Eye Jackson On www.eyeonmag.com
Senior Night Albert Austin “Sonny” Burgess U. S. Air Force Band of Mid - America A Publication of Meadowland Media, Inc.
March 2015
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In This Issue 6/Editor’s Note Busy Bees
7/Great Tastes
Wonderful Won Ton Wrappers a Shortcut To Success
8/Seniors, can we talk?
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12
8
18
9
20
10
21
Ruth to the Rescue
9/U of A, Division of Agriculture, Research &
Extension
Walk Across Arkansas
10/Cover Story
Albert Austin “Sonny” Burgess
12/Faces
Senior Night
14/Notes from the Clearing Under the Ice Sheet
18/I Do
Falwell - Smith Wedding
20/Things To Do 23/Newport Chamber News Save The Date
793-3303 755 St. Louis Street Batesville
Cover Photography by Cheryl Mauldin of Studio 1910 Cover Design by Joseph Thomas
Meet Your Writers... Fishing 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. Sarah Henry Metzger is County Extension AgentInterim Staff Chair for the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service. She has worked for Extension the last 9 years, after obtaining a BS and MS from the University of Central Arkansas. She works in the following 4 initiative areas: Food and nutrition, health & aging, resource management and Marriage, parenting and Family Life. Also, 4-H is another important program she oversees. Her free time is spent with her two boys. 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 completed her 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 Staff PHOTOGRAPHERS: Kimberlee Thomas Joseph Thomas COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Cheryl Mauldin PRINTING COMPANY: Rockwell Publishing
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.
Editor’s Note Busy Bees
Joseph Thomas
Joseph and Kimberlee Thomas Photo by Cheryl Mauldin
So here we are, awaiting the Spring greens to bring out the bees, so maybe we can stop and smell the roses when they show their work again. We are glad to see you and so thankful to be in your hands yet again. Okay, ready? This month, we have Adrienne Freeman’s recipe on Spinach Ricotta Ravioli, Caroline Beauchamp’s look into the lives of Ruth and her friend Jane, Suzy Metzger’s article on Walking Across Arkansas and Kimberlee Thomas’ Falwell - Smith Wedding. I bring you a look at local legend Sonny Burgess, Jon Chadwell talks NEDC and Julie Allen discusses the 79th Annual Chamber Banquet. I have another Notes from the Clearing, there are many Things To Do and this month’s Faces are Jackson County School District’s Senior Night brought to us by Cheryl Mauldin. We want to thank you all for supporting us in our endeavor to bring you local events and the faces that shape Jackson County, in front of and behind the scenes. We thank you all for shaping Jackson with your own life, your comments, constructive criticism and words of wisdom. N
Jackson County Library
Tonya Ryals For March, the library will be showing “Big Hero 6” on Friday, March 6 at 5:30. March 4 (Wednesday) at 10 a.m., we will be hosting a Dr. Seuss themed storytime in honor of Read Across America Day. Read Across America is a celebration of Dr.
Seuss’s birthday. We will have some special surprises for the children. The JCL will be displaying works from the Young Arkansas Arts on Tour through the Arkansas Arts Council. In addition to these will be works by young Arkansan artists from kindergarten through 12th. N
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Great Tastes Wonderful Won Ton Wrappers a Shortcut To Success Adrienne Freeman
That delicious filled dumpling from Italy, the ravioli, sees its celebration on the calendar March 20. Usually just a bite or two, the tender outside pasta encases any number of sweet or savory treats, from the traditional ricotta cheese to sweetened fruit, vegetables, or even flavorful crab or lobster. The word ‘ravioli’ is definitely Italian, but as with so many other foods, similar dishes are seen from other cultures. Delicious ravioli has all kinds of culinary cousins - potstickers and dim sum from the Chinese, kreplach, a ground meat filled dumpling, from Jewish cuisine and the Asian paneer. No matter their origin, the filled pillows are often served either in broth or with a pasta sauce. Toasted ravioli, the popular pub snack that is breaded and deep fried, is credited to nearby neighbor St. Louis, Missouri; quite a trek from the ritzy shores of the Italian Riviera. Even with its’ simple ingredients, ravioli is a time intensive task. Making and handling the delicate dough, filling, rolling, cutting and storing dozens of pasta pockets would send even the most ambitious cook running to the nearest freezer aisle. But, shhh… there is a shortcut to ravioli success. Won ton wrappers. Won ton wrappers are thin precut pieces of dough, usually made from rice flour, that are used to make the deep fried treats from the Chinese buffet. The wrappers come in different shapes and sizes. The most common are square and approximately 4” by 4”. Round is another popular shape and they are similarly sized. The directions below are for making traditional square ravioli; the wrappers can also be folded in triangles, or if using round, into half moons. Be sure to adjust the amount of filling if using only one wrapper – you must be able to properly seal the edges to keep the filling in the ravioli when cooking. Once all the ravioli are assembled, drop them three or four at a time into boiling water. Be careful not to crowd the pot. Cook for 3 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon.
