Eye On Jackson www.eyeonmag.com
Like Father Like Son Recipes for Halloween Orange and Black and Black and Black A Publication of Meadowland Media, Inc.
October 2014
Families.
If you’re looking for quality care for your family, trust ours. The Green Family Practice is proud to introduce our newest physician, Alison Green, M.D. Not only is she following in the footsteps of her father, Roger Green, M.D., but she also shares his passion for providing healthcare for all ages. Dr. Alison Green provides services that include wellness visits, treatment for everyday illnesses and the management of complex health conditions. She has a special interest in treating young patients and enjoys seeing
Roger Green, M.D. Family Medicine
the progress they make with each visit. Dr. Green is now accepting new patients. For an appointment, call 870-523-9852.
1200 McLain St., Suite G, Newport
Alison Green, M.D. Family Medicine
In This Issue 6/Editor’s Note Awe....tumn
7/Great Tastes
Blood and Guts
8/County Economic Report
Newport Welcomes Clinton School Team
7
15
9
16
10
18
12
22
9/Seniors, can we talk? Ruth Sees Her Next Move
10/Cover Story
Orange and Black and Black and Black
12/Jackson County Library
Meet and Greet the Author; Daniel Black
15/Faces
Harris Hospital Healthy Woman a Success
16/Feature
Like Father Like Son
18/I Do
Turner-Adams Wedding
20/Things To Do 22/Newport Alumni Hall of Fame 23/Notes from the Clearing MeadowLand
Se r v ing Jacks o n Co unty Ove r 20 Ye ars ! A UTHORIZED D EA LER
Remodeling Rooong Metal Buildings
w w w. a rm s trongs te e l. com
R o g e r L . Sto n e S r. Pre s i d e nt 8 70 -5 2 3 -462 8 8 70 -2 0 3 -0 0 77 cell
@A rm s trongs te e l. com
Cover Photography by Cheryl Mauldin of Studio 1910 Cover Design by Joseph Thomas
Meet Your Writers... Hunting for a Home Loan?
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.
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 widely-published informational column, ‘Caroline, Can We Talk?’.
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.
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.
Rebecca Pearrow is marketing director at Harris Hospital. She attained an AA at Central Baptist College followed by a BS at Arkansas Tech University. She will complete an MBA from Harding University in December 2014. She was employed 12 years at White County Medical Center before her success in Community Relations brought her back to Newport. She spends her free time traveling to support her kid’s athletics, gardening, raising chickens and scrap booking.
THIS PUBLICATION IS PRODUCED BY: MeadowLand Media, Inc. P. O. Box 196, Grubbs, AR 72431 870.503.1150 kthomas@eyeonmag.com PUBLISHER: Kimberlee Thomas Associate EDITOR: Kimberlee 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
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.
For advertising, distribution, or editorial contribution, contact Kimberlee Thomas, 870.503.1150, kthomas@eyeonmag.com.
Staff PHOTOGRAPHERS: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Cheryl Mauldin PRINTING COMPANY: Rockwell Publishing
Eye On
Jackson
Editor’s Note Awe....tumn
Well, the weather has turned it’s seasonal focus toward Autumn and the cool days are a sight for sore, hot eyes. After another great football season, it’ll soon be time to snuggle in for another cold Winter. Unfortunately, Joseph and Kimberlee Thomas we must bid Randy Photo by Cheryl Mauldin Chlapecka a fond farewell from our monthly pages, his agricultural insights will be missed and we wish him a happy retirement. Adrienne Freeman “gorifies” the season with a recipe for Blood and Guts! Caroline Beauchamp discusses Ruth’s recent visit to the optometrist, Jon Chadwell welcomes a new Practicum Team from the Clinton School of Public Service to the area and Julie Allen shares the recent Newport Hall of Fame inductees. Kimberlee brings us the Turner - Adams Wedding and I am honored to bring you our Cover and Feature on the Black family and another instalment of Notes from the Clearing. We have Things To Do, Faces and Arkansas Craft News. Please read on, stay warm and after you finish this October issue, check out some of the recent broadcasts on www.cable15TV.com, if you haven’t already seen them on Suddenlink’s Channel 15, or facebook. N
Joseph Thomas
Family Medicine Cardiology
Roddy Lochala, DO • Matthew Jackson, MD • Matthew Haustein, MD
Mon. - Fri. 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Newport
1500 McLain • 870-523-9337 NEABaptistClinic.com
Family Medicine Newport
6 | www.eyeonmag.com is always here for BOO!........uh, for you.
Family Medicine
Great Tastes Blood and Guts Adrienne Freeman
Whatever your Halloween practices are, most enjoy watching the kids dress up and passing out treats. Chances are, when discussing the day with anyone over 40, often you hear, “That’s not how we used to do it….” Gone are the days of kids roaming the neighborhoods freely in costumed masses and gathering crazy amounts of candy. Some great ideas for the Halloween treats are: NUTTY GHOSTS: Peanut butter cookies lend their distinctive shape easily to ghosts. Melt white candy bark in the microwave, dip cookies, add mini chocolate chips for eyes. CANDY PUMPKINS: Use orange candy melts (Wilton) and dip chocolate cookies. Add a small pretzel stem. Using green frosting or gel in a tube, pipe on leaves. MUMMY FINGERS: Slice an individual serving of string cheese at an angle. With a sharp knife, make shallow cuts for skin folds at knuckles. Use just a dab of cream cheese to attach slivered almonds as the fingernail. Using a toothpick, add a little red cake gel around the edges of the almond slice as “blood.”
