whether she has found a WAC (Women’s Army Corps) veteran from the second World War. Most of the veterans are from World War II. Decoration Day is a big deal here. Family includes more than humans in Oakland Cemetery. Two dogs are at perpetual rest here. One is rumored to be a “spoiled French poodle” named Molly Mayes, Warwick says and laughs. The rumor goes that Molly had a “full, human funeral.” Warwick puts on a straight face and says, “She was in a coffin and everything.” But Warwick admits, “Sometimes I have to figure out if it’s a true story or if someone’s yanking my chain.” She has become rather fond of the dog whose site is documented by a small inscribed stone. Mouchee Jenkins has been resting with his family, Richard Luke, Grace, and their infant son Richard Jenkins since the early 1950s. “He has the sweetest little headstone, and I used to think it was such an unusual name for a child,” Warwick says. Employing her sleuthing skills, she found out the facts, and now resident guard dogs Mouchee and Molly have been added to the expanding collection of Oakland stories. 24

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

Every time she visits her adopted family, Warwick finds something unexpected, she says. The Holy Grail is finding someone new. “I’ll find someone out there my records don’t include,” she says, “and that just gives me goosebumps.” Resurrecting stories is not that different than finding lost souls. “Genealogy has really hit big. I’ve probably already received thirty calls so far this year, folks looking for lost family members. I will come out, take a picture, tell them what I know. If we don’t have information, they’ll share and we’ll add that to our documentation,” she says. It’s a connection that people crave. Warwick credits Joy Smolinski, an employee of the city attorney, for her immeasurable support and for serving in the event of Warwick’s absence. Warwick is also grateful for the dedication of the Oakland Cemetery Board Commissioners. Many on the board have spent their entire lives in the area. Those members are the heart of the cemetery and assist her efforts to mine information, she says. “Anna Page Fields is one of the original board commissioners of the cemetery committee, and she is a wealth of knowledge about the area, but they are all a very dedicated crew,” says Warwick. Big plans for the cemetery are on the horizon, including a Memorial Garden Columbarium. Phase one has begun along the north-south property line where a hexagonal columbarium gleams on a newly poured pathway. It is the first of what Warwick hopes will be three. The setting sun catches the tower, and it is easy to imagine the proposed complex in its finished state. Each repository will contain 72 units to house cremation remains. There are also plans for a curved columbarium and either a reflecting pool or peaceful statue. The construction of the garden is long overdue. “It is good for the environment, for the economy, and for spiritual reasons,” says Warwick. She told the committee that over 68 percent of Americans choose cremation. Warwick has also launched an online database that will be accessible to families and genealogists. She will enter GPS coordinates for each soul that will be marked with a virtual flag that,

when clicked, will provide more information and a photo of the soul who rests there. City Attorney Trey Smith is proud of the cemetery work. “Stephanie is doing a wonderful job with the cemetery. The people of Russellville are grateful for her service,” he said. Some of the services make for unexpected situations. Warwick and a tree service crew had been tending to the aftermath of tornadic winds that had uprooted a 61-foot oak tree believed to be around 100 years old. “I had these big guys who were working hard and had really worked up a hunger,” she recalls. The crane company used a cell phone to order up pizza. “I know it must have been pretty weird for the Domino’s people to deliver all that pizza to the cemetery, but hey, you do what you gotta do,” she says. Naturally, the cemetery has transformed over time. “Anna Fields brought me pictures of her and her teenage friends in front of the mausoleum that used to be here,” Warwick says. There was a time when the cemetery was the most beautiful place to visit in the community, and folks would meet there over picnic lunches. A one-armed statue testifies to the aesthetics that drew visitors. “She used to hold a torch with a type of iridescent glass that would catch the light from the sun,” Warwick says. The monument reads “In memory of Mattie, wife of R. S. Bradley. Born Feb. 7, 1874. Died Dec. 29, 1893.” Elegant prose is another aesthetic that graces the monuments. One monument bears the following sentiment: She sleeps in the valley so sweet But her spirit has taken its flight Lo! her form is but dust ‘neath our feet While she is an angel of light.

Oakland Cemetery Board Commission Oakland Cemetery Board Commission meetings meet the third Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in City Hall, The public is always invited. To find out more information about Oakland Cemetery, attend Grave Talks, a free interpretive tour, planned for Sat., Oct. 29, 5:15 p.m. or check out the cemetery website: www.gravediscover.com/oakland-cemetery Information is also available on the city website: www.russellville.org OAKLAND CEMETERY BOARD COMMISSIONERS: GARLAND STEUBER Chairman (City council liaison) Voting member DAVID LEE Vice-Chairman/Voting member MINDY HUDSON Secretary/Voting member ANNA FIELDS Voting member (original Commissioner) ERIC WESTCOTT (City council liaison) Voting member PATRICIA PETRAY Voting member DONNA EUBANKS Voting member REBECCA HOWELL Voting member ORMOND PETERS Ex-Officio Member JIM BOB HUMPHREY Ex-Officio Member BUFORD SMITH (deceased) Emeritus for Life

Asleep in Jesus’ precious thought With peace and life eternal bought He said whose power upholds the sky Believing she shall never die. Over time, Warwick has transformed as well. She is no longer afraid of cemeteries. “There is no reason to be scared. This is our family,” she says, “but there has been a longstanding rule that we don’t allow dogs to lie beside you for eternity.” Of course, many people today also consider their pets as family members, but it seems the word around town is that all dogs go to heaven. l

OCTOBER 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

VALLEY VITTLES

ABOUT...the River Valley

Defining

Photos by LIZ CHRISMAN | Story by JOHNNY CARROL SAIN QUIZNOS | 407 N Arkansas Ave #3, Russellville, AR 72801

“Artisan” is a hackneyed label nowadays. It’s been abused as hipster bait. It’s been slapped on everything from ice (yep, there is such a thing) and candles to beard wax and axes. But we can’t let the masses and clever marketing dilute such powerful verbiage. “Artisan” denotes a touch of soul to the process. You don’t often find artisan products within the confines of a franchise. It’s a model based on the general public’s strong predilection for familiarity. That’s not a bad thing. You’re reasonably certain about what you’re going to get, and what you get here can also be found there. It’s comfortable. But what happens when franchise owners go rogue? Suddenly, all preconceptions about where to find delectable, interesting, and yes, artisan meals require deeper examination. And then the epiphany:

Artisan quality food is not an effort found only in specific locations. It’s a calling of the spirit, and it can manifest itself any place the spirit abides. We found the spirit at Quiznos in the Russellville City Mall. And we found it in an artisan pizza that truly respects the modifier within its name. Our top choice is the Greek. It’s steak and kalamata olives and onions and tomatoes and banana peppers and spinach and greek dressing. And glorious feta cheese. Did I mention the feta cheese? Everything works in toasty concert on a perfect crust, and it’s all because of thoughtful and deliberate planning, the result of an effort to produce something beautiful and delicious. It stands in contrast to the banality of so many foods prepared for the less discriminating diner. It’s a purely artisan creation. l OCTOBER 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

COUNTERTOP CREATIONS

ABOUT...the River Valley

CINNABON COPYCAT ROLLS Rolls: 1 c warm milk 2 eggs, room temperature 1/3 c butter, melted 4½ c bread flour or regular flour (bread flour makes for a lighter cinnamon roll) 1 tsp salt ½ c white sugar 1 pkg yeast (1/4 oz, not instant yeast)