Mix together ricotta, grated Parmesan, an egg, dash salt, red pepper flake and nutmeg. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add fresh spinach, stir once and cover. Allow spinach leaves to wilt for two minutes; stir in green onion parts and return to heat for one minute. Remove cooked vegetables from skillet; set aside to cool. When cooled, squeeze out all excess water and chop fine. Stir into ricotta mixture. (If using frozen, follow the same techniques – even chopped frozen spinach will need a little additional chopping/draining.) In a small dish, beat together one egg and three Tablespoons water. Set aside. Fill a large stock pot with water, salt generously and bring to a boil while preparing the ravioli. Lay one won ton wrapper on the work surface. Using a small spoon or melon baller, put a small amount of filling (1/2 to one teaspoon) in the center of the wrapper. Using a pastry brush or your fingertips, wet a ½-inch strip along all four sides of the wrapper. Position a second wrapper on top – working from the middle to the outer edges, begin pressing out the air bubbles around the base of the filling, working out to the edges, lining up the corners and pressing lightly to seal. Set aside on a cookie sheet lined with parchment or wax paper and cover with a damp paper towel. Repeat with remaining filling and won ton wrappers. Can be served with a red sauce, white sauce or a drizzle of olive oil and extra Kosher salt and ground black pepper. N
SPINACH RICOTTA RAVIOLI Ingredients: 12 ounces whole milk ricotta 1½ cup freshly grated Parmesan or Romano 2 eggs – divided use ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes ¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg 4 cups spinach, cooked and drained of excess water ½ cup chopped green onions, white and green parts, chopped fine 1 Tablespoon olive oil 24 whole won ton wrappers Kosher salt 3 Tablespoons water Directions: March 2015 | 7
Seniors, can we talk? Ruth to the Rescue Caroline Beauchamp
Ruth has a younger friend, Jane, who is turning 65 in April. (In fact April 1- how would you like to have your birthday on April Fool’s day?). Jane was very unsure and uncomfortable about going to the Social Security office so she asked Ruth to go with her. Even though some call 800-772-1213 and apply on the phone, Jane wanted to do this in person. She wanted to talk with a real person not an 800 number or go to a website. Jane and Ruth went today and called me after their visit. Jane had made an appointment and they met with a representative exactly when her appointment was. Since Jane is working and is going to continue to work, she knew she did not want to start getting her Social Security benefit until she was age 66. When she told the representative this, the representative said there was nothing she needed to do now. Four months before she turns 66 she will need to contact Social Security either by calling 800-772-1213 or making an appointment and going back to the Social Security office. That was easy. This representative was kinda confusing when Jane asked her about Medicare Part A and Part B but thank goodness for the 2nd representative. Next came applying for Medicare. Medicare was always something in the future – way down the road. Now it’s here; it’s today and at the Social Security office! Jane then talked with representative #2 about Medicare. Since Jane is still working and has group health insurance through her employer, she is going to stay on the group health insurance plan. Representative #2 told Jane to complete the questions on the computer screen in front of her to apply for Medicare Part A. Medicare Part A is what Jane has been paying into and will not have a cost to her. Representative #2 said Jane must apply for Medicare Part B one month before she gets off the group plan to avoid a late enrollment penalty. She emphasized that if Jane retires and selects Cobra benefits through the group plan that Cobra does not qualify and she will be penalized for late enrollment. Good to know; note to self “ask what penalties there are and what you need to do to avoid them”.
8 | We want to tell you what is going on in Jackson County.
Jane asked about Medicare Part B and was told there is a standard cost of $104.90 which is either taken out of your Social Security check or, if you have not started getting a Social Security check, you’re sent a bill. Let’s talk about the cost of Medicare Part B. It’s actually based on your “modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) as reported on your IRS tax return from 2 years ago”. Jane files an individual tax return and her Part B cost would be $146.90, since her tax return shows MAGI of $95,000. Well, that was easy. Call me at 501-868-6650 and say “Caroline, can we talk? Jane did and shared this story. N
U of A, Division of Agriculture, Research & Extension Walk Across Arkansas Sarah Henry Metzger
Walk Across Arkansas, one of the largest public fitness initiatives in the state, began its spring 2015 edition on Feb. 16. “With more than 5,000 Arkansans taking part in the program, Walk Across Arkansas has become a staple in many people’s efforts to stick with their fitness resolutions. Jackson County participants walked 61,331 minutes, with a healthcare savings of $6,133.00 last year! Our goal for 2015 is to increase participation and minutes walked! Taking part is easy. Sign up and record the number of minutes you walk or do other exercise for eight weeks. Walkers are encouraged to form teams to keep the enthusiasm high. Participants who report their minutes all eight weeks of the event will earn a Walk Across Arkansas shoe wallet – a handy device that holds keys and IDs by hook and loop closure. The idea behind Walk Across Arkansas is simple. Over eight weeks, one develops the habit of exercising. Walk Across Arkansas leads participants down the road to regular physical activity and better health. To register, go to www.uaex.edu/WalkAcrossArkansas or click the Walk Across Arkansas icon on the homepage at