roughly break into pieces and soak in milk. Allow the milk to soak into the bread. To make the meatballs: Place garlic/onion mixture, meat, milk-soaked bread, egg, parmesan cheese, and ground meat, salt and pepper to taste. Mix well with gloved hands. Shape into 2 inch balls and bake on non-stick baking sheet in oven for 10 minutes until brown. Drain most of the grease from the meatballs. Add meatballs and spaghetti sauce into large pot. (A crock pot set to your specifications will work too.) Simmer slowly for 30 to 45 minutes until meatballs are cooked through. Cooking the meat in the acidic tomato sauce helps in tenderizing them. Add salt to simmering water, cook pasta according to package directions for al dente. Serve in a large dish, adding sauce over warm pasta to allow it to soak into the pasta a little. Garnish with additional parmesan. N
WITCHES BREW: Any drink can be transformed into Witches Brew. Use any drink mix, add food coloring if desired, and at the last minute, add small pieces of dry ice. It will bubble and smoke, delighting all ages. If a larger punch bowl is used, use larger pieces of ice. When the goblins come home, a warm serving of “Blood and Guts” (Spaghetti and Meatballs) finish out the night. Feel free to form the meat mixture into organ shapes, kidneys and hearts, to add to the festiveness. Happy Halloween! BLOOD AND GUTS (Spaghetti and Meatballs) 1 medium onion 2 tablespoons garlic, minced fine 3 tablespoons extra virgin oil 4 slices fresh white bread 1/3 to 1/2 cup milk 1 egg 1/3 cup tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese 1 1/2 lbs ground beef 1 1/2 lbs ground pork Salt and Pepper 6 – 8 basil leaves or ½ dried 18 ounces spaghetti sauce of your choice 1 lb pasta, cooked to package directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Dice onions and garlic, lightly sauté for 3 minutes, set aside. Remove the crusts from four slices of bread, October 2014 | 7
County Economic Report Newport Welcomes Clinton School Team Jon Chadwell, Economic Development Director
Newport and Jackson County are pleased to welcome a new Practicum Team from the Clinton School of Public Service to the area. The Team is composed of Joyce Akidi from Kampala Uganda, Alex Lanis from Ada, Oklahoma and Shanell Ransom from Columbia, South Carolina. Joyce, Alex and Shanell bring a great experience to the local project having worked on projects in Arkansas, Georgia, South Carolina, Uganda, Haiti and Brazil. The Clinton School Team will be working with a local steering committee on the development of a countywide alumni database. The database will contain contact, educational and occupational information for people who have graduated from a high school in Jackson County or from ASU-Newport. In addition to developing the platform for the database and the mechanism through which to gather information, the Team will be assisting the local committee in developing privacy measures and usage guidelines that will govern the use of the database in the future. One of the primary uses of the database will be to connect alumni from the area with job opportunities that 8 | www.eyeonmag.com is always here for BOO!........uh, for you.
might interest them. The hope is that by informing alumni of jobs in Jackson County that are in their field, it might encourage hometown people to move back to Newport and Jackson County. Another use for the database will be to inform former residents of opportunities to support their hometown. These opportunities could come through major fundraising efforts on large project, or through seeking their help to contact a broader range of political representatives concerning projects being sought by the community. Finally, the database can be used to share information about the positive developments in Jackson County so that the alumni of the area can be ambassadors for the community wherever they live. The team was introduced at the Newport Business Resource Center on September 16, 2014 and they started their work with the steering committee. The final project plan and report will be due to the community and the Clinton School in April. For more information on this project and other developments in Newport and Jackson County, feel free to contact the Newport Economic Development Commission at (870) 523-1009. N
Seniors, can we talk?
