A big time in Africa
‘A perfect match’
Rotary officer completes mission trip
WoodSongs, Eureka made for each other
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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
VOLUME 14 NUMBER 47
Long time coming
OCTOBER 24, 2013
Eureka’s best-known fiddler moving on to follow his dreams, but Mountain Sprout pushing on with new member n Page 22
n Eureka school
n Opera in Ozarks n Gubernatorial
director retiring
candidate visits
Beebe effort to keep ‘surplus’ funds fails
Jim Swiggart has been at helm for 25 years
Asa Hutchinson speaks to Carroll County GOP
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Page 12
funds left alone
Page 2 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
Your Neighborhood Natural Foods Store The Citizen is published weekly on Thursdays in Eureka Springs, Arkansas by Rust Publishing MOAR L.L.C. Copyright 2013 This paper is printed with soy ink on recycled paper. Subscription rate: $57.50/year EDITOR: Kristal Kuykendall EDITORIAL STAFF: Jennifer Jackson, Kathryn Lucariello, David “D-Bob” Crook, Landon Reeves, Catherine Krummey DESIGN DIRECTOR: Melody Rust PHOTOGRAPHERS: Charles Henry Ford II, David Bell ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES: Karen ‘Ma Dank’ Horst, Jim Sexton, Diane Newcomb CLASSIFIEDS/RECEPTIONIST: Margo Elliott CONTRIBUTORS: Beth Bartlett, Jim Fain, Mary Flood, Alison Taylor-Brown CIRCULATION: Dwayne Richards OFFICE HOURS: Monday–Tuesday 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Wednesday 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Thursday–Friday 9 a.m.–Noon Closed Saturday & Sunday
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Soup is on at Eureka Market! Monday: Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup with Adzuki Beans Tuesday: Spicy Black Bean with Fire-Roasted Tomatoes Wednesday: Vegetarian Chili... New! Thursday: Curried Red Lentil with Quinoa Friday: Rotating Menu
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Dispatch Desk Oct. 14 4:45 a.m. – Caller reported a homeless man walking up Spring Street. Officer responded and advised that the subject is going to leave Eureka Springs. 9:00 a.m. – ADT reported an alarm going off at the Blarney Stone. Officer responded, but it was a false alarm. 11:12 a.m. – Caller from Romancing the Stone reported a shoplifter. Office responded and to find the employee was mistaken. 4:23 p.m. – Caller from Spring Street reported he had some items stolen from his gallery. Officer responded and took a report. Oct. 15 12:45 p.m. - Subject came to department to report his storage unit was broken into and things were stolen. 4:46 p.m. – Dispatch reported Emergency Medical Services needed traffic control. Officer responded, but was redirected to an alarm.
By Landon Reeves
4:47 p.m. – ADT reported a residential burglary alarm on Fairmount Street. Officer responded; all okay, except for the medical emergency. 11:02 p.m. – Caller reported hearing loud noises from Harmon Park. Officer responded and told subjects at the park that the park was closed. Oct. 16 12:33 a.m. – Officer checked out alarm on White Street; all okay. 1:24 a.m. – Caller reported hearing a loud noise near Razorback Gift Shop. Officer responded and checked on buildings; all okay. 7:46 a.m. – Caller tried to assist a cat with a broken leg and it bit her, the cat got away and the caller went to the hospital. Officer took report and advised other officers to be on the lookout for a suspicious feline, considered to be armed and dangerous and feigning injury to lure unsuspecting victims. See Dispatch, page 19
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October 24, 2013 – Lovely County Citizen – Page
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Eureka school funds safe – for now
Attempt by Beebe to keep ‘surplus’ tax revenue thwarted at Special Session By Kristal Kuykendall
Citizen.Editor.Eureka@gmail.com
EUREKA SPRINGS — Gov. Mike Beebe’s attempt to permanently confiscate “surplus” school tax revenue at eight Arkansas school districts including Eureka Springs failed during the Legislature’s Special Session last weekend. Eureka Springs School District stood to lose as much as $1.3 million per year under the proposed legislation, which failed to muster enough support for passage during the Special Session that began last Thursday. State Sen. Bryan King, R-Green Forest, and state Rep. Bob Ballinger, R-Hindsville, were on the front lines of the fight against the measure, which died in committee in both chambers. “Luckily we were able to join forces with some Democrats and others who opposed this and get it stopped,” King told the Carroll County News on Monday. “This is purely ego-driven on Beebe’s part. And we are going to remain vigilant even during the next Legislative session that he doesn’t try this again.” State lawmakers were asked to consider whether the state should permanently confiscate all school tax revenue that is above the minimum required to fund public education for each district’s students. That school tax revenue is paid in as part of the Uniform Rate of Taxation by local taxpayers. Amendment 74, approved by the state’s voters in 1996, requires that every school district levy at least 25 mils in property tax for the maintenance and operation of the local schools; local taxpayers may elect to pay more than 25 mils toward the school district as well. A mill produces $1 for every $1,000 worth of assessed property. State law requires that each district spend just over $6,000 per student on their education. Under the law, local residents’ property tax dollars go back to the local school district to meet that minimum per-student expenditure, and the law — and courts’ interpretations of the law — at least somewhat addresses what should happen when a district’s taxpayers don’t pay in enough to