United States Air Force Band of Mid-America Paige Dirksen The Batesville Area Arts Council and UACCB will be co-sponsoring a concert by the United States Air Force Band of Mid-America on Saturday, March 21st in Independence Hall at UACCB. The concert will begin at 7pm, with doors opening at 6pm. The concert is FREE and open to the public. Tickets for admission are available at UACCB, Citizens Bank, First Community Bank, & the BAAC Gallery on Main. The United States Air Force Band of Mid-America Concert Band represents the professionalism and excellence found every day throughout the Air Force. This diverse, 45-piece ensemble’s repertoire ranges from symphonic band masterworks, to traditional marches, to modern compositions, to pops and jazz. During a concert, you are likely to hear stirring works from contemporary composers as well as the familiar sounds of John Philip Sousa or Major Glenn Miller. The band also features talented vocal soloists, performing a wide variety of popular, classical, and patriotic selections. This ensemble primarily performs free civic outreach and recruiting concerts for audiences throughout the Midwest, playing more than 100 engagements each year. In its broader travels, the band has performed in New York City, Philadelphia, Seattle, the Gulf Coast, Germany, the Netherlands, Costa Rica, Barbados, Grenada, Guatemala, Venezuela, Bolivia, and the Azores. Each year, band members perform live before hundreds of thousands of people, and for millions more on television and radio broadcasts. The Commander of the USAF Band of Mid-America,
www.uaex.edu http://www.uaex.edu/WalkAcross. Then start walking through April 12, recording minutes as you go. For more information about taking steps to lifestyle changes, visit www.uaex.edu/health-living/ personalfinance/small-steps-health-wealth.aspx or call 870-523-7450. The Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action institution. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate or need materials in another format, please contact your County Extension office (or other appropriate office) as soon as possible. Dial 711 for Arkansas Relay. The Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. N
Captain Plosch enlisted in the United States Air Force in July 2001 and began his first assignment as a trumpeter with the USAF Band of Flight, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio in September 2001. As an enlisted member of the USAF Band of Flight, he performed in seven different ensembles and was versatile in all styles of music. He was a member of the first USAF brass ensemble, Hot Brass, to deploy to Southwest Asia in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2008, Captain Plosch was commissioned through the Officer Training School at Maxwell AFB, Alabama where he was a Distinguished Graduate. After attending OTS, Captain Plosch served as deputy commander, and later as commander, of the United States Air Force Academy Band in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was selected to command The USAF Band of the Golden West, Travis AFB, California, in July 2012 and has been stationed at Scott AFB, IL as commander of the USAF Band of Mid-America since July 2014. The theme of the Concert Band's Spring 2015 tour is titled, Journeys. Captain Plosch chose this theme because as he was programming this concert tour, he realized so much of the music stemmed from composers across the globe. Through music, the audience will journey through Great Britian, Austria, the South Pacific and the United States. The concert will also feature the Band of MidAmerica's newest performing group, Roots in Blue. It is a folk group influenced in the styles of Celtic, Bluegrass and Country music. Of course, it wouldn't be a military band concert if there weren't wonderful vocals, patriotic favorites and a tribute to our veterans. N March 2015 | 9
Eye On Cover Story Albert Austin “Sonny” Burgess Joseph Thomas
For those of you who know Sonny Burgess, I don’t have to tell you how very humble and grounded he is. He calls Newport, Arkansas home because he wants to. Of all of the globe he has traveled and toured with his band, The Legendary Pacers, he chooses Newport to plant his feet between musical gigs. He says, “It’s just home.” Burgess adds that there was never any reason to leave and that he once knew everyone in town when he worked for Mr. William Keedy at Keedy’s Sporting Goods Store. Burgess and Depot Days Promoter and Coordinator Henry Boyce sit with me at the Rock ‘N’ Roll Highway 67 Museum on the second floor of the NEDC / Chamber building. We are surrounded by black and white photos of days gone by, like Porky’s Rooftop, a Jackson County visit from Wanda Jackson and Sonny and the Pacers in action. For our younger readers out there that may not know exactly who Sonny Burgess is, he and his band formed in 1955 at Newport, Arkansas. They had five singles on SUN Records: “Red Headed Woman”, “We Wanna Boogie”, “Thunderbird”, “Ain’t Got a Thing”, “Buckets Got a Hole In It”, and “Sadies Back In Town”. They also had a hit in 1965 on Razorback Records with “The Short Squashed Texan”. “Red Headed Woman and We Wanna Boogie” has been voted the wildest record ever recorded. Sonny and the Pacers played clubs, festivals, shows, and colleges all over the US and Canada. They were one of the pioneers of rock and roll and traveled with Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley, Danny and the Juniors, Conway Twitty, Patsy Cline, Ronnie Hawkins, Billy Lee Riley, Ace Cannon, Charlie Rich, Teddy Riedell, Narvel Felts, and many more. Sun Records was the label of Sam Phillips, a DJ from Muscle Shoals, Alabama that set up shop in Memphis, Tennessee. Albert Austin “Sonny” Burgess grew up in Anderson, Arkansas near Black River with his parents, Albert and Esta Burgess. He picked his share of cotton and decided picking a guitar was the way to go. Burgess wanted to be a baseball player but two of his uncles were both musicians and would take their nephew to meet and hear various musicians on Sundays. They’d play country dances on Saturday nights. Burgess attended Anderson school through the ninth grade and finished high school at Newport. Burgess says, “Paul Whaley from Grubbs sang for us. He sounded like Hank Thompson, who was popular at that time. Whaley decided he’d go back to California, so that left us with Bob Armstrong, the sometimes piano player and sometimes accordian player who sung a little.” Burgess says he sang one song regularly for the band, so he didn’t consider himself a singer, but nobody else wanted to sing. Henry Boyce points out that over the years, Burgess’ growling voice and bold guitar 10 | We want to tell you what is going on in Jackson County.