Ruth Sees Her Next Move Caroline Beauchamp
Ruth has gotten her permanent crown and her teeth are in good shape. You know if you’re teeth don’t feel good, you don’t feel good. When you have a problem with one thing then something else bothers you, right? Ruth has started finding it difficult reading small print. She and her friend, Betty, went shopping the other day and Ruth almost bought an $860 sweater because she thought it was $36. That got her attention. Then Betty missed 3 street signs and almost got lost. Yes, it’s time (or past time) to get an eye exam. Fortunately, when Ruth enrolled in her dental plan, she also bought a vision plan. Since this is the first time she’s used the vision plan, Ruth called her agent to go over what the vision plan covers. Her agent told she can get her eyes examined every 12 months. To get the most benefits from her policy she needs to go to an optometrist who participates in the vision plan. Ruth was thrilled to know that her optometrist is participating in her vision plan and made an appointment. She can go to a vision provider out of the network but she would have to pay the provider directly and then submit/file a claim to be reimbursed. The amount she would be reimbursed would be less. Ruth and Betty went to the optometrist. (Betty wanted to go with her to help select frames that looked the best on Ruth.) After Ruth’s eye exam, it was confirmed that she does need glasses. She left the optometrist’s
office with a prescription and a bill for only $10. Ruth was thrilled – only $10. Without the vision plan, her exam cost $120. Now to select a pair of frames. After finding the frames that she liked the best (and, of course, everyone in the store agreed!), she was told that her co-pay is $40 (that’s what she has to pay). Another good surprise. The technician offered her several options regarding lenses. More options than Ruth ever thought there could be for a simple pair of glasses – anti-reflective, no line progressive, transition, UV protection, scratch resistant. Since Ruth only needs help seeing close and reading, the copay for her single vision lenses was only $25. Another great surprise. Ruth did inquire about contacts. Yes, they are covered under her plan with a $100 allowance. Betty already wears glasses and had a much needed exam – remember they almost got lost because Betty could not see or read the street signs. Betty wears no-line progressive lenses that are anti-reflective and scratch resistant. Her lenses are very customized and expensive, so her plan did not cover the entire cost. She did get a $250 discount since she has a vision plan. Off to another shopping spree. If you cannot read this easily, MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AND GET YOUR EYES EXAMINED. Got questions about vision insurance, Call me at 870-5236771 AND SAY, “CAROLINE, CAN WE TALK?” N
Accepting New Patients (870) 569-4909
Call to Schedule your FREE Consultation
920 Harrison St., Suite A Batesville, AR
Dr. Dustin Taylor , D.C., CCEP October 2014 | 9
Eye On Cover Story Orange and Black and Black and Black Joseph Thomas
Kimberlee and I both started our advertising careers with Bud and David Black. They own and run Cable 15 TV. Many of you know them from their Greyhound Football coverage through the years or their legendary live auctions. Or, you may know them from any of their many other tale worthy accomplishments. We would see Kenny Black on his visits to the Cable 15 offices. Kenny you may know as Greyhound Football’s Coach Black, as NHS Junior High Principal or even his most recent position as NHS High School Principal. All three of these gentlemen hold steadfast to their Newport roots and are quick to mention all of the support and love given them by this amazing community. Kimberlee and I have learned much from all of these local titans, be it salesmanship, work ethic, confidence or pride in community and family and have never laughed more than in their company. Bud graduated from NHS in 1968, He began Sports Broadcasting at the ripe old age of thirteen. “I was suppose to earn five dollars for every game, but there were many times,” Bud says, “I didn’t get that five. But, it was a learning experience. I found something I loved to do and it was fun.” Kenny graduated from NHS in 1972 and David in 1974. All three brothers are Arkansas State University graduates, all three have teaching degrees and all three married educators. Kenny says, “Bud has an English Degree but I am glad that Bud never taught, simply because Bud Black is as good a high school sports announcer as I’ve ever heard.” David agrees adding, “He can paint a picture through the radio like no one else.” David says he was a side-line announcer during the
10 | www.eyeonmag.com is always here for BOO!........uh, for you.
legendary Greyhound 1981 playoff game. “Bud, Freeman Travis and Al Evans were broadcasting the game from the booth and I saw the game from the Greyhound sidelines. But, when I listened back to the game, because of Bud’s amazing descriptions, I could see it from the other side.” David says of all the years he has run the camera for his brother, Bud has had to restart twice (meaning the segment being filmed had to be reshot due to error). Now that David is hosting and his son Ben is running the camera for him, David says, “Last week I had to restart four times.” Bud blames all of their success on their amazing parents and extended family for setting such grand examples of character. Their father, Buddy Black, born in Illinois and raised in Iowa arrived at the Newport Airbase a seventeen year old Marine (a part of the Marine Corp. Army Air Corp.), along with around five thousand other young solders. He met Louis Gist in her senior year at Newport High School and they soon married. After the war, Mr. Black worked for a John Deere dealer selling Buick automobiles until 1956 when he opened “Buddy Blacks Tire Store” where “Old Treasures” sits today across from the old Greyhound Bus Station. In 1962, he moved his tire store to where “Hardees” now sits. Bud has regaled us before with many fascinating tales of who all has visited his dad’s store while touring along Rock and Roll Highway 67, including Johnny Cash who actually visited and played pool at their home. Bud married his lovely bride, Jayne Pingel, forty-four years ago on August 21, 1970. She has enjoyed twentysix years as the Assistant Professor of Math at ASUN. They have lived in Forest City and Jonesboro, but are very happy to call Newport home. KXJK Radio was the work that carried them to Forest City, covering Mustang Sports. “I was making six hundred dollars a month when I heard about the job in Forest City. Jayne and I decided I should ask for nine hundred dollars a month to take the job. During the interview, the manager said, ‘Buddy, what will it take to bring you to our program?’ I said, ‘I’ll need nine hundred dollars a month.’ The manager replied, ‘Buddy, this job doesn’t pay nine hundred dollars a month, it pays twelve hundred.’ I said, ‘Well, okay. That’ll work too!’” He and Jayne later came back home to Newport and started the Riverboat Trader. Kimberlee actually helped them paste and distribute the free local shopper before Cable 15 took up all of their time. In its best days, the Riverboat Trader was publishing an average of 44 pages and was distributed to over 6,000 households in Jackson County. In 1994, Bud went to Paul Eddington, Cable Manager at Suddenlink, and asked if he could film the Newport Greyhound games and replay them on the local cable TV. Eddington was asked to air more local
