Eye on Jackson DECEMBER 2013

Eye On www.eyeonjackson.com

December 2013

Jackson

Retail Therapy Reduce, Reuse and Recycle The Good Girls behind the Bad Boys A Publication of Meadowland Media, Inc.

Family.

Your family’s health is her main focus.

Harris Hospital welcomes Virgincita Fuentes, M.D., to Newport Primary Care. Dr. Fuentes joins the medical staff at Harris Hospital after completing a family medicine residency at UAMS (University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences). Dr. Fuentes is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians. She is now available and accepting new patients at 2000 McLain St., Suite B, Newport.

To schedule an appointment, call 870-523-7563.

Virgincita Fuentes, M.D. Family Practice

Member of the Medical Staff at Harris Hospital

Let us turn you into your own LEGEND....

Vision Care of Newport 2101 Malcolm Ave., Newport

(870) 523-3333

GET IN WHILE YOUR DEDUCTIBLES ARE MET!!!

Merry Christmas Jackson County May you have the spirit of Christmas which is Peace, the gladness of Christmas which is Hope, and the Heart of Christmas which is Love.

e Thomas le r e b im K & Joseph on Eye On Jacks

In This Issue 6/Editor’s Note

Hello Jackson County

7/Great Tastes

Make Ahead Christmas

8/Notes from the Clearing Our Lasting Architecture

8/Harris Hospital Happenings

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Welcome! To Senior Circle, Holidays Without Heartburn

10/County Extension News The New Normal

11/Newport Chamber News Shop Til You Drop

12/Cover Story

A Shining Star on Jackson

14/Feature

Feed the Need

17/County Economic Report Proud Past, Bright Future

18/I Do

Winston and Langley Wedding

21/Things To Do

22/Tales of a Transplanted Fashionista Shopping Trip Delight

Eye On www.eyeonjackson.com

December 2013

Jackson

Let Us Advertise For You

EYE ON JACKSON is word of mouth...for your eyes. Let us promote your business and let’s grow together. email kthomas@eyeonmag .com or call Kimberlee at (870) 503-1150

Retail Therapy Reduce, Reuse and Recyc

le

The Good Girls behind

the Bad Boys

A Publication of Mead

owland Media, Inc.

Cover Photography by Cheryl Mauldin Cover Design by Joseph Thomas

Meet Your Writers...

Julie Allen has served as the executive director of the Newport Area Chamber of Commerce since 2002. She is a 1994 graduate of Arkansas State University with a degree in Communications Radio/Television..

Jon Chadwell is the Executive Director of the Newport Economic Development Commission (NEDC). The NEDC is funded by a ½ cent sales tax collected in Newport and works to assist in the development of business and industry in Jackson County.

Randy Chlapecka is County Extension Agent – Staff Chair with the Jackson County Office of the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension Service. He provides educational information and programming in the areas of agriculture, 4-H, and community development.

Adrienne Freeman is a Jackson County based food writer whose work is published statewide.

When not at the keyboard, she can be found in the kitchen, focusing on recipes and techniques that can be easily replicated by fellow enthusiastic home cooks. She always welcomes reader response at newport.foodies@yahoo. com.

THIS PUBLICATION IS PRODUCED BY:

Guest Writers Dr. Mortoti is a full-time cardiologist at Newport Cardiology Clinic. He is a member of the American College of Cardiology and completed a fellowship in cardiology at Howard University Hospital in Washington, D.C. He is dedicated to providing skilled and compassionate heart care to Jackson County and surrounding areas. To schedule an appointment, call 870-523-2404.

Leigh Keller is a high school Guidance Counselor and Colorguard instructor at Batesville High School. She is the director of the BHS Glass Slipper Project. Leigh lives in Batesville with her son, Cole, and a pack of dogs.

MeadowLand Media, Inc. P. O. Box 196, Grubbs, AR 72431 870.503.1150 kthomas@eyeonmag.com PUBLISHER: Kimberlee Thomas Associate EDITOR: Zedden Thomas MANAGING EDITOR: Joseph Thomas ADVERTISING: Kimberlee Thomas Creative Director : Joseph Thomas AD DESIGN Department: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas PROOFING Department: Joseph Thomas Kimberlee Thomas Staff PHOTOGRAPHERS: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Cheryl Mauldin PRINTING COMPANY: Rockwell Publishing

Eye On Independence 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 © 2010 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.

For advertising, distribution, or editorial contribution, contact Kimberlee Thomas, 870.503.1150, kthomas@eyeonmag.com.

Editor’s Note

Hello Jackson County Joseph Thomas

We hope that everyone’s Thanksgiving was full of family time and just enough turkey with a little extra pumpkin pie on the side.