playing was what really sustained his career. “We had a little different sound, that’s why Sam liked us,” says Burgess, speaking of Sam Phillips of Sun Record fame. According to Burgess, if Phillips ever had any money, he would have had them all the radio air time they could
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handle. Phillips struggled to get radio play for many of his musicians in the beginning. “That’s why Riley got mad at Phillips, he couldn’t even support two hits at the same time. Riley had a hit with Red Hot at the same time Jerry Lee Lewis came out with Whole Lotta Shaken,” explains Burgess. He is referring to Billy Lee Riley who played harmonica on Thunderbird and Itchy, lived upstairs at the Sun Recording Studios for a time and had quite a rockabilly music career in his own right. Burgess says that Sam Phillips would book through Bob Neal’s booking agency, Stars Inc. and that is what turned his career into a money making one. “He booked us along with other Sun artists of the time, like Warren Smith, Jerry Lee Lewis, us (meaning Sonny and the Pacers), Billy Lee Riley, Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins and Roy Orbison,” Burgess remembers. He also remembers when Orbison’s two band members left for Canada looking for greener pastures. Bob Neal booked Sonny and the Pacers and Orbison together on a tour, so Sonny and the Pacers could back Orbison during his performances, “We had an old stretch limo that would seat six with our instruments racked on top. We drove thousands of miles, he never paid for a nickels worth of gas. He’d pay $5 for a roll away that he slept on in the hotel room we paid for, but he was a great guy, really talented guitar player,” admits Burgess. “He was just like us, none of us had any money at the time.” Under Bob Neal’s bookings, Sonny and The Pacers’ hot spot was the West Coast.
Burgess’ found radio fame with hits like “We Wanna Boogie”, “Red Headed Woman”, and “Hole In My Bucket”. More recently, Led Zeppelin recorded “My Bucket’s Got a Hole In It” and lead singer Robert Plant has been quick to pay homage to Burgess when asked about inspiration during interviews. Burgess talks about playing South by Southwest (SXSW), “There were 1900 bands coming in for the event and there were already over a thousand bands in the Austin area. Of course, they can’t all play. If they’ve got fifty clubs, they still can’t play ‘em all.” The Pacer’s 2015 tour dates and many Hall of Fame inductions can be found at www.legendarypacers.com and an August 7 and 8 performace at the Ink & Iron Festival at Bicentennial Mall Park in Nashville, Tennessee is among many. However, a March 21 performance at the Ward Dance Hall is just around the corner, so log on now to make your upcoming concert plans. Burgess says that they played tons of Grand Ole Opry shows but never got to play at the Opry, “It was the Ozark Jubilee that Red Foley started in Springfield, Missouri. We played with Bobby Lord, Bob Wills and his Texas Playboys, Roy Orbison and many others.” Ozark Jubilee brought national fame to eleven year old Brenda Lee and stars like Patsy Cline and Eddy Arnold played often. Burgess talks about touring with Carl Perkins, “He was a great showman, boy he was really good.” Burgess also speaks of performing on stage with the Pacers when Elvis and his band came up and started Sonny Burgess continues on page 17
March 2015 | 11
Senior Night
Cheryl Mauldin The Class of 2015 athletes were honored at Tuckerman High School on February 3 in front of their home crowd. The athletes were recognized for their years of representing Tuckerman High School, and the parents who supported them in their endeavors. The students represented the basketball, softball, baseball, and shooting teams, as well as band. N
Faces
Lesley Decker with parents, Anthony and Dena Decker. Lesley has played basketball for 5 years. She plans to attend college and become a physical therapist.
Hannah Dilday with parents Jeff and Jennifer Dilday. Hannah has been a Lady Bulldog on the basketball and softball teams for 5 years. She plans to attend the University of Mississippi to become a dentist.
Brigitte Manuel with her aunt and uncle, Tilmon and Carolyn McGonigal. Brigitte has been a member of the basketball and softball teams for 5 years. She plans to attend nursing school after graduation.
Bri Phillips with parents, Richard and Nancy Phillips. Bri has played basketball for 5 years. She plans to attend college and study Business.
Kobie Thomas with Denna and Michael Brown. Kobie has played basketball for 3 years. He plans to attend college to become a basketball coach.
Hailey Clark with parents Chris and Melanie Clark. Hailey has been a member of the softball team for 4 years. She plans to attend college to become a registered nurse.
Nikki Johnson with her father, Jody Johnson. She has played softball for 4 years. Nikki plans to attend college to become a nurse practitioner.
Buddy Adams with his mother, Rhita Adams and sister, Rebecca Medlock. Buddy has played baseball for 4 years. He plans to attend college to become a coach or a sports announcer.
Sonny Sullivan with his mom, Stacie Sullivan. Sonny has played basketball for 3 years and baseball for 5 years. He plans to attend the UACCB Electrician Apprentice Program.
Timothy Allan Mullins with his mom, Yvonne Mullins. Allan has been a member of the band for 6 years. He plans to attend Culinary Arts school.
Dakota Thomas with parents Joseph and Kimberlee Thomas. Dakota has been a member of the band for 5 years. She plans to attend college and study graphic design.
Brady Cason with his mother, Jamie Cason. Brady has been a member of the Shooting Team for 2 years. He plans to attend ASU Newport to obtain a mechanics degree.
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On February 14, the Jackson County Library and the Jackson County Historical Society, hosted Adell Crump, a Chicagobased commercial artist who grew up in Blackville. Here are some photos of the event.
