January 2017
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Dr. Gavin McDowell Field Preparation at Hand The Poff - Houser Wedding A Publication of Meadowland Media, Inc.
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Eye On Jackson is a publication of MeadowLand Media, Incorporated. Editorial, advertising and general business information can be obtained by calling (870) 503-1150 or emailing Kimberlee Thomas at kthomas@eyeonmag.com. Mailing address: P. O. Box 196, Grubbs, AR 72431. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements, unless otherwise noted, do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher or the staff. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information presented in this issue is accurate and neither MeadowLand Media or it any of its staff is responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Copyright © 2013 MeadowLand Media, Incorporated. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without the permission in writing from the Publisher. All pictorial material reproduced in this book has been accepted on the condition that it is reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer concerned. As such, MeadowLand Media, Incorporated, is not responsible for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising out of publication thereof.
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MeadowLand Media, Inc. P. O. Box 196, Grubbs, AR 72431 870.503.1150 kthomas@ eyeonmag.com PUBLISHER: Joseph Thomas ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Kimberlee Thomas MANAGING EDITOR: Joseph Thomas
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AD DESIGN DEPARTMENT: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas PROOFING DEPARTMENT: Joseph Thomas Kimberlee Thomas STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Robert O. Seat PRINTING COMPANY: Corning Publishing Company
In This Issue 6/Editor’s Note Number One
6/Unity Health Harris 8/I Do Poff - Houser Wedding
10/Cover Story
Dr. Gavin McDowell
13/Central Baptist Brief A New Leaf
15/Service Guide 17/Faces 17/Notes from the Clearing Figuritively
18/Seniors, can we talk?
Post Annual Election for Medicare
19/In the Field with Randy Field Preparation
20/Things To Do 20/Great Tastes
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CREATIVE DIRECTOR : Joseph Thomas
For advertising, distribution, or editorial contribution, contact Joseph Thomas, 870.252.0013 or eyeonjoseph@eyeonmag.com.
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Editor’s Note Number One
Joseph Thomas
Month number one, ah, I love a good reset. Grabbing a breath of our accomplishments, embracing family we havn't seen in too long and over indulging our sugar tooth while staying up too late and visiting over movie marathons. I hope it was as touching and fun and fantastically chaotic for you all as it was for our family. Michelle Foshee recognizes the Unity Health Harris Medical advisory board, Randy Chlapecka talks burndown
Unity Health Harris Advisory Council
Unity Health | Harris Medical Center has a local advisory council which meets monthly to provide input on the needs of the community and the hospital. This group of individuals are community liaisons who help advise hospital leadership and board regarding a number of patient and associate issues including marketing, finance, expansion and etcetera. Unity Health is extremely grateful for the time and support each of these individuals have shown to our hospital and community. The advisory council currently consists of the following: Mr. Jon Chadwell, Chairman, Dr. Mufiz Chauhan, Dr. Roger Green, Dr. Jabez Jackson, Dr. Karen Jones, Mr. Billy Keedy, Mrs. Jan Maris, and Mr. Dean Sides. Mr. Jon Chadwell, Chairman | Director Newport Economic Development Commission – Jon has lived in Newport for 11 years and is a great ambassador for Newport and Jackson County. He truly has a passion for this community and has helped us to excel in many areas. Mufiz Chauhan, M.D. | Radiologist – Dr. Chauhan is a diagnostic radiology specialist. He graduated with honors in 1973 from the University of Arkansas for
and Karin Mohlke talks Mammoth Spring. A New Leaf is the topic touched upon by Jarred Elliot, I have the honor of not only sharing our cover story on a friend, Doctor Gavin McDowell, but the Poff - Houser Wedding. Caroline Beauchamp talks Medicare Post Annual Election, Adrienne Freeman serves Resolution Vegetables, there are local faces, things to do and more. May your new year be so much more than you could’ve imagined. N
Medical Sciences. He has many years of experience and has served our community throughout his career, almost 40 years. Roger Green, M.D. | Family Medicine – Dr. Green graduated from the University of Missouri, Columbia School of Medicine in 1960. He specializes in family medicine and has served our community for over 50 years. Jabez Jackson Jr., M.D.,F.A.C.O.G. | Obstetrics & Gynecology – Dr. Jackson is a Newport native, graduated from University of Arkansas School of Medicine in 1968 after residency returned to Newport and has been affiliated with Harris Medical Center since 1974. He served in the United State Army from August 1969 – August 1971. Karen Jones, M.D.,F.A.C.O.G. | Obstetrics & Gynecology – Dr. Jones is also a Newport native who graduated from the University of Arkansas School of Medicine in 1992 and returned home to practice. Billy Keedy | Branch Manager Iberia Bank – Billy was born and raised in Newport and is now the branch manager at Iberia Bank in Newport. He, like his late father, Coach Keedy, loves Newport and what it represents. He truly loves and cares about this community and the people in it and has a passion for making it better. Jan Maris | Owner/Director
photo by Robert O. Seat
Jackson’s Funeral Homes, Inc. – Jan was born and raised in Newport. Her father, E. Bob Jackson, founded Jackson’s Funeral Home. In 1987, Jan became a member of the board of directors of Jackson’s Funeral Homes, Inc. and Jackson-Griffin Insurance Company. She has dedicated herself to our community during some of the most difficult times of their lives. Dean Sides | Owner George Kell Motors Inc. – Dean moved to
6 | Success is being able to keep your enthusiasm in the face of failure and the persistance to keep on keeping on despite it.