programming from his higher ups and agreed to let Bud run the Greyhound Football coverage on the Weather Channel on Saturday mornings. “I went to David, who was working at George Kell Motors at the time, and asked him to come help me put this thing together,” explains Bud. “I think we had nine ads that first year.” The program spurred such interest that Eddington asked Bud if they would be interested in servicing and maintaining the content of their own channel. It was channel 15 and July of 1995, Jay-Bud-Dee Company aired its first live local television event called “The Breakfast Bunch.” It was an early morning weekly news and interview program with local guest, featuring local events. The trader was discontinued in December 31, 1999 so the company could concentrate on the growth of Cable 15 TV. The group began televising more and more special events, including the March 1, 1997 tornadoes that devastated the area. Kenny began his academic career teaching High School P. E., Health and as Junior High Assistant Football Coach at NHS in the fall of 1983. “That’s a funny story, too,” says Kenny, “I was selling cars at Lakeside Chevrolet and David was teaching. When David decided to work at Lakeside selling cars, I began teaching.” Kenny also was Head Coach for Girls Basketball. He says he was nervous never having coached anything but Little League or Babe Ruth Baseball, but he learned within two days that girls are just as competitive as boys and the coach on the other bench wanted to beat you just as bad as any coach from any boys team. Four years later, in 1987, Coach Bill Keedy called and invited Kenny to join the high school football staff and Kenny coached eighteen more years before joining the administrative staff; 2014 makes his tenth year in administration. David boasts on his brother, “He also restarted the high school baseball program, a proud achievement.” Kenny coached the baseball program for eleven years. Bud then says, “And David coached at Bald Knob and didn’t win a game,” with a light hearted poke at his brother. Not swayed from giving Kenny his due, David adds, “I think this is important to note; of all the coaches in NHS history, Kenny has coached more State Championship Games than any other coach.” Kenny says he was very fortunate to coach two baseball and three football championships. “With my twelve years as a student and my thirty-two as a teacher, coach or administrator, I have forty-four years invested in Newport High School. I spent six years as the Dean of Students at the Newport Junior High and when I completed my Masters degree, Dr. Bennett hired me as the Junior High School Principal.” Kenny says he has seen the entire staff do some wonderful work. In the 2013/2014 term, Newport School District was one of only nine schools in the entire state of Arkansas named an “Exemplary School” based on test scores. “I guess my reward for that was that Dr. Bennett called me on a Thursday of last years term and ask if I would be interested in becoming High School Principal. I told him I would be glad to sit down with him in the Spring and talk
about it. Dr. Bennett said, ‘Kenny, I’m not talking about next year. I’m talking about next week.’ So the following Monday, I was sitting in the High School Principal’s office.” He says the pride he feels for the “Exemplary School” rating is akin to a State Championship. Thirtyseven years ago, Kenny married Cindy Stowe who retired four years ago from twenty-eight years of teaching and coaching; six years in Grubbs and twenty-two years at Newport. Kenny and Cindy’s oldest son, Ken Black, was just hired as Elementary P. E. Teacher, he is Junior High Football Assistant Coach and High School Baseball Assistant Coach. Their youngest son, Jase, is working at SuddenLink in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Linda Graddy became David’s lovely bride thirty years ago on December 29, 1984. “We lived with my mother for a while, then we moved to Cherokee Street, to Mallard Cove, to Cherokee Street, to Mallard Cove....” David laughs. “We love Newport and we are all fortunate to have lived here all our lives. I wouldn’t change a single detail of my life.” Linda had her degree in real estate insurance when they married, but drove from Newport to Conway, Arkansas five days a week for a year and half to earn a certificate to teach Home Economics. Linda has since earned her Masters in Education and teaches JAG and the Intern Program at NHS. Their oldest son, Ben, is skillfully filming and editing for Cable 15 TV at his father’s side and owns Ben Black’s Custom Lawn Care and Ben Black’s Used Cars. Ben’s younger brother Orange and Black... continues on page 23 October 2014 | 11
Meet and Greet the Author; Daniel Black Joyce Darling
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Jackson County Library will host a “meet and greet the author” reception, Monday, October 13, 1:00 PM at the library. Daniel Black will be on hand to discuss his most recent work of fiction, Perfect Peace. It is the heartbreaking portrait of a large, rural southern family’s attempt to grapple with their mother’s desperate decision to make her newborn son into the daughter she will never have. Raised in Blackwell, Arkansas, Daniel is currently professor of African-American studies at Clark Atlanta University and Morehouse College. Jackson County Friends of the Library sponsor the Jackson County Book Nook, a used book store. Open every Wednesday from 10:00 until 4:00, the Book Nook is located in the Educational Building of the Umsted Memorial Methodist Church at 1312 McLain in Newport Ar. All proceeds go to the Jackson County Library. N
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October 2014 | 13
“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.�
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Faces
Harris Hospital Healthy Woman a Success Submitted
Newport welcomed Duck Dynasty star, Missy Robertson, on Saturday, August 23, when she appeared as the keynote speaker for the Harris Hospital Healthy Woman event held on the campus of ASU-Newport. The event was a huge success with record attendance as Missy presented inside stories about the Robertson family behind the scenes. When daughter, Mia, gave her story about being born with a cleft palate and sang a beautiful song, the evening ended on a wonderfully inspirational note. Rebecca Pearrow, Marketing Director and Healthy Woman Advisor at Harris Hospital states, “The success of this event is largely contributed to the Healthy Women Advisory Committee, which is an assembly of 21 influential women in the community who support Harris Hospital’s mission by bringing community education events and health outreach activities to Newport.” The event had not only a record breaking attendance, but also a record number of corporate partners in 2014 who sponsor the program. “I cannot say enough to thank all 21 corporate partners, who have shown a strong commitment in support of Healthy Woman. Without this kind of dedication, it wouldn’t be possible to bring such high profile celebrities to our area as we have the past year years,” says Pearrow.