March 2015 | 13
Notes from the Clearing Under the Ice Sheet Joseph Thomas
March 20
Under the ice sheet, I watch my breath and listen to it take up the space. I see everything today because I take the time to see everything, we don’t do that enough. We are always on mission, too many tasks to complete to stop and see and listen and smell and be. But here, now, I see the light through the ice, how it plays with all of the contours and textured valleys and hills of this thin sheet of frozen precipitation. The light here under the ice is like a new world atmosphere seen for the first time. It is play time for my inner child who is drawing in the sheet fort under the table and dreaming. Excuse me while we play through, we have work to do. N
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March 2015 | 15
Students Benefit From ‘Becky’s Closet’ at ASUN Van Provence Thanks to the generosity and efforts of individuals from Arkansas State University-Newport and Jackson County, “Becky’s Closet” is a resource now available to ASU-Newport students who are soon to be entering the workforce. The closet, named in memory of long-time ASUNewport Business Instructor Becky Landreth, supplies business attire, shoes and other clothing to students who have job interviews, but may not have the resources to purchase the appropriate clothes needed to help them make the best possible first impression. Landreth, one of the original instructors at ASUNewport, began at the college in 1975 when it was founded as White River Vocational Technical School. Landreth was a fixture at the college for over 30 years until she passed away in 2007. Her husband Bill established the fund that helped make Becky’s Closet possible. “Becky was probably more professional in her dress than most people,” said Bill Landreth. “And there are so many kids that don’t have the money to dress properly for a job interview. One of the things that we wanted to do was give them a place to go where they could get clothes, or the money to buy clothes that were good enough for them to wear. Some of the students just need a little bit of help, and we wanted to help them.” Efforts to set up and organize the closet have been spearheaded at ASU-Newport for several years by Janna Ellis, Assistant Professor of Business. In 2014, Psychology Instructor Susan Cooper and Martha Shull, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, joined in the efforts and helped make the closet a reality in 2015.
“A few months ago, Dr. Shull came to me and told me that Susan had brought the proposal to her,” said Ellis. “It was approved, we got a few more donations, and shortly after Christmas, we set it up. We have several sets of clothes, mostly business interview or work attire, but we even have scrubs because we have nursing students on all three campuses. These clothes are for any ASUN student on any of our campuses. All they have to do is come see me.” Ellis said that most of the inventory consists of women’s clothing. While the closet is in need of any business-type clothing donations, men’s clothing and shoes are currently in short supply. “Everything in the closet is sorted according to sizes and whether it is for men or women,” added Ellis. “We have had several donations from the community, and anyone wishing to donate can just bring it to me. We don’t have any shoes yet, but we are set up and ready for students to come in and get an outfit. If a student needs shoes as well, we have funding available to help with that.” Ellis is the ASUN chapter advisor for Phi Beta Lambda, an education association with a quarter-million students worldwide who are preparing for careers in business and business-related fields. ASU-Newport’s Phi Beta Lambda chapter maintains and organizes the closet and has clothing available for students on ASU-Newport’s campus locations in Newport, Marked Tree and Jonesboro. To donate clothing or funds for Becky’s Closet, contact Ellis at janna_ellis@asun.edu or by phone at 870512-7816. N
Boating Education Class Set For March 14 at ASUN Van Provence Arkansas State University-Newport will host an Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Boating Education course Saturday, March 14 from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. in room 127 of Walton Hall. There is no fee for the class, but registration is required and may be completed by calling 870-512-7861 or by emailing Jennifer Ballard at Jennifer_ballard@asun. edu. Boating Education manuals will be provided, but students will need to bring a pen or pencil. There will be a one-hour break for lunch. Students under 18 years of age will need a parent or guardian’s signature on the AGFC permission slip prior to attending class. The permission slip may be downloaded by clicking on the Boating Education link on the AGFC website at www.agfc.com.
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1986 and of legal age to operate a motorboat or sailboat, must have successfully completed an approved AGFC Boating Education Course and carry proof while operating a motorboat or sailboat on Arkansas Water. - To operate a motorboat powered by an engine of 10 horsepower or more, a person must be 12 or older, or be under the direct supervision of a person at least 18 years old. - To operate a personal watercraft, a person must be 16 or older, be 12 to 15 years old and be under the direct supervision of a person at least 18 years old, or be under 12 and be under direct supervision of a person at least 21 years old. N
ASU-Newport to Host Painting Class Van Provence The Arkansas State University-Newport LifeLong Learning Department will host a “Spring Flowers Painting Class” Thursday, March 5 in the ASUN Library. The class will be conducted by 16 | We want to tell you what is going on in Jackson County.