Newport after graduating college from Murry State University. In 1990, he became partner at George Kell Motors Inc., and is now the principal owner and operator. Our advisory committee volunteer their time and each of these individuals deserve recognition for serving our community and you. We are blessed to have this esteemed group of individuals to commit their time not only to our hospital, but to many other community organizations for the benefit of our community. Unity Health | Harris Medical Center – continuing to improve the quality of health and well-being for the communities we serve. Learn more about Unity Health | Harris Medical Center by visiting unity-health.org/ harris-medical-center. N
Michelle Foshee is a wife, mother, dog lover, and Newport native who promotes Unity Health Harris Medical Center to improve the quality of health and well-being for the communities we serve through compassionate care. She is a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and prior to joining Unity Health, she worked in sales and marketing in Little Rock. She challenges herself and others to be Health Centered – physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.
January 2017 | 7
I Do Poff - Houser Wedding Joseph Thomas
Taylor Howard Photography
“I have to believe that Jim and I met only becauseNGod had already handpicked us to be husband and wife,” explains Meagan Alise (Poff) Houser. Introduced by mutual friends during the spring semester of Meagan’s freshman year. They rarely talked until that summer semester, when she returned for pre-requisite classes. Jim Houser asked Meagan on a date at the beginning of summer and they’ve been together ever since. Meagan says, “I knew from the start that Jim is an amazing person. His love for helping others, strong work ethic and ability to make me laugh are some of my favorite characteristics about him.” The day of the proposal, the couple went for a fun day out together. They share a love for anything outdoors—camping, swimming, hiking, fishing— you name it. Earlier, she and Jim went camping near Mammoth Springs on the river. “It’s a serene and quiet area, where there are often fly fisherman casting and tents being pitched,” explains Meagan. “Jim and I pulled up where we had once camped, but he told me to wait in the car for a second while he took care of some things. I waited in the car for a few minutes. Jim arrived, helped me out of the car and walked me down to an area and asked me to sit down. I sat down on a large rock. In front of me lay beautiful roses and a large photo album. Jim talked to me about our relationship, how much we had grown and how many wonderful memories we had made together during the previous two years. We began to flip through the album, laughing often at some of the moments that had become most dear to me. The album wasn’t completely finished, so when I had seen all of the photos, I closed the book.” Jim told Meagan she missed something. Jim took the album and flipped all the way to the back, where the final page asked her to be his wife. He got down on one knee and then asked her himself. She’d already said “yes” several times at this point. Jim hired a phenomenal photographer from the area, Joyce Bohm, to document the day. The Matron of Honor was Hannah Belew, Meagan’s roommate through college and best friend. Maid of Honor, Caitlin Campbell, is a lifelong childhood friend. Bridesmaid Stormy Taylor was her little sister in Greek life. “Jim’s sister, Sydney, was a bridesmaid, as well,” adds Meagan. The Best Man was Greg Allen, Jim’s best friend, groomsman Jeremy Mitchell, met through nursing school in college, groomsman Josh Vick, another friend from Greek Life and Erik Friedland, also a groomsman, has been one of Jim’s closest friends since childhood. The wedding was officiated by Brother Steve Tipton of NEA Baptist, whom is a good friend of the groom. 8 | Success is being able to keep your enthusiasm in the face of failure and the persistance to keep on keeping on despite it.