We are so happy to have our first monthly issue of Eye On Jackson out for your enjoyment.

We are excited to help get the word out about all of the wonderful things that go on in this beautiful County.

We will start by introducing you to our writers: Adrienne Freeman will pen our monthly Great Tastes column. Julie Allen, the Newport Chamber President, will write our Chamber News while John Photo by Robert O. Seat Chadwell, NEDC Director, will submit his NEDC Report. Randy Chlapecka will man our County Extension News and Leigh Keller will entertain us with some fashion sense in her Transplanted Fashionista column, this month she pays a visit to Darlings.

Kimberlee and I will bring you a Cover Story, a Feature Story, a wedding in our I Do and some poetic musings in my Notes from the Clearing. This month’s Cover is Patti Mullins, she talks about her love for Christmas, its decorations and the joy it seems to bring to so many. For our first Feature, Adrienne Freeman discusses the need to feed as she touches on the Jackson County Regional Food Pantry.

Kimberlee brings us the Winston/Langley Wedding.

We hope to entertain you, inform you and provide word of mouth for your eyes. We have so many great local businesses, so shop local, enjoy this read and have a safe and happy holiday season.

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Eye On

Jackson

Great Tastes

Make Ahead Christmas Adrienne Freeman

It doesn’t matter if your family celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa, the season usually brings a reunion of relatives, excited little ones, students home for a well-deserved break from studies, and hopeful reconnection with friends that become estranged by location but not by love.

Cinnamon Crumble Coffee Cake and Sausage Balls are recipes that can be prepared the day before and held in the refrigerator overnight for baking the next morning.

Both the cake and the sausage balls fit multiple purposes – the cake can be served for breakfast or as a spicy holiday dessert; the sausage balls double as a breakfast treat and appetizer. Both are delicious warm from the oven or room temperature, so even the latest sleepers can enjoy your handiwork and you can enjoy your guests.

CINNAMON CRUMBLE COFFEE CAKE Cake Ingredients ¾ cup butter, softened 1 cup sugar 2 large eggs 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup buttermilk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 tablespoons butter, melted 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Stir together all ingredients.

Sweet Bourbon Drizzle 2 cups powdered sugar 1 tablespoon bourbon (optional) 2 to 3 Tbsp. milk Stir together powdered sugar, bourbon, and 2 Tbsp. milk. Stir in remaining 1 Tbsp. milk, 1 tsp. at a time, until desired consistency. Use immediately.

SAUSAGE BALLS Ingredients 1 (1-pound) package ground sausage 3 cups baking mix (recommended: Bisquick) 4 cups grated sharp Cheddar 1/8 tablespoon pepper Directions Preheat the oven to 375o degrees F. Spray a baking sheet with vegetable oil cooking spray. Combine all ingredients in a large glass bowl. Mix well with your fingers. The mixture will be very crumbly. Form into 1 inch balls, squeezing the mixture so it holds together, then rolling it between the palms of your hands to form balls. Place the balls on the baking sheet. (At this point, they can be stored in the refrigerator covered in plastic for 24 hours.) Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. To prevent sticking, move the balls with a spatula halfway through cooking.

Cake Preparation Beat butter at medium speed with an electric COOKS TIP: Can be served with mustard, barbeque N mixer until creamy; gradually add sugar, beating well. sauce or other condiments as appetizers.

Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating just until blended after each addition.

Combine flour and next 3 ingredients in a medium bowl. Add flour mixture to butter mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Stir in vanilla. Pour batter into a greased and floured 13- x 9-inch pan. Cover tightly, and chill 8 to 24 hours.

Preheat oven to 350°. Let cake stand at room temperature 30 minutes. Sprinkle with CinnamonNut Crumble. Bake 32 to 35 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Sprinkle Sweet Bourbon Drizzle over cake.

Cinnamon-Nut Crumble ½ cup coarsely chopped pecans ½ cup coarsely chopped walnuts ½ cup slivered almonds ½ cup firmly packed brown sugar 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour December 2013 7

Notes from the Clearing

Our Lasting Architecture Joseph Thomas

Accounting for the angle and velocity of my fall, I still don’t have a clue what I’m doing. The formulas fail to find the quotient of my divided mind. The simple addition of well laid plans upon my middle aged mind cover the lazy doodles beneath, but are they still there. The decay of ancient construction eaten by time and little by little subtracted from the landscape is an inevitable truth, faced or not.