The most sincere form of flattery Story by LYDIA ZIMMERMAN, Food Editor

ctober is a month of celebrations such as Oktoberfest, fall festivals, and the most important according to children — Halloween. As a child, I remember spending the weeks leading up to Halloween trying to decide on the perfect costume. Kids still do this today. Often they decide to dress as a popular super hero, princess or current celebrity. Most parents agree that watching a child imitate their costume choice is better than if you actually met a real princess or super hero. Seeing the gleam in their eyes and the smiles on their faces as they imitate Superman “flying” around the room saving everyone from a falling building or as the princess who saves the kingdom from the evil queen then marries the prince is priceless. In the spirit of imitation as the most sincere form of flattery, I’ve compiled some wonderful copycat recipes from some of our favorite restaurants that are so good you may have to guess which is the homemade dish. Of course, since it’s fall, I included some soup recipes a well. As always, enjoy! 28

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

Filling: 1 c brown sugar, packed 2½ T ground cinnamon 1/3 c butter, softened Icing: 3 oz cream cheese, softened ¼ c (4T) butter, softened 1½ c confectioners’ sugar ½ tsp vanilla extract ⅛ tsp salt Microwave milk for 45-60 seconds in the microwave. Dissolve yeast in warm milk in a large bowl. Add sugar, butter, salt, eggs, and flour. Mix well. Knead dough into a large ball, using your hands dusted lightly with flour. Put in a bowl sprayed with cooking spray and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place about 1 hour or until dough has doubled in size. In a small bowl, thoroughly combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Spray surface with cooking spray or sprinkle flour on it. Roll dough into a 16x21 inch rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread dough with 1/3 cup softened butter and sprinkle evenly with sugar/cinnamon mixture. Roll up dough starting with the longer side and cut into 12 large rolls (or 18 smaller rolls). Place rolls in a lightly greased 9x13 inch glass baking dish (or you may need 2 dishes if you make smaller ones). Cover and let rise until nearly doubled, about 30-60 minutes. If making the night before I let them rise covered with a dish towel on the counter overnight. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake rolls in preheated oven until golden brown, about 18-20 minutes. While rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, butter, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract and salt. Spread half the frosting on them while they are still warm so that the frosting melts into the roll and the other half after they’ve sat for a couple of minutes. That’s what the Cinnabon people do (I asked them). Makes 12-18 rolls. Recipe courtesy of the-girl-who-ate-everything.com

PANERA COPYCAT BROCCOLI CHEESE SOUP 1 T melted butter ½ medium chopped onion ¼ c melted butter ¼ c flour 2 c half-and-half cream 2 c chicken stock ½ lb fresh broccoli (about 1 cup) 1 c carrot, julienned ¼ tsp nutmeg 8 oz grated sharp cheddar cheese salt and pepper to taste Saute the onion in 1 T melted butter and set aside. In a large pot whisk together the melted butter and flour over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes. Slowly whisk in the half and half and chicken stock. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Add the broccoli, carrots, and onions. Let them simmer on medium low for about 25 minutes until the broccoli and carrots are tender. Add nutmeg, salt and pepper and sharp cheddar cheese. Let the cheese melt and then serve. For a smoother soup puree it in a blender... but I love the chunks! Recipe courtesy of therecipecritic.com

CHEDDARS COPYCAT MONTE CRISTO SANDWICH Smoked Ham 4 slices of sliced bread 4 slices of smoked turkey 4 slices of ham 2 slices of American cheese 2 slices of Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese Prepared pancake batter (enough for six pancakes) Powdered Sugar cooking oil for frying Make the sandwiches ahead of time. Make two sandwiches with 2 slices of smoked turkey, 2 slices of ham, and one slice of American cheese, and one

slice of Monterey jack cheese. Wrap the sandwiches individually snuggly with plastic wrap. Place the sandwich in the refrigerator for at least one hour. You may want to do this overnight. Preheat oil to about 320 degrees. Use you favorite pancake batter, make enough batter to prepare about six 4-inch pancakes. Gently unwrap the sandwiches and dip into the batter. Place the battered sandwich in hot oil and cook until golden. If you need to be sure to flip the sandwich over so both sides brown evenly. Place the sandwich on a wire rack to drain. Allow the sandwich to rest for about 1 minute, then cut the sandwich, and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Recipe courtesy of copykat.com >>

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OLIVE GARDEN COPYCAT SPINACH ARTICHOKE DIP 8 oz cream cheese 14 oz Artichoke Hearts, drained, coarsely chopped 1/2 c Spinach frozen chopped, or steamed 1/4 c Mayonnaise, not Miracle Whip (may opt to use fat free sour cream for less fat) 1/4 c Parmesan cheese 1/4 c Romano or Parmesan cheese 1 clove garlic, finely minced 1/2 tsp dried basil OR 1 T Basil Fresh 1/4 c Mozzarella Cheese grated 1/4 tsp garlic salt salt and pepper, to taste Allow cream cheese to come to room temperature. Cream together mayonnaise (or sour cream), Parmesan, Romano cheese, Mozzarella, garlic, basil, and garlic salt. Mix well. Add the artichoke hearts and spinach (careful to drain this well), and mix until blended. Store in a container until you are ready to use. Spray pie pan with Pam, pour in dip, and top with cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until the top is browned. Serve with toasted bread. Recipe courtesy of sixsisterstuff.com PARADISE BAKERY COPYCAT FIRE ROASTED TOMATO SOUP ½ large onion, finely diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1-2 T olive oil 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes 2 (14.5 oz) cans fire roasted tomatoes 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

1 (6 oz) can tomato paste 2 c water 2 c chicken broth 1 tsp salt ¼ tsp pepper 1 c heavy cream, milk will work too In a large pot, saute onion in olive oil until almost translucent. Add garlic and sauté a couple minutes longer. Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, water and chicken broth to pot. Stir to combine and until it reaches a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 30 minutes. After it has boiled for 30 minutes, puree soup as necessary to reach desired constancy. Add salt, pepper and cream to pot with tomato soup and simmer for 10 additional minutes. To serve, drizzle with sour cream and top with tortilla chip strips. Recipe courtesy of chef-in-training.com

CHUY’S COPYCAT CREAMY TOMATILLO JALAPENO RANCH DIP 1 (16 oz) container sour cream or greek yogurt 2 (1 oz) packages ranch dressing mix 1/3 c Herdez Tomatillo Verde Mexican Cooking Sauce (found at Walmart) ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped ½ can chopped jalapeños, or 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped (or for more heat leave in the seeds) 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons) 1-1/2 tsp lime juice Place the Herdez Tomatillo Verde Cooking sauce, cilantro, garlic and jalapeños in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and set aside. Add the sour cream and ranch dressing mix and pulse until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate for about two hours to allow for the flavor to develop. Recipe courtesy of flavormosaic.com

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

OLIVE GARDEN COPYCAT ZUPPA TOSCANA 4 slices bacon, diced 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casing removed 1 T olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 onion, diced 4 c chicken broth 3 russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 3 c baby spinach 1 1/2 c heavy cream Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add bacon and cook until brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate; set aside. Add Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes, making sure to crumble the sausage as it cooks; drain excess fat and set aside. Heat olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, and cook, stirring frequently, until onions have become translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add potatoes

GET THE

and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in sausage and spinach until spinach begins to wilt, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in heavy cream until heated through, about 1 minute; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with bacon. Recipe courtesy of damndelicious.net CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN COPYCAT BUTTER CAKE 1/2 Stick Unsalted Butter, Softened 1/3 c + 1/4 c Sugar 1 3/4 c Cake Flour 1 1/2 tsp Baking Powder 1/2 tsp salt 1 1/2 Sticks Unsalted Butter, Softened 1 c Sugar 1 Whole Egg and 1 Large Egg Yolk + 1 Egg 1 1/2 tsp + 1/4 tsp Vanilla Extract 3/4 c Whole Milk 1 – 8 oz Package Cream Cheese Heat oven to 375. Line a 9 Inch Springform Pan with parchment paper, clipping side onto the base after the paper. Trim excess.