Julie Reardon, will run from 5:30-7:30 p.m., and participants will paint a brightly colored spring flower. The cost of the class is $25 and participants are encouraged to register by calling the ASUN Business Office at 870-512-7802. For more information, call Jennifer Ballard at 870-512-7861. N
Sonny Burgess continued from page 11
playing the Pacer’s instruments around them until the Pacers were able to back off and just watch as Elvis and his band took over. I could listen to this legend tell tales all day. Burgess talks of his time in the Army, stationed in Germany from 1951 to 1953. The Service held a Grand Ole Opry in Frankfurt, Germany at a country club. “I was playing with some boys out of the Second Armor Division that I was stationed with, all from Texas. We auditioned and made it in. Well, Thumbs Carlyle was in the Army then and he was playing for Little Jimmy Dickens. He played a Fender Telecaster on his lap and boy he was good. There were eight bands and we got to play every Saturday night until I left Germany.” Burgess says he liked the Telecaster’s, because Carlyle played it so good. “Let’s face it, I had it made, I just didn’t care for the Army. I bought a Framus guitar while I was in Germany. Paul McCartney had a Framus Bass when they first came to America. I always had a little money, because I didn’t spend it all on wine, whiskey and women like the rest of the guys, so I bought me a Framus Guitar and amplifier. It was black, oh it was pretty and it had the prettiest neck you’d ever seen,” adds Burgess. He says they boxed that guitar up like a coffin to ship it home when he finished his tour in the Army and when he opened it up, the neck was warped, so he bought a Telecaster. After the interview, I also watched Bud Blacks interview with this legendary musician on www. cable15tv.com’s Remember When program. I could listen to Mr. Black talk all day, too. This is a great interview if you have not seen it, give it a look see and see the other great interviews there as well. If you haven’t seen the Rock ‘N’ Roll Highway 67 Museum, plan a visit at the 201 Hazel Street Museum in Newport, Arkansas. To think of all of those legends driving up and down 67 to play in Newport or Swifton (because this is where the money was), sure paints a clear picture of how much the world has changed. Marvin Schwartz has just released a book telling stories with more detail, it is called We Wanna Boogie: The Rockabilly Roots of Sonny Burgess and the Pacers. Schwartz also has written a screenplay with a movie in the works. Look for these and listen to Burgess when he hosts with June Taylor on KASU 91.9 FM for We Wanna Boogie for some unique musical flavor every Sunday evening from 5 to 7 p.m. N
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Sonny Burgess and the Pacers. March 2015 | 17
I Do Do
Falwell - Smith Wedding Kimberlee Thomas
Studio 1910 Photography
Amelia Dorlene Falwell and Richard Shane Smith have known each other for about as long as they can remember. Amelia explained, “We both thought about it and neither of us can remember an exact time or place that we met. We’ve just both known of each other for as long as we can remember.” They both graduated from high school in 2003. He is a Tuckerman alumnus while she is a Newport graduate. They had mutual friends during junior high and high school. “I guess that’s when and how we truly first met; through friends,” shared Amelia. It wasn’t until Amelia was in college at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro that the two went on their first date. “It wasn’t the world’s most perfect date. First of all he took me to a terrible movie. Then there was the matter of the dead ducks in the back of the truck left over from his morning hunt. I was convinced he was the strangest boy I’d ever hung out with. Needless to say, no second date was planned that night,” Amelia recalled. However, the two always managed to stay in touch. They even spent some time just hanging out on a couple of occasions before Amelia moved to Little Rock to attend pharmacy school. “After moving to Little Rock I would hear from Shane every now and again. He would tell me that he was coming to the city for work or a concert. I’d find an excuse not to
meet with him. I know it sounds awful but there is a happy ending. I promise,” laughed Amelia. It was during Amelia’s spring semester of her third year of pharmacy school that she and Shane reconnected over a Facebook status. A few weeks later the two ran into each other in Newport at the Relay for Life event. Amelia was in town to celebrate her mother’s sixtieth birthday, “In an incredibly uncharacteristic move on my part, I told Shane that he should come to my mom’s party. I mean what guy doesn’t want to be asked on a date to a surprise sixtieth birthday party!” To her surprise the following evening Shane showed up. Amelia found herself smitten, “He was anything but strange. He was exceptionally cute and quite the gentleman; traits I still love about him today.” With the exception of a few pharmacy-induced separations the two have been together ever since. Amelia explained, “Timing is truly everything when finding your soulmate.” Shane proposed on Christmas day 2012. Knowing Amelia would want to be a part of the selection process of picking out the perfect ring to symbolize their lasting love for one another; Shane used a “stand-in” ring. He tucked the tiny box inside her stocking and waited. “I found the ring box in my stocking. Inside the box was the faux ring and note that read, Amelia, Will you Marry
me? (You get a real ring on Saturday).” The moment was sheer perfection. Amelia could not have been happier. “I don’t remember giving an answer. My mom told me that I never really did. I suppose I was waiting on the real ring on Saturday. But I was certainly thrilled about spending the rest of my life with Shane.” The following Saturday Shane made good on his promise and the two traveled to Memphis and customized the ring of Amelia’s dreams. On December 13, 2014 Amelia and Shane were united in holy matrimony. The ceremony was presided over by Brother Dave Jackson in the beautiful First Baptist Church in Newport. “If I had to choose one word to describe our wedding and reception, that word would be magical.” From the very beginning Amelia wanted their wedding to be classic and elegant. They chose to use her late grandfather’s 1979 Lincoln Versailles as their getaway car, “That is one of my favorite memories. He would have been thrilled.” The couple arrived at the Newport Country Club where they were greeted by family and friends ready to help them celebrate the evening away. Amelia