ABOUT | October 2011

BELLS STILL RING FOR LOCAL LEGEND

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley October 2011

n

www.aboutrvmag.com

Benny Harris

President, Central Division

Community Banking starts with At Liberty Bank, encouraging our employees to give back to their community is a vital part of being a local bank.

We have a tradition of being involved in the cities, towns and our communities better places to live, work and grow.

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October 2011

table of

contents

8

8 The Belle of Dardanelle

After more than 40 years in retirement from show business, bells are still ringing for singer Bonnie Brown Ring of Dardanelle. Part of the country pop legend, the Brown Trio, Ring and her siblings, Jim Ed and Maxine Brown, are back in the limelight.

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For the Love of Asparagus...

13

ABOUT...the Best Products

16 14

ABOUT...awareness

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The ‘Dover Lights’

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ABOUTour Cover Bonnie Brown Ring of Dardanelle retired from

On a lonely stretch of dirt road north of Dover in Pope County, a legend has remained since sometime in the late 1800s. In this day and age of discovery it would seem that technology would eclipse any haunting folklore, but somehow the sightings and the stories survive.

Reiki: Exploring Stress Reduction

Melanie Conley

ad ve r tis in g

479.858.2708

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Cyclones Dig Pink

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ABOUT...healthcare

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Senior Event Successful

The Russellville High School girls’ volleyball team is planning a breast cancer awareness and fundraising event Tuesday, Oct. 11. This “Cyclones DIG PINK” event will be held during a regular home game against North Little Rock.

Our Associates Vonna

Marpel

ad ve r tis ing

479.970.4263

performing in 1967. However, if you ask her husband, retired Yell County physician Dr. Gene “Brownie” Ring, if it’s difficult to be married to a star, she’ll quickly interject that a quick trip to Wal-Mart will tell who is really famous around here. Read “The Belle of

Connie

Steve

Las Schneider

Newby

w r ite r

ph o to g r a phy

479.497.1110

479.880.1006

Dardanelle” beginning on page 8.

Cliff

Photo by Steve Newby

Zimmerman

il l u s tr a to r

l ayo u t/ d e s ig n

479.890.3630

4 | ABOUT

Chris

Thomas

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

479.264.2438

October 2011

Haunt for a Cause

community

Haunt for a Cause will be held from 7 p.m. until midnight on Saturday, Oct. 29, at the home of Matt and Mel White, 1509 West Main Street, in Russellville. Guests will enjoy frightfully-tasty appetizers and a “spooktacular” silent auction. A cash bar will be available during the evening.

Those interested in attending are encouraged to make plans soon as space is limited. Tickets are $25 per person and are available by calling (501) 336-9505.

Costumes are encouraged by not required.

Sponsors of Haunt for a Cause are: Phil Wright AutoPlex, Cargill, Robo Wash, and Johnston and Richardson LLC. Proceeds will go toward Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Central Arkansas. The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Central Arkansas is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Central Arkansas serves more than 50 at-risk children annually in Russellville.

“We need your help to change the lives of these children for the better, forever,” said Paula Swindle, special events coordinator.

Freeman Featured Artist

Daniel Freeman will be the featured artist at River Valley Arts Center in Russellville, during the month of October. An Exhibit Opening Reception will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2. The artist will be present to do a gallery talk and answer questions.

Freeman is a graduate of Dover High School and he credits his teacher, Tehya

May, with giving him inspiration by painting him a path into the unknown. “She told me that I had more potential than anyone else in class and if I channeled my energies my art would take me places,” he said. “She started talking to me about art scholarships and encouraged me to start submitting my artwork in competitions. I got psyched.

I started staying late after school and not leaving until the janitor left.”

Freeman’s hard work paid off and he won Best of Show at the Pope County Fair and won River Valley Arts Center’ juried High School Competition and Exhibition in both his junior and senior years. He went on to receive his Bachelors in Fine Art and Graphic Design from Memphis College of Art in Memphis.

In a world full of striving artists, Daniel Freeman brings a level of creativity that is uniquely his own. He continues to push the boundaries of conventional as well as experimental thinking for his art making. His goal is not to conform audience views to his own, but simply to express the idiosyncratic perspective of his mind. Contact Daniel at blackgraphic83@gmail or call the arts center at (479) 968.2452.

Augsburg Fall Fest

The Augsburg Fall Fest will begin at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 8, with a skeet shoot. Activities and vendor booths will open at 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. with Bingo to follow from 3-4 p.m.

The day’s activities will be held at the Zion Lutheran church, 93 Augsburg Road, Hwy. 333 between London and Dover. Events include arts and crafts, a silent auction, cake walk, tractor pull, Bump and Jumps, games, pony rides, food, music and much more!

Proceeds will benefit the River Valley Christian Clinic, Augsburg Community Nature Trail and Zion LWML Food Pantry.

Additional funding will be provided by the West Central AR Chapter of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.

Diabetes, Stroke Support

The Saint Mary’s Diabetes and Stroke Support Group meets on the second Tuesday each month in Café 3 at Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center at 5:30 pm.

The speaker for the Tuesday, Oct. 11, meeting will be Henry Engler, a representative with Lifescan, who will discuss blood sugar monitoring and glucometers.

In November the group will begin a series on Pre-diabetes, focusing on prevention to help individuals at risk for Diabetes to avoid having the disease. The first session on Nov. 8 will be presented by Melanie Mullinax RN and Bobbie Miller RN, both offering an expertise in Diabetes.

For additional information, contact the Saint Mary’s Diabetes Self Management Education Program, Outpatient Therapy Center, 809 West Main St., Russellville, or call (479) 968-3733.

UACCM: 50-Years to Celebrate

The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton will kick off its 50th anniversary Celebration with a communitywide party on Thursday, Oct. 13. The event will begin at 5 p.m. with a free chicken supper and barbecue for all area residents, just as the institution did for the original dedication which was held nearly 50 years ago.

Continued on page 22

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Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 5

ABOUT the River Valley

A Publication of Silver Platter Productions, Inc Vol. VI, Issue 8 – October 2011

OWNERS/EDITOR Nolan and Dianne Edwards editor@aboutrvmag.com

Advertising Sales Melanie Conley

melanie@aboutrvmag.com

Vonna Marpel

vonna@aboutrvmag.com

Graphic Design Chris Zimmerman

zimcreative@aboutrvmag.com

Writers Kechia Bentley kechia@aboutrvmag.com

Connie Las Schneider connie@aboutrvmag.com

Johnny Sain

johnny@aboutrvmag.com

PhotographY Steve Newby stevenewbyphotography@aboutrvmag.com

ILLUSTRATION Cliff Thomas 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.

Subscriptions are available by sending $20 for one-year (10 issues) to: SPPI/ABOUT Magazine P.O. Box 10176 Russellville AR 72812 Material contained in this issue may not be copied or reproduced without written consent. Inquiries may be made by calling (479) 970-6628.

Office: 220 East 4th Street Email: editor@aboutrvmag.com Postmaster: Please send address changes to: SPPI, P.O. Box 10176, Russellville AR 72812.

6 | ABOUT

A PAGE FROM

The Editor’s Notebook

Finally, Fall! It seems this autumn has been a long time in arriving, but thankfully it’s here! For many it means football; for others, it means planting a fall garden that hopefully won’t lack for rainfall. Still others look forward to the events of the season – Fall Fests and school fundraisers, Harvest or Halloween parties, outdoor gatherings, camping, hunting, and did I mention football?... the events of the upcoming months begin to race onto the pages of our calendar.

Our daughter Laura began decorating her home for the season, delighting in the fact that she could pull out her previous fall decorations and purchase a few new seasonal items for her mantle. That, of course, necessitated a shopping trip. On another excursion, our youngest, Melissa – who you may remember moved into her first ‘real’ apartment this summer – selected a pumpkin spiced candle to fragrance her home. Our daughter Stephanie is a resident of Northwest Arkansas where everyone knows Fall means only one thing – Razorback Football! In her spare time (ha!) she oversees a classroom of second graders who may soon be decorating the hallways with snippets of pumpkins and harvest moons... seems like the change in temperature gives everyone a different reason to enjoy the season.

I’ve held out somewhat, enjoying the last tidbits of my ‘lemon lavender’ candle. (When it gets put away, I am forced to admit that summer is finally over and the holidays are just around the corner!) But, I did celebrate the arrival of cooler weather by baking a Fresh Apple Cake – a recipe handed down through my family for generations. Though I change the ingredients by using different varieties of apples, often depending on what I discover in the fridge, the aroma created while it is baking in the oven signifies that, at least in our home... Fall has arrived! And the memories it brings with it!

When I was a kid, my father delighted in celebrating Halloween by hiding an intercom near a candle-lit pumpkin on our front porch. We would spend hours carving out the Jack-o-lantern face before ritualistically placing it near the front door to greet the neighborhood children. My dad’s eerie voices emitting from the pumpkin scared many a trick-or-treater. They retreated scampering and screaming until returning for my mom’s famous homemade popcorn balls – tinted in our favorite color, blue! I often greeted them dressed in my favorite gypsy outfit, complete with dangling jewelry and flowing skirts. Of course my “dangling gold earrings” were really curtain rings affixed to my nonpierced ears with rubber bands! Oh the joys of a creative mind!

As our own children have grown and door-to-door trick or treating has all but disappeared, my husband and I reminisce of years spent searching for the perfect outfits for our own three daughters... thankfully none of which included earrings with rubber bands.

Fall conjures up many things. Among them a continuing farmer’s market selection of sweet potatoes, pumpkins, butternut squash, fresh cucumbers, eggplant, okra, Crowder peas, and more bountiful fall produce. To get up-to-date information on what’s available at the Pope County Farmer’s Market, visit their FaceBook page at Pope County Farmers Market /Russellville’s Farm to Table Market.

So whatever pleasant memory the season Dianne Edwards, Editor/Publisher brings to you...Happy Fall Y’all!

WE ARE EXPANDING!

ABOUT...the River Valley Magazine is looking for an energetic, enthusiastic advertising executive to call on a list of established accounts throughout the four-county area surrounding Russellville. Set your own hours and determine your own income with a strong work ethic.

For consideration, submit a current resume via email to: editor@aboutrvmag.com or deliver in person to our office at 220 East 4th Street, Russellville (the ASI/AmCare office.)

No phone calls, please. ‘Order-takers’ need not apply. EOE Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

October 2011

Out and ABOUT The Mystery of the

Talk ABOUT...the Unexplained

Every now and then we have cause to laugh... at ourselves, at the antics of others, or just about life in general. This issue is no exception. Consider the colorful cartoon offered by talented illustrator Cliff Thomas.

When contemplating October’s content months ago, the associates of ABOUT thought it might be fun to examine and attempt to explain some of the more “unusual” things about life in the Arkansas River Valley.

However, some things defy explanation.

For example, one of those is the mystery of the Dover Lights – a phenomenon reported to occur on a lonely stretch of road and adjoining canyon in northern Pope County. The source of the lights remains a

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Oct. 1: St. John’s Catholic Church Harvest Fest Bazaar and Dinner, 2-10 p.m., Prizes, auction, games, dunking booth; BBQ dinner follows 4 p.m. Mass. Info: 967-4644.

Oct. 1: FUMC Garden Pig Roast fundraiser, 3-7 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 304. S. Commerce, Rsvl.; Info: Lacy Dicks, 968-1232.

Oct. 2-30: FUMC Pumpkin Patch opens; M-F, 12-6 p.m., S-S, 9-1. Info: Lacy Dicks, 968-1232.

Oct. 7-8: Mistletoe Market: Shop for a Cause, Friday, 10-7, Saturday, 10-4. L.V. Williamson Boys & Girls Club. $5 per person. 968-7819 or visit valley-fest. org. Click on MistletoeMarket.

Oct 7: FUMC PrimeTimers Game Night, 6:30 p.m., Open to those 50 and older; Info: Info: Lacy Dicks, 968-1232.