And so the bullet flies to wound the world as compromise becomes an unpracticed art, lost to myth and history until ruin becomes our lasting architecture. N

Harris Hospital Happenings Welcome! To Senior Circle Margaret Goodman

Harris Hospital Senior Circle is a dynamic, fast growing organization dedicated to supporting healthy lifestyles, building strong relationships and providing outstanding customer service to seniors. Our mission is to encourage a healthy and active lifestyle for seniors by providing programs that encourage continued learning, wellness, health and volunteering, coupled with a host of social activities.

Recently, Senior Circle took fifty four members on a 7 day/6 night trip to Niagara Falls & Toronto. One of many highlights was the “Maid of the Mist” ride. The boat started off at the calm part of the Niagara River, near the Rainbow Bridge, taking our group past the

End of Summer Bash-Jacksonport State Park 8

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American and Bridal Veil Falls, then into the dense mist of spray inside the curve of the Horseshoe Falls, also known as the Canadian Falls. Breathtaking, stunning views, a sea of blue ponchos, sound of roaring water plummeting to the bottom of the falls while misting its surroundings. Cherished memories and long term friendships were formed from this adventure.

Senior Circle is a community education resource open to seniors age 50 and above. Monthly programs are held giving seniors the necessary information to make the best health decisions for themselves and loved ones.

If you would be interested in joining our “Circle of Friends”, please contact the Senior Circle office at 870512-3030 for additional information. We look forward to the opportunity.

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Dogwood Canyon – Branson, MO

Casa Loma Castle - Toronto

Holidays Without Heartburn Samuel Mortoti, M.D.

Holiday decorations, family festivities and merry gift giving are holiday staples for many. Add rich food, a lack of exercise and maybe a cocktail or two, and you’ve got holiday heartburn just waiting to happen. For the 50 million Americans who suffer from heartburn on a regular basis and especially during the holidays, knowing the foods that may trigger the burning of heartburn may help them navigate a holiday smorgasbord.

Many of the foods and beverages served at social events and holiday get-togethers may cause heartburn.

Those “trigger” foods include: Marbled meats, rich sauces, creamy cheeses, citrus products (tomatoes, lemons, oranges and/or grapefruit), caffeine, and alcohol.

These foods tend to relax the sphincter between the esophagus and the stomach. The sphincter is a band of muscle that contracts and relaxes to allow food into the stomach. When it contracts, it prevents digestive enzymes and stomach acid from re-entering the esophagus and causing irritation.

Heartburn is caused when stomach acid flows backward or up into the esophagus. Diet and medication can inadvertently contribute to heartburn by relaxing the sphincter, increasing the amount of acid produced in the stomach and making the esophagus more sensitive to

stomach acid.

Foods that tend to be high in fat slow the process of digestion, which means that acid and food remain in the stomach cavity longer. The acid then has a greater chance of moving back into the esophagus. Alcoholic beverages, soda and citrus juices raise the level of acidity in the stomach, causing the esophagus to become even more irritated.

Episodes of heartburn may also be caused by the positioning of the body and certain movements such as lying down, bending over or strenuous activities. Luckily, one handy defense mechanism against heartburn is gravity. When standing in the upright position, gravity tends to prevent acid from moving upward back into the esophagus, reducing the chance of heartburn. Lying down or bending alters the state of gravity and increases abdominal pressure, increasing the chances for heartburn.

When preparing to host a family gathering or attend social festivities, keep the following tips in mind: Prepare dishes with less fat, eat smaller portions, do not eat late at night or before going to bed, exercise daily, dilute alcohol with water or club soda.

Heartburn does not have to ruin the holiday season if you are mindful of the foods and drinks you consume. If you have any questions regarding heartburn and its affects, contact your physician.

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Annual Festival of Trees Kimberlee Thomas

The Newport Business Resource Center is all aglow.

Christmas trees small and large fill the room. Lights are twinkling, beads and baubles are shimmering, children young and old are oohing and awing!

The annual Festival of lights has begun. In late November youth groups, non-profit organizations, and area businesses descended upon the center bringing with them their trees and filling the place with the glamour of the season. Many individuals spent hours in studious decorating before leaving behind their whimsical creations for all to see.

The trees have been decorated in the following four categories: most comical, most traditional, most unique and best business. Why, you ask, would they do such a thing? For our enjoyment of course and bragging rights for the whole year for First Place! You see it is now up to us to view their creations to ponder, to study and wonder aloud who should we vote for, which tree is the best?

Voting began on November 25 and will continue daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All votes will be tallied on Thursday, December 19 and awards will be given to 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and overall best tree. Festivities begin at 4:00 p.m. and will conclude at 5:30 p.m.

This fun holiday event is sponsored in part by The Arkansas Cooperative Extension, the local 4-H chapter, and U of A Division of Agriculture Research & Extension, The Newport Chamber, and Newport Economic Development Center.

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Trees pictured are from the 2012 Festival of Trees. These pictures submitted by the Newport Independent.