and Shane both love the month of December, Christmas time, snow and all things winter related. Imagine the couples surprise when it began to snow during their first dance! “My mother and the production team surprised us with a dusting of snow, it was absolute perfection.” Guests were delighted to find a caricature artist and photo booth at the reception. Everyone left with a perfect keepsake of the evening. The Smith’s departed from New Orleans and honeymooned aboard the Carnival Dream; visiting ports of call in Key West, Florida as well as Nassau and Freeport, Bahamas. Amelia graduated from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in May of 2014 with a Doctorate of Pharmacy. Prior to that, she received a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology from Arkansas State University. She is currently employed by Walmart Pharmacy in Jonesboro. Shane holds two Associate’s Degrees from ASU-Newport: one in General Studies and one in Business Administration. He’s currently pursuing a Bachelor’s of Science in Agricultural Business at Arkansas State University and is on track to graduate in 2016; he’s employed by Eagle Lake Farms. The couple currently resides in Jonesboro but has plans to eventually move back to Newport to be closer to both of their families. N
Things To Do
The Rhodes Show The Arkansas State University-Newport Concert/Lecture Series will wrap up the 2014-15 season Tuesday, March 3 when The Rhodes Show visits the ASUN Center for the Arts in Newport. The performance begins at 7:00 p.m. and admission is free. The Rhodes Show covers a broad spectrum of musical genres, including classic and modern country, Memphis R & B, covers of the top hits from the 50’s, 60’ and 70’s and original songs written by the band that music fans will recognize the instant they hear them. The Rhodes Show was born just before the Great Depression when James K. Polk Rhodes began the task of crafting musical instruments for his children. He made an acoustic guitar, 2 upright basses, a banjo and a handful of fiddles. He called his young children in from outside and led them to the bedroom where he had carefully laid all the instruments on the bed. Once assembled, he simply told them to choose an instrument and that if they learned to play it, it was theirs. The Rhodes Show continues today with Sandra and Donna Rhodes, daughters of Dot and Dusty Rhodes, Brenda “Bear” Barnett, who joined the family show in 1980 as bassist and singer, and Craig Morris. Craig and Donna met and sang harmony together on The Nashville Network’s Nashville Now country variety show hosted by Ralph Emery, and were married in 1991. Craig has toured with acts from Donny and Marie Osmond to Dobie Gray and has written songs for Ray Charles, Reba McEntire, Gene Watson, The Oak Ridge Boys and Craig Morgan. Craig currently tours with Loretta Lynn and the Coal Miners, playing piano and singing background vocals. Kiwanis Annual Pancake Day March 6 from 6am to 6pm at the United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. Tickets $6 available at the door or from any Kiwanis member.
Sternwheelers, Snipers and Shovels Exhibit Opening Jacksonport State Park will host an exciting new program in its courthouse on Saturday, March 7. The event will feature unique aspects of Jackson County history, each driven by the power of steam engines. Through this tapestry will be woven other stories which pay homage not only to the park’s newest exhibit, but also the Sesquicentennial and Arkansas Archaeology Month. The event kicks off at 9:30 with Jackson County historian Robert Craig speaking on “Steam Powered Progress.” This presentation will feature the rich steamboat and railroad history of the area and the changes which the steam engine brought. Following a brief intermission Civil War historian Dr. George Lankford will discuss the steam engines which fought the Civil War on the White and Black Rivers. The day will conclude with two presentations by Arkansas archaeologist Jamie Chad Brandon speaking at both 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The first program will present the vast array of archaeological evidence of the steamboat trade in Jacksonport and the second will canvass the importance of historic archaeology. Admission to the event is free, and refreshments will be provided. Coffee for CASA The community is invited to “Coffee for CASA” Open House to celebrate the new office at 2313 Hwy. 367 North in Newport. Drop in for coffee, cocoa, tea and Friday-morning treats on March 20 | We want to tell you what is going on in Jackson County.
20 anytime between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. A ribbon cutting will be held at 9 a.m. Pick up information and learn more about the need for CASA volunteers, how they work with the courts and speaking for children that have been taken into foster care.
Active Shooter/ Rapid Response Training Level 1 Seminar ASU-Newport will host an Active Shooter/Rapid Response Training Level 1 seminar March 24-25. Presented by the Criminal Justice Institute of the University of Arkansas, the 14-hour class runs from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. on both days. There is no charge for the class, but pre-registration is required and the seminar is limited to 24 participants. The course will assist law enforcement in obtaining information necessary to implement rapid intervention techniques in the event of an active shooter incident at a school, church, business, or other event where large groups of persons may be in attendance. To register on-line, visit www.cji.edu or contact Vicki French at vefrench@cji.edu or by phone at 501-570-8098 or Ashlee Jackson at arjackson@cji.edu or by phone at 501-570-8079. AARP Driver Safety Course ASU-Newport and AARP will present a Driver Safety course on Tuesday, March 24 at 9 a.m. The cost is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members, and is limited to 15 participants. The AARP Driver Safety Program is a refresher course directed specifically to the safety needs of motorists aged 50 and older. It promotes safer driving practices, continued mobility, and a discount in auto insurance from most companies in Arkansas (insurance agents should be consulted for information specific to that company). No tests will be given and refreshments will be served. All who complete the four-hour course will receive certificates to take to their own insurance companies to request a discount. Participants will need to bring their drivers’ license and AARP card (if a member) to the class. Completion of the course may result in a discount on participants’ auto insurance for those 55 and older. Participants should check with their insurance agent for details. To register and pay for the class, please call the Business Office at 870-512-7802. The course will take place in room 123 of Walton Hall. For more info, call Jennifer Ballard at 870-512-7861. And More 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 Eagle Pest Nook and all proceeds go to help Management, LLC with programs and needs of the 1775 Porter Street, Batesville library. Tuckerman City Council Meeting The 2nd Tuesday of each month. Tuckerman Water & Sewer 870-349-5336. N