October 2011

mystery, even in this age of technology. The practical nay-sayers believe the illumination is generated by the lamps of overnight campers, from the lights of teenage party-goers, or simply passing car beams reflecting on the night sky.

Stories vary from tales of a collapsed mine and the ghostly lights of the perished miners to ancient Spanish Conquistadors and their spiritual quest for gold. Several stories have survived to become the legends of modern times regardless of their origins.

Other “ghostly” stories survive within the region. Many of them are the eyewitness reports of disappearing highway travelers to unexplained lights hovering over nearby

Petit Jean Mountain. Tales and tidbits of folklore will entertain the non-believers. (See Johnny Sain’s stories beginning on page 16.)

For those interested in the pursuit of explanations, an organization exists whose purpose it is to educate and explain the unexplainable. Information on the Arkansas Paranormal Research Association is available online at arkansasparanormal.net.

If such tales are too unnerving for you, why not search out the various Harvest Events held locally at communities throughout the Arkansas River Valley.

But, if you’d like to get your “spook” on, join other onlookers on your own search to answering the mystery of the Dover Lights...

Oct. 8: Augsburg Fall Fest, 8 a.m. skeet shoot, activities and vendor booths, 10 a.m.; Zion Lutheran Church, Hwy. 333 between London and Dover.

Oct. 11: Lady Cyclones Volleyball Team “Dig Pink” breast cancer awareness event, coincides with home games beginning at 4:30, RHS. Shirts, $10 each; Info: 967-3668.

Oct. 11: Saint Mary’s Diabetes and Stroke Support Group, 5:30 p.m., Café 3. Info: 968-3733.

Oct. 13: UACCM 50th Anniversary Celebration, 5 p.m.

Concert, 7 p.m. Info: (800) 264-1094.

Oct. 15: Cache Mania 2011, Logan Co. Fairgrounds, 8 a.m., Info: 963-2244.

Oct. 21: ATU Homecoming activities begin. Golf tournament begins 10:30 a.m. at Russellville CC; Ladies Champagne Luncheon and Bingo, 1-5 p.m., Lake Point; Hall of Distinction Reunion Dinner, 6:30 p.m.; Alumni and Friends Reception, 8-midnight, RCC. Oct. 22: ATU Homecoming: Hindsman Players Reunion, 9 a.m.; Hindsman Tower Dedication, 10:30 a.m.; Registration, Class of ’61, 11 a.m.; Luncheon, 11:30 a.m.; Homecoming Parade, 2 p.m.; Class of ’59-’60 reunion, 3 p.m., Alumni Band, 3 p.m.; Reunion groups, 3-5:30 p.m.; Pre-Game Tailgate Meal, 4-5:30 p.m.; Alumni T-Club Meeting/’71 Football Reunion, 4 p.m.; Pre-Game Activities, 5:30 p.m.; ATU vs. SE Okla., 6 p.m. Info: 968-0242.

Oct. 22: Emeritus at Wildflower 15th Anniversary Open House, 2-4 p.m.; refreshments, entertainment, tours. Public invited. 890-6709.

Oct. 27: Community Bingo, seniors 55 and older; 2-3 p.m. 4th Thurs. of each month; Wildflower, 240 S. Inglewood, Russellville; 890-6709.

Oct. 29: Downtown Fall Fest and Chili Cookoff, entire day of family-fun activities, food, arts and crafts, exhibits, car show, kid’s parade, omelet breakfast, 5K, bike ride, pie contest, dog show and more! Historic Downtown Russellville; mainstreetrussellville.com; info: 967-1437.

Oct. 29: Haunt for a Cause, 7-Midnight, 1509 W. Main, $25 per ticket, limited availability; proceeds benefit Big Brothers/Big Sisters of NCA. Info: (501) 336-9505.

Oct. 30: First United Methodist Church Fall Fest, 304. S. Commerce, Rsvl. 3 - 5 p.m: Lacy Dicks, 968-1232.

Nov. 1: ARV Circle of Friends A La Carte fundraiser, 6:30 p.m., “Country Casual,” 3327 Pleasant View Rd., Tickets and information, (479) 968-2973.

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

Visit www.aboutrvmag.com for a list of activities updated as they are received. To have your event included in the ABOUT Calendar of Events, email: editor@aboutrvmag. com or fax to (866) 757-3282. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication.

ABOUT | 7

Belle The

of Dardanelle

After more than 40 years in retirement from show business, bells are still ringing for singer Bonnie Brown Ring of Dardanelle.

Bonnie Brown Ring and Dr. Gene “Brownie” Ring

Story by Connie Las Schneider Photo by Steve Newby and Courtesy of Bonnie Ring

Part of the country pop legend, the Brown Trio, Ring and her siblings, Jim Ed and Maxine Brown, are back in the limelight. In September they appeared in a pre-recorded television special Country Reunion/Rock and Roll Graffiti for Dish network and featured performers on the PBS special Country Pop Legends, in August, where they sang their breakthrough hit, The Three Bells and other favorites.

While the trio started out as county music singers in the mid 1950’s, they soon made the crossover to mainstream Pop music with million sellers like Scarlet Ribbons, The Old Lamplighter, I Hear the Bluebirds Sing, and Send me the Pillow that you Dream On. “Simply put...The Browns changed the listening audience for country music. They brought country music to the next level.

They made it nationwide and worldwide music,” said writer John Dersham, in a recent press release.

The Browns Known for their “close harmonies” the Brown Trio grew up in Sparkman, Ark., with music in their blood.

“Music was always part of our lives. My father, Floyd Brown and his brother Cecil had a band that played most weekends and they’d practice at our house. We also used to listen to the country music broadcasts on the radio and practice singing harmony” said Ring, the third youngest of four siblings; Maxine the oldest, Jim Ed next, then Bonnie and finally Norma, who at 17 took Bonnie’s place on show dates while Bonnie was pregnant.

It’s also been said the siblings learned their harmonies by turning their voices to the sound of the saw blades at their lumberman father’s saw mill, but Bonnie dismissed that as only a story.

How the Browns came by their sweet harmonies may never be certain, but Jim Ed’s singing and Maxine’s tenacity was the start of their rise to fame.

Although the Browns have not yet been inducted into CMA Country Music Hall of Fame, they are perhaps the largest Country Music contributor to ever be overlooked for the prestigious Hall of Fame, Dersham added.

Despite the CMA snub, the Browns are widely recognized for their music and have been inducted into the North American Country Music Hall of Fame, the Arkansas Entertainer’s Hall of Fame, received the Golden Voice Award for number one group in Country Music and are on the Hot Springs Walk of Fame.

The Brown’s signature “close harmonies” also led to performances on national television shows including the Ed Sullivan

October 2011

THEN AND NOW With the encouragement of oldest sister Maxine, in 1952 Jim Ed placed second in a talent contest and started performing on Barnyard Frolicon on the Little Rock radio station KLRA. Soon Jim Ed and Maxine, a singer/songwriter, became a duo and were later joined by Bonnie after she graduated from High school in 1955.

The Browns became superstars in 1959 with their cross-over classic The Three Bells in 1959.

The song was No. 1 for 10 weeks on the country charts and topped the pop charts for four weeks, although they’d had top ten hits before that starting in 1954 with Looking Back to See, a song Maxine wrote.

Soon after, the trio joined the Louisiana Hayride live radio show along with another newcomer, Elvis Presley and they toured with Presley for two years.

Continued on page 11

Show, Arthur Murray Dance Party, Jimmy Dean Barn Dance, Ozark Jubilee and the Grand Ole Opry where they made numerous performances from 1956 until they officially joined the cast in 1964.

Ring remembers it well. “When we joined the Ozark Jubilee TV show, we were signed by RCA Victor Records at the same time. RCA was the premier record label, and we thought we had “arrived.”

Chet Atkins became our producer, and we are very proud of the sounds we had with Chet. We were very lucky kids. We remained with RCA until we retired. RCA is now SONY,” she added.

While Ring retired from performing in

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

1967, Jim Ed is still a regular on the Opry stage and renowned for his “countrypolitan” sound, and Maxine has become a popular author with a biography of the Browns, Looking Back to See, titled after a song Maxine wrote which first propelled the group to stardom.

That book was the lynch pin for author, Rick Bass, to write a fictionalized account of the Brown’s trip to the top of the Pop Country charts. The book, Nashville Chrome published by Houghton-Miffin-Harcourt Publishers of NY, went on the market in 2010 and soon made the bestseller list.

“Many people think it is a true story of The Browns, but it isn’t,” said Ring. >>

ABOUT | 9

Although Nashville Chrome is only “loosely” based on the Browns, Maxine’s biography Looking Back to See, tells the real story of the Browns, said Ring. “Maxine is pretty ‘spicy’ and tells it like it is,” she added.

Maxine’s book gives such an accurate accounting of the music business in the early days of Country and Pop music, Looking Back to See may be made into a movie. Negotiations are now underway for movie rights.

If the movie deal happens, Ring knows just who she want to play her character. “I’d like to have Dolly Parton play my part,” said Bonnie with a wink.

While dark haired and modestly coiffed in those days and still attractive today, Bonnie was a voluptuous beauty like Parton, and often had to cover her cleavage with modesty panels.

“Wow; what a change with what I’m seeing now on TV! Back in the early days of television, no cleavage was allowed. The Opry didn’t

want us to wear short dresses and pants were a No-No for the girls,” said Ring.

“We always wore identical dresses,” said Ring. “We needed new dresses for the Arthur Murray Dance Party, which was the first color TV show, on NBC, and had dresses made that cost a fortune. Maxine loved that dress, and used the old photo on the book jacket. Another picture of Maxine and Bonnie in red dresses and Jim Ed in a red coat was taken by famous photographer, Lee Friedlander, and now hangs in the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art in NY.” With so many changes in music industry dress standards, Ring has definite ideas about costumes that performers wear today.

“It’s interesting to see what performers are wearing, But if you look away, and just listen to the music, it doesn’t say much to me. So, I suppose outlandish costumes are important if you can’t sing,” said Ring.

As a singer, Ring also has opinions about

today’s music. “Rap music is ruined for me if I have the Closed Captioning on. I’m amazed at some of the words they use -and get away with. I do not understand the popularity of Heavy Metal, or Rap music.

However, I like all other kinds of music, as long as it’s done well.”

The old system of recording music live and using one microphone was great, because it had a “warmer, spontaneous feel” about it, said Ring. With the new records, everything is perfect…no one is off key because it can be brought up to the key with a digital board. If a mistake is made by a musician, it can be changed so easily by slicing in the right key. In the olden days we’d have to go back and start over.

Sometimes, songs are too perfect on the discs of today, she added.

Vinyl records are also making a comeback.

“I like the old vinyl (records). They have a much better sound. Collectors want the old ones and new artists are requesting that their record companies release a number of their songs on Vinyl 78 RPMs and also, on 45’s. The sound is so superior to the CD’s,” explained Ring.

Whether on vinyl or disc, the pure, sweet harmonies of the Brown’s still sell records and the Nashville sound has a bigger audience than ever.

“If you want to know the truth about the early days of the Nashville sound, read Maxine’s book,” said Ring. Not only does she tell the story of the Brown’s sometimes bumpy ride to fame, the book includes material on their producer, Chet Atkins, Johnny Cash, Jim Reeves, Floyd Cramer, Jim Perryman and the King of Rock and Roll himself, Elvis Presley, who they toured with for two years and with whom Bonnie had a teenage romance.

The story goes that while Bonnie was in London with her sibling to accept the award for Number One Song in Britain that year, she had a phone conversation with Elvis while he was stationed in Germany as a serviceman.

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Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

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October 2011

“Our manager had arranged the phone even though Elvis and I had argued so much in the past. During the phone call, Elvis asked me to wait for him until he got out of the Army, so we could talk without arguing.

“I said OK, I’d wait. However, that was in November, and I had already met Brownie (Gene “Brownie” Ring) and was madly in love.