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Rub the first 1/2 stick of softened butter on the bottom and sides of the pan, leaving a thicker layer on the bottom, as evenly as you can. Pour 1/3 cup sugar into the buttered pan, swirl it around to lightly coat the sides and leave a heavier, even coating on the bottom of the pan. Set aside. Whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt. With and electric mixer or in the bowl of a standing mix, beat the remaining 1 and 1/2 C butter and 1 cup of sugar until pale and fluffy (5 minutes). Add egg and yolk and vanilla, beat until combined. At a low speed, add flour mix and milk alternately until just combined. Spread batter evenly in prepared pan. Combine the cream cheese with the remaining 1/4 cup sugar, egg and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla. Mix well with a blender. Gently spread over the top of the cake batter. Bake 45-50 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick or fork comes out clean. Cool cake in pan 10 minutes. Remove parchment paper and let cool. Recipe courtesy of homemadecravings. com >>

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OCTOBER 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

COPYCAT RED LOBSTER CHOCOLATE LAVA CAKES Serves 6 Nonstick cooking spray 6 (1 oz) squares semisweet chocolate, coarsely chopped 10 T unsalted butter or margarine, at room temperature 1/2 c granulated sugar 1/2 c flour 3 T unsweetened cocoa powder 3/4 tsp baking powder 3 large eggs, at room temperature 1 (10 oz) package frozen raspberries thawed, puréed in blender Fresh raspberries, optional 1/2 c heavy cream, softly beaten Fresh mint sprigs, optional Confectioners’ sugar for dusting, optional

CHEESECAKE FACTORY COPYCAT WHITE CHICKEN CHILI 2T vegetable oil 3 chicken breasts or 4 chicken thighs 1/2 large sweet onion, chopped 1 red bell pepper, chopped salt and pepper to season 2 tsp chili powder 2 tsp cumin 2 tsp garlic powder 2 tsp onion powder 1 7 oz can Salsa Verde 1 15.5 oz can of Navy beans 1 15.5 oz can of Red Kidney beans 11 oz can of White Shoepeg corn 1/4 c all purpose flour 1/4 c half and half 16 fl. oz organic chicken broth 2 T sour cream Chopped green onions to top Cheddar cheese to top

Spray inside 6 individual soufflé dishes or custard cups with nonstick cooking spray; set aside. In small heavy saucepan over low heat, melt chocolate, stirring until smooth. Add butter and sugar; stir until melted.Pour chocolate mixture into large bowl. In small bowl, mix together flour, cocoa, and baking powder. With electric mixer at medium-high speed, beat chocolate mixture; add eggs and flour mixture; beat about 6 minutes until thickened. Divide mixture evenly among prepared dishes; cover with plastic wrap. Freeze at least 2 hours or overnight. Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Remove and discard plastic from frozen cakes. Bake 15 to 18 minutes, until edges are set and center is moist. Cool cakes slightly before inverting onto serving platters. Recipe courtesy of redlobsterathome.blogspot.com

Dice the chicken into 1″ cubes. Chop the onion and red bell pepper into small pieces. Mix the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder

and onion powder together in a small bowl. In a large French oven or soup pot, heat the vegetable oil on medium high heat. When the oil is hot, add chicken to the pot and stir immediately so it won’t stick. Season liberally with salt and pepper. Allow the chicken to brown. When there are nice caramelization marks on the chicken pieces, add the spice mix to the chicken and stir to distribute. When the chicken is cooked through, remove to a bowl and set aside. There should still be some oil and chicken juices in the pan, but if not, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Add onion and bell pepper to the pan and allow to sweat down to a medium brown on the onions, when they’re translucent and beginning to caramelize as well. The red pepper should also have a little browning on it. Add the chicken back to the pan, then add the flour and stir to evenly coat all the ingredients. Add the Salsa Verde, beans, and corn to the pot. Stir. Add the half and half and organic chicken broth to the pan and stir. Add sour

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

cream. Lower the heat to a low medium and stir the chili. As the chili heats through, it should begin to thicken. If the chili doesn’t thicken as much as you would like, make a cornstarch slurry to thicken further. Serve with chopped green onions, more sour cream and cheddar cheese for topping. Fabulous served over white or brown rice, the way the Cheesecake Factory serves it. Recipe courtesy of bluebonnetbaker.com HOMEMADE OLIVE GARDEN BREADSTICK 1½ c warm water 1 packet active dry yeast 2 T sugar 3½ c all purpose flour, add more or less as needed 2 T unsalted butter, melted 1 T salt BUTTER TOPPING ½ c butter 2 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp salt In a large bowl, dissolve sugar and yeast in warm water and allow to sit for 10 minutes to activate yeast. Add flour, salt and melted butter to yeast mixture. Mix with paddle attachment of stand mixer or wooden spoon until fully combined. Knead dough for a few minutes just until dough is smooth in consistency. Do not overknead! Spray a cookie sheet with cooking spray. Pull off pieces of dough and roll out into strips. Cover the dough with a light towel and let sit in a warm place for 45 minutes to an hour to allow dough to rest and rise. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Once oven has preheated, place the cookie sheet in oven and bake breadsticks for 6-7 minutes. While breadsticks are cooking, microwave ½ cup butter, 2 teaspoons garlic powder and 1 teaspoon salt. After bread sticks have cooked for 6 or 7 minutes, brush the bread sticks with half the butter mixture. Then continue to bake for 5-8 more minutes. After removing breadsticks from oven, immediately brush the other half of the butter on the sticks. Allow to cool for a few minutes before eating. Recipe courtesy of chef-in-training.com l

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He starts by cutting a 2x4 board, sanding away the imperfections. On go the primer and layers of vibrant base colors. His hands have a mind of their own; they connect with his brain before he has time to think. Every stroke of the brush is a surprise. "I never know what I'm going to paint,” he said, laughing. “I just start painting and whatever comes out, comes out. I'm just as surprised as anyone else when I'm done.”

OCTOBER 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

His name is Mark Masters.

A 50-year-old father of two, Mark said right now he works to support his art. His son and daughter followed suit and draw and paint, respectively. Art has been in the Masters’ blood “since the beginning of time.” Mark’s grandfather told him that their last name dates back to the master craftsmen and artists of the king’s court. Much different than his family’s landscapes and comics, Mark describes his work as “figurative expressionism.” Mark currently works at a local pawn shop in Russellville. He said his “doodles” keep him sane when he deals with difficult people and situations. "Sometimes I get so angry that I go over to the counter, pull out a piece of paper and draw something real quick so I don't pull my hair out,” he said. Mark said that he creates better when he’s angry or stressed. He hangs up his mini-masterpieces at the pawn shop, and people ask him if he’s a tattoo artist. Though his work has been turned into tattoos, he said that he is not. Mark deals with mainly acrylic paints, but he sometimes carves sculptures as well. He digs up his own clay in Russellville, then sifts and refines it. He called the process a learning experience and something that he doesn’t do often due to the amount of time and space involved. With Mark’s intense colors popping out from his work, it’s hard to believe that he once did his drawings in only black and white. He said his art teacher in high school, Max Hines, would get frustrated that he wouldn’t use color to express himself. "I kind of fought what they taught me there,” Mark said. “They were more into teaching technique and I'm more about the creation process." Mark’s biggest inspiration growing up was his father’s work and his mother’s support. Later his best friend Jeff Stewart’s colorful art inspired him to paint.