The Council has already been in discussions about the next event after Christmas in 2015. Pearrow told us, “The winter event is a free community event so that everyone has an opportunity to be involved in Healthy Woman activities. The past two years we have had “Paint the Town Red” in February for women’s heart health. This year, the council is considering introducing a new healthcare promotion, such as Autism awareness, but it hasn’t been finalized yet. It is very exciting to see the growth of the program during the past two years I have been involved, and we are looking forward to women’s health promotion with fun events in the future.” Council photo top right, front row L to R: Lauren Sampson, Tara Salinas, Sherry Hanley, Kristen Smith, Ashley Thomley, Mia Robertson, Susan Fletcher, Ginger Carlyle, Raquel Nwokeji, Kimberlee Thomas. Back Row L to R: Alieta Rupp, Amanda White, Sandra Massey, Heather Long, Jenna Austin, Leslie Altom, Rebecca Pearrow, Missy Robertson, Lisa Whitehead, Carol Falwell and Margaret Goodman. Photos courtesy of Cheryl Mauldin. N
October 2014 | 15
Eye On Feature Like Father Like Son Joseph Thomas
This month, our Feature is connected to our Cover in such that Ken Black Jr. is Kenny and Cindy Black’s eldest son. Kimberlee has fond memories of working with him at Cable 15 and it seems very fitting that we find him coaching and teaching at the Newport School District; where the Black family has made such a difference. Black is the Elementary Physical Education teacher for grades 3-6, Assistant Jr. High Football Coach and Assistant Baseball Coach. He is every bit as busy and driven as his father and two uncles. He graduated from NHS in 1999 and from Arkansas State University May 2003 with his Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education, emphasis in Sports Management. His mother, Cindy Black, retired after Twenty-eight years as an educator and his father, Kenny, is currently in year Thirty-two. His brother Jase Black works at Suddenlink in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Black’s brother and parents all graduated from Newport and Arkansas State as well. Black is in a serious relationship with Ashten Short who is also an Arkansas State graduate. She works for an accounting co-op that represents four different school districts (Valley View, Newport, Sheridan, and Prescott). “I started playing baseball when I was 5 years old and we played every sport you could imagine, we even made some up in a friend’s backyard. I started playing pee-wee basketball in the 5th grade and then I played Jr. High basketball in 7th and 8th,” says Black. He also began playing football in the 7th grade and played both baseball and football through his senior year. Black was a part of the undefeated 9-0 Jr. High team in 1995 and the 10-2 conference champion Sr. High team in 1997. He played as defensive back, receiver, and punt returner in his senior year in 1998, “and we were named All-Conference as we finished the year 9-2,” adds Black. His baseball team made the state tournament all 4 years 1996 through 1999 and set a school record in 1998 with 25 wins; finishing the year 25-5 and a state semi-final appearance, eventually losing in extra innings. Black played 2nd base and 3rd base. He was the lead off hitter and his team was named All-Conference in 1997,1998, and 1999, named All-State in 1999 and got to represent Newport in the Arkansas High School All-Star game at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville that year. Knowing Black’s family, it is easy to understand that sports and academics are just in his blood. He says, “I knew that I wanted to be associated with sports somehow but didn’t really decide to coach until I was a couple years out of college.” He says when he made up his mind to coach, he went back and got his teaching license. “I found myself around so many school related events when I worked at Cable 15 in 2003 and 2004, I thought it seemed a perfect fit as my profession. I always looked up to Herbert Lewis, Ritchie Mathis, and my dad as coaches and I missed playing 16 | www.eyeonmag.com is always here for BOO!........uh, for you.
for Bill Keedy by one year, because he retired after the 1995 season and I was in Jr. High. Those three men were there for me in High School, as I had three different head coaches in my three years of high school football. As far as teachers go, the math teachers I had at Newport were as good as it gets; Gloria Holden, Pat Brown and Jackie Allen. I took Marketing my senior year and really looked up to James Morehart. There have been so many wonderful educators in the Newport School District. Black has worked at Cable 15 TV, Riverboat Real Estate and Nanny’s Bakery 2003 through 2005 with his Uncle’s Bud and David; at Walnut Ridge Schools in 20052006 where he coached Football, Basketball, and Softball. He taught Elementary P. E. at Rivercrest High School in Wilson, AR in 2006 through 2008 while coaching football and track. In 2008, Black began as an Independent Distributor for Flowers Baking Company until 2013, taking a little hiatus from education. “I even sold a little insurance for Modern Woodmen,” laughs Black, “Trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. Every so often a job would come open at Newport and I just wasn’t ready, but this job came open and at this point in my life, it just felt like the right time. I’m really enjoying working with the students at the Elementary school and my student athletes at the High School. The town, the people, the tradition, the orange helmet and the current coaching staff has inspired me. I love all Greyhounds past, present, and future.” “As far as working with my dad,” says Black, “I rarely see him at the school. He’s in the high school building and I’m at elementary, but on the field, it is a little weird for some of the student athletes to have two Coach Blacks and it usually makes for a laugh. If I can give a small percentage of what he has given to this school, then I’ve done very well.” As far as future plans, Black just wants to see the program continue to be successful; Twenty-seven straight playoff appearances in football, a beautiful new turf field and bleachers. Thanks to Dr. Larry Bennett and his staff and accounting co-op for making that possible. “I also want to be around to see Newport win it’s first state championship in baseball and maybe another football state title, hopefully I’m a part of it all,” adds Black. Black states, “I would be remiss not to mention Donnie Harrison, (Head Football Coach and Athletic Director, who interviewed and recommended me), Dale Ball (Elementary Principal), Superintendent Dr. Larry Bennett and the School Board for approving the recommendation.” N
Something Extra
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Cheryl Mauldin captured Ken Black Jr. in action at Greyhound Field above. Below and to the left are some images submitted by Cindy Black of her son and his love of sports.