When Elvis came home to Memphis in March, his record company (RCA Victor -- which was also ours) had a big welcome home party at a downtown hotel, and he asked that they invite us so the three of us went up to Memphis.”

“At the reception/party, when we were together for photos, he asked if I had waited like I promised. That’s when I told him I had gotten married two weeks before. I think he was upset. He left the party very soon after, and went back to his home, and cancelled the ‘after’ party,” said Ring.

Ring does not like to talk much about Elvis.

“I really don’t think the Elvis times are important if anyone really wants to know about The Browns. However, I know there’s so much interest in Elvis, and there should be. He was Great! He made a big change in the music scene at that time... one that lasted forever.”

Despite her connection to the King of Rock and Roll, Ring much prefers to talk about her husband, Brownie, a family-practice physician who maintained a busy practice in Dardanelle until her retired in 2000, and her two grown daughters.

More than 50 years later, Bonnie and Brownie, are still together.

“I kissed her once and that was it,” said Brownie with a big smile.

Bonnie agreed. “He is a good kisser!”

When asked if Brownie found it difficult to be married to a star, Ring replied, “If you want to know who is really famous, just go to Wal-Mart with Brownie and me.

“Everybody just loves Brownie and former patients are always coming up to him and saying how much they miss him,” said Ring with obvious pride.

You might say the bells are still ringing for this love song. n

October 2011

“The Browns” cont. from pg. 9...

Around this time, father Floyd and mother Birdie Lee, who was known as a wonderful cook, had a supper club called the Trio Club, where Elvis and other up and coming stars often came to eat and perform while on the road.

“Elvis and everyone we toured with just loved my momma’s cooking,” said Ring.

As radio made way for television, the Browns joined network TV show, Ozark Jubilee and later joined the cast of The Grand Ole Opry. Jim Ed Brown, the group’s lead singer and guitar player, is still a regular on the Opry and went on to become a successful solo artist.

By 1967 both Bonnie and Maxine retired from the show business circuit to raise their families.

“It was a fun life when we were single, but once Maxine and I each got married and started our families, we really missed being with our children,” said Ring.

While Maxine settled in Little Rock where she raised three children, mostly as a single parent, Bonnie and Brownie settled in Dardanelle where they raised their two daughters, Kelly and Robin.

Today, Kelly Lee Bulleit is an Emmy-winning news anchor at WTVT in Tampa, Fla., and Robin Rachelle Shaver is married to a respected pathologist in Little Rock and has two children.

Does Ring still sing? “About all I do now is sing in church,” said Bonnie, although earlier performances by the trio are still popular on radio and TV, and a recently released compilation of their music is selling well. n To read more about the Browns and their music, go to themaxinebrown.com.

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 11

family

Story by Kechia Bentley

For the Love of Asparagus...and a Front Porch Swing

E

very time I eat asparagus I think of Molly Pilkington. I know that sounds weird, but you see, there was a time that I would not touch, much less eat, asparagus. But thanks to Molly, I actually crave asparagus. Here is how it happened.

One day I was shopping at the grocery store and Molly was buying some asparagus. I must have said something about it because what I remember next is her telling me how much her girls like it.

Molly told me how she prepares her asparagus and I decided to give it a try.

Here is something else you should know -- my husband likes all vegetables. But, if I don’t like it, I don’t fix it. For many years he has been denied some of his favorite foods.

Anyway, I fixed the asparagus and sure enough, it was awesome! We now eat it several times a month.

And, whenever I share the story of “How Kechia Came to Eat Asparagus,” Donald says, “I love Molly.”

The realization that I think of Molly every time I eat asparagus led me to consider other people that are “attached” to foods I enjoy.

John Jacobs once got me to try fried dill pickles. I LOVED dill pickles but I had never heard of fried dill pickles and it sounded gross. At his insistence I tried one. I now LOVE fried dill pickles and will order then just about any chance I get. Plus, I will always think of John when I eat them.

Fried potatoes, sweet tea, cherry cobbler and chocolate pie remind me of my Granny Wilson. Raw sweet onions and fresh tomatoes make me think of my Papaw Wilson. Pineapple upside-down cake and silver dollar pancakes remind me of my Granny and Papaw Wheeler. I can never eat cherry pie or pecan pie that I don’t think of my Aunt Joan. And every time I eat macaroni and cheese, I am always comparing it to my Mother’s. She makes the best!

I will always remember how much my Daddy loved Coke and chocolate milk.

Of the previous people mentioned here, all but my Momma and Aunt Joan are gone, but they still live with me when I eat these foods. Weird isn’t it?

I have come to realize it is not just food that can bring people to life for me or remind me of sweet moments. Just the other day we were taking our son 12 | ABOUT

Dillon to lunch for his 22nd birthday.

He had his pick of restaurants and he chose Steak-N-Shake. This was one of my father’s favorite places to eat.

Dillon didn’t even know that, and yet, along came my father to this birthday lunch for a grandson he had never had a chance to meet.

Every morning I have a cup of coffee and I grab a spoon from a beautiful cut-glass goblet. Each time I do, I think of my dear friend Cherie Poll from my days of living on Long Island, New York. I had been married all of six days when my husband whisked me off to New York to begin our lives together.

Culture shock was an understatement.

Cherie was originally from Alabama and I would have never survived if she had not taken me under her wing. She always kept a glass full of spoons on the table for us to fix our coffee and now I do the same -- sweet memories.

Other items in my home connect me to people I love and seldom, or never, get to see anymore. The table I am writing at right this moment belonged to my Great Aunt Lola, “Auntie.”

I ate many a meal at this table while it was in her home long ago. She made the best green beans ever! She cooked them for a long time in plenty of bacon fat. Oh my, they were good.

I have tea cups, a cedar chest, a typewriter, quilts, jewelry, rocking chairs and so much more. Just the sight of these things brings the memories of those I love into my everyday life. It reminds me of the people who have moved in and out of my life and what blessings they have been.

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

There is an all time favorite item -- even above my Mother’s mac and cheese and Auntie’s green beans -- that brings a smile to my face and heart every day I see it. It is my front porch swing.

My front porch swing is very special in two ways. First,, my husband built it for me. And second he built it out of my Granny and Papaw Wilson’s twin beds.

For as long as I can remember, my Granny and Papaw Wilson slept in twin beds. And if my husband’s snoring keeps up, my grandchildren will be saying the same thing about us... but that is another story for another time.

After my Granny and Papaw had both passed away, the family was going through the things and no one really needed the twin beds so I took them home with me. I had seen a bed swing in a magazine and asked my husband if he thought he could make a swing out of the headboards and footboards of Granny and Papaw’s beds.

It was magic. He made the best bed swing ever. I love that one day I will sit on that bed swing with my grandbabies and tell them the story of the swing.

And, I am sure that being the story teller that I am, they will also hear about Molly, John, Cherie, my mom and dad, Granny and Papaw Wheeler, Auntie and Unkie, and all of you who have so graciously moved in and out of my life.

And, what a sweet life it has been.

Now would be a good time to go sit on that front porch swing. I think we will have some asparagus with dinner tonight. Thanks, Molly, and remember...

Donald loves you.

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Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 13

awareness

By Holly Ruppel

Prior to her grandmother, Christine Heath’s, diagnosis with pancreatic cancer in March 2009, Ronda Khamsourivong and her family had no idea why their loved one’s health was deteriorating or why she was exhibiting symptoms such as jaundice and rapid weight loss.

“We had no idea what was wrong with her,” Khamsourivong said, adding doctors initially thought Heath’s liver was failing.

By the time doctors diagnosed Heath with pancreatic cancer, the disease was in the fourth stage.

Initially, Khamsourivong and her family had a positive outlook and faith in her grandmother’s fighting spirit.

“She can beat this,” Khamsourivong said her family thought at the time. But her grandmother’s health worsened rapidly, and she passed away at 73 years old in June 2009, only three months after the diagnosis.

Soon after, Khamsourivong learned that some of her co-workers and others she knew had been affected by the disease, as well. They wanted to help raise funds for

Paint the River Purple: Raising Awareness

pancreatic cancer research and awareness, and soon came up with the idea of creating a t-shirt to sell.

As the group came up with more ideas to raise money for their cause, what started with a simple t-shirt design turned into “Paint the River Purple,” an event meant to raise funds for research of pancreatic cancer and to raise awareness for the disease and its devastating effects.

Paint the River Purple is slated for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 5, at Veterans Memorial Riverfront Park in Dardanelle.

The group chose November for the event because it is National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.

Scheduled events and activities include a silent auction, a bake sale, a lemonade stand and live entertainment including Some Guy Named Robb, Mismanage, Merilee Voth and Justin Qualls.

Khamsourivong said there will also be many activities for the kids, including a bump-n-jump, face painting and a mobile aquarium from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

The group is now taking orders for t-shirts, which are $15 each. In addition to the t-shirt, the group is selling awareness ribbons for $.50 each and bracelets for $2 and $5 each. These items will also be available at the event. All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

Local businesses have also joined in the fundraising efforts. Cunningham Metals, for instance, is sponsoring an aluminum can drive for the cause. Donations may be dropped off at Cunningham Metals, 3408 S. Arkansas Avenue, and may also be dropped off at Veterans Memorial Riverfront Park on the day of the event.

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Khamsourivong said she is overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from her the community.

“We just feel blessed to have such a great group of people working on it to make it happen,” she said. “It’s just amazing to hear (about) people coming together for this.”

Donations are vital for funding research and raising awareness for the disease, Khamsourivong said. She and her fellow organizers are happy to have the opportunity to help and thankful for the community support.

“Even if it’s just $1,000, it’s $1,000 they didn’t have before,” she said.

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. The survival rate for the disease is low, with only two out of 10 pancreatic cancer patients surviving at least one year after the initial diagnoses and fewer than four percent surviving after five years. ACS figures state that in 2011, over 44,000 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and over 37,000 will die from the disease.

Khamsourivong said the primary reason the survival rate is so low it that the disease is often not diagnosed until the final stages.

“There’s no early detection,” she said.

“Most of the time when they catch it, it’s already in the late stages.”

In 2010, pancreatic cancer was the cause of 440 deaths in Arkansas alone, Khamsourivong said.

Khamsourivong is encouraged by the community response and is hoping to make Paint the River Purple an annual event.

The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network is a national non-profit organization which, according to its website, seeks to advance research, provide patient support and “create hope for those affected by pancreatic cancer.” For more information, please visit www.pancan.org.

For more information on Paint the River Purple or to order an event t-shirt, please contact Ronda Khamsourivong at (479) 747-2789 or Sherry Whitaker at (479) 747-3280.

A La Carte in November

The second annual A La Carte event, a country casual evening of fun, food, and entertainment hosted by the Arkansas River Valley Chapter of Circle of Friends for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, has been set for Tuesday, Nov. 1. The fundraising event will be held at the “wonderful Red Barn” owned by Dolph and Loraine Massey, 3327 Pleasant View Road in Russellville

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according to Beverly Keener, state board member of the ARV Circle of Friends.

The event will begin at 6:30 p.m. and end around 9 p.m. In addition to more than a dozen local restaurants serving generous portions of their particular specialties, a silent auction will also be conducted.

Guests will enjoy the country atmosphere, casual “a la carte” dining, a crackling campfire surrounded by hay bales, candlelit picnic tables, music and a live band.

Just as last year’s successful event, which raised an estimated $13,000, attire for the evening is country casual. The group exceeded last year’s goal and is hoping to generate even larger event proceeds to benefit Arkansas Children’s Hospital.

Keener said “the hospital will be celebrating its 100 year Anniversary in March 2012 and events like our A La Carte are helping to make a difference in a child’s life by helping to fund some of the needs of the hospital.”

A la Carte was created to raise money for the hospital through three areas: sponsorship, host couples, and a silent auction. The River Valley Circle of Friends local has been fundraising for the hospital for more than 25 years.