"I love Van Gogh’s use of color and how thickly he applied his paint and how motivated he was. He drove himself mad with it, but you had to admire him!” 36

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

Though Mark has lived in Russellville for the majority of his life, he almost left for a more art-friendly city in the early 2000s. The only artists he knew in the area, other than family, was Jeff and Max. He said it was maddening. He considered moving to Fayetteville, Hot Springs, Eureka Springs or even Colorado. To his luck, Russellville has changed a lot in the past 10 years. Mark claimed that the Art Walk, a quarterly arts festival in downtown Russellville, changed the face of the town. Artists from all around Arkansas come to the Art Walk to showcase their work. Mark has had a chance to meet and talk to many artists.

"Most artists are outsiders; nobody understands them,” Mark said. “Most people think they're lazy hippies. But we're getting a better understanding around here now. The cool part about the artists here is nearly every one of them is super nice, not uppity or anything. They like to talk to you and get to know you.” Mark said living in a family full of artists was inspirational, especially his father. He mainly drew with colored pencils and pastels, but even drew classic monsters like Frankenstein and mummies. He eventually started drawing wildlife and then entered a county fair and won grand prize.

Mark said that his father is the reason his art is so different from his family’s. As a kid, he got Mark hooked on comic books. Mark said he had over a thousand. He enjoyed a variety of comics, including Avengers, Justice League and horror. His father was interested in sci-fi, so Mark watched TV shows and movies with him. "It shifted my artwork away from wildlife,” he said. “I got more character driven, and it made my stuff a little darker." His class with Max Hines was the only art class he has ever taken. Max and Jeff introduced him to Picasso and Van Gogh. Mark was inspired by the two “trail-blazers.” >> OCTOBER 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

"Most artists are outsiders; nob people think they're lazy hippi understanding around here no artists here is nearly every one of or anything. They like to talk t

"I love Van Gogh’s use of color and how thickly he applied his paint and how motivated he was. He drove himself mad with it, but you had to admire him,” he said with a laugh. “And Picasso wasn’t afraid to do anything. Usually when his style got big, he switched to another one and he wasn't scared at all." Clive Barker — fantasy and horror writer, film director and artist — really brought Mark to the figurative expressionism he paints today with Barker’s films, Hell Raiser and Nightbreed. In his movies, the monsters were the good guys and the humans were the bad guys. "I could really relate to that,” Mark said. “I don't like the way that people treat animals and the environment. I feel like a lot of the time man is the bad guy." After he watched Barker’s films, he started reading his books. He was interested in Barker’s writing before he knew he was also an artist. It wasn’t until after Mark started painting in color that he discovered Barker’s If he’s not, it could take up to four months. artwork; he realized that their work was Mark describes himself as a perfectionist. If he similar. doesn’t like the way his piece is going, he paints With the popularity of the internet came over top of it and starts new. a new experience for Mark. The first time “I’m my own worst critic,” he said. “Some of he posted a photo of his work online he sat my paintings have three or four paintings under staring at the screen for over an hour almost them. It’d be interesting to see an x-ray of some too scared to hit the submit button. of them.” “Whenever I first started showing my One of his happiest accidents and more work, I felt like I was opening my chest and inspired pieces happened on a stormy night. handing everybody darts and telling them to Mark was mounting a drawing onto a board, but throw them at me,” he said. it started bubbling. He decided to sand over it Mark’s art has gained attention from more to see if it would help. Anywhere there was a than just the “tattoo crowd,” as he calls them. wrinkle looked like lightning flowing over it. He said it’s the people he thinks won’t like Right as he was noticing this, lightning struck his work that love his work he most. They his neighbor’s house. will come up and talk to him for 45 minutes Mark’s favorite work so far, and coincidentally about his art. one of his most popular, is The Last Supper, which Those people surprise Mark. Painting is has to do with franchising and the commercialism his outlet. He said when he stops painting, it of modern day religion. He said it was hard to put affects him physically. Since it’s his outlet, into words and that the painting was unintentional. he creates what he wants to create and isn’t a "It kind of popped out of me,” he said. “I didn't people pleaser. know what was going on.” “Don’t ever paint to please your audience,” Taking after his dad, Mark used to paint he said. “Please yourself and then the landscapes. One day, he was painting at Lake audience will come to you.” Dardanelle, capturing the lake and the nuclear He gets quite a response from his artwork. plant behind it. Mark said the reason he doesn’t But according to Mark, “a bad response is better than no response.” One of his favorite interactions from his artwork was a negative one from a lady at the Art Walk. She looked disgruntled at his setup and, not knowing who he was, Mark asked her what she thought of it. She described his work as “horrifying, luminescent vomit.” He said it made his day. When he’s inspired, Mark said he can finish one of his standard 2x4 paintings in one week.

“Don’t ever paint to please your audience. Please yourself and then the audience will come to you.”

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

body understands them and ies. But we're getting a better ow. The cool part about the them is super nice, not uppity to you and get to know you.”

paint in public anymore is because he dislikes when people watch him paint. If people drive by and see him painting they will stop and ask him questions. During this visit, a young boy came riding up on his bike and stopped to watch. Mark nearly put his supplies away to leave, but decided to stay. Twenty minutes went by without a word. The boy spoke up and said Mark’s work reminded him of a mixture of Picasso and Van Gogh, two of Mark’s favorite artists. “I shook that kids hand and said thank you so much,” Mark said, enthusiastically. “I never saw him again, but I’ll always remember him.” Mark said he hopes to be able to paint full time in the future, which would make him the first in his family. "I would like to get to the point where I can support myself with my artwork and still have enough money to travel,” he said. “Not necessarily very far away, but I'd like to finally go to Colorado and do some paintings. I don't want to be rich or anything, just self-sustaining and happy." Mark said that he has only kept three or four of his pieces and has sold the rest. Some of his pieces have gone to houses around the nation. “I wish I could put trackers on all my paintings to see where they go,” he said. The average cost of Mark’s pieces is $300-500. View his work online at www. arum1966.deviantart.com/gallery and www.facebook.com/MarkMastersArt/. l OCTOBER 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

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coloring time at 2 p.m., and Spanish karaoke at the depot stage at 4 p.m. performed by Angela Sergent’s Spanish students at RHS. A raffle for a gift basket of spa services and products valued at $200 donated by Faces and information will be available at the booth. Traveling Arts Fiesta is a nonprofit organization based in Russellville that works to deliver public fiestas in Arkansas communities that celebrate diversity through arts and build bridges of tolerance. Future fiestas include a fiesta on the Fayetteville Square Nov. 5th and a fiesta at ATU on Nov. 16th. Board members will also be selling raffle tickets at the Fall Fest

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Oakland Cemetery. The route is .8 miles and will be led by a police escort. “Grave Talks,” the final event, will begin at the East 8th St. iron gate of Oakland Cemetery. Group tours will visit some of the most interesting sites in the oldest part of the cemetery. Actors from ATU and the community will enhance stories told by tour guides. Actors will be directed by Dr. Ardith Morris. The stories and tour guides are courtesy of Oakland Cemetery Board of Commissioners. Other activities offered at the Traveling Arts Fiesta booth that day include mural making in chalk led by master muralist Alan Rodriguez from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.,

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Traveling Arts Fiesta will present the city’s first Dia de los Muertos parade and afterward, with the Oakland Cemetery Board, they will present Grave Talks on Sat., Oct. 29th beginning at 4:30 p.m. Other festivities are planned throughout the day in conjunction with the Downtown Russellville Fall Fest and Chili Cook-Off. The public is invited to all events. There is no charge. Mariachi Sinfonia will lead the Dia de los Muertos parade and will make their appearance at the Traveling Arts Fiesta booth located at 307 West C Street during Downtown Fall Fest at 4:15 p.m. Those who wish to participate in the Dia de los Muertos parade are encouraged to dress the part. Mariachi Sinfonia is made up of three band students from ATU: Dalton Snow, Andy Sinay, and Armando Guttierrez. The parade will end at

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booth for a benefit raffle that will award eight pieces of original art works to be drawn at the Christmas Art Walk on Dec. 2nd. For more information about Traveling Arts Fiesta or to make a donation, please like the Facebook page, visit the website www.TheLatinoArtsProject.com/ traveling-arts-fiesta or call (479) 747-0210. To see the works of art that will be raffled off, please visit A Conversation Piece, 312 W. 2nd St. or Gallery 307, 307 W. C St., both in Russellville.