The day was far more wonderful than Meagan even dreamed. She always wanted an outdoor wedding reception and June 27, 2015 (thanks to dad’s hard lawn work), was the absolutely perfect wedding day. Meagan says, “I am very thankful for both of my parents and all that they did in preparation for the day.” The ladies makeup was masterfully done by Hope Gabriella Allen and hair by Tammy’s Salon’s own Natalie Emerson after a lovely brunch for the bridesmaids prepared by, “my incredible mom,” adds Meagan. Calvary Baptist Church hosted the ceremony. Meagan says her nerves were calmed after she saw Jim and only felt excitement and joy in anticipation of what was to come. “The church was truly lovely.” Meagan says, “One of my favorite touches, also in the foyer, had to be the display of antique handkerchiefs that were ‘For Your Happy Tears.’ I have a fondness for antiques. My family and I enjoyed the numerous trips to antique stores as we gathered the handkerchiefs and table clothes for the big day.” After vows were exchanged, the bride surprised the groom by singing him a song, “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole. Tom Massey played accompaniment on the piano. At the couple’s first appearance as husband and wife, they crossed a handmade wooden bridge that was constructed by the bride’s father and grandfather. They spent a wonderful week in Jamaica at the White Houser resort on honeymoon. Two weeks after the wedding, the pair moved to Birmingham, Alabama for Jim to begin classes for his Master’s in Business and Health Administration degrees at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Meagan began working as a psychiatric nurse at UAB. She begins the MSN program this fall while working towards her DNP degree, as well. They look forward to moving back to the area in the future to be close to family and friends. N January 2017 | 9
Eye On Cover Story Dr. Gavin McDowell
Dr. Gavin McDowell is a husband, father, runner and an eye guy (or Ophthamalogist in scientific terms). He is also crazy, hilarious and the best eye guy in three counties. Seriously, for our Jackson County readers, if you don’t already know Dr. McDowell and use his
services...He makes keeping your eyes healthy a painless and fun experience. Due to a short publishing schedule and a disfunt alternator in my Soul, I wasn’t able to sit down with the Doc as I’d hoped. But, as they say, the show must go on and so Dr. McDowell answered my emailed questions with the following (it was too good to change and try to make my own, so here it is): Oh and I put an asterick before any notes or censorship I must allocate for this family publication. : THE Gavin McDowell - the early years: Born in Poplar Bluff, MO (only because my home town of Corning didn’t have a hospital) and lived my entire childhood in Corning. I was outside whenever I could be simply because it was during the time when we only had 13 channels on TV and there was never anything on (unlike now). Went to Corning High School and graduated salutatorian of my class. I wasn’t a complete nerd though. I received All-District Honors in football where I played running back/defensive back. I was also the district champ in pole vault my junior year. Except for the summer that I was 15 and worked for a roofing contractor carrying shingles up ladders all summer long to save up money to by my first car, I worked at the local grocery store (Wallace & Owens) my entire high school years. I even transferred to the Jonesboro store when I moved to Jonesboro to go to A State. College (the best 8 and a half years of my life): I got my bachelor’s degree in Chemistry. It took me a bit longer to finish my undergrad. I like to tell people it was because I was working full-time 2nd shift at ConAgra in Jonesboro (which is true only for about 3 years of the time), but it was truly because I joined a fraternity and had a REALLY good time. Love Story (reboot): I met my wife in college at a fraternity party and her first impression of me was that I was a complete loser. I then met her again later at the grocery store I was working at and this time she thought I was a complete *(bleep). We met again at Memphis in May and I think she realized that God was going to keep making us bump into each other until we both wore her down. We got married about 3 years later just before we both graduated from college and have been married for 18.5 years now. Our first son Gavin Trent was born in 2006 just after I graduated optometry school. Copper was born in 2009 and Rees was born in 2012. *(Gavin explained here how his family’s growth is complete due to technological advancements in media platforms consisting of more than thirteen channels in the parent’s room).
10 | Success is being able to keep your enthusiasm in the face of failure and the persistance to keep on keeping on despite it.
Getting my learn on: The whole “pacing myself through college” helped me make my decision as to which optometry school I was going to, though mostly because I got wait-listed everywhere I applied except for PR. I did the research into the school and saw that it was the highest rated clinical skills program in the country. Research also showed that the fastest growing demographic in US was the Hispanic population and I thought that this was the perfect opportunity to enhance my Spanish (I only thought I knew some Spanish at the time. Boy was I wrong). Graduated in the top 10% of my class and earned honors in clinical skills. I also served as Student Body President in my 3rd year. Time to get a job: I worked for a very short period at an ophthalmology practice in Orlando, FL right after graduation because my wife is a huge Disney nut and wanted to live there. However, we were expecting our first child and realized that we had absolutely no support network (family,