870-307-0582 Toll Free: 877-313-2453 Commercial and Residential Your Termite and Pest Control Services Specialist Serving North Central Arkansas Waymon Long President
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Arkansas Agriculture Department 2015 Century Farm Program
Support Our Advertisers Batesville Spine & Health Solutions------- 14 Darling Pharmacy--------------------------- 11 Darling’s Fine Things----------------------- 10 D Q Grill & Chill------------------------------ 4 Eagle Pest------------------------------------20 ENG Lending--------------------------------- 5 Flowers Baking Company------------------15 George Kell Motors, Inc-------------------- 15 Greenway Equipment, Inc.------------------ 6 H & R Block Tax Services-------------------23 Lindley Health & Rehab Center, LLC----- 15 Mark Martin Kia----------------------------- 21 Merchants and Planters Bank-------------- 17 MFS Insurance - Julia Brand-------------- 21 NEA Baptist Clinic-------------------------- 12
Zachory Taylor
The Arkansas Agriculture Department is accepting applications for the 2015 Arkansas Century Farm program. The program recognizes Arkansas’s rich agricultural heritage and honors families who have owned and farmed the same land for at least 100 years. The program is voluntary and places no restrictions on the land. Since the program’s inception in 2012, 240 farms have been certified as Arkansas Century Farms. To qualify, farms must meet the following criteria: * The same family must have owned the farm for 100 years by December 31, 2015. The line of ownership from the original settler or buyer may be through children, grandchildren, siblings, and nephews or nieces, including through marriage and adoption. * The farm must be at least 10 acres of the original land acquisition and make a financial contribution to the overall farm income. Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson said, “The family farm is an Arkansas tradition — a way of life for generations of hard-working folks and a precious resource for all. In honoring those families who are part of this great tradition, the Arkansas Century Farm Program recognizes the historical relevance of the family farm and its important place in Arkansas’s future.” Nationally, over 96% of all agricultural operations are family farms. Arkansas currently has over 44,600 farms on 13.8 million acres with the average farm size of 309 acres. Qualified applicants will be presented with a personalized metal sign and a certificate. Only the legal owners of the land may apply. There is no cost to apply for the Arkansas Century Farm program. Applications can be obtained from the Arkansas Agriculture Department by calling 501-683-4851 or from the department’s website at: www.aad. arkansas.gov/Pages/programs.aspx. Applications must be postmarked by May 31, 2015 to be eligible for designation in 2015. N
N E D C--------------------------------------- 13 Newark Furniture, Flowers and More----- 6 Ozark Foothills FilmFest-------------------- 3 Purdy’s Flowers and Gifts------------------- 8 Renee Taylor Travel Company-------------- 3 Senior Circle--------------------------------- 15 Southern Tire Mart-------------------------- 21 St. Michael’s Place---------------------------24 Studio 1910 Photography-------------------- 3 T-L Irrigation Company--------------------- 8 Unity Health Harris Medical Center------- 2 WRMC Newport Diagnostic Clinic-------- 17 22 | We want to tell you what is going on in Jackson County.
March 8
Newport Chamber News Save The Date
Julie Allen, Newport Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Save the Date!!! The 79th Annual Newport Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet will be held Tuesday, March 31 at the Newport Country Club. The event will begin with a social hour at 5 p.m. Dinner starts at 6 p.m. at which time a short auction will be held as a 2015 Chamber fundraiser. Annual awards will be given following dinner including the small business, large business and citizen of the year. Cost to attend the banquet is $25 per person and is open to the public. Tickets will not be given, however pre-payment is mandatory in order to reserve your seat. RSVP at the Chamber office at (870) 523-3618 or email director@newportarchamber.org. The 2015 Chamber Board is in place and working to make a difference this year in Newport and Jackson County. All board members are volunteers, and they are committed to finding ways to improve the community in which we work and live. Officers this year include: President – Robert Summers, ASU-Newport President-Elect – Mark Manning, Shelter Insurance Vice President – Cheryl Mauldin, Studio 1910 Secretary – Tara Salinas, Merchants & Planters Bank Treasurer – Tim Martin, Attention Medical Supply Past President – Jarrod Bowen, C&C Distributors Elected board positions are determined by ballots returned by the Chamber’s membership and include:
Rebecca Pearrow – Unity Health Harris Medical Center Glenda Rutledge-May – Arkansas Center for Independence Lee Scoggins – Frank A. Rogers Company Mark Ballard – Jacksonport State Park Sheridan Chadwell – Purdy’s Flowers & Gifts Ami Norris – Delta Manufacturing Kevin Pearce – River Country 96.7 Lauren Sampson – Jackson County Dance & Cheer The board also consists of ex-officio members including the county judge, Newport mayor, ASUNewport chancellor, Newport School District superintendent, NEDC director, Tourism Council president and representatives from all three Newport banks. Chamber board meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month at various locations in Newport and are open to the public. A wealth of information is shared each month, so consider joining us for a meeting! If you would like to know more about Chamber or 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. Be sure to “Like” the Newport Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook for the most up-todate community announcements. N
Jennifer Ballard – ASU-Newport Terry Dillon – M&P Insurance & Investment Services Ron Mergy – Wal-Mart
March 17
March 2015 | 23