For more information about the event call (479) 968-2973. n

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SHEDDING ILLUMINATION ON THE

‘DOVER LIGHTS’ Story by Johnny Sain

W

ay back in the Ozark hills where the country is rugged and wild, legends seem to hold tight. The stories of yesteryear are wrapped around the locals’ minds and into their culture like greenbrier growing around an old hickory stump. And, like the greenbrier, the tangles of the unexplained grow thicker as the years pass.

On a lonely stretch of dirt road north of Dover in Pope County, a legend has remained since sometime in the late 1800s. In this day and age of discovery it would seem that technology would eclipse any haunting folklore, but somehow the sightings and the stories survive.

The Dover Lights are a phenomenon that even to this day remains a mystery. The legend stretches back to a period before electricity, a fact that seems to fly in the face of the skeptic’s claims. While the lights themselves are baffling, part of the mystery is deciding which story regarding the origins of the lights are true.

Many believe there was a coal mine on the hillside and that the mine collapsed one day

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killing several miners. The lights wandering the hill are said to be spectral light resembling the carbide lanterns used by the miners to illuminate the mine while they worked.

Another popular story tells of the Spanish Conquistadors searching for gold in the hills. While it’s apparent that searching for gold was what Conquistadors loved to do most, large deposits of gold were never found in the Arkansas Ozarks. (Maybe that’s why the Spaniards are supposedly still looking.)

One legend predating all others is that the lonely canyon is an old Native American burial site. Some think the lights are the spirits of tribal leaders trying to find a way to lead their people to the next life.

Perhaps the best, most detailed story told around the area is that of a doctor looking for the lost silver mine, and about the bad things that can happen when one takes something that doesn’t belong to them.

The story goes something like this...

Back in the mid-1800s an elderly couple lived on this now-locally-famous hillside next to Big Piney, the creek flowing through the Dover Lights area. The wife became deathly ill and as she was too weak to make the journey out of the mountains, her husband rode off to town to bring back a doctor. The physician rode to the couple’s home to find the woman near death. The good doctor was able to save the elderly lady and stayed on for a few days, nursing the woman back to full strength.

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The couple was very poor and had no money to offer the kind doctor. However, the husband was very good at making his own hunting supplies so he offered the only thing he had -- one dozen rifle bullets. The young doctor agreed with this trade and left the couple to ride back home.

The years passed by and the doctor became very successful and wealthy. One day, as he was picking through his attic, he came across the bullets he had been given. His mind wandered back. He remembered the older couple and a time when the humble trade of bullets for his services was plenty good enough, he decided to polish the bullets and display them in his library.

As he polished, it became obvious that the bullets weren’t made of lead but rather of silver. He believed the poor old Hillbillies surely had no idea that it was silver used to make the bullets or they would have sold them and become rich.

Greed overtook the doctor as he planned to visit the couple and find out more about the silver. He also formed a plan to take away the silver from the ignorant, simple couple. The Doctor rode to the couple’s home the next day.

Arriving at sunset, he found two headstones standing side by side in the darkening forest behind the cabin. The old couple had long since passed away.

The doctor felt that the only way a poor man would have silver is if the silver mine were located on his land. He began searching the land the night with lantern in his hand. At last the doctor found the cache -- but it wasn’t a silver mine.

Instead, it was a crate full of silver bars hidden underneath the home of the hill folk. The doctor rode home that night with a few bars of silver, planning to return with a packhorse the next day.

But the doctor never woke up again, mysteriously dying in his sleep that very night.

Neighbors reported seeing two floating spheres of light slowly wandering through the dead doctor’s home. They also talked of hearing faint voices calling “Where, where is it?” throughout the night. >>

Viewed in the bright sunlight of a crisp autumn day, the Arkansas River Valley is a picturesque community. The birds are singing. Residents are going about their day to day schedule of school, work, or errands. Any town in the region could be the subject of a modern Norman Rockwell painting.

But things change as the shadows lengthen. The cheerful fall colors fade into shades of gray. The senses play tricks on a person. The lines between reality and the supernatural become blurred.

Stories of hauntings are common throughout the world. While it’s easy to dismiss those eerie tales told halfway across the globe or the country, those that occur in your own neighborhood are not as easy to disregard.

Something seen with your own eyes or heard with your own ears is a very chilling experience -- as opposed to reading about an unexplained happening in a distant place, comforted by the distance between you…and it.

The River Valley is teeming with opportunities to witness first-hand the glimpse of a spectral being or a voice calling from across the chasm that separates the known from the unknown.

The cemetery on Highway 64 between Russellville and London is the location of a particularly well-known haunting.

Witnesses report seeing what appears to be fog in the highway. The fog takes the form of young woman wearing a long flowing gown. Her face becomes quite detailed but just as she is approached she suddenly flies straight up into the night sky. The legend is tied to the story of a young woman accidentally killed by a stage coach on her wedding day back in the late 1800’s.

The old iron bridge at Pottsville reportedly was the site of another young maiden tragically killed, this time on prom night. Drivers reported seeing the young woman standing beside the road apparently in distress. When the driver pulls over to help the girl just asks to be taken home. The girl sits in the passenger seat and gives directions to her home but once the driver looks back to the road, the pale girl with the hollow dark eyes vanishes into thin air.

Petit Jean Mountain is an enchanting place and the story of how the mountain got its name is very interesting. It’s the tale of a young woman named Adrienne who disguised herself as a boy so that she could follow her love to the New World. Women were not permitted on the voyage so this was the only way for her to be with him. Soon after travelling up the Arkansas River and arriving at present day Petit Jean Mountain, Adrienne became very sick. Of course her true identity was discovered shortly before she died.

Continued on page 19

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ABOUT | 17

It’s told that to this very day if you stand at the overlook and call out “The silver is here!” that two lights will appear on the distant hillside. It’s said that they slowly make their way across the creek and up the ridge to where you stand…if you have the nerve to stand there.

The remote location and rugged terrain make the area around the Dover Lights difficult to explore. Several people have tried to find an explanation for the weird things that people see while viewing the hillside across the Big Piney from Treat Road. Among those are a group from southeastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas that specializes in making film documentaries. They have a television show called “On the Fringe.”

Justin Minor of “On the Fringe” tells about the crew’s experience while investigating the Dover Lights phenomenon.

“We made a trip to check out the Dover Lights in April of 2009 and we believe this may be the most well- documented case of this type of event ever recorded. The lights did everything that we had heard about except one -- we never saw them move.”

18 | ABOUT

“We have tried to rule out every possible cause. I mean every cause. We still can’t believe what we saw,” said Minor.

The first explanation is electric lights but Minor quickly dismisses this thought.

“There is no electricity in the canyon.

While the Long Pool campground is below the lookout, it’s around a bend in the creek.

You can’t see it from Treat Road. The campground is on the same side of the creek that the lookout area is as well, it’s not on the hillside where the lights are seen.”

“It can’t be reflections of stars or the moon. The night we were there was cloudy.

There are no roads on the hillside so that rules out autos. I guess campers could get over there and you can’t rule out a hoaxer.

But you tell me, it seems very unlikely that someone would camp there or be there to play a prank on whoever comes by for days, weeks... well, it’s been going on for decades. I’d say the odds are slim on it being campers or pranksters.”

The crew became even more convinced of paranormal activity verses a natural phenomenon when the light they saw exhibited some signs of... life.

“We got there at around 9:30 that night and a light was visible to us as soon as we looked down into the canyon. It started out as red and then became blue It was absolutely the coolest thing that we have experienced,” added Minor.

But the show was just beginning.

“The cameras picked up the light, as well as other lights, fading in and out that we couldn’t see with the naked eye.

The bright light began

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

to flicker after a few minutes so we decided to introduce stimuli. We shined a flashlight on it and it immediately brightened up. It was astounding,” he added.

The Dover Lights had a grand finale in store for the investigating crew as well.

“Before we quit filming, the bright constant light seemed to shoot a beam like a spotlight up into the sky. We could see it reflecting off of the mist and clouds.”

“Whatever may be the source of the Dover Light phenomenon, it is REAL. And yeah, we know the critics are going to rip this apart, they can have at it,” said Minor.

“I know what I saw with my own eyes and it was the coolest thing I’ve ever witnessed.”

The skeptic will surely dismiss all of this and they should. What reasonable person would believe tales of spectral lights and spirits looking for their stolen silver? But, the strange happenings that occur in the shadowy forests along Big Piney creek continue. Perhaps the best thing to do is let it be. Do we really want answers? Maybe some things are best left alone... like bars of silver hidden deep in an Ozark hollow. n Editor’s Note: Want to learn more about paranormal activity and local haunting lore? Information on the Arkansas Paranormal Research Association is available online at www. arkansasparanormal.net. Billed as “a diverse group of openminded and dedicated paranormal researchers,” members seek the truth in the paranormal, but focus on “helping people who have a need for assistance and knowledge.”

Events, education, research trips, gatherings and resources are available to interested individuals.

October 2011

Cont. from page 17...

Many people that live in the valley below Petit Jean Mountain report seeing a bright light hovering over the lookout area high above the Arkansas River. It’s been said that the spirit of Adrienne is looking east, towards her homeland of France.

Arkansas Tech University supposedly has a long history of reported bizarre tales.

A certain piano on the third floor of the Witherspoon Building sometimes plays seemingly on its own. An empty Tucker Coliseum will have one seat, always a different seat, pulled down, and, sometimes basketballs will be strewn

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across the floor. Perhaps the most chilling tale is the tale of the haunting of Caraway Hall.

While the details are sketchy, the story has been tied to a tale occurring many years ago, when a girl believing to be distraught over troubles with her boyfriend, took her own life near a window on the building’s third floor. The window is reportedly bricked over now but sometimes the shadowy image of a girl’s face is seen where the window once was.

Yes, the Arkansas River Valley is home to many unexplained happenings and for the curious, there is no better time

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than the month of October to investigate the strange, the eerie, the unknown... Or maybe it’s best to stay near the lights, to avoid the darkened hallway and the seldom travelled roads. n Editor’s Note: This story provided by Pope County Freelance Writer Johnny Sain is offered purely for entertainment purposes and should be considered as such. Johnny’s interest in writing and love of the outdoors can be traced back to his pre-teen years when he often hid a Field & Stream Magazine inside his textbook during math class.

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Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 19

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Reiki

Exploring Stress Reduction, Healing Story by Norah Dykema Editor’s Note: This is the personal story of Norah Dykema and her experience with Reiki, a gentle, non-invasive, complementary healing modality believed to work with universal or source energy that supports the body’s innate healing abilities. She is a licensed Reiki Master.

ore than 15 years ago, I experienced the power of Reiki through my own spontaneous healing. A young German woman quietly treated my old painful wound, allowing for a complete recovery over the course of three days. I had no idea what was happening as she simply held my elbow and closed her eyes for a few minutes. There really was no other explanation for the healing because the pain had been nagging for six years.

What is Reiki? Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by “laying on hands” and is based on the idea that an unseen “life force energy” flows through us and causes us to be in good health or prone to illness. If one’s “life force energy” is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy.

The word Reiki is made up of two Japanese words: Rei which means “God’s Wisdom or the Higher Power,” and Ki which is “life force energy.” So Reiki is actually “spiritually guided life force energy.” It is also referred to as “energy medicine.”

How does Reiki heal? The Ki flows through pathways called chakras, meridians and nadis. Ki also flows around our bodies in an energy field called an aura. It is Ki that animates our body’s organs and tissues as it flows through them. Ki nourishes the organs and cells of the body and supports them in their vital functions. When the flow of Ki is disrupted, the result is diminished functioning within one or more of the organs and tissues of the physical body. It is the disruption in the flow of Ki that is the main cause of illness.

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Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

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October 2011

and treatment procedures, through the assistance of Reiki Master Pamela Miles.