friends), in the area so we decided to move back to the area. This is highly ironic because having lived our entire lives in the area (the wife is from West Memphis), we couldn’t wait to move away when we could. Turns out the grass isn’t actually greener *(this is where I would have said to Doc, “Except at the businesses where they have the grass painted, it is greener there) ... Anyway, I sent letters out to any optometrist/ophthalmologist group I could find in the area inquiring about potential job openings. After a few interviews with some crazy*(bleep) doctors, I got a response from Dr. Rodman. We met over lunch and talked about our mutual future plans and we meshed well. He offered an associate position (employed doctor) and I accepted. After 6 months of working together we purchased the Pocahontas practice together. 6 months later I bought the Newport practice from him outright. The next year we bought a practice in Berryville together. The year after that, he and I and two other OD’s bought a practice in Eureka Springs. A few months later, we bought a practice in Fayetteville. It was at this point that our focus on patient care began January 2017 | 11
to follow different paths. We decided to move forward as individuals and I took Pocahontas and he took Berryville, Eureka Springs, and Fayetteville. That was in 2013, I think. In 2015, I bought the Trumann Clinic. State of the Onion: Well, obviously, we march to the beat of our own drum. We are able to give a special level of personal care by establishing ourselves and our patients on the same level. I might have fancy letters after my name but I still remember what it was like to have popcorn for dinner as a kid because we “weren’t able to make it to the grocery today”. We also always strive to remember that we work for the patient, not the other way around. I have been told by patients and I have also encountered myself the feeling of a doctor giving off the vibe that they were doing me a favor by seeing me. I, however, am keenly aware of which side of my bread is buttered. We try to get to know each patient personally and we try to reciprocate by opening up to everyone who allows us to provide them with eye care. This all comes with concessions though. If someone expects the formal, rigid experience of going to the doctor where the doctor is in a starched shirt and tie and the staff is so wound up from the doctor *(There was mention here of a borrowed mule and the act of traveling upon said animal), then they are going to be greatly disappointed. However, if you appreciate wit, humor, sarcasm, and even a little brow-beating (I’m looking at you smokers and contact lens over-wearers) while receiving the best patient care in eye care that is possible, then I think you’d enjoy us. * I took the risk of coming across as less than professional, because it is this sense of humble, human to human interaction that you can find at CustomEyes Vision Care of Newport. The staff is pleasant and knowledgable; the Doc is knowledgable and fun, all close to our Jackson County residence. I can speak to at least two urgent occasions where Dr. McDowell saw to Kimberlee after an adventure with paint thinner and to me for an unruly eyelash without an appointment. He did brow beat Kimberlee, true to his word, and he often shares his sarcasm with me. But, I always enjoy my time at CustomEyes Vision Care and I can’t honestly say that about most clinical appointments...can you? N
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Joseph Thomas is a native of Grubbs, a graduate of ASUN and owns and runs Eye On Magazine with his powerhouse wife, Kimberlee. He is the graphic designer, editor and one of the various writers of this publication. He is elevated by five children, three grandchildren and is an elite tree climber.
12 | Success is being able to keep your enthusiasm in the face of failure and the persistance to keep on keeping on despite it.
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Central Baptist Brief A New Leaf
In this new year, it is a guarantee that many will be using this one-liner to jump start 2017 with an attitude of a fresh start; another crack at the game of life; another chance to make an impact for their wallets or for their communities. Perhaps, for some, another opportunity to reconcile bad habits and the shortfall they have invited. It’s January, and the president-elect will assume his office and many will live in excitement, believing that maybe this year will be a different climate in the political environment and therefore bring more peace and serenity or, conversely, upset and dejection. “A new leaf” many will say, either with tongue-in-cheek or in cheerful hope. Back in the day, a leaf was not what we think it to be now. A leaf was a term used for pages in a book, and so when someone used this phrase, they were essentially saying “I am writing a new chapter in my life.” It’s a scenic thought and is an honorable goal to have in mind for a new year. However, the only dispute that I have with it is that it involves striving; intense labor tightly grasping determination and perseverance for its life, witnessing mountain tops of victory and drudging through valleys of despondency, where only December can give a final print out of your performance. Considering that, I want to share with you what I, even as a pastor, aim to do this year more than I fulfilled last year. Rest. Yes, that un-American, task-minded enemy, and productivity-killer
himself, my good ole’ friend named Rest. In Hebrews 1:3, God’s Word speaking of Jesus Christ, says that after Jesus made purification of sins, that He “sat down at the right hand of the majesty on high…” This means that the perfect moral conduct, the innocence of speech, the unrelenting devotion to the Father, the scarred knees of prayer, the unwarranted mockery and condemnation of the world, and even the death that was undeserved, was all striving that was performed in my place. Yet, unlike my striving, His was flawless. Therefore, when He entered the Father’s presence and “sat down” in authority, my work was complete. Being born again by grace through faith, I can perform a labor of love and gratitude instead of a labor of law and obligation. May God bless you in your rest this year. N Jarred Elliott is the Teaching Pastor at Central Baptist Church Newport Campus. Jarred was called into the ministry in 2012 and has been pastor at the Newport Campus since the fall of 2014. When he is not tickling his son, Ethan, he enjoys flying airplanes and other types of aircraft with friends. You can learn more about Central Baptist Church and Jarred at www.centralbaptist.com.
January 2017 | 13
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Success is a journey, not a destination January 2017 | 15
1.)