December 2013 9

County Extension News The New Normal Randy Chlapecka

Strong. reliable. Committed. truSted. CuStomer-owned.

As we look back on another crop year, 2013 followed the recent pattern of what I refer to as the “new normal”. I remember back to my younger days when we would plant our rice in April, our soybeans in May and early June, get a few timely rains to get our soybeans big enough to irrigate, and not have to begin irrigating Lending for all your rural those soybeans until at least mid-July. Heck, I even financing needs! remember a couple of times helping my dad and cousin survey levees the old-fashioned way in our soybeans Operating Loans | Equipment Loans & Leases on Labor Day. We used to even have a period called Vehicles | Farm Real Estate Mortgages “laid by” between the end of cultivating soybeans and Home & Acreage Loans the beginning of irrigating soybeans when we weren’t overly busy.

Many of today’s younger farmers probably don’t have a clue what I’m talking about. We certainly don’t Financing for your lifestyle. have years like that anymore. Every year seems very Call Vickie Jones | 800-698-5867 at 870-698-9044 • 800-572-8165 870-523-5867 different with a lot of extremes. This year we began www.agheritagefcs.com www.agheritagefcs.com with a cool and wet spring, followed by a mini-drought during June and the first half of July, followed by a cool and wet mid-July to mid-August like most had never seen, followed by another mini-drought during the last half of August and September. These extremes are why I have begun referring to our recent pattern as the “new normal”.

Despite the fact that we had another year with these weather extremes, our harvest has turned out to be a pleasant surprise overall. I always hate to speak in broad terms like this because there are always some who are disappointed with their crops, but again with what we faced this year it could have certainly been a lot worse. Besides good farmers and good management, the one key that probably helped this year be a pleasant surprise can be found in the above paragraph. The cooler temperatures that we saw during much of the grain fill period can do wonders. The plant can put much of its energy into filling out the grain instead of just trying to survive. It can also extend the grain fill period which normally leads to better grain fill.

Let’s hope that the “new normal” can result in another good crop next year. Please thank a farmer for what he does to help feed the world. We’d be hard pressed to name another occupation more important than that.

For more information on agriculture in Jackson County, feel free to contact me at the Jackson County Office of the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service at 523-7450.

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“The mission of the Newport Economic Development Commission is to facilitate an environment that will be conducive to economic growth and stability. The commission will work to enhance, promote, and create increased opportunities for economic well being by developing and implementing strategies that will improve quality of life, community aesthetics, and encourage new investment in Newport and Jackson County.”

201 Hazel, Newport 870-523-1009

Newport Chamber News Shop Til You Drop

Julie Allen, Chamber of Commerce Director The Newport Area Chamber of Commerce loves the holidays, and here are a few reasons why this season will be one of the most exciting in Newport!

The Newport Christmas Decorating Committee and Jackson County Council on Tourism have unveiled 96 pre-lit Christmas trees throughout the Newport community. Thanks to the local fundraising efforts of these dedicated volunteers, the 96 six to ten-foot trees will be a must-see for families in the region.

As you schedule your tour of holiday lights, consider starting with the annual Jackson County Courthouse Christmas Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 6 at 6 p.m. featuring a giant Snowman, 15-foot Santa and thousands of lights. Santa Claus will make a guest appearance inside the Courthouse. Also enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, cookies and live entertainment.

The Chamber’s Retail Merchants Committee has kicked off the 2013 “Shop Til You Drop” holiday promotion at participating locations in Newport. By

visiting local retailers, everyone 18 and older will be eligible to register for dozens of great prizes including a Blue Tooth Speaker and a $1,000 shopping spree.

Drawings will be held on Friday, December 6 and December 13. Increase your chances of winning by visiting all participating stores. Remember, it pays to shop locally! For more information, call or email me at number or address below.

The Newport Chamber and City of Newport will host the annual Newport Christmas Parade on Thursday, December 12 at 6 p.m. You’ll be dazzled by some of the most creative floats around. The parade travels down Malcolm Avenue from Hwy. 69 to the Village Mall. Contact the Chamber to sign up your float, antique vehicle, beauty queen or community organization. Entry is free!

If you would like to know more about community events in and around Newport/Jackson County, call (870) 523-3618 or email director@newportarchamber. org to sign up for our free “Upcoming Events” email. N December 2013 11

Eye On Cover Story A Shining Star on Jackson Joseph Thomas

Patti Mullins is known by many throughout the community. She is dentist to many and friend to many more. But it may be her glorious Christmas displays that gives her the most notoriety. She has a heart made for Christmas and loves to let it shine. Her personal collection has been growing for many years, but most recently, her project has become the city she loves, Newport, Arkansas.