FAMILY FUN FOR FAMILY CAUSES ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH TO HOST ITS NINTH ANNUAL AUGSBURG FALL FEST

On Saturday, October 8, Zion Lutheran Church in Augsburg, Arkansas, will host its annual Augsburg Fall Fest. The festival is the primary fund-raising event for its two local outreach mission projects—the Augsburg Food Pantry and the River Valley Christian Clinic. The festival is a German-heritage festival held on the 40-acre property purchased by early German settlers to build the church in 1883. The church is located nine miles north of London at the intersection of Highway 333 and Augsburg Road and 8 miles northwest of Dover, Arkansas. The festival features arts and crafts booths, silent auction, cake walk, petting zoo, an aquarium exhibit from the

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission containing native fish species, an exhibit from the Arkansas Farm Bureau that allows children to milk a life-size mechanical cow and churn the milk into butter, a raffle for a side of grain-fed beef, cow patty drop, farm equipment display, bingo, free games for children, all-day musical entertainment and, of course, wonderful German food. The admission to the festival is free. Last year the festival raised almost $18,000. One of the local outreach missions of Zion Lutheran Church is the River Valley Christian Clinic, a full-service clinic in

Dardanelle, Arkansas, which provides free medical, dental, and eye care to those who can’t afford these services. This clinic opened its doors in 2007 and depends solely on contributions from the sevencounty area which it serves. To date, Zion Lutheran Church has contributed over $64,000 to the clinic, primarily through proceeds from our Augsburg Fall Fest. The other local outreach mission is the Augsburg Food Pantry, run by the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League at Zion. The Augsburg Food Pantry has been in operation since 1995 and is providing food for 500 to 600 people each month. >>

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Last year, it distributed over 81,000 pounds of food to senior citizens who often have to choose between buying their life-sustaining medicine or buying groceries; disabled people, many of whom are trying to support not only themselves but children and grandchildren as well; and others who are temporarily out of work and down on their luck. The church will be breaking ground in about two weeks for a new multipurpose building to provide warehouse and refrigeration storage for the Augsburg Food Pantry and a community room containing a full-service kitchen and dining area for use by the rural community. At present, the food pantry cannot store large quantities of frozen or refrigerated foods due to lack of adequate refrigeration space. Not only will this building provide much needed refrigeration area, but it will also serve as a place for wedding receptions, funeral dinners, family reunions, and other community functions as well as temporary housing for people in the case of emergency such as fire, tornado, or flood. Many people who come to the food pantry for help are in need not only of food but also knowledge of how to prepare nutritious meals from inexpensive ingredients. This building will provide the needed space to offer this instruction to the people who come to the food pantry. This small rural church of about 100 members has raised over $100,000 toward this building project through its various fund-raisers, the sale of timber from the 40-acre property, and bequests from friends of the church and has stepped

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

out on faith to construct the building for use by the community. God has richly blessed this congregation in its outreach mission efforts, and the members feel confident that fund-raising efforts in the future will meet the additional costs of the construction of this building. Everyone is cordially invited to come to Augsburg Fall Fest on Saturday, October 8, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a day of family fun for family causes.

EIGHT WINNERS TO RECEIVE ORIGINAL ART WROKS

The painters of Lori’s Loft at Gallery 307 in Russellville have teamed up with Traveling Arts Fiesta, Inc. to offer original artwork to eight lucky winners at the Downtown Christmas Art Walk scheduled for Dec. 2. The raffle tickets are available at two locations: Gallery 307 (307 W. C St.) and A Conversation Piece (3112 W. 2nd St.), and the prizes are available at both locations. Traveling Arts Fiesta, a nonprofit organization working with communities interested in celebrating diversity and building bridges of tolerance through the arts, will debut at Fall Fest with a Dia de los Muertos themed mural event, and a parade led by a Mariachi Band to Oakland Cemetery, where actors will deliver Grave Talks, an interpretive tour of some of the significant residents. There is no cost to participate in the creating of the mural, the participation in the parade, or the Grave Talks. The parade is set to start at 4:30 p.m. and the cemetery tour will begin at 5:30 p.m. Raffle tickets cost $2 each or 3 for $5. Donating artists are Debbie

Santa Knows Naughty by Jeannie Stone, oil, 30” x 40”

Frame Weibler, Brenda Goodman, Carol Watson, Bonnie Haines, Jeannie Stone, Mark Masters, Paula Steele and one winner will receive a gift certificate in the amount of $100 toward a Rita Goodman art piece. The Downtown Russellville Christmas Art Walk is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 2, and runs from 6 - 9 p.m. The winners will be drawn at 8:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased by phone. For more information contact Jeanie Stone at 479-747-0210.

HARVEST OF HOPE FOOD DRIVE 2016

Fall in Conway County means a variety of things: football, volleyball, and the county fair among just a few. But one activity cannot be overlooked -- The 9th Annual Harvest of

Hope Food Drive for the Conway County Care Center. Since 1988, the fall food drive has been held in conjunction with all the above-mentioned activities. The last couple of years, the Care Center has had record donations during the Food Drive and “Fill the Truck” event. And though these efforts have been appreciated, the Care Center is overwhelmed with requests for food and other assistance, and is working hard to keep up with the increased needs of the community. Demand for food and assistance is at an alltime high. Food purchased from monetary donations is approaching over $3000 per month. This is an increase of approximately $400 per month over last year at this time Summertime has been especially busy this year. This amount does not include the shortterm assistance provided to people in special, extreme circumstances. The Conway County Care Center was established in 1988 when several churches and organizations collaborated to pool resources and craft a central hub for all donations and distribution. They realized that no one church or organization could meet all of the needs of the community effectively. With that effort, the Conway County Care Center was born with the mission:“No One in Conway County Goes Hungry.” The Care Center has continued to fulfill that mission through the years by the receipt of grants, and through donations from individuals, churches, organizations, and businesses. For the past several years, the Care Center has been faithful to meet individuals and families at their point of need. Besides food, the Care Center has provided gas

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and temporary housing for individuals and families with emergent needs, free clothing and other necessary items for Conway County residents who may have lost their homes to a fire. They also operate a thrift store located at 108 Broadway in downtown Morrilton that receives donations of clothes, shoes, furniture, etc. During 2015, the Care Center provided food, clothing, and other services for 2,245 households for a total of 4,015 adults and 1,771 children in Conway County. This is a slight decrease from 2014 of 2,339 households, 4,069 adults, and 1,837 children, but still very significant. They work in conjunction with the Morrilton Police Department, the Conway County Sheriff’s Department, State Police, and the Conway County Department of Human Services to identify the neediest families in the county. They are a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization; all donations are tax deductible. The Harvest of Hope Food