2.) 1.) The Newport Economic Development Commission and the Newport Area Chamber of Commerce were honored to share information about Newport and Jackson County with the great team at the Arkansas Economic Development Commission as part of a First Thursday Breakfast! Esperanza Massana with the Business Development and Marketing Departments won the first door prize - a chocolate pecan pie from Newport’s Downtown Pie Company. Newport appreciated the opportunity to be part of this great event. 2.) #2 and #3 are just a couple of the highlights that made 2016 so great for Newport as some of its finest were recognized for their community passion. Newport wins the Friend of Community Development Award from the University of Central Arkansas’ Community Development Institute. 3.) Mayor David Stewart was selected by the Arkansas Police Chief’s Association for the Mayor of the Year award. We are proud to have such leaders as Jon Chadwell, Julie Allen and David Stewart among so many fantastic citizens in Jackson.
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16 | Success is being able to keep your enthusiasm in the face of failure and the persistance to keep on keeping on despite it.
Faces
Notes from the Clearing
Figuritively
Joseph Thomas The figure was silhoutted within the large red sun touching the horizon. It was low enough that he could look directly at it without the blinding light of the mid-day light. He could tell it was her, the girl he’d seen in the valley when he was hunting. Perhaps she was hunting too, he didn’t know for sure, though she was carrying some stringed weapon that wasn’t a bow. Maybe she was a dead ringer with a sling shot. But, here she was walking away from his camp as if she had visited, but he’d just awoke. Did she watch him sleep through his dirty window? Was she a thief? He didn’t see anything missing outside and he didn’t feel a threat...more curious and perhaps even wanting of her company. She was the first human he'd seen since the war was lost and the bombs cleared the land. One year in his parents underground shelter, four years repairing the family farm to grow sustainable food again and her she was out of the blue...and he was pretty sure it was New Years Eve. N
3.)
January 2017 | 17
We are WORD OF MOUTH for your EYES in the pages of EYE ON JACKSON and EYE ON INDEPENDENCE! email eyeonjoseph@eyeonmag.com or call Kimberlee at (870) 503-1150
There are many ways to meet prespective customers. We are highly collected, well read and eager to share your business with our community. Seniors, can we talk? Post Annual Election for Medicare Yes, it’s that time of the year – the Annual Election Period is over. I hope you reviewed your Medicare prescription plan to make certain it is still the most appropriate (and least expensive) for you in 2017. Many have saved $1000’s of dollars by changing while others could only save $17 a year. Why? It really depends on the prescriptions you take. Some plans covered prescriptions in 2016 and are not covering them in 2017. Jamie, one of Ruth’s friends, takes a prescription that costs over $700 a month. Her plan covered the prescription this year but is not going to in 2017 – what a shock! She asked for an exception to have it covered by her current prescription plan and was told “No”. Fortunately, we were able to find a 2017 plan that covered the prescription for a $46 copay. Then Jamie asked about dental coverage. Since Medicare does not cover dental services, a Medicare Supplement does not either (a Medicare Supplement or Medigap policy supplements or fills in the gaps that Medicare does not pay. When Medicare does not cover a service, then the Supplement does not pay for it either.) A separate dental insurance policy is needed. After we talked about dental plans, Jamie decided to think about it and let me know in January. Since dental insurance is not included in the Annual Election Period, you can enroll in a dental plan any time. About three (3) days later Jamie called. She wanted to talk about the dental plan again. Over the weekend she had a crown come off and needs to go to the dentist. (If she had only had a crystal ball to look into the future). Jamie had a dental plan with her employer but it lapsed
last month – what timing, right? Typically there is a 6 month waiting period before crowns will be covered (that means you’ve got to have the dental policy 6 months before the insurance company will pay on it). Since Jamie had a dental policy within the last 30 days, the insurance company will waive that 6 month waiting period. Jamie applied for the dental plan and it goes into effect January 1. She kept the crown that came off but if it is damaged or cannot be “glued” back on a new crown will be covered by her dental plan after January 1. Jamie brought a friend in with her, Liz. Liz did not want a dental plan because her husband is a dentist. She wanted to talk about a policy to help pay for glasses and her (expensive) progressive lenses. Since glasses, frames and contacts are not covered by Medicare unless you have cataract surgery, a separate vision plan is available. Liz enrolled in a vision plan that covers progressive lenses. She can’t wait to get new lenses and start 2017 with a “new outlook”. Got questions or concerns? Just call me at 501-868-6650 and say “Caroline, can we talk?” N Caroline Beauchamp is a local insurance agent
for M & P Insurance & Investment Services. She offers personalized life and health insurance solutions and is known for her widelypublished informational column, ‘Caroline, Can We Talk?’.
18 | Success is being able to keep your enthusiasm in the face of failure and the persistance to keep on keeping on despite it.