Mullins was born in Hayti, Missouri. Her father was born and raised in Newport, Arkansas and moved her here on her 5th birthday in 1957. She has been home ever since. Mullins says she is a, “one and only spoiled child,” apparently contrary to popular belief. The word around town is that Patti Mullins is a giving and compassionate, good soul, a very comforting dentist and a Christmas local legend. After graduating from Newport High School, she attended the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville for three years, transferred to the Little Rock campus to complete her degree and then completed dental school at the University of Tennessee in Memphis. Mullins returned to Newport to work under Dr. Mike Brown for five years and then began her own practice in 1989. “My parents always encouraged me to make a career in the medical field and dentistry was something I always thought about,” explains Mullins.

Six years ago, Mullins called Mayor David Stewart and asked if she could decorate the Iron Mountain Depot, this is the restored 1902 train depot on Front Street where many annual events, like Depot Days, are held throughout the year. Mayor Stewart gave her the green light and this expansion led to the idea of decorating the Jackson County Courthouse. Mullins began raising money for this project and says they have added to the Courthouse display every year and just about have a completed display, save for the lights they need to cover such an impressive historical building. Last year, the Tourism Committee asked Mullins to chair The Tree of Lights Project. They have constructed 96 trees that will be lit up all over the city. “Businesses contribute to this venture by purchasing trees to be displayed around their business. We have so many special people in this community that volunteer their time and money to this and other worthwhile causes, I just can’t thank 12

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them enough. It truly is a great place to live,” adds Mullins.

“I’m excited because this year we have a new attraction in my home display. It is a Virtual Santa that will appear in the window of the house across the street and will be a must see this season.” Mullins welcomes the visitors that come every year to see her exhibits, but would ask that parents keep their children out of the yard because of all the stringed lights that could be a tripping hazard. Her circle drive is the perfect place to view the attraction.

Newport’s Courthouse display is now listed on the Arkansas Trail of Holiday Lights brochure and photographs of Mullin’s home have decorated the brochure as of late, motivating her to add to her collection. “Buddy Rutledge, David Jackson, Melody Davis and myself got together and started this Courthouse project and it continues to grow. I have been asked many times where our displays come from. I found a wonderful store in Dallas, Texas and they have awesome items. We have purchased things in Branson, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge; where ever we are, we look for decorations.”

Mullin’s dental assistant, Bambi, says, “Once Patti discovered the ease of U-Haul, we broke beyond the boundaries of just filling her truck. Now we can purchase anything, anywhere.” Last year, Mullins and Bambi were in a drivable U-Haul when they purchased two Nativity scenes, one for her display and the other for First United Methodist Church.

Her love for Christmas decor is infectious when surrounded by her light;

a child-like joy, that only seems to surface while in the presence of fire-works and Christmas lights, makes itself known. Mullin’s father always put up lights, but she has expounded on that idea and adds to her exhibit every year. She has no idea how many lights make up her collection, her joy comes from the expressions that show on the face of her visitors. Much like the comfort she affords her patience, perhaps her displays convey a sense of comfort and warmth much needed in this day of technological distraction and division. Mullin’s invites you to bring your family and share in her Christmas Glow.

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Eye On Feature Feed the Need

Adrienne Freeman

When is the last time you were really hungry? Not just, “Oh, I need a snack - what do I choose from my stocked pantry?” hungry, but in fear for your next meal or one for your children? Sending a child to school sick just because he can get that one nutritious meal that you can count on?

A fundraiser, Feed the Need, is being held for the Jackson County Regional Food Pantry, December 19th at the First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall from 5 pm to 8 pm. A pie auction and chili supper are planned along with musical entertainment from Jeannie and the Guys featuring Sonny Burgess and Kern Kennedy. Tickets are $10. For further ticket and donation information call Sandra Pankey, 523-5354 or 217-3711.

The pantry has only been in operation for several weeks, but spearhead Brad Elrod is proud of the community’s involvement and the success is easily measured. “Our first week we served 56 families and the second week, 96; now we are up to 175. The need is there,” says Elrod, minister at the First United Methodist Church. The food pantry, located at the corner of Cedar and McLain streets at Umstead Memorial Methodist Church, is non-denominational and serves all residents of Jackson County.

Statistics say that there is more than enough food in this country to feed everyone, yet one in six people face hunger and 70 billion pounds of food are wasted annually. In the last five years, people seeking assistance from food banks has risen 46 percent, largely due to the recession.

A newly built Wal-Mart Supercenter in Newport sparked opening the new pantry. “Wal Mart is a partner with Feeding America, and they donate excess goods and food close to the expiration date to charity. They pull it from stock, freeze it and we pick it up weekly.