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Drive is the Care Center’s only solicited food drive of the year. Saturday, October 29, is the culmination of the Harvest of Hope Food Drive. Many activities will be happening that day. One, “Fill The Truck” is in its 5th year, and provides a donation point to bring nonperishable food items with the goal, of course, being to “Fill the Truck.” Haynes Home Center provides a large truck to transport donations later that evening to the Care Center. The truck will be set up in the Kroger parking lot located at 1626 East Harding from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Other activities usually held in conjunction with the Harvest of Hope Food Drive are still being scheduled. The Kroger Culture Council is scheduled to feed volunteers and employees with hamburgers and hot dogs available to the public for purchase. Also, during the day, there will be donation points set up at various stores around Morrilton and Conway County including Walmart, Harps, Kroger, and Dollar General Stores in Center Ridge, Plumerville, and Oppelo. >>

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That night, the 9th Annual Harvest of Hope Gospel Singing will be held at the Rialto Theater in downtown Morrilton beginning at 6:30 p.m. Entertainment will be provided by local churches, individuals, choirs, and youth groups. Admission for this event is a $5 donation or 5 canned goods for adults and $3 or 3 canned goods for children ages 12-18. Admission is free for children under 12. Volunteers are needed to help with “Fill the Truck,” taking donations at the local stores, and to help with entertainment at the Gospel Singing on October 29. Donations will also be accepted the week prior to these activities at the Conway County Care Center from 9 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. on October 25, 26 , 28. For after hours donations please call Stewart Nelson at 501-208-6391. Please DO NOT leave donations unattended outside the Thrift Store! If your church, business, or organization would like to participate in the food drive or for information on how you can volunteer for this great cause or sign up

for the gospel singing, please contact Leann Haynes at 501-354-1239, Raymond Chambers at 501-977-6842, or the Care Center at 501-354-1454. Thanks to the Conway County community for supporting the Care Center through donations of food, money, time, or clothing/household items. Without the people of Conway County’s support, the Care Center could not exist.

food recovery program that has collected and distributed more than five tons of food to local pantries. Come and sample an ever changing assortment of savory and dessert food trucks from around the state. Entertainment includes a rotating schedule of dance music by “Speaker Guy,” local rock and jazz bands, and Arkansas’ Band of Distinction, The Arkansas Tech University Marching Band. The atmosphere is family friendly, with games and activities for all ages. All events at “The Corner” are open to the public and everyone is invited. There are only a few more dates left — October 1st, 15th, and 29th — so come by “The Corner” and #ExperienceElPaso.

ARKANSAS TECH UNIVERSITY ATTRACTS HIGH-CALIBER FRESHMAN CLASS FOR 2016

An accomplished and prepared freshman class highlights Arkansas Tech University preliminary fall 2016 enrollment figures released on Thursday, Sept. 8, following the 11th class day of the semester. JOIN ATU’S BECAUSE WE CAN The 1,591 freshmen on the Russellville AT THE CORNER! The Arkansas Tech University student campus of Arkansas Tech for fall 2016 group Because We Can would like to invite completed high school with a cumulative everyone to “The Corner.” Located at 1122 grade point average of 3.33. Their average North El Paso Avenue in the parking lot of ACT score was 22.4, exceeding both the the old Taco Villa restaurant, “The Corner” state (20.2) and national (20.8) averages on is an ongoing event held two hours prior that exam. to each Wonderboys home football game “As the State of Arkansas sharpens its in Thone Stadium. The purpose of these focus on retention and graduation rates, events is to raise awareness about the we are pleased that incoming students Arkansas University possibilities that would comethe fromaddress bringingboxat and Drop insertTech Proudly abovecontinue to stores, restaurants, and green spaces to raise the bar in academic performance,” serving the river valley since 1921. North El Paso Avenue. Part of the proceeds said Dr. Robin E. Bowen, president of also help Because We Can continue their Arkansas Tech. “Recruiting and enrolling a

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diverse student body that has demonstrated the grit necessary to succeed in higher education ensures that we are proper stewards of our resources. The members of the Arkansas Tech Class of 2020 have grit, and now it is our responsibility as an institution to channel their perseverance and determination so we may continue to make progress on our goals of increased retention and graduation.” Total preliminary fall 2016 enrollment at Arkansas Tech is 11,893 students. By location, Arkansas Tech enrollment is 9,852 through the Russellville campus and 2,041 through the Ozark campus. “One distinguishing characteristic of Arkansas Tech University is our commitment to stackable degrees,” said Bowen. “The reality is that not every student is positioned to enroll in a university immediately following high school and complete a degree in four consecutive years. If we are to truly make progress in producing more credentialed individuals with the education necessary to

elevate the State of Arkansas, we must be flexible enough to develop and implement curriculum that creates a wide range of pathways to success. As an institution that offers varied credentials from certificates of proficiency through a doctoral degree, Arkansas Tech University has those pathways.” Visit www.atu.edu to learn more about Arkansas Tech University.

UACCM PAGEANT SET FOR NOVEMBER 5

The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton SkillsUSA chapter will host the tenth annual UACCM Pageant on Saturday, Nov. 5. The pageant will begin at 10 a.m. in the college’s Fine Arts Auditorium. The pageant is open to current UACCM students, as well as girls between the ages of birth and 17 years old, who may compete in seven additional categories. Those competing for the title of Miss UACCM will be judged on beauty, professionalism,

speech presentation and interview skills. The winner of the Miss UACCM title will receive a $1,000 scholarship to the college, and the first runner-up in that category will receive a $500 scholarship. The pageant will run throughout the day beginning with a welcome ceremony at 10 a.m. followed by the Baby Miss, Tiny Miss, Petite Miss and Little Miss competitions. At 1 p.m., the Princess Miss, Pre-Teen Miss and Teen Miss competitions will take place ending with the competition and crowning of Miss UACCM. The pageant is open to the public and admission is $3. Children under four years of age get in free. The preregistration deadline is Monday, Oct. 24, and the final deadline to register is by 4 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 31. Applications and pageant rules are available for pickup in the UACCM Business Technology Center, Room 200, or online at www.uaccm.edu/ current_student/pageant.htm. For more information, contact Linda Zambrano at (501) 977-2061 or at zambrano@uaccm.edu. l

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

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THE RUSSVEGAS TRIATHLON saw 110 triathletes from eight states competing. It was a run, swim, bike event that might not appeal to everyone, but the accompanying RUSSVEGAS TAILGATE CLASSIC certainly did. The event ran all day on September 10 with over 3,000 people attending. Events Included a kids zone, corporate games with 12 teams, dragon boat races, Baggo tournament, live entertainment, and the Razorbacks beating the Horn Frogs on a big-screen television to wrap up the evening. Corporate games champion was Beacon Tire and Service Inc., and River Valley Reality took Best Tailgate title, but the River Valley community was the true winner. OCTOBER 2016 ~ ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY

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ABOUT...the River Valley

UACCM is Providing a Skilled Workforce for the River Valley Story by MARY CLARK Director of Marketing and Public Relations UACCM

University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton 1537 University Blvd Morrilton, AR (501) 977-2000

THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS COMMUNITY COLLEGE AT MORRILTON is a two-year community college serving west-central Arkansas. The institution was established in 1963 and joined the University of Arkansas System in 2001. UACCM offers a variety of degree options including transfer programs and career-specific/technical programs. The campus offers one- and two-year certificate and associate degree programs such as air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration, automotive collision repair, automotive service technology, business, computer information systems, drafting, early childhood development, education, emergency medical technician, industrial mechanics and maintenance, practical nursing, registered nursing, surveying and welding. Demand for these programs is high because they offer excellent opportunities for graduates. Internship opportunities, technical expertise and funds have all been committed by area businesses and industry that strongly support these programs. The college-transfer program allows students to enroll in general education and liberal arts classes that transfer to the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fouryear universities. Students can complete the first two years of a bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree before transferring, and articulation agreements with the universities help ensure the classes will transfer. Construction will soon begin on a 53,000-square-foot 48

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

Workforce Training Center to house automotive service; heating, air conditioning and refrigeration; welding; and industrial mechanics and maintenance labs as well as a space for specialized workforce training and the UACCM Workforce and Community Education office. The project was developed to replace aging facilities that were built over 50 years ago when the college first opened. The college also has plans to develop a diesel mechanics program. This new facility, funded in part by the Give Meaning campaign, will allow UACCM to double the capacity of technical education programs thereby increasing the number of graduates with credentials and positively impacting the regional economy. The technical programs housed in this facility addresses the workforce shortage of skilled technicians and prepares graduates for highwage, high-demand employment opportunities. In addition to the credit programs offered at UACCM, the college has an increasingly robust workforce and community education program. The workforce and community education classes are short-term, non-credit classes offered throughout the year, and they can be customized for specific businesses when requested. Classes vary from beginning piano, Microsoft training, occupational Spanish, arts and crafts, and genealogy, to CPR/first aid, basic welding, and CDT training.