cover all the students in that district. But some state officials – including Gov. Mike Beebe and state Education Department leaders – have argued that the law is not clear on what should happen when a district’s taxpayers pay in more than is needed to meet the minimum spending requirement on the education of all its students. That’s what occurs annually in Eureka Springs, thanks in part to the district’s inclusion of the retirement community of Holiday Island. Fewer students than the average neighborhood but higher property values there mean that Holiday Island boosts the district’s revenue without adding demands on its resources. The school surplus has equaled about $1.3 million a year lately, and after the state two years ago attempted to keep the extra funds and “redistribute” them to financially struggling school districts across the state, Eureka Springs joined a lawsuit with Fountain Lake School District, which also enjoys the same “problem” as Eureka. Late last year, the Arkansas Supreme Court ruled in favor of the school districts, stating that under the current law — which they acknowledged was somewhat ambiguous — tax dollars paid in for school funding belong to the local districts in which the taxes were paid, and do not belong to the state for redistribution. The Supreme Court denied Beebe’s request for a re-hearing earlier this year. Some language in the court’s ruling, however, suggests that the Legislature could potentially alter the current law and allow the state to keep the excess funds. And that’s exactly what Beebe had asked the Legislature to do. “The courts didn’t agree with Beebe when he tried to take the money in the first place,” King said last week, “and then we beat a similar proposal back in the Legislature this past session. Now he’s using a crisis to get what he wants. And if there’s one thing I believe on this, it is that the people deserve a fair hearing on this issue – and they can’t get that if we are forced to rush it through as part of the alleged fix for the health insurance shortfall.”
The issue arose last week, in an emergency Special Session, because Beebe made it a part of his proposal for “fixing” the public school employee insurance budget shortfall. Insurance rates are increasing by 50 percent for next year, and state lawmakers have been scrambling to find extra funding so that teachers and other public school workers will only have to cover about 10 percent of the increase. Both Ballinger and King said last week they were surprised that Beebe had tried to make the school funding issue part of the “emergency” regarding the health insurance shortfall. “I’m disappointed that the governor is deciding to muddy the waters with an issue that has nothing to do with teacher insurance,” Ballinger said. “Everybody is in agreement on the other bills related to the insurance, but not on this tax issue.
It is frustrating to me, and it’s clearly an attempt to override what I thought was a solid Supreme Court decision.” School tax dollars should absolutely stay local, he added. “We are in a better position to administer those school funds than trying to do it at a state level,” Ballinger said. “Funds that are now going toward paying Eureka teachers and providing AP classes and things like that would, under this proposal, (have been) sent to the state and spent in other districts elsewhere. That money is supposed to benefit the district where the taxes were collected.” The Legislature ended up approving an additional $43 million in funding for the public school employee insurance fund, meaning that school workers will see just a 10 percent increase in their insurance premiums next year.
Page 4 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
Eurekans return from trip to Africa
Rotary Club officer’s vacation turned into heart-tugging mission of help By Landon Reeves
CCNnews@cox-internet.com
EUREKA SPRINGS — The Eureka Springs Rotary Club’s president-elect and her husband have returned from a mission to South Africa and shared their adventure at the last club meeting. “Well it was a gift from our son,” said Cathy Handley, Rotary president-elect. ”He had bid on the trip at an auction and he thought it was more of a vacation. It turned out to be a missionary trip.” Her son, Michael Handley, is on the board for Samaritan’s Feet, an organization whose goal is to provide shoes to impoverished children in America and around the world. Their current goal is to give 10 million shoes in 10 years, and they are on the 10th year and a million shoes short of their goal, Cathy said. “The area that we went to was the province of Limpopo,” said her husband, Larry Handley. “It was at the very northern tip of South Africa. It is fairly populated with locals and tribes and a fair amount of people from Central African and other African countries that have had civil wars.” In Limpopo, they were the guests of Blessman Ministries, a group led by a physician from Iowa, Jim Blessman. The Handleys were able to see