Wal-Mart really likes their food donations to benefit the community where it is donated and we are happy to be able to help these families in need,” says Elrod. The effort is run by volunteers and benefitted by Elrod’s experience in starting two similar centers in other stops

along his ministerial trail. The Newport Regional Food Pantry distributes assistance each Monday from 10 am to 12 pm and only requires identification that verifies a Jackson County residence.

Henry Boyce, Third Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney, and a volunteer organizing the December 19th fundraiser says, “Just before the holiday season is a perfect time for this worthwhile effort. The cost of a ticket, $10, is small to most, but extremely beneficial to the food pantry. The funds help buy discounted food from the regional food bank in Jonesboro and purchase crucial equipment, like freezers, to store the donated food until it can be distributed. We are very excited to be hosting this event to give the entire community a chance to come together to help feed the hungry and have some fun too.” N

Above, mission spearhead Brad Elrod, minister at First United Methodist Church in Newport, shows off the full shelves at the Jackson County Regional Food Pantry.

This cereal was donated because the company's contact information was printed incorrectly on the box.

Shown bottom left, donated meat from Wal-Mart fills the freezers at the Jackson County Regional Food Pantry. Food is distributed weekly at the facility, and the only requirement is certification of an address in Jackson County.

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County Economic Report Proud Past, Bright Future

John Chadwell, Economic Development Director Newport’s slogan is “Proud Past Bright Future” and the Newport Economic Development Commission works every day to both capitalize on Newport’s proud past and to help bring about Newport’s bright future. As this is being written, significant projects are happening on both sides of the slogan.

The City of Newport has received approval to advertise for bids to replace the sidewalks along Front Street in downtown Newport. The Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department awarded a $250,000 grant to the city for the sidewalk development, which will be matched by $50,000 from local development groups and the city. The $300,000 project will make a huge difference in the appearance of downtown, and as so often the case, public development like this spurs additional private development. By working to preserve aspects of the historic downtown area, D.R.I.V.E., the NEDC and others are celebrating the past with an eye on the future.

However, the time of the horse and buggy has long passed us by. Now things literally fly along at the speed of light. Email, texting, web presence, social media and smart phones have made the world a much more accessible place. The NEDC is developing a new friendlier and more interactive website cluster for the City of Newport, Jackson County, Newport Area Chamber of Commerce and the NEDC. The web site will put tons of information about our community at

people’s finger tips. A mobile site will be designed for smart phone and smart pad users and to top it all off, we are creating a mobile application that will have every business in town as close as a customer’s finger tips.

By staying on the cutting edge of technology for our community, we are bringing Newport’s bright future into being.

Another great event that combines both the proud past and the bright future of Newport was the opening in August of the new Wal-Mart Super Center in Newport.

Sam Walton is part of Newport’s past and heritage since his first store was located on the corner of Front and Hazel Streets. One of the first of its design in Arkansas, it is bringing the latest in green technology and retail options to Jackson County. Sky lights that reduce the electric bill of the store by as much as 40% shine down on a museum room that celebrates the ingenious ideas of Sam Walton born right here in Newport. In addition to 80 new jobs, the store provides new retail options to local shoppers.

Two of our existing industries, in a joint project, just unveiled a robotic assembly line that looks like something out of a science fiction movie. Arkansas Steel Associates and Southwest Steel Processing have developed a robotic line to make the next generation of vector swag tie plates. Between the creation of 40 new jobs and the investment of several millions of dollars, the companies have made their own commitment to Newport’s bright future.

Newport’s proud past and its bright future are both living right before our eyes. N

December 2013 17

I Do

Winston and Langley Wedding Kimberlee Thomas

Mendi Winston and Justin Langley met through a mutual friend in mid-2011. Mendi was dropping off some paper work to a patient who had an upcoming appointment at her employer’s office. Justin happened to be there when she arrived. “After I left he asked our friend for my cell phone number. Later that night he sent me a text” explains Mendi. It didn’t take long before Mendi and Justin were visiting more and more, spending time together and just “talking about everything”. Several months passed and Justin asked Mendi if she would accompany him to his family’s New Year’s Eve party. Mendi explains, “After that night we spent every spare second together!”

Family reunions are a huge tradition for the Langley’s. On July 3, 2012 the Langley family had gathered at their traditional spot just south of McCrory for their fifty-third reunion. After they arrived Justin took Mendi on a stroll around the place. As they walked along the edge of a corn field Justin told Mendi about his late grandfather, Cecil Langley, and how he taught him to shoot a gun in that very field when he was just a young boy. Once the story was finished Justin dropped down to one knee and asked Mendi if she would be his wife.