October 2014 |  17
I Do Do
Turner-Adams Wedding Kimberlee Thomas
Cortney Andrea Turner, also known as Andi by family and friends, and Brian Keith Adams have known each other since grade school. Tuckerman Elementary was the backdrop for their first meeting. The two played together as school mates and even shared a few classes together throughout their educational years. However, the thought of dating one another never entered their minds. Life moved on and the two found themselves working at Wal-Mart and once again sharing time together. With some not so gentle coaxing by friends, Brian finally asked Andi if she would like to “hang out”. The two were joined by friends from work and they all went out to eat at IHOP. That was the beginning of a series of dates and it wasn’t long before Brian had asked Andi to be his girlfriend. According to Andi, “The rest is history.”
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It wasn’t long before Brian knew he wanted Andi to be his bride. So like any love struck young man he dutifully went to her father, Randy, and asked for his daughter’s hand in marriage. Randy gave Brian his blessing but informed him that he would also have to ask Andi’s mother. Vaneissina was tickled to hear his request and she also gave Brian her blessing. Brian picked up the ring, gathered Andi and the two headed to Jonesboro for what Andi thought was just another date night. “We went to see Iron Man 3. We had a wonderful dinner at Red Lobster and then headed home. I had no idea he was planning on proposing.” Brian shared, “I was a nervous wreck. I spent the whole day trying to come up with the perfect proposal and before I knew it the day was almost over.” The couple arrived at Andi’s home and Brian realized he was out of options. The couple went inside and Brian pulled Andi into his lap. He held out the ring he had carefully picked just for her and asked if she would marry him. Without any hesitation Andi replied, “Yes.” On April 26, 2014 family and friends gathered at Central Baptist Church in Newport to bear witness to the union of Andi and Brian. Andi’s uncle, Charles Woods, presided over the double ring ceremony. The couple are huge LEGO fans and chose this for the theme of their wedding. Jessica Seibert served as Andi’s matron of honor. Kimberly Wells, Tracey Steele, and Shandra Higgins served as bride’s maids. Bill Hall stood as Brian’s best man while Jessie Huskey, Mike Steele, and Sam Manlove served as groomsmen. Andi’s cousins, Natalie and Emma,
were her flower girls. Brian’s nephew, Tyson, served as ring bearer. Randy escorted his daughter down the aisle to her waiting groom. Andi’s mother recalls, “As the doors opened and Andi and her father started down the aisle I looked back at Brian, he was crying at the sight of his soon to be wife. It was a wonderful moment to witness.” The couple built a LEGO house together during the unity ceremony to symbolize the home they would be building as they shared their life together. A reception was held following the ceremony. Guests were invited to build a LEGO creation for the bride and groom. Guests were also treated to music, a nacho bar, fruit table, and two cakes. Andi recalls, “The photo booth was a huge hit. Everyone was all smiles!” The couple traveled to Orlando, Florida where they visited LEGO Land, Sea World, and Universal Studios. Andi and Brian currently reside in Newport. He is a department manager at Wal-Mart and Andi is a Phlebotomist with the Arkansas Department of Corrections. They enjoy spending time with family and friends and taking care of their two cats and two dogs. N
Summer Craft Classes Lucia Vinograd
Things To Do
Maureen Skinner’s crocheted hats defy description. In this class, students will gain tips from Maureen on how to take an idea, and end up with a tangible object – a hat - without the need to follow a pattern. Adventures in Advanced Crochet Hat Making - October 4 & 5 The longer a horse wears a mohair cinch, the better it feels, because over time, the back felts to a soft, smooth finish. In this three day workshop, students will learn the basic techniques in the art of traditional cinchmaking. All tools and materials needed to complete your cinches, including the 100% mohair that makes these cinches so special, will be supplied by your instructor, Pop Wagner, who has quite the reputation as a singer, picker, fiddler, lasso twirler, poet, and downright funny guy. October 10 – 12: Mohair Saddle Cinches with Pop Wagner. October 10 – 12: Introduction to Papermaking with Debbie Jolly. A fun introduction to this easy craft gives students the basic skills required to expand their creativity with the use of repurposed paper. Blenders are used to pulp the recycled paper, which then is placed in a vat of water, creating a slurry from which a sheet of paper is drawn. The end results create standard size sheets of artisan paper (8 1/2’” by 11”), and also continue the life of a tree. October 17 -19 Wood - Easy Hollow Forms & the Ogee Bowl w/ John Keeton Class participants will complete at least one hollow form turned without the need for a hollowing system, and complete at least one bowl in the classic ogee form. Students should have some turning experience with basic tool control and technique. Alash Ensemble concert October 23, 7 p.m. at Ozarka College Mountain View. The members of Alash are master throat singers from Tuva, a tiny republic in Siberia, located at the geographical center of the Eurasian continent. The ancient art of throat singing, by which a single singer produces multiple notes simultaneously, developed among the nomadic herdsmen of the region. In addition to performing traditional music of their native Tuva, they have collaborated with such diverse groups as the bluegrass/fusion/ jazz band Béla Fleck and the Flecktones, the jazz ensemble Sun Ra Arkestra, and the classical Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s Student Producers Program. They performed at Carnegie Hall in 2012. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Call 870 269 8397 to reserve your seat. N