The new, non-credit, Commercial Driver Training Program is now being offered with classes beginning every four weeks and consisting of 160-164 training hours. Upon completion of the program, students will be tested for their Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). UACCM is partnering with high schools in Conway County as well as other counties in the service area to offer concurrent technical classes that are offered at UACCM. This agreement ensures that students taking advantage of the concurrent enrollment classes will be attending UACCM as full-time college students while meeting state requirements for high school graduation. In addition, these classes may be at little to no cost to the student with the tuition and fees being split between UACCM and the student’s high school. This partnership will give high school students the opportunity to earn credits toward a college degree in a technical field while encouraging them to continue their education beyond high school. They will also gain first-hand knowledge of what it’s like to be a college student in a smallcampus atmosphere while obtaining job skills necessary to succeed and gaining an increased sense of responsibility. This will help Conway County and the surrounding counties develop a stronger workforce base. UACCM offers individual academic advising services, counseling and disability services, tutoring, and an array of support services. Financial aid — in the form of grants, scholarships, loans, and Career Pathways — is available to qualified students. UACCM has been one of the region’s greatest assets for over 50 years, and it continues to be a great value in terms of affordability, convenience, and personal attention students receive. Because UACCM produces graduates with marketable in-demand skills, companies choose to locate in the area, businesses grow, and new jobs are created, ultimately enhancing economic development throughout central Arkansas. For more information, go to uaccm.edu or call (501) 977-2000. l

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BACKYARD LIVING

ABOUT...the River Valley

In Defense of Boredom Story by JILL MCSHEEHY | Photo by JOHNNY CARROL SAIN

Read more from Jill at www.journeywithjill.net

“I’M BORED, MOM.” It’s the phrase from my 9-year-old akin to fingernails on a chalkboard. But I can’t use that analogy with him since chalkboards, in his mind, have a place in the antiquities along with the typewriter. Instead I tried another approach. “Did you know, son, that when I was your age, I didn’t have a computer or video games or Netflix? Kids’ television shows came on for a couple of hours on Saturdays only — even in the summer. And I didn’t have a brother or sister to play with either.”

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ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

His mouth sat agape. “How did you LIVE?” I chuckled at his sincere, albeit dramatic, reaction. I suppose my growing up years in the 1980s and 90s does seem akin to the stone age. My mind drifted to those summer days, those after school hours. My eyes brightened and the corners of my mouth turned up at the memories as I recounted snapshots of my childhood to my son. I always lived in the city (well, as “city” as you get in small town Arkansas – perhaps a “neighborhood” is a more accurate term), but I never ran out of things to do. One autumn I found leftover pallets and bricks in a field near our house. I built a covered playhouse complete with a courtyard, and I even placed our real Christmas tree inside after the Christmas season. During cold January days I learned that a simple shelter blocking the north wind made my time outside more bearable. As winter gave way to warmer weather, I found more bricks and stacked them on the perimeter of the roof using a scrap 2x4 as a ramp to the top. I placed a tarp on the bricks, welling out an area for rain to collect. A rooftop “pool” that was perfect for my Barbies. A few years later, as childhood transitioned into adolescence, I discovered

And of more importance, how can I change course so they will be able recount with nostalgia to their children how they spent their free time? a small open shelter complete with a cot in the neighbor’s back yard. Behind this, cattle grazed in the open field. It was the perfect reading nook until one day I discovered a baby calf in the shelter. I ran for my life, barely escaping as the momma charged toward me. Then there was the year of the 1992 Olympics, and just like most girls my age, I watched the women’s gymnastics with rapt attention. Not content to simply observe the competition, I created my own in my back yard. I used the handles of an old rusty tiller to pretend to navigate the uneven bars. A boom box belted out my “floor routine” -– probably Paula Abdul and M.C. Hammer. I was a progressive gymnast and a sturdy tree branch made the perfect balance beam. Simply walking the paths of these dusty memories elicited longing for the days of my childhood again. But it also stirred a desire for my children to forge outdoor experiences of their own. Partly of my own doing, my children’s summers and after school hours aren’t

filled with escapades in the back yard. Instead of building houses with scrap wood, they build shelters on Minecraft. Instead of exploring the open fields, the calendar is full of organized sports. Instead of balancing on a six-foot-high tree branch, they jump in the safety of the net surrounding the trampoline. Of course, nothing is wrong with Minecraft, sports, or backyard toys. But where is the free play? The unstructured creativity? And of more importance, how can I change course so they will be able recount with nostalgia to their children how they spent their free time? Children need to play. Outside. In their own back yards. They need to be bored so they can build their creativity. As the weather cools off, may I recall my unstructured childhood and reply to the “I’m bored” statement with, “Go outside. Build. Discover. Pretend. Dream. Find the treasures of imagination in your own back yard.” l

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OUTDOORS

ABOUT...the River Valley

The Tarantula’s Worst Nightmare Story and photo by JOHNNY CARROL SAIN

SOMETHING DARK AND HEAVY was picking its way through the frostweed blooms. The copper colored wings and curled antennae added beauty as well as menace to its form. It placidly fed on nectar along with one of its cousins, a thread-waisted wasp. The thread-waisted wasp was dwarfed. This burly midnight-blue beast was easily as long and nearly as thick as my thumb. It was a tarantula hawk, the largest species of wasp in Arkansas.

As their name implies, tarantula hawks kill tarantulas. When a female tarantula hawk has mated, it starts hunting for tarantulas by smell. Sometimes she locates a tarantula burrow and tugs at the sensitive silk strands surrounding the den, imitating prey to draw out the spider. Sometimes the female tarantula hawk goes on an airborne hunt, searching for a tarantula in the wrong place at the wrong time. When the tarantula hawk finds a big hairy spider, it wrestles it until it can administer a single sting and inject a potent venom. The tarantula is paralyzed almost instantly. But tarantula hawks don’t eat tarantulas, not as adults anyway. No, the tarantula hawk drags the spider back to a burrow and lays a single egg on the tarantula. When the egg hatches the larvae begins eating on the still living tarantula starting with its nonessential tissue — so the tarantula won’t die and the flesh dry out — and finishing up on the vital organs after about 30 days. Ghoulish lil’ critters, ain’t they? This reproductive cycle was actually a big part of the inspiration behind the monster in the movie “Alien.” Read more from Johnny at www.aviewfromthebackroads.com