“I was so thrilled. I had not been expecting it. Of course I said yes.”

When the couple rejoined the reunion Justin’s brother tearfully announced to the family that his brother had proposed and that Mendi had accepted. The band began to play “My Girl” and Mendi and Justin shared a dance surrounded by the excited family.

The couple discussed dates for their upcoming wedding and decided to let tradition rule. One year later, on July 3, 2013, Mendi and Justin were married. The backdrop for their union was the Cypress Creek Country Club in Augusta, Arkansas. Reverend Bobby Keen presided over the simple double ring ceremony. Keen had been Justin’s high school football coach. The wedding party consisted of Mendi’s two children, Madison and Harrison Smith, Mendi’s sister, Marilyn Winston, along with Justin’s daughter, Chesnee Langley, and his brother, Blaine Langley.

After the small ceremony family and friends gathered at the fiftyfourth Langley reunion to celebrate.

Justin is self-employed and a carpenter by trade. He also works as a guide during duck and goose season for Graveyard Guide Services in Fair Oaks. Mendi is an Optician at CustomEyes Vision Care in Newport.

N Photography submitted by the bride.

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It’s a Masquerade Kimberlee Thomas

Christmas is drawing close and many of us are counting down the days and rushing to get those elusive gift items on our family’s wish list. Others are not so fortunate and the countdown only reminds them of what will be lacking under the tree for their children this Christmas.

I had a chance to visit with Department of Finance and Administration Service Representative, Cary Nelson at a recent fundraiser for the Masquerade. She shared with me her mission to help Jackson County Children in need to have at least one gift to open this holiday. “I enjoy helping those around me. I believe in sharing with my neighbors in need.

Seeing the relief on the faces of the parents and the joy on the faces of the children is what drives me” explains Nelson.

In early October Nelson gathered some of her close friends together and told them she wanted to host a Holiday Masquerade Ball fundraiser. She explained that the funds raised would be used to purchase toys for children in the county. Before she was through explaining all her plans, Angela Grizzle, Valarie Ivie and Mika Little had all chimed in their approval and willingness to help. Cassie Hembrey, a local Walgreens employee, has also volunteered to help with the fundraising efforts.

The group set about organizing the event and recently held a mini-fundraiser serving soup, chili, and goodies at the Jackson County Court house to raise needed funds to host the dance. When asked about supporters Nelson claimed, “There are many”. She explained to me that her greatest supporter of

all is her husband, Bradley Nelson. “After working all night he jumped right in and helped me bake cupcakes and cookies for our recent fundraiser. He even helped with the soup, and after all that he cleaned up the kitchen!”

Nelson and her band of merry helpers have been busy visiting local and area merchants who to date have provided over $350 worth of gift certificates to be raffled off the night of the Masquerade Ball. Tickets for the raffle may be purchased in advance by contacting Nelson at mrsnelson10@hotmail. com or by phone 870-349-4279. Local photographer Kristi Eddington Foust has agreed to be on hand to snap keepsake photos of the night. James Doyle owner of Doyle Sounds out of Jonesboro will be providing music for the evening’s festivities.

Attendees will have several fun chances to help raise money during the course of the evening. There will be a gentleman and a lady awaiting the highest bidder to start off the dancing for the evening. Nelson explains there is an eighteen and above age limit to the event. Food and drinks will be provided for purchase, and alcohol is prohibited.

The Masquerade Ball will be held on Friday, December 13 at 7:00 p.m. at the Iron Mountain Train Depot located on Front Street in downtown Newport. Tickets are $10 at the door, cash only please. For more information you may visit the Face Book event page, Dancing for a Cause: Masquerade Ball in Newport, AR. Masqueraders are encouraged to bring a new unwrapped toy to donate as well. Dress will range from dressycasual to semi-formal. Masquerade attire is encouraged. Come one, come all for a night of fun and frolicking and don’t forget your mask! N

Toll Free: (800) 250-3664 Sales & Service: (870) 523-2792 501 Hwy 367 North Newport, AR 72112

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Things To Do The Jackson County Humane Society is in need of the following supplies: water buckets, dog houses, Clorox, laundry detergent, paper towels and blankets (without backing). Items can be dropped off at the Newport Area Chamber office at 201 Hazel Street.

Newport AGATE will host the Miss Mistletoe Pageant on Saturday, December 7 at 10:00 a.m. in the Newport Elementary Cafeteria for both boys and girls ages six months through 12th grade. Deadline for submitting entry forms is Tuesday, December 3. NO entries will be taken after this date. Contestants will be judged on poise, appearance, and personality. This is a formal wear pageant. The entry fee is $50.00 and will include entry into the Best Dressed category and the Most Photogenic category (This photo must be at least 4X6 and no larger than an 8x10). Only the contestant will be admitted free to the pageant. Admission to the pageant will be $3.00 - Adults. All students will be admitted for Free. For further information you may email Amy Driver at adriver@newportschools.org.