In the Field with Randy Burndown 2017 is here and planting another crop is just around the corner. A lot of field preparation was accomplished during the fall and all that will be required in many of these fields will be applying a burndown herbicide and planting into that seedbed, so hopefully we will have a fairly dry and mild spring to allow for a lot of very late March and April planting. The rice market remains depressed and the soybean market is decent, so if nothing changes I would look for a decrease in rice acreage and an increase in soybean acreage. The University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture has released the latest results from their Rice Variety Testing Program. It was good to see several new varieties do well in these tests. I want to highlight some of these in this month’s Eye on Jackson article. Diamond is a new conventional long grain variety released by the University of Arkansas in 2015. It topped the conventional long grain varieties across test locations in the 2016 Arkansas Rice Performance Trials (ARPT) at 188 bushels per acre. Diamond is about 5 days earlier than Roy J. It is similar in height with slightly weaker straw strength than Roy J. It is rated very susceptible to false smut. Titan is a conventional medium grain also released by the U of A in 2015. Titan outyielded Jupiter by 25 bushels per acre across locations in the 2016 ARPT. It is 5 days earlier than Jupiter and has better straw strength. It is also less susceptible to blast than Jupiter. Horizon Ag has released 3 new Clearfield varieties. CL 272 is a medium grain that outyielded Jupiter by 9 bushels per acre across locations in the 2016 ARPT. It has excellent straw strength but is rated very susceptible to bacterial panicle blight. CL 153 and CL 172 are new Clearfield long grains. CL 153 outyielded CL 151 by 5 bushels per acre across ARPT locations in 2016. It is a significant improvement in lodging compared to 151 and is also less susceptible to blast and bacterial panicle blight. CL 172 averaged 3 bushels less than 151 in yield but is also an improvement in lodging and has a good disease package. Rice Tec has two new Clearfield hybrids, Rice Tec 7311 CL and Rice Tec Gemini 214 CL. Both of these hybrids outyielded Rice Tec CL XL745 by 15-20 bushels per acre across ARPT locations. Both are less prone to lodging than 745 and Gemini 214 is about a week later than 745. If you have questions about rice variety selection, feel free to contact me at Farmers Supply Association. My cell number is 870Randy Chlapecka is an agronomist with Farmers 318-0739 and my Supply Association. He is retired from the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture - Cooperative e-mail address is Extension Service where he served as a County randychlapecka@ Extension Agent for over 32 years. He is an avid ASU Red Wolves fan and has announced Newport gmail.com. N Greyhound sporting events since 1996. He also enjoys
326 Lindley Lane
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vegetable gardening.
January 2017 |  19
Things To Do
Artist Joe Martin Exhibit Joe Martin’s Art Exhibit will last through January 13th. Come see some art at the Blue Bridge Center for the Delta Arts at 201 Hazel Street in Newport Arkansas, call 870.523.1009 or email director@newportaredc.org. ASUN Patron Series
The 2016-2017 ASUN Patron Series continues with a special Valentine’s Day performance of Embraceable You, set to the music of George Gershwin that will carry the audience back to 1948. the Patron Series will wrap up Saturday April 8 with “Sounds of Summer,” a tribute that tells the story of America’s band - The Beach Boys. Individual tickets for each performance are on sale now, but choice seats may be purchased now by supporting the series through Patron Sponsorship. Patron Sponsorship, at just $100 per couple $50 per individual, allows the sponsor to then select and purchase their season tickets in advance at more than 50% off the regular price. To become a Patron Sponsor or for more information, contact Sandra Pankey at 870.523.5453 or 870.217.3711.