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

The tarantula hawk’s sting is rated as a “4” on the Schmidt Sting Pain Index...described as “blinding, fierce, shockingly electric. A running hair drier has been dropped into your bubble bath.” After consuming the tarantula, the larva pupates (just like a caterpillar making a cocoon) and emerges as an adult wasp. Then, the cycle starts all over. Adult tarantula hawks eat sweet stuff like nectar, which explains why the one I found here is all over the frostweed. They enjoy fruit as well and have been known to become “flying-impaired” after consuming fermented fruit. This giant wasp is found anywhere that tarantulas are found. Entomologists think their range is mostly west of the Mississippi River with Missouri as the northern boundary. They are common in the desert southwest states. Tarantula hawks grow to about two inches in length and are built pretty stout, an adaptation due to regular spider wrestling. The males have straight antennae and the females are curled. They are a truly beautiful insect, with metallic blue or green bodies and wings that vary from copper to mahogany. This type of eye-catching coloration is known as aposematic. It’s a

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signal to potential predators that this animal can hurt you. Many venomous yet non-aggressive animals such as coral snakes and poison arrow frogs are aposematic. While the tarantula hawk’s sting isn’t considered lethal to humans, it is rated as the most painful sting of any insect in North America. Entomologist Justin Schmidt, who subjected himself to insects stings in the name of science (and possibly masochistic tendencies) described the pain as “immediate, excruciating pain that simply shuts down one's ability to do anything, except perhaps scream. Mental discipline simply does not work in these situations." The tarantula hawk’s sting is rated as a “4” on the Schmidt Sting Pain Index. The index ranges from 1 to 4 and a “4” is described by Schmidt as “blinding, fierce, shockingly electric. A running hair drier has been dropped into your bubble bath.” Fortunately, tarantula hawks are not aggressive. As long as you enjoy their beauty from a distance you should be safe. l

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On a Personal Note Inroad Guest Written by Dr. Robin Bowen

It was there, on the parking lot at the former Taco Villa location, that the Arkansas Tech University community and the Russellville community intersected with common goals: good food, good fellowship and good football.

A glimpse of the future was available at the corner of West L Street and North El Paso Avenue on the evening of Thursday, Sept. 1. It was there, on the parking lot at the former Taco Villa location, that the Arkansas Tech University community and the Russellville community intersected with common goals: good food, good fellowship and good football. The occasion was the opening game of the 2016 football season. The Wonder Boys won 46-0 for their first shutout since 2002, but the victories were not limited to the gridiron. Another win for Arkansas Tech University --- and the communities that it serves --started about three hours prior to kickoff when two food trucks rolled onto the parking lot at 1122 N. El Paso Ave. As the pre-game Party at the Plaza unfolded, a come-and-go crowd of consistently more than 100 individuals gathered to enjoy the food served by Wok’N’Roll and Roxy’s Twisted Sandwiches. They were entertained by the Arkansas Tech University marching band and spirit squads. They lent support to registered student organization Because We Can, which sponsored the event as means of raising funds for its Campus Kitchen at Arkansas Tech food recovery program. If that and similar events on Tech football game days this fall were the sum of the initiative, it would be a successful and worthwhile venture. The truth is that the food trucks, the live music, the creation of a space for meaningful interaction with our neighbors…it was and is a small taste of what will be a transformative project. As you might have heard, Arkansas Tech University has engaged Miller Boskus Lack Architects, P.A. to assist the university in planning for the development of the North El Paso Avenue corridor between Russellville Downtown and campus. Representatives from the firm have been on the ground in recent months gathering information about Russellville. They’ve gauged our culture. They’ve learned about our business climate. They’ve taken the time to know and understand the collective personality of our community. As the process continues, I ask you to “Experience El Paso.” You can do this in October by attending Arkansas Tech University home football games on Oct. 15 (4 p.m. Party at the Plaza; 6 p.m. kickoff) and Oct. 29 (11 a.m. Party at the Plaza; 2 p.m. kickoff). On the Saturday in between (Oct. 22), join our friends at Uncommon Communities for a pop-up event on North El Paso Avenue. They have a full day of activities planned as a means of bringing people to the area and further imagining what could be possible. Your participation in these events and the feedback you provide will be critical in planning the next steps for the development of the corridor. This is just the beginning, but as I experience these glimpses of the future, I grow more and more excited about what is forthcoming on North El Paso Avenue, at the university and for Russellville.

Look for more interesting features and tidbits in "On a Personal Note" each month in future issues of ABOUT...the River Valley. You'll find short stories, interesting pieces and other great reads from people you know, or would like to know from around the River Valley.

ABOUT the RIVER VALLEY ~ OCTOBER 2016

ENGAGEMENTS

ABOUT...the River Valley

Save the Date!

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

October 1 Christine Garner & Joshua Barnes Julia Lyon & Nick Killingsworth Lauren Drittler & Duane Tony Robertson

November 4

Katelyn Spencer & Nathane Hodges

November 5

Jessica Ginsberg & Joseph Hunt

Hatley Adkins & Charles McIllwain III Melissa Cupps & Scott Dorminy

October 15

November 12

Kristen Hulse & Kevin Elliott

Lauren Barefield & Chris Ratzliff Svannah Underhill & Dillon Smith

Taylor Kendrick & Hailey Roberson

November 19

Mary Streett & Clyde Tuggle

October 16 Michelle Beck & Brandon Valencia

October 21

Laura Byrum & Britt Sory Sarah Cockerham & Dillon Rabb Shelby Twedt & Derek Owens

December 3

Shelby Santucci & Ryan Pinter

Alexis Sisson & Logan Stuckey

October 22

December 17

Cheyenne Buford & Gary Morrison

October 28 Paige Leavell & Brandon Sikes

Ashlee Edwards & Jacob Tisdale Madeline Key & Chris Skelton Miranda Harness & Kole Gray Chelsey Mans & Brandon Potter

Photo by Benita's Photography

December 30 Alexa Sotomayor & Eric Turner

January 14 LeeAnne Nelson & Brett LeFever

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

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MILLARD-HENRY CLINIC

OUR CARE FOR THIS COMMUNITY CONTINUES TO GROW STRONGER As the Arkansas River Valley’s largest multi-speciality clinic, Millard-Henry Clinic proudly announces the addition of Dr. Jonathan Brixey and Dr. Nathan Henderson to our growing staff of leading physicians. Dr. Brixey specializes in internal medicine and pediatrics. He was reared in Pope County, and prior to receiving his medical degree at University of Arkansas-Medical Sciences (UAMS), Dr. Brixey completed an undergraduate degree at Arkansas Tech University (ATU). He is married with two children, and is active in his local church and with outdoor activities. Dr. Nathan Henderson also has deep family roots in our area. Upon earning his undergraduate degree at ATU, he completed medical school at the American University of the Caribbean School of

JONATHAN BRIXEY, MD INTERNAL MEDICINE/PEDIATRICS MILLARD-HENRY CLINIC

Medicine, and a residency at UAMS/AHEC West. Dr. Henderson specializes in rural family medicine; he, his wife, and their children plan to live near Dover. The Hendersons hope to be active in the region’s outdoor and community activities. Drs. Brixey and Henderson are accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Brixey, call the main clinic weekdays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at 479-968-2345. An appointment with Dr. Henderson can be scheduled by calling the Dover clinic (also weekdays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.) at 479-331-3880. MILLARD-HENRY CLINIC 101 Skyline Drive, Russellville, AR 72801 479-968-2345

MILLARD-HENRY CLINIC/ATKINS 1601 N. Church Street, Atkins, AR 72823 479-641-2255

MILLARD-HENRY CLINIC OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY 105 Skyline Drive, Russellville, AR 72801 479-890-2426

MILLARD-HENRY CLINIC/DOVER 8970 Market Street, Dover, AR 72837 479-331-3880

NATHAN HENDERSON, MD FAMILY MEDICINE MILLARD-HENRY CLINIC/DOVER

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