JACKSON COUNTY LIBRARY 213 Walnut Street P.O. Box 748 Newport, Arkansas 72112 (870) 523-2952 www.jacksoncolibrary.net Hours of Operation: Sun. 1:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Mon - Fri 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sat. 9:30 a.m.- Noon

Newport Christmas Parade on Thursday, Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. Parade route begins at the corner of Malcolm Avenue and Highway 69 and continues East to the Village Mall.

Patron Series welcomes Tracy Lawrence in concert on Saturday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. at ASU-Newport.

For more information about any of these events, contact: Julie Allen, Executive Director director@newportarchamber.org

December Calendar of Events Thursday, December 5 / Bingo / 9:30 a.m.

Tuesday, December 10 / Movie Day / 1:30 p.m.

Friday, December 13 / Imperial Dinner Theater / 4:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 19 / Christmas Potluck / 5:00 p.m.

For more information, contact Margaret Goodman, Senior Circle Advisor and Volunteer Coordinator at 870-512-3030.

Ozark Foothills FilmFest Accepting Submissions for the 13th Annual Festival The Ozark Foothills FilmFest is currently accepting submissions for the 13th annual festival, set for April 2-6, 2014 at several venues in Batesville, Arkansas.

The festival is non-competitive; travel and lodging are provided in full or part for representatives of selected Official Selections.

Entries are accepted in two categories: OFFICIAL SELECTION. Narrative or documentary films forty minutes or longer. Special consideration is given to films with relevance to rural audiences based on setting, subject, or point of view. Filmmakers whose work is chosen as an Official Selection will be invited to attend and participate in a post screening Q&A and will receive monetary compensation if participating in a panel or other public program. Lodging and a travel stipend are provided.

SHORT FILM SHOWCASES. Narrative, documentary, animated, or experimental films less than forty minutes.

Several showcases are typically scheduled during the

festival. Filmmakers are provided the opportunity to present and discuss their films. Special consideration is given to filmmakers from Arkansas and neighboring states.

Submissions must be on DVD (preferably DVD-R) and accompanied by a non-refundable $15 entry fee for Official Selection entries or a $10 entry fee for Short Film Showcase entries, and entry form. Screeners will be returned if requested by the entrant. An entry form is available at www.ozarkfoothillsfilmfest.org/2014_ film_entries.html.

The entry deadline is December 31, 2013. Screener, entry form, and entry fee should be mailed to Ozark Foothills FilmFest, 195 Peel Road, Locust Grove, AR 72550. Filmmakers will be notified of selection by February 3, 2014.

For additional information call 870-251-1189 or email ozarkfilm@wildblue.net.

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Tales of a Transplanted Fashionista

Shopping Trip Delight Leigh Keller

I have a confession. Since I moved to Batesville a few years ago, away from all of my big chain stores, I developed an obsession with online window shopping, and with Pinterest and Instagram. If I am going to drive to go on a big shopping trip, I want to know exactly what I am going to get. I use my social networking sites to find new looks, follow trends, and see what looks would work for me as a working mommy. Last year, I discovered Darling’s Fine Things on Instagram. I instantly became one of those annoying people who “likes” every picture they post. I fell instantly in love with the entire outfits they post, the gorgeous boots and bags, and stylish accessories (I have some severe not buying it remorse about not getting an Arkansas stamped bracelet they posted last month).

After work recently I decided to make the short drive from Batesville to run by the store and see what beautiful new things they had in stock. I had previously done a couple of drive-bys and always seemed to be there at a strange time when they were closed. But on this particular day I got lucky. I was greeted by a gorgeous display of stylish game day Razorback apparel, beautiful bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, buttery boots and bags, on trend tops and denim, and various home decor items. Darling’s Fine Things inventory includes; Pandora, Michael Marcus cosmetics, Michael Stars, Old Gringo, Waxing Poetic, G. Spinelli, Nally & Millie, and much, much more.

Darling’s opened eight years ago at its current location at 1302 McLain. The owner, Jamie Darling, began her adventure as shop owner in a small area of her father’s pharmacy. It wasn’t long before word began to spread, the little business began to thrive and she eventually opened the stand alone location next door (much to the happiness of area shoppers, and online window shoppers, like me).

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1400 Malcolm Ave., Newport, AR 72112 MManning@Shelterinsurance.com ShelterInsurance.com 870-523-6514 - Phone 870-523-6743 - Fax

AUTO HOME LIFE 22

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December 2013 23