Newcomers Soup Luncheon October 14 at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the First United Methodist Church. Jackson County Book Nook The Jackson County Book Nook, located directly behind Umsted Methodist Church on McLain St., 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. Tuckerman City Council Meeting The 2nd Tuesday of each month. Tuckerman Water & Sewer 870349-5336. N
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Newport Alumni Hall of Fame Julie Allen
The 6th Annual Newport Alumni Hall of Fame Banquet was held Thursday, Aug. 28 at the Newport Country Club. Hosted by the Newport Special School District Charitable Foundation, the event honored five outstanding Newport graduates with induction into the Alumni Hall of Fame. Jack Nance, (posthumously) Newport High School Class of 1953, was a songwriter, musician and entertainment manager. Nance was a member of the Greyhound Marching Band and was proficient on several instruments including piano, trumpet, guitar and drums. After graduating, he attended Arkansas Tech University and Arkansas State Teachers College, where he majored in Music. Nance played trumpet as one of the original members of "The Pacers." In 1957, his musical versatility led Conway Twitty to recruit him to play drums in his rockabilly group. In 1958, It's Only Make Believe, co-written by Nance and Twitty, was released. The single topped both U.S and the UK Singles Chart and was Conway's only number-one single on the pop charts of either country, though it would also hit the charts in Australia, Canada, Italy and Norway.Nance was the recipient of numerous awards from Broadcast Music, Inc., and received a Gold Record for It's Only Make Believe. In the early 1960's, Nance went to work for Dick Clark, where he booked acts, promoted, and managed "Dick Clark's Caravan of Stars," touring the United States. After the Caravan of Stars, he was hired as Music Coordinator for the TV Series "Swinging Country," directed by Jorn Winther, and produced by Dick Clark Productions. During his time with Dick Clark, Nance also worked as concert tour manager for The Monkees. In 1969, he was contacted by Motown Records to work with the The Jackson 5 and was associated with them for many years. That association culminated with Jack's involvement as tour manager for the 1984 "Victory Tour," with Michael Jackson as a solo artist. Nance went on to have a long professional association with Dionne Warwick as her tour manager as well. Throughout his career he worked with many celebrated entertainers including Elvis Presley, the Rolling Stones, Paul Revere and the Raiders, the Moody Blues, Three Dog Night, the Temptations, 5th Dimension, the Shirelles, Herman's Hermits and Golden Earring. In the 1990's, Nance retired from his musical career and moved to the Nashville area where he continued to be a mentor to many prominent concert road managers and promoters, musicians, singers and songwriters, and to write and play for his own pleasure and that of his family and friends until his death in 2000. Thomas "Ferrell" Broadaway graduated from
Newport High School in 1951 as president of the class. He was a four-sport athlete under Coach "Red" Nelson. He graduated from Arkansas State with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. He was also a Distinguished Military Graduate in ROTC and entered the U.S. Army as a Regular Army Second Lieutenant. Broadaway attended Command and General Staff College and Defense Language School to study Arabic and was an instructor at the Defense Logistics Institute. During his 25 years in the Army, he was stationed in several locations in the U.S, Europe, Middle East (Saudi Arabia), Asia, and Pacific theaters of operation. Achieving the rank of Colonel, he received the Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, Bronze Star, Vietnam Honor Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Defense Department Commendation Medal and Airborne Wings. Upon retiring from the Army, he joined an engineering firm supervising contracts for the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority. With his Arabic language and Middle East experience he had an opportunity to return to Saudi Arabia with McDonnell Douglas Aircraft Corporation as Finance Manager on the F-15 Fighter program. After employment on the F-15 program he moved to Haines City, Florida, home of his wife Gillette. Since retirement in 1993, he has been actively volunteering in the community, mostly in the local schools. He was honored as a Haines City High School Volunteer of the Year and Northeast Polk County School Volunteer of the Year. He sits on school advisory councils of three schools, and the school district technology and tax oversight committees. His most recent honor was bestowed in January 2014 when the Haines City, Florida Chamber of Commerce named him 2014 Citizen of the Year. Additionally, Ferrell is a member of Rotary International, served as a scout leader in Boy Scouts of America, and member of the Methodist Church. Dr. Joe David Smith, NHS Class of 1973, attended Harding University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. While at Harding, he was named AIC All Conference in baseball in 1975 and AIC All Conference for football in 1975 and 1976. He holds the single game rushing record of 278 yards and led the AIC in rushing, receiving and kickoff returns in 1976. In 2012, Dr. Smith was inducted into the Newport Hall of fame continues on page 22 October 2014 |  21
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Newport Hall of fame continued from page 21