Dr. Oz ranked Reiki #1. He said, “Reiki is one of my favorites, we’ve been using it for years in the Oz family, and we swear by it.” Oz’s wife, Lisa, is a Reiki master and regularly treats him and their children when they are not well.

So many patients have reported significant and even miraculous results that Reiki is now offered in over 70 hospitals in the United States as part of their standard clinical practices. The distinguished list includes Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital; the Integrative Therapies Program for Children with Cancer at Columbia University Medical Center; Duke University Medical Center; and the University Medical Center in Tucson, Arizona.

The popularity of Reiki in hospitals has been largely driven by requests from patients and by nurses and doctors who have experienced its value. They report that Reiki decreases the amount of pain medication required, improves sleep and appetite, and accelerates the healing process. It has also been shown to reduce many of the unwanted side effects of radiation and chemotherapy.

Continued on page 33

LEARN MORE

A treatment is administered on a massage table with the client fully clothed and typically lasts for one hour. Some Reiki practitioners, however, don’t like to watch the clock and prefer to let the client’s body tell them when a shift of energy has occurred bringing about more balance and an undisrupted flow of Ki. When this happens, the treatment has been effective and the client experiences a higher level of wellness. Sometimes, chronic or more severe health problems require additional Reiki sessions to achieve a desired outcome.

Reiki is given with a practitioner’s hands placed near or lightly touching various parts of the body. The practitioner sets an intention with the recipient that they are to be healed. The Reiki energy has its own intelligence and knows where to go.

In Reiki training, practitioners are taught a number of hand positions to use on various parts of the body, including the head, shoulders, abdomen, legs, and feet.

Reiki practitioners across America had cause for celebration on Jan, 6, 2010, when Dr. Mehmet Oz revealed his “Ultimate Alternative Medicine Secrets for 2010.” Dr. Oz, a renowned cardiothoracic surgeon, has for several years incorporated Reiki into his surgical

To learn more about Norah Dykema’s story, Reiki, and how energy moves throughout the body, the public is invited to an open forum from 7 until 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 13, at the Historic Missouri-Pacific Railroad Train Depot, 320 West C St, Russellville.

Norah holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Women’s Studies from the University of Arizona and a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Information Management from Arkansas Tech University. She is the Director of Health Information and Compliance Officer for Petit Jean Medical Supply in Morrilton.

Norah offers Reiki treatments as a licensed Reiki Master, having received her credentials through the International Center for Reiki Training. She is also a distributor of therapeutic essential oils. For more information, call (479) 970-4811, or email: dawnmoon25@hotmail.com

®

20% OFF CUSTOM ORDERS www.rivervalleyf urn.com October 2011

(479) 967-9984 • 2609 E. Parkway, Russellville Hours: M. thru F. ~ 9am-6pm Sat. 10am-4pm • Sunday ~ Closed

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 21

Cont. from page 5...

Following the dinner, the school encourages everyone to enjoy a free concert at 7 p.m. by four-time, Grammy-Nominated music group Trout Fishing In America. Trout Fishing in America is a musical duo which performs folk rock and children’s music.

Keith Grimwood and Ezra Idlet formed Trout Fishing in America on the streets of Santa Cruz, Calif. The band was based for many years in Houston, Texas, but moved to the Prairie Grove, Arkansas, area in 1992.

This year marks three major milestones for UACCM: 50 years since its creation by the Arkansas General Assembly; 20 years as a two-year college; and 10 years as a member of the University of Arkansas System. During the course of the year, UACCM will host a number of events for the community, including concerts, musical performances, and guest speakers.

For more information, visit www.uaccm. edu or call (800) 264-1094.

Travel to Paris (Arkansas)

Make plans now to take the short trip to Paris (Logan County) and experience a number of activities in the coming months.

No passport required!

On Saturday, Oct. 1, the 32 Annual Mt. Magazine Frontier Day Festival begins with a parade at 9 a.m. on the Square in Paris.

Opening ceremonies follow at 10 a.m. Enjoy Western Re-enactments at the Logan County Museum, Coal Mining Exhibits at the Miner’s Memorial, arts and crafts booths, food vendors and free contests with cash prizes.

Events are the Hay Bale Toss, Log Sawing, Nail Driving, Pioneer Costume Contest for Men, Women and Children, Free Kids Zone, a Box Turtle Race, antique car show and Miss Mt. Magazine Pageant for girls from birth through 18 years of age. Those 16-18

! d e c i l S

Prices Have Been

years of age compete for a $500 scholarship.

The family-friendly event is sponsored by the Paris Area Chamber of Commerce.

Cache Mania 2011 is planned for Saturday, Oct. 15, at the Logan County Fairgrounds. Geocaching is a family-friendly outdoor activity where participants use a GPS or mobile device to hide and seek hidden containers called “geocaches.”

Registration begins at 8 a.m. The event includes Free classes on Geocaching, free goody bags to those who post “will attend” at www.geocaching.com, games and activities for adults and children, and the chance to win up to $500 in cash prizes.

Visit CacheMania2011.Blogspot.com or http://cord.info/gc30ybq.

On Nov. 20, the Paris Merchants will host an annual Christmas Open House, complete with a preview of holiday merchandise. Retailers serve refreshments while you shop at the Square and beyond from 1 to 5 p.m. Don’t miss the “Goodie Gathering” of free refreshments hosted at First National Bank.

Also on Nov. 20, the Logan County Mercy Hospital Auxiliary will host the Community Holiday Dinner at St. Joseph Catholic Church from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Tickets are $6 adults and $3 children 6-12. Under age 3 are admitted free. Tickets are available at the door. Benefits go to North County Mercy Hospital.

On Nov. 26, the 15th Trail of Holiday Lights Ceremony and Parade begin with a 5 p.m. pre-lighting ceremony on the south side of the Logan County Courthouse.

Parade begins at 6 p.m.

A Tour of Holiday Homes Benefit sponsored by the Logan County Museum, will be held from 1-4 p.m. on Dec. 4. Tickets are $4 per person. Call (479) 963-3936 for information.

For information on any of these events,

‘Emeritus at Wildflower’

Wildflower, a senior living community, is now operating under the new name of Emeritus at Wildflower. Wildflower, which is managed by Emeritus Senior Living, chose to make this change to reflect the Emeritus corporate brand name, which is synonymous throughout the senior living industry with exceptional service, quality and professionalism.

“We are proud to be a member of the Emeritus Senior Living family,” says Roberta Gill, Executive Director. “All across the country, Emeritus is known for its commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of the people it serves by fostering an atmosphere of family and community among its staff and residents.

So naturally, we want to be recognized as an Emeritus-affiliated community. We decided that adopting the Emeritus brand name as our own shows just how committed we are to living the Emeritus’ ideals of respect, community, teamwork and value.”

Emeritus at Wildflower which is located at 240 South Inglewood Ave. in Russellville, provides retirement and assisted living services to seniors. The community features 80 resident apartments, including studio, alcove, one bedroom, and two bedroom floor plans. Homemade meals are served restaurant-style, three times a day, in its spacious dining room. Other community amenities and services include a rehabilitation department offering physical, occupational and speech therapies, library, activity program, scheduled transportation, and a beauty salon/barber shop.

Call (479) 890-6709 today for more information on Emeritus at Wildflower. n

$20 $5

Specials

October Restaurant

Green Free Including Cart Weekday or Weekends

Take advantage of these prices and enjoy the beautiful fall weather this October!

Daily Lunch Specials

– AND –

Price 6oz.

Sirloin Steak Dinner*

Chamberlyne Country Club

Thursday, Friday and Saturday Nights

(479) 495-4110 ~ www.chamberlynecountryclub.com

479-495-4120

10614 Country Club Drive ~ P.O. Box 1539, Danville

22 | ABOUT

call the Paris Area Chamber of Commerce, 301 West Walnut, Paris, at (479) 963-2244 or visit ParisArOnline.com.

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

*Available once per week per customer.

October 2011

1

ABOUT

... the Best Products

2

n1

FALL COLORS AT LAST

Begin at the front door with your fall decorating. This large bountiful wreath is full of orange pumpkins, gourds, pine cones, leaves and twigs. Made by Raz and on display along with others at ROSE DRUG; 3103 West Main Place, Russellville (479) 968-1323

n2

BLING, BLING!!!

n3

Willow Tree

Bling shirts and school jewelry available now. Other schools available in surrounding area and state-wide.

A wide variety of personalized gifts that are one of a kind. Taking orders online at www.thedandylionstore.com or email jmeimerstorf@gmail.com Music and movement. It’s a sculpture in motion set to cassic melodies. New from Willow Tree. Gifts on Parkway; 2149 E.

3

Parkway, Russellville (479) 890-6932

n4 4

“W.H.O.’s Gorgeous”

This baby pink lip gloss and nail polish perfectly accent the clean light fragrance of the cologne.

With each purchase of a BEAUTICONTROL W.H.O. product, $1 goes to Women Helping Others, a grassroots organization dedicated to the betterment of local communities. beautipage. com/amandaneagles, rivervalleyskinrn.com, or (479) 747-6493

n5

5 6

TRICK OR TREAT

With these tin copper colored pumpkins.

Three sizes to choose from, all wearing witches hats. Look also for the white tin ghosts, perfect for lining the walk way. All from Raz.. ROSE DRUG; 3103 West Main

Place, Russellville (479) 968-1323

Romantic. Feminine.

Memorable. Delicate.

n6

Citrus note lines with passion fruit mixed with jasmine vanilla, and woodsy bottom notes to create a Delicate fragrance that is perfect for any woman. beautipage.com/ amandaneagles, rivervalleyskinrn.com, or (479) 747-6493

October 2011

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 23

Cyclones Photo by Steve Newby

The Russellville High School girls’ volleyball team is planning a breast cancer awareness and fundraising event Tuesday, Oct. 11. This “Cyclones DIG PINK” event, which will be held during a regular home game against North Little Rock, is coordinated with hundreds of other events across the nation through the Side-out Foundation.

Dig and Sideout both represent volleyball terminology. A “side-out” in volleyball occurs when one team wins a point while its opponent is serving, thereby regaining serve or control of play. A “dig” in volleyball is to strike or redirect (a ball) just before it hits the ground.

24 | ABOUT

for Breast Cancer Awareness The t-shirts will be for sale during both lunch periods at Russellville High School during the week of October 3-7.

The mission of the Side-Out Foundation is to raise funding for breast cancer research through high school and collegiate girls’ volleyball events. The current statistics are that 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer at some point during their lives. Early detection is the key to survival. October is the national breast cancer awareness month.

Students, faculty, parents as well as the general public who wear pink to our

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

Cyclones Dig Pink event will gain admission for $1. The Lady Cyclones will wear a special pink and black jersey for this evening.

The RHS cheerleaders and dance team will also participate and perform. Limited edition “Lady Cyclones Dig Pink” cotton candy by IronWorks Kettlecorn will be sold.

The goal is to have a large turnout from both the student body and community.

October 2011

There are three matches scheduled for the evening. A Sophomore game will begin at 4:30, a Junior Varsity game is scheduled for 5:30 with the main event Varsity game starting at approximately 6:30 p.m.

In addition to donations and cotton candy sales, the fundraising component of the event this year will be the sale of pink and black “Cyclones DIG PINK” t-shirts for $10 each.

As the foremost provider of comprehensive breast cancer diagnostic screening and treatment in the Arkansas River Valley, Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center has generously agreed to sponsor the fundraiser t-shirts, allowing 100% of the sales to go to the Side-out foundation. The t-shirts will be for sale during both lunch periods at Russellville High School during the week of Oct. 3-7.

Organizers, including Suzanne Gately of the RHS Lady Cyclone Volleyball Booster Club, encourage the public to come support the Lady Cyclone Volleyball team and help make the Dig Pink event a success. n

“Thank you Dr. Dalton and Staff for my beautiful smile.”