Great Tastes
Resolution Vegetables Happy New Year! Cooking in January usually brings some new challenges. After the indulgence of the holiday season, most of us resolve to attempt a more “healthful” diet. But it also cold and wintry, not exactly salad weather. Many stretch their cooking “legs” and venture out of their comfort zone, trying more vegetables and finishing dishes with touches that make them a delicious addition to the menu without thinking longingly about mashed potatoes. Both of the recipes below are high in fiber and flavor. The broccoli was featured in a food blog I read, The Amateur Gourmet (www.amateurgourmet.com). The author called it “The Best Broccoli of Your Life”. That may be a little overboard, but it is very tasty. The roasting technique is great preparation for vegetables to produce that crispy, caramelized exterior with a tender, flavorful interior. Try roasting any vegetable combination while remembering these tips (1) Use a metal pan with short sides (2) Use adequate oil to cover the vegetables and (3) Roast at high temperature, 450 – 500 degrees. Peppers, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, asparagus, yams and many squash varieties are perfect for roasting. SOUTHERN SAUTEED CABBAGE 1 head of cabbage, shredded / 4 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch strips / 1 tsp. jalapeno pepper juice or apple cider vinegar / ¼ cup diced onion / ½ to 1 tsp chipotle seasoning (optional) / 1 – 2 Tbs. olive oil In a large non-stick skillet, add olive oil, bacon strips and onion on medium heat. Sauté for 3 – 5 minutes. Reduce heat to medium low, add shredded cabbage and sprinkle with the chipotle seasoning, if using. Cover and
Jackson County Book Nook The Jackson County Book Nook, located directly behind Umsted Methodist Church on McLain St. in Newport, is open each Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. They offer a wide range of books for all ages. Friends of the Jackson County Library operate the Book Nook and all proceeds go to help with programs and needs of the library. Manna Manna Food Pantry is located in the Newport Pentecostal Church of God at 205 Ray street in Newport. They are an open door pantry which means people that are in need can come in and choose the items that their family will enjoy. They do not go by any kind of income guide lines and are open every Tuesday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. They have partnered with the NEA food bank in jonesboro and so are able to help more people in need. Anyone looking to donate to the pantry can contact Cynthia Lochridge. at 870-219-0857 or can log on to www.newportpcg.com. They also accept food donations. N
periodically turn cabbage over with a flat or spooned spatula, cooking for 15 to 20 minutes until cabbage is tender. Dress with vinegar or pepper juice. PARMESAN-ROASTED BROCCOLI (adapted from the Barefoot Contessa) 2 bunches broccoli / 4 garlic cloves, peeled and thinly sliced / Olive oil / 1½ tsp. kosher salt / ½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper / 2 tsp. freshly grated lemon zest / 2 Tbs. freshly squeezed lemon juice / 3 Tbs. toasted pine nuts (optional) / 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese / Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Cut the broccoli florets away from the thick part of the main stalk, leaving 1 to 2 inches of the smaller, more tender stalk attached. Cut as necessary until all florets are approximately the same size to ensure even cooking. Make sure the broccoli is thoroughly dried. Place the broccoli florets on a metal sheet pan large enough to hold them in a single layer. (Do not crowd the pan, the vegetables will not roast, but become mushy.) Toss the garlic on the broccoli and drizzle with just enough olive oil to give the vegetables a sheen. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes until crisptender and some of the florets are browned. Remove the broccoli from the oven and immediately toss with 1½ olive oil, the lemon zest, lemon juice, pine nuts and Adrienne Freeman is a Jackson County based food writer whose work is published parmesan cheese. Serve statewide. When not at the keyboard, she can be found in the kitchen, focusing on recipes hot. N and techniques that can be easily replicated by fellow enthusiastic home cooks. She always welcomes reader response at newport. foodies@yahoo.com.
20 | Success is being able to keep your enthusiasm in the face of failure and the persistance to keep on keeping on despite it.
Cherri Design Rugs Rugs were used in Egypt as early as 3000 B.C. They add warmth and color to a home, and the choice is almost limitless. There are several fibers and types to choose from as well. A rug will help eliminate an echo or sound traveling in a large room, as it absorbs sound. When choosing a rug, you must first decide the purpose of the rug. Will it make a statement in your space? Is it for warmth and comfort? Do you need pattern and color, or a solid neutral color for you dĂŠcor? The fiber chosen can be important, according to your needs and lifestyle. Natural wool is the most popular fiber and usually the most costly. If taken care of properly, a wool rug will last for centuries and retain its appearance. Wool dyes beautifully, so it retains its color. Also, wool has warmth (just think about wool socks), durability and soil resistance. You can spot wool easily, as it is thick with a low pile and soft backing. Wools clean well, but do require care when cleaned. Remember that wool rugs will typically shed for a brief period of time, so regular vacuuming is needed. Polyester is a soft synthetic fiber that wears well. A polyester rug has good abrasion resistance, as well as good stain and soil resistance. These rugs clean easily and require no special care. Generally, this fiber is fairly inexpensive, so good on the budget. However, polyester rugs do lack resiliency and can start to look crushed or worn after years of continual traffic. Today, nylon is the most widely used synthetic fiber in the United States for carpeting. It offers excellent abrasion resistance, as well as resists crushing and matting. This fiber is not prone to pilling and fuzzing. Nylon also reduces static electricity. It is hypoallergenic and is mold/mildew/ moth-proof as well. When vacuumed regularly, these rugs will maintain their soil repellency. There are many surface characteristics of rugs. Still the most popular, cut pile rugs are wools, as well as some synthetics. The yarns are cut level for a smooth, even look. This type rug has a stand up straight look and wears well. A low cut pile often gives rugs a formal, traditional feel. A quick vacuuming makes this cut an easy care rug. Frieze is a tightly twisted cut pile, as it is cut evenly, but we call them a short shag. These rugs are quite popular and usually have more than one color in the rug or carpet. The carpet is often used in our homes for wall-to-wall carpeting. Friezes are resilient and abrasion resistant. However, frieze does need regular vacuuming, as it will begin to look crushed and matted down. Shag rugs are cut piles, but with long yarns usually one-inch or longer. These rugs have a low density and start to look crushed quickly. It is recommended that you not use your beater bar on your shag rug, as it can pull out the yarns. Therefore, you must hand vacuum or shake out your rug, making shag rugs higher maintenance. Use this type rug in a casual space. Berber rugs are a type of level loop carpeting with thick untwisted yarns. These rugs have strong fibers to
compensate for the lack of twist. Berbers are typically not soft rugs, due to the level loop cut. This type rug works well in a high traffic area and requires little maintenance. Be sure to measure your space before you purchase to ensure the correct size. Also, consider your lifestyle and traffic pattern to help you choose wisely. N
Cherri Rodgers has a B.S. In Interior Design from UCA. She is active in several local ministries & community projects. Most of all, she values time with her family and grandson. Cherri's Interior Design is available for both residential & commercial design or decorating needs. Cherri now has The Kitchen Shop at 2485 Harrison St. for all your kitchen needs.