Harding Athletic Hall of Fame. After graduating from Harding, Dr. Smith attended LSU Graduate School and LSU School of Veterinary Medicine, from which he graduated in 1987 as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. He has served as the local veterinarian since 1988 when he purchased Newport Animal Hospital from Dr. Fred Holk. Since moving to Newport, Dr. Smith has served on various boards including Newport School Board, Portfest Board and is a Certified Religious Associate at Grimes Unit in Newport. Dr. Smith has also been active in the medical community as a member of the Arkansas Veterinary Medical Society since 1987 and the American Veterinary Medical Society since 1986. Since moving to Newport, Dr. Smith continues to have a major impact on animal care throughout the region and is well respected for the expertise, skill and care he provides. Mr. A.J. and Mrs. Ollie Burton are both graduates of W.F. Branch High School in 1957 and 1956 respectively. Mr. Burton graduated from AM&N College, now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, in 1961 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He taught schools at Blackville and Branch Schools before being hired at Newport Junior High in 1970. He was selected by then principal Earl Walton to be one of the first instructors to teach the Scientific Methods Class, where he was greatly respected by his students. He taught Science for 35 years before retiring in 1996 and has kept busy with landscaping and carpentry work. Mrs. Burton graduated from AM&N College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in American History in 1960. After working seven years at Blackville Elementary, she was hired by then superintendent John Mullins as the first black teacher in the elementary school system in Newport in 1967. Mrs. Burton worked 36 years before retiring in 1996. After retirement, she took charge of the now-closed Willa Black Daycare Center from 1996 to 2011 where she continued her passion for helping children. Over the years, the Burtons have contributed countless hours to community organizations including the Jackson County Retired Teachers Association. Mr. Burton served on the board of the Breckenridge Union Water Association. Mrs. Burton has served as treasurer of Branch High School Alumni Association, chairperson of the Branch High School Scholarship Board, vice president of Newcomers Club and many others. Together they have been positive forces in the Newport community for the benefit of its children. N
Thompson’s Jewelry------------------------ 13 T-L Irrigation Company--------------------- 8 Welcome To Jackson------------------------ 13 White River Area Agency on Aging-------- 18 WRMC Newport Diagnostic Medical Clinic--- 11 22 | www.eyeonmag.com is always here for BOO!........uh, for you.
Orange and Black... continued from page 11
Grant is attending Northwest Mississippi Junior College in Senatobia, Mississippi. David taught Science and Health for three years in Harrisburg while coaching football and taught and coached one year in Bald Knob. David begins his thirtythird year broadcasting for the Greyhounds in 2014. “Randy Chlapecka and I have done the Greyhound broadcast for nineteen years,” says David. “I couldn’t ask for a better partner. Randy’s brother Dan has manned the camera for us the last four years and Randy’s son Justin ran the camera the three years prior. We’ve had a lot of fun.” David sold cars at Lakeside Chevrolet, selling Buicks like his father and winning many awards. He then sold cars at George Kell for four years before joining Cable 15 Television. “We could all be anywhere else, but Newport has given us all so much and this is the only place we want to be, giving back to the place and people that have meant so much to us in our lives,” David says and both of his brothers echo the sentiment. Chester Shannon who coached with David on the Little League Greyhound team told David once, “We would be broke down from losing a game and you would huddle us all up together and by the time you were done building us up, we thought we’d won and it was time to go eat!” Bud says, “I, like my good buddy Bill Keedy, grew up on Holden Avenue. Kenny and David probably remember more of their childhood in Normandy Acres. They made their name in sports playing for the Normandy Acre All-Stars.” David laughs, “We won more games in Normandy Acres than I ever did as a coach.” I was honored to witness David’s motivational coaching, as our oldest son, Coleton, was on the team and it was a beautiful journey. I was also fortunate enough to help David man the cameras for a bit while I worked for Jay-Bud-Dee and always enjoyed working for and laughing with them. I’ll never forget inverting the Record-On and Record-Off, so when I thought I started recording, I actually stopped the camera but didn’t notice until Bud’s interview with one of his many guests was nearly over. I just didn’t have the heart to interrupt and tell him, so I just let them finish to my shame. Also, Bud Black is a force of nature and interrupting him just didn’t seem like an option. To be honest, I wouldn’t have told him at all if I could have figured out how to get away with it. He wasn’t thrilled in the moment, but he started all over and they did the whole interview with as much gusto as they did the first time. It was a grand family environment and I remain humbled by the experience to this day. There are so many more stories that could be told and some that shouldn’t, but we don’t have enough pages to do this family justice in one sitting. Suffice it to say, that I have shared more laughs with these brothers than I ever care to give up and thank them all for their character, generosity and love of community. You can catch Cable 15 TV programming as follows: Sunday 7:00 pm : Remember When (January-August) 7:00 pm : Greyhound Football (September-December) Monday 7:00 pm : Immanuel Baptist Church 8:00 pm : Newport Business Spotlight Tuesday
7:00 pm : Remember When (January-August) 7:00 pm : Greyhound Football (September-December) Wednesday 8:00 pm : Newport Business Spotlight Saturday These broadcast can also be found at www.cable15tv.com and on facebook under the same name N
Notes from the Clearing MeadowLand Joseph Thomas
I hear her laugh with the echo of a little girl so innocent and wondrous of the beautiful world that surrounds us on all sides. I cherish these moments and remember when we met, in another life not so far away. A life much leafier with more outside air. Where there is a meadow with the perfect place for a raggedy blanket picnic and upon it a present made of time. It is here that I serenaded her and will again and again. N October 2014 | 23