– Bonnie Haines Longtime Patient of Dalton Family Dentistry

(479) 968-1001 October 2011

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

3105 West Main, Russellville AR (across from Rose Drug)

www.daltonwecatertocowards.com

ABOUT | 25

healthcare

Summer Program Provides Real-Life Medical Exposure

“When I grow up I want to be a _____ (fill in the blank with your own childhood dream job.)” How many of us dreamed of becoming nurses or doctors, dentists or veterinarians?

Ten students from Pope, Yell, and Johnson counties got a little closer to their dream jobs during a two-week, handson MASH program held recently at Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center. MASH (Medical Application of Science for Health) Summer Enrichment Program is a health careers camp designed for above-average high school juniors and seniors who are interested in pursuing health-related careers.

Following a daylong safety and privacy orientation, students were given the opportunity to shadow medical professionals in a variety of hospital departments. MASH instructor and RN educator Kelly Traylor explained, “One of the most valuable learning experiences we offer students is the ability to shadow clinicians as they care for our patients. They have the opportunity to see real work being done in areas such as nursing, respiratory care, pharmacy, lab, radiology, and surgery.

Most students have no concept of the many jobs that healthcare has to offer. This program opens their minds to so many different career paths.”

“The MASH program not only gives students the opportunity to experience medicine first hand from a clinician’s viewpoint, but also allows our staff to mentor some of our community’s brightest young minds,” said Mike McCoy, Saint Mary’s CEO. “We have excellent opportunities in the area for talented, caring individuals to work in the healthcare field.”

During the camp, students learned basic first aid, basic life support (CPR), casting, suturing, dissection, and medical terminology. Mary Price, who is now studying biomedical engineering at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, participated in Saint Mary’s 2011 MASH program.

“I absolutely loved it!,” Mary exclaimed.

“We got to intubate a dummy and suture

UNDRESS & DE-STRESS ®

• • • • •

Bath Pillows Bath Salts Reading Rack Bubble Bath Soaking Sodas

a pig’s foot, which were both amazing hand-on experiences. The trip to Arkansas Children’s Hospital really inspired me.

Helping children have a brighter future is definitely what I want to do with my life. MASH really showed me so many aspects of the medical field, and opened the doors to many branches of medicine I had never looked into before. I would highly recommend the MASH program.”

Community partners and health professionals from throughout the River Valley and around the state also met with MASH participants, and each offered key information about their area of medical expertise. Among these were Pope County EMS and Russellville Police, who spoke to the group and answered questions, and the Air Evac life team, whose presentation included a tour of the Air Evac helicopter.

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Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

•

(479) 968-2284 October 2011

Another session, which was provided by ARORA (Arkansas Regional Organ Recovery Agency), focused on the significance of organ donation, and still another featured Rick Washam, UAMS AR SAVES team leader, who shared with the students critical steps in treating stroke, such as recognizing the signs, calling 911, and immediately transporting the person to the hospital.

Outside of these locally held sessions, the students traveled to Little Rock and toured the burn unit of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), which is located at Arkansas Children’s Hospital (ACH).

“Along with UAMS (organizer of the MASH program) and corporate partners who provide operational support, Saint Mary’s believes that by providing students with inspiring health-related learning experiences, we are encouraging young people to continue their education and pursue healthcare careers,” said Roy Boland, Saint Mary’s Chief Nursing Officer.

“We know that almost 75 percent of students who complete the MASH program will pursue a career in healthcare, and many of them will return to their home communities following their education. The MASH program is just one more way we are investing in the future of our community.”

Led by Nurse Educator Kelly Traylor, RN, and UAMS AR Saves Team Leader Rick Washam, the students included: Mary Price, Freddys Rodriquez, Mary Hefley, Sandra Jacobson, and Jordan Kitterman, all of Russellville; Derik Gray, Hunter Ramey and Alexa Meimerstorf, all of Dardanelle; Tera Steen of Danville, and Tate Maddie of Clarksville

“SAVE YOUR SOLE” Kicking tires in the big city resulted in this scuff, no better deal was found!

Got this scuff running from a high-pressure salesman at another lot, no better deal was found.

This one was from tripping over the $79 Acquisition gimmick, no better deal was found!

MORAL OF THE STORY:

You Will Wear Out A Pair Of Shoes Trying To Beat The Deals At Nebo2!

479-498-2277 3405 E. Main, Russellville

www.nebo2.com October 2011

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 27

food

Halloween of Days Gone By Story by Dianna Qualls About the River Valley Food Editor

B

ack in the day -- I should say many, many days -- when I was but a mere child in Plainview, Halloween was a most anticipated event. Halloween certainly never received such negative connotations as it does in this day and age. We thought it was just a time for us to dress up in silly clothes and knock on doors and get candy in return, WHAT a DEAL! Candy for free! What a great idea.

Costumes were never purchased. Masks were sometime bought and we had to use them for several years. Often we came up with our own ideas -- cold cream and cocoa made for really scary faces.

Our trick or treat bags were usually a paper bag or a pillow case. We knocked on just about every door in Plainview, usually in a group of “a bunch of kids.”

There were no adults as chaperones.

None were needed because if anyone thought we were misbehaving they were quick to inform us to “stop it or they would call our parents.”

Most treats were homemade and there was no fear about where it came from. One lady (my memory fails me as I cannot remember her name) in town would give out one stick of Doublemint gum and a dime. My Grandma and Grandpa Ricker’s house was a favorite.

HALLOWEEN CHEX MIX

Trick or treat? Surprise little witches and goblins with this fruit, candy and cereal mix.

They’ll be “goblin” it up!

Grandpa would pop popcorn and fill small paper bags. He would greet the kids and give them his delectable treats until the last one left or he ran out of popcorn. Then the front porch light would be turned off, a surefire indication there was no more treats.

After that it was time to go home and show mom and dad our stash -- chocolate chip cookies, popcorn balls, Tootsie Roll Pops, Pixie Stixs (yum), Chick-o-Sticks, Bit-o-Honey and Bouble bubble. If you were trick or treating in the 1960s or 70s, you should be licking your lips just from the memories.

In this day and age the freedom to knock on doors for free homemade goodies is far behind us. So, whip up some of these yummy treats and call the neighbors, friends and family -- KIDS of all ages -- and enjoy. FREE CANDY!

8 oz. white chocolate baking bars, coarsely chopped 4 c. Corn Chex® or Rice Chex® cereal 2 c. bite-size pretzel twists 1/ 2 c. raisins 1 c. candy corn 1/4 c. orange and black candy decors In large microwavable bowl, microwave chopped baking bars uncovered on High 1 minute 30 seconds to 2 minutes 30 seconds, stirring every 30 seconds, until melted and smooth. Gently stir in cereal, pretzels and raisins until evenly coated. Stir in candy corn and decors.

Spread on waxed paper or foil until cool and chocolate is set, about 30 minutes.

Break into chunks. Store loosely covered.

Recipe from Bettycrocker.com.

Q’s-Tip: To make bags to give out, fill Halloween cellophane bags with mix and tie with orange and black ribbons.

We’re now

479-967-0882 Mon-Sat 10am-6pm

Come CELEBRATE our OPEN HOUSE Saturday, October 22, 2011 • 2-4 p.m.

Refreshments • Entertainment • Tours

320 West “B” Street • Russellville, AR 72801

240 S. Inglewood Ave., Russellville • www.Emeritus.com • 479-890-6709

A subsidiary of Friendship Community Care, Inc.

28 | ABOUT

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

October 2011

Filling: 1 (8 oz.) pkg cream cheese, softened 1 (15 oz.) can pumpkin 3 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla 8 T. butter melted, cooled 1 (16 oz.) box powdered sugar 1 tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. nutmeg

PEANUT BUTTER SPIDER COOKIES 1 pouch of peanut butter cookie mix 3 T. vegetable oil 1 T. water 1 egg 36 chewy caramels in milk chocolate Black or red string licorice 1/3 c. (72) miniature candy-coated chocolate baking bits Black decorating gel

In large bowl beat cream cheese and pumpkin, until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla and butter. Beat well.

Add powdered sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. Mix well. Spread pumpkin mixture over cake layer and bake 40 to 50 minutes.

Serve with whipped cream.

MY PUMPKIN SQUARES

1 c. oil 4 eggs Heat oven to 375°F. In medium bowl, stir 2 c. sugar cookie mix, oil, water and egg until dough 1 (15 oz.) can pumpkin forms. Shape dough into 36 (1-inch) balls. On 2 c. flour ungreased cookie sheets, place 2 inches apart. 2 tsp. baking powder Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until light golden 1 tsp. baking soda brown. Immediately press 1 chewy caramel 1/2 tsp. salt in center of each cookie. Cool 2 minutes; 2 tsp. cinnamon remove from cookie sheets to cooling racks. 1/2 tsp. (each) cloves, ginger, and nutmeg Cut licorice into 8 (2-inch) pieces for each 1/2 c. chopped nuts (optional) spider. Attach legs by sticking into chewy caramel. Use baking bits for eyes and black Mix well. Pour into a greased and floured gel to make pupils in eyes. Recipe from jelly roll pan. Bake in a preheated 350 Bettercrocker.com. degree oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Cool and frost with the following.

PUMPKIN GOOEY BUTTER CAKE Cake: 1 (18¼ oz.) pkg. yellow cake mix 1 egg 8 T. butter, melted, cooled

Frosting: 2 (3 oz.) pkg cream cheese, softened 6 T. butter, softened 1 T. milk 1 tsp. vanilla Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine 1 box sifted powdered sugar all ingredients for the cake. Mix well. Pat mixture into bottom of a lightly greased 13 Mix well and frost cooled cake. x 9 baking pan. Prepare filling.

Cut into squares. >>

Dr. Charles A. Vondran, Jr., DDS, MDS 109 S. Laredo • Russellville, AR 72801 479.967.3421 • www.ArkansasBraces.com

S!

OG

H O G

Now Scheduling Patients at our Russellville Office!

October 2011

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

We have been serving the finest Catfish-n-fixins to the River Valley for over 40 years. We are proud to be independent and locally owned. We would like to thank our valuable customers for their business and support. We pride ourselves on excellent quality, value and service.

CATFISH FILLETS FAMOUS HUSH PUPPIES FRIED & GRILLED CHICKEN BOILED & FRIED SHRIMP HICKORY-SMOKED PORK RIBS SALAD BAR • DESSERTS

(479) 229-3321 www.catfishn.com

210 Dam Road, Dardanelle, AR

(Turn at the first right, 1 mile off Hwy 7 on Dam Road) FEB-OCT: Tuesday-Saturday 4-9pm Closed Sunday & Monday NOV-DEC: Call for winter hours CLOSED JANUARY

ABOUT | 29

pepperoni (cut into fourths) or chopped tomatoes instead of the mushrooms to the pizza sauce mixture.

POT PIE

You can’t help but smile back at this casserole. It has the all-time favorite flavor -- pizza!

WITCHES’ BREW

1 lb. lean ground beef or Italian sausage 1/2 c. chopped onion 1/2 c. chopped green bell pepper 1 can (8 oz.) pizza sauce 1 can (4 oz.) sliced fresh mushrooms 1 c. shredded mozzarella cheese (4 oz) 1 c. Original Bisquick® mix 1/4 c. very hot water Heat oven to 375ºF. Grease four 10-to12-oz. casseroles. Cook ground beef, onion and bell pepper in 10-inch skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until beef is brown; drain. Stir in pizza sauce and mushrooms.

Heat to boiling, stirring occasionally; reduce heat. Simmer uncovered 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Spoon beef mixture into casseroles. Sprinkle 1/4 cup cheese on each.

Mix Bisquick mix and very hot water; beat vigorously 20 seconds. Turn dough onto surface dusted with Bisquick mix; gently roll in Bisquick mix to coat.

Shape into ball; knead about 10 times or until smooth.

TECH TRAVEL

FALL DAY IN THE OZARKS - MT. VIEW, AR: October 28, 2011 Enjoy a beautiful fall day in Mt. View at the 28th annual Arkansas Bean Fest and Ozark Folk Center CHRISTMAS TOUR – NATCHITOCHES, LOUISIANA December 8-11, 2011 Plan a weekend getaway to historic, Natchitoches, LA. Experience the charm of the original French colony in Louisiana (1714) and the Festival of Lights. Experience a wonderful Christmas in Natchitoches. (25 Group Limit)

For spice syrup 2 cinnamon sticks 5 whole cloves 3 T. finely chopped peeled fresh ginger 1/3 c. water 1/3 c. sugar A chilled 25.4-oz. bottle sparkling cider (about 3 1/4 c.)

A chilled 1-quart bottle cranberry juice cocktail A chilled 1-liter bottle club soda or seltzer water 1 c. dark rum if desired For serving: Ice blocks in any shape Divide dough into 4 balls. Pat each ball into circle the size of diameter of casserole.

Cut steam vent in each circle with knife or cookie cutter. Place each circle on beef mixture in casserole. Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until very light brown.

For a Halloween treat, use a small cookie cutter to cut a jack-o’-lantern, cat, pumpkin or moon shape of the dough circle before putting it on the beef mixture.

For variety, add sliced ripe olives, sliced

Make spice syrup: In a small saucepan bring syrup ingredients to a boil, stirring until sugar is dissolved.

Simmer, covered, 5 minutes. Cool syrup. Syrup may be made 1 week ahead and chilled, covered.

In a punch bowl combine remaining ingredients and strain syrup through a fine sieve into punch. Stir punch and add ice blocks. Makes about 13 cups. Recipe from epicurious.com.

Now Taking Reservations for

Holiday Parties

***COMING IN 2012*** TROPICAL COSTA RICA February 11, 2012 (9-Day Tour) Lush forests, stunning waterfalls, endless coastlines. A paradise teaming with plants and animals.

Highlights include Monteverde’s Cloud Forest, Cano Negro River Boat Cruise, Tamarindo Beach, coffee plantation, volcanos and more!

BALTIC TREASURES LUXURY CRUISE: June 8-19, 2012 A royal experience awaits you on this cruise from Copenhagen to legendary ports across the Baltic Sea. Highlights: Copenhagen-Berlin-Ronne-GdanskVisby-Riga-Tallinn-St. Petersburg-Helsinki-Stockholm.

THE BEST OF EASTERN CANADA: August 5, 2012 (9-Day Tour) Featuring Montreal, Quebec City, Ottawa, Niagra Falls and more! Details Coming Soon!

Have Your Party Catered at Savanah's or at Your Event Location.

We can customize the menu to meet your needs.

NEW YORK CITY HOLIDAY - 2012 - Details Coming Soon!

UPDATED PASSPORTS REQUIRED ON TRIPS OUTSIDE OF THE USA!

Tech Travel

Alumni and Friends of Arkansas Tech For additional information, please contact Dana Moseley, Office of Gift Planning, (479) 964-0532

30 | ABOUT

AWARD WINNING

208 N. Front St. • Dardanelle

(479) 229-3425

www.savanahsrestaurant.com Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

Lunch Buffet Tues.-Fri. 11am-2pm Dinner: Tues.-Sat., 5-10pm New Nightly Specials That Are Not On The Menu Text SAVANAHS to 20673 for the latest info on our specials!

October 2011

DUCHESSE POTATO GHOSTS

4 lbs. large red potatoes 6 T. unsalted butter, cut into pieces 1 1/4 c. milk 3 large egg yolks Garnish: small dark seeds such as cumin seeds, or caraway seeds, poppy seeds for ghosts’ “eyes” Peel and quarter potatoes and in a large saucepan cover with salted cold water by 2 inches. Bring water to a boil and simmer potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes.

While potatoes are simmering, in a small saucepan, heat butter with milk over moderately low heat until melted and keep warm.

Drain potatoes in a colander and force through a ricer or food mill into a bowl. With an electric mixer, beat in milk mixture, yolks, and salt and pepper to taste.

Preheat oven to 400°F. Spread about one third potatoes in a buttered 1-quart au gratin dish and transfer remaining potatoes to a pastry bag fitted with a 3/4-inch plain tip. On potatoes in dish, pipe potatoes close together into pointed mounds to form “ghosts” and garnish each mound with 2 seeds for ghosts’ “eyes”.

Potatoes may be prepared up to this point 1 day ahead and chilled, covered loosely. Bake potatoes until heated through and tops of “ghosts” are golden, 15 to 20 minutes.

Recipe from epicurious.com

BLOOD RED PUNCH

To make scary ice cubes, place Halloween items (such as plastic spiders and bugs or gummi worms) in ice cube trays, leaving a little of each item exposed.

(Be sure each item is big enough not to be easily swallowed.) Fill the tray with water

BRACES WEARERS

BEWARE

Certain sweet treats can bite back!!!

AVOID: caramel, nuts, popcorn, taffy, jelly beans, licorice, bubble gum, corn chips and ice

and freeze. Place several cubes in each glass before filling with punch.

3 c. cranberry-raspberry juice blend or other berry juice 3 c. sparkling water 1 c. thawed frozen strawberries or raspberries, pureed 1 c. crushed ice cubes In a 2-quart pitcher or punch bowl, combine the juice, sparkling water, pureed berries and ice. Stir gently to mix. Divide the punch evenly among 8 glasses. Serves 8.

Recipe from Williams-Sonoma. n

Braces for All Ages

We are experts in providing efficient, comprehensive orthodontic care for patients of all ages, including children, teens and even adults! At our practice, everyone can enjoy the benefits of a beautiful new smile!

A STRAIGHT

October is Is Worth Celebrating!

Dr. Carmella M. Knoernschild Orthodontist & Staff Carmella Montez Knoernschild, DDS Orthodontic Specialist and ABO Diplomate

www.drkstraightsmile.com 2015 W, Parkway Dr., Russellville, AR

479-968-2138 October 2011

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 31

Senior Event Successful

The River Valley Senior Network Group hosted the 2011 Senior Health Expo “Promoting Healthy Aging” on Tuesday, Sept. 13, at the Hughes Center in Russellville.

The annual event provides seniors and their caregivers information regarding services available in the River Valley. In addition, a number of free health screenings – such as blood sugar, bone density, foot and eye screenings, blood pressure and depression -- were provided.

There were 40 different vendors that serve the senior population of the community available with hospital services, home health care, medical equipment, insurance, mental health care, assisted living, vision care, diabetes care, pharmacy, and hearing care, among others. The Silver Sneakers program from the St. Mary’s Wellness Fitness Center performed an exciting exhibition of one of their fitness classes. Door prizes were provided by Wal-mart and Kroger, and included a number of gas gift cards and other items.

The mission of the River Valley Senior Network Group is to bring resources together to provide choices for seniors that will enrich their lives by ensuring safety, independence, and compassion.

Organizers expressed their thanks, saying, “We appreciate the opportunity in joining together to make a difference in the lives of Seniors.” Those interested in learning more about this and similar future events are encouraged to call (4790) 880-1112 or 857-7863.

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32 | ABOUT

AGENT PHOTO GOES HERE

Due to the high-resolution of this material, you must submit a separate photo to your vendor for insertion.

Please contact your vendor for specific agent photo requirements.

BIG SAVINGS

Amber Smith

(479) 968-1932 • 2410 E. Parkway Dr., Ste. 4 Insurance and coverages subject to terms, qualifications and availability. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company: Northbrook, Illinois © 2010 Allstate Insurance Company.

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

October 2011

Technologically Advanced Dental Care for the Entire Family With over a decade of experience, Dr. Leeds will be continuing the great tradition of Dr. Garry Hudson in Pottsville

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME Story cont. from page 21 The growing acceptance of Reiki is reflected in the fact that Reiki training is increasingly recognized as a form of continuing education for massage therapists, registered nurses, and occupational therapists. Reiki complements allopathic medical and therapeutic techniques and never causes harm.

Outside of hospitals, there are thousands of Reiki practitioners in the U.S. and many more around the world. There are several in Arkansas and at least one in Russellville! In my own experiences as a Reiki practitioner, I have found that Reiki accelerates healing from injury and surgery, promotes relaxation, reduces symptoms caused by stress, and minimizes or eliminates new and old pain. Reiki strengthens the immune system, assists in clearing emotional trauma, and takes away headaches very quickly. Reiki has eased the growing pains in my son’s legs, has improved my sister’s sciatica and tennis elbow pain. I am proud to say I almost never take any medication because I can manage my own pain.

When I give Reiki I work with therapeutic grade essential oils on my clients’ painful areas. Essential oils are amazing on their own and are used as a healing modality in the United Kingdom and elsewhere. One of my favorite oils is a blend of wintergreen, clove, helichrysum, and peppermint. I also love to use frankincense. It can be used for rheumatism, depression, bronchitis, and other ailments.

Many Americans want to be proactive about their wellness. Learning Reiki helps individuals take significantly more ownership over personal health and healing outcomes. I do Reiki on myself every day. Doing so has helped me take more responsibility in healing spiritually, emotionally, and physically. I am not against allopathic medicine; I just believe my healing is ultimately up to me and God. Reiki is an amazingly simple technique to learn. The ability to use Reiki is not taught in the usual sense, but is transferred to the student by the Reiki master in a process known as an “attunement.” This allows the student to tap into “life force energy” to improve one’s health and enhance the quality of life. A student can learn to utilize Reiki during a weekend class, while advanced skills require additional training. I plan to offer a Reiki I and II Attunement class in November. n October 2011

7146 SR 247 Pottsville, AR 72858 Phone: 479.858.7382 FAX: 479.858.7323

1101 Poplar Street Clarksville, AR 72830 Phone: 479.754.3357 FAX: 479.754.0167

www.drblaineleeds.com • askdrleeds@gmail.com

Special discounts for builders, contractors, and remodeling projects!

3521 West Main Street Russellville • 479-967-3744

Please Join us...Ladies Night Out

at Hughes Community Center, Russellville Thursday, November 3, 5-8pm

Introducing the new iComfort Sleep System by Serta, featuring our Cool Action™ Gel Memory Foam - the world’s first memory foam infused with the support and cooling touch of Serta’s MicroSupport™ gel. This revolutionary new memory foam is designed to deliver superior pressure relief and more targeted support while sleeping cooler than ordinary memory foam. Plus, it is antimicrobial and dust mite resistant to help protect your mattress from potential allergens.

479-641-2220 Toll Free 1-877-641-2215 Card

Serving the River Valley Area for Over 30 Years

FREE DELIVERY IN ARKANSAS 9am-6pm Monday-Friday • 9am-4pm Saturday Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

1402 N Church Street, Atkins AR 1620 E. Harding, Morrilton AR

501-354-1646 • 877-354-1646 ABOUT | 33

business

Forty Years of Great Food

For generations, families across the region have enjoyed the tradition of great food and wonderful service offered at Catfish N’ on the banks of the Arkansas River near Dardanelle.

Very few restaurants are still in operation that were open in 1971 when Catfish N’ began.

This year, Catfish N’ celebrates a 40-year dedication to quality and community.

Located at 210 Dam Road in Dardanelle (Yell County) Catfish N’ is described by national reviewers as a “simple eatery, a brown-wood building perched on the banks of the Arkansas River,” the restaurant is believed to “sell a ton of catfish every month.”

Maintaining their strong family tradition of serving some of the most sumptuous award-winning buffets around, Tim and Carole Tackett have remained communityminded. They have supported sports teams and charitable causes throughout the

Arkansas River Valley, sponsoring T-ball, softball, golf tournaments, cheerleading squads, local football teams and other similar events.

For the past 30 years, Tim Tackett has been the owner, having acquired the restaurant in 1981. Tim, who began as a dishwasher in 1977, is only the second owner of the business.

In 1996 the dining room had a major facelift to better accommodate the guests.

Other updates, including the canopied dining deck, and minor changes to the original building have created a river-side dining experience locally beyond compare.

What sets Catfish N’ apart from other dining establishments is their dedication to quality – they make their sauces from

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Insulation keeps your home more comfortable, helping maintain a uniform temperature, making walls, ceilings and floors warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

• Dozer Work • Excavation • Back Hoe • Dump Truck • Track Hoe • Pads Cut For • Land Clearing Houses, Chicken Ponds Dug Or Houses Or Other Filled Buildings

Inadequate insulation and air leakage are leading causes of energy waste in most homes.

Cellulose and Fiberglass Insulation Existing Builds, Remodels or New Construction

“The Best Insulation in Town...Paws Down!”

479-754-5011 888-426-8501

715 West Main Street Suite D, Clarksville, AR 72830 www.reddirtequipment.com sales@reddirtequipment.com www.facebook.com/reddirtequipment 34 | ABOUT

Logan Hughes, General Partner BONDED – LICENSED Nearly a Decade of Reliable, Reasonable Service

Fax: (479) 968-2808

(479) 967-4663 • (479) 970-0165

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

October 2011

scratch, and their base breading and mixes are made on site.

“We are one of the few places that still-hand bread chicken for frying,” say the owners.

The menu and recipes are relatively the same as when the restaurant opened, and, they offer something for everyone.

The full “all-you-can-eat” buffet includes: Fresh Catfish Fillets, Fried Chicken and Shrimp, “Peel & Eat” Gulf Shrimp, Hush Puppies, Seasoned French Fries, Salad Bar, Cole Slaw, Dry-Rubbed Hickory Smoked Pork Ribs, Marinated Chicken Breast, Cajun Rice, Vegetables, Hand-Scooped Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream and “our homemade cobblers using Granny Tackett’s own recipe.”

Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 4-9 p.m. February through October. Fall and Winter Hours are Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 4-9 p.m. November 1 through December 17th (the last Saturday before Christmas.) They are closed to the public from Christmas through February 1st but available for catering, parties and special events.

“Catfish N’ has won 12 years for BEST FISH in the Arkansas Times magazine Reader’s awards,” said Carole Tackett. “We have won The Courier’s Reader’s Choice Award for Best Fish, Best Seafood and Best Chef over the last few years.”

The restaurant also has been nationally recognized in several publications – Gourmet, Martha Stewart Living, US News & World Report, and Good Food, Road Food among others.

USA Today has rated Catfish N’ as one of the “ten great places to fill your plate.”

Roadfood and Goodfood, Jane and Michael Stern’s Coast-to-Coast Restaurant Guides says, “The catfish is delicious – hearty steaks with a good snap to the breading… absolutely fresh – like you’d just caught it yourself... Best hush puppies in the United States.”

Similar accolades have risen from Newsweek Magazine, the Dallas Morning News, US News & World Report Magazine’s Great American Getaways, and the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Dining Review.

Perhaps Southern Food’s John Egerton says it best, ““One of the curious things about catfish restaurants is how so many good ones are tucked away in small towns off the main highways, or even hidden in backwoods locations far from the nearest paved road…Catfish N is a popular riverbank restaurant on a back street in Dardanelle, Arkansas.”

Try them. We think you’ll agree! n For a complete menu or additional information on booking your next special event at your place or theirs, call (479) 2293321 or email catfish@suddenlinkmail.com.

October 2011

Providing Peace of Mind...at Home.

Non-Medical In Home Care Senior Life Partners

(479) 880-1112 • www.amcareseniorlife.com

Now servicing all your Apple Products.

In & out of Warranty.

PC Service, Sales, Training & Networking

220 East 4th St.

•

Russellville

|

479.880.2005

www.asitechnology.com

Junior Auxiliary of Russellville presents

LuckXury Charity Ball 2012 Coming February 25th to the L.V. Williamson Boys and Girls Club For more information, visit

www.jarussellville.org Junior Auxiliary of Russellville Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 35

engagements

Calendar listings 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– Kalyn Riggs and Jason Stark

–October 7– Miki King and Coe Biggers

–October 8–

Katie Pounders and Kelsey Harelson

–October 10–

Brook Standridge and Will Cooper

–October 15–

Karen Daniels and Tim Lynch Claire Kennedy and Matt Glover Jenny Harrison and Kory Loop Erin Beth Olson and James Ryan Werner Mallory O’Neal and Justin Nickels

–October 16–

Ginger Humphreys and Rene Garza, Jr.

–October 22–

Megan Johnston and Kane Moix Kristin Shehorn and Adam McMahan Alexis Tucker and Shan Scrimshire

–October 29–

Grace Ann Yokem and James Depper

–TBA–

Brittany Helms and Andrew Smith Leighann Owensby and Robert Veach

–November 11– Cindy Walker and Tom Walker

–November 12–

Jessica Johnson and Charles Austin

–November 19–

Konya R. Johnson and Eric S. Smith Jessica Rutlege and Christopher Smith To have your engagement or wedding published in a future issue of ABOUT Magazine, visit www.aboutrvmag.com/forms.html

Casey, Wyles Marry

The wedding of Sarah Lee Ann Casey of Clarksville and Justin Dale Wyles of Lamar was solemnized at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 31, 2011, at Mt. Nebo State Park in Dardanelle with Judge Mike Jacobs performing the double-ring ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Dr. Rickey and Lisa Casey of Clarksville. She is the granddaughter of Don and Rose Estep of Coal Hill, the late Joan Estep, and the late Virgil and Dean Casey.

Parents of the groom are George and Tina Wyles of Lamar. He is the grandson of Marvin and Lois Nichols of Knoxville, and Vallie and Bobbie Sherrill of Lamar.

The bride, who wore a strapless floorlength white gown laced in back and accented with rhinestones, was given in marriage by her father. She carried a bouquet of vibrant pink roses.

The mother of the bride chose a sleeveless black dress while the groom’s mother selected a black and white dress with a black jacket. Maid of Honor Kayla Casey, sister of the bride, and Bridesmaid

Kelly Lindsey, friend of the bride, wore black halter-style dresses and carried a single pink rose. Michaela Young, flower girl, wore a black sundress and carried a black and white flower basket.

Blake and Jake Wyles, twin nephews of the groom, served as ring bearers.

Groomsmen were Caleb English, Victor Fulton and Eric Hegan, friends of the groom.

The wedding reception was held at the pavilion following the outdoor ceremony.

A special signature keepsake mat awaited guests to sign at the gift table. Decorations included white and black cloths and glass vases containing two goldfish each and decorated with rocks, ribbon and pearls.

Kelly Lindsey and Tina Sheppard served guests from a variety of trays complete with three-layer white cake topped with a couple figurine. The groom’s cake was a chocolate marble on chocolate Razorback. Special thanks was expressed to Eugene Downs, wedding coordinator Ali Graves, musician Eric Leon and Tryston Hines Photography.

Following a trip to Montego Bay, Jamaica, the couple returned to Clarksville.

Danielle’s Bridal Bridal ~ Tuxes ~ Formal Wear 2382 West Clark Road Clarksville, AR 72830

(479) 754-5885

www.daniellesbridalshop.com 36 | ABOUT

"Healthcare For Women By Women."

Shanno n CaSe, MD o b St et r i C S & G y n eC o l o G y 1100 East Poplar Suite A, Clarksville, AR (479) 754.5337 • Fax: (479) 754-5348 Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

October 2011

Olson, Werner to Marry

Erin Beth Olson, daughter of Steven Olson and Donna Olson of Russellville, and James Ryan Werner, son of Jim and Nell Werner of Springdale, announce their engagement and approaching marriage.

The bride-elect is a 2000 graduate of Russellville High School and a 2006 graduate of the Har-Ber School of Nursing in Springdale. She is employed as an emergency room nurse at Mercy Medical in Rogers.

The prospective groom is a 2001 graduate of Springdale High School, currently enrolled in paramedic school at Northwest Arkansas Community College. He is employed as a firefighter/EMT with Springdale Fire Department and has completed two overseas tours in Irag and Afghanistan with the Army National Guard.

The wedding is planned for Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011, at the Stables on the Hill in Fayetteville. Friends and family are invited.

A reception will follow.

After their marriage, the couple will make their home in Springdale.

Rutlege, Smith Engaged

Jessica Louise Rutlege, daughter of Kenny and Paula Hankins of Dover and the late Larry Rutlege, and Christopher Michael Dean Smith, son of Dr. Michael and Mrs. Margie Smith of Russellville, announce their engagement and forthcoming wedding.

The bride-elect is a 2004 graduate of Dover High School and a 2008 graduate of Arkansas Tech University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. She is currently employed as a Budget Specialist at Arkansas Tech University.

The prospective groom is a 2002 graduate of Russellville High School and a 2007 graduate of Arkansas Tech University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality Administration.

He is currently employed by Arkansas Tech University where he works as the Guest Service Coordinator at Lake Point Conference Center.

The couple will be married on Saturday, Nov. 19, 2011, at 4 p.m. in the Pavilion at the Lake Point Conference Center in Russellville. A reception will follow in the Event Center Dining Room.

Visit ABOUT’s new and improved website today!

g.com

.aboutrvma http://www

• Wedding & Engagement forms online • See who is in this month’s issue • Browse information from past issues • Up-To-Date Event Calendar • Subscribe Online via PayPal! • Learn how to Advertise in ABOUT

October 2011

www.aboutrvmag.com Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 37

Arkansas Tech reaches record 10,000 students

Little did Luke Roberson know on the morning of Wednesday, Aug. 24, that he was making Arkansas Tech University history.

That was when the Arkansas Tech Registrar’s Office officially enrolled Roberson in classes for the fall 2011 semester.

He was the 10,000th student enrolled at Arkansas Tech this fall, pushing the university to a significant enrollment milestone.

The fall 2011 semester will mark the first time that Arkansas Tech enrollment has ever surpassed 10,000 students. The growth represents an enrollment increase of more than 135 percent since 1997.

“This is a special moment in the life of Arkansas Tech University,” said Dr. Robert C. Brown, Arkansas Tech president since 1993. “A university is known primarily by the reputation of its faculty. The excellence demonstrated by our faculty colleagues over a span of many years is the primary reason we have reached 10,000 students.

The quantity of our students is impressive, but the quality of our academic programs made this milestone possible.”

Roberson is from Van Buren. He first enrolled at Arkansas Tech in fall 2009, and he returned to school this fall after sitting out the 2010-11 academic year.

In recognition of his distinction as “Mr. 10,000,” Roberson will receive a Second Century Scholars award from Arkansas Tech.

“I never get lucky like this,” said Roberson upon hearing the news. “My parents will be very excited.”

Arkansas Tech will achieve its 13th consecutive school record enrollment this fall, a record that is unmatched by any public university in the state.

Enrollment figures will become official after Sept. 8, the 11th day of classes for the fall semester.

The path to 10,000 students began in 1995, when Arkansas Tech embarked upon a new era of deliberate and participatory strategic planning.

Moderately selective admissions standards were instituted, and by 1999 the process began to bear fruit. A then schoolrecord total of 4,840 students enrolled at Arkansas Tech that fall. The Arkansas Tech enrollment record has been surpassed in every year since then.

Now, as Arkansas Tech tops 10,000 students for the first time in its 102-year

history, it has arrived by any measure as one of the top institutions of higher learning in Arkansas.

“We are a university of choice for many of the best and brightest our state has to offer,” said Brown. “Arkansas Tech has shed the small college label and become a leader for higher education in Arkansas.

We are committed to offering high-caliber programs in fields of study critical to the future of our state.

“But above all of this, we are what we have always been -- a place of opportunity for the people of Arkansas,” continued Brown.

“Regardless of our growth, we will remain focused on the idea that our No. 1 priority is to provide each student with the opportunity to persist to graduation and realize the lifechanging benefits of a college degree.”

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WE’VE GOT ‘EM ALL! 38 | ABOUT

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

October 2011

October 2011

Reflecting the Character of the Arkansas River Valley

ABOUT | 39