EYE ON JACKSON email eyeonjoseph@eyeonmag .com
or call Kimberlee at (870) 503-1150 January 2017 |  21
We fed our “ Hangry” at Unique Nosh !
rds Gift Ca
ble
Availa
WINTER HOURS!!! Tuesday - Thursday 3pm to 7:30pm Friday 3pm to 9pm Saturday 1pm to 9pm Closed SUNDAY & MONDAY
220 E. Main - Historic Downtown - Batesville
Adventures in Arkansas Mammoth Spring Saturdays as a kid were pretty darn fun. My dad couldn’t stand to sit around, so just about every weekend our little family of four would jump in our van and wander. Most of the time, we had no clue where we would end up, but we trusted we would always end up somewhere neat and fun. One of the coolest places I remember is Mammoth Spring. It’s about an hour from Independence County in the far North Central area right on the Arkansas Missouri border. I love water more than anything, and was immediately the most excited 10 year old in both states on this day. I’ve been back many times since then, and my kids love it just as much as I did. Mammoth Spring is breathtaking and quite massive as it’s the largest spring in the state, and the tenth largest spring in the world. Over nine million gallons of water flow over the 225 foot dam, and is the main source for the Spring River. The spring originates nine miles northwest in Missouri at a state park known as Grand Gulf State Park. That’s a great place to visit as well. It was created after a massive cave fell in, and you can see right where the spring begins. Mammoth Spring was approved as a state park
in 1957, but the land wasn’t acquired by the state until 1966. The train depot on the land got a major facelift and restoration, and the park officially opened in March 1987. It became the states tenth Arkansas Welcome Center. The entrance to Mammoth Spring is very informative with a great visitor and welcome center, and a trail that follows the perimeter of the large pool. There are many sites to see along the trail such as waterfalls, fish, duck and bountiful and lush landscapes. Right off the trail, there are playgrounds for the kids and restrooms. You can also explore the renovated train depot. The park is also home to a national fish hatchery. A facility was created in 1903 across the railroad tracks from the spring and lake, and its cool waters are fed into the ponds on that side. Today the hatchery maintains the only captive spawning population of Gulf Coast striped bass in the world. Fish from Mammoth Spring are used to stock national wildlife refuges. For a great lunch with an even better view, stop in at Woods Riverbend Restaurant. They have just about everything on the menu, and it’s all delish! The best
22 | Success is being able to keep your enthusiasm in the face of failure and the persistance to keep on keeping on despite it.
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part of the place is the view. Large windows overlook the beautiful Spring River. There are plenty of neat things to see and do on the way back to Independence County. I always like to spend a little time on the Spring River even if it’s just for a few minutes to dip my toes or feed some fish, it’s worth the stop. I also like to make a quick stop in Cherokee Village. It’s such a quaint little town with a population of about 4,700, and most are retirees. It’s so well kept and in every turn you can find something neat to do or see. My favorite thing about Cherokee Village is Papoose Park. I’m not sure of the history, but it sure is a great place to stop. It’s right in the center of town with a huge waterfall that is always flowing. It’s a great place to take pictures, have a picnic and let the kids play. I always have to make a quick stop in Hardy as well, and take advantage of all the antique stores and flea markets. North Central Arkansas has so much to offer, and plenty to see. N
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mammoth spring waterfall
papoose park in cherokee village
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mammoth spring falls
Karin Mohlke Huffman is a stay at home mom. She enjoys hiking, camping being outdoors, and gardening. Karin is married to Nathan Huffman and mother of three children.
January 2017 | 23
Drink
hot tea
Warm up this winter - and reduce calories with a mug of piping hot tea containing antioxidants that have multiple health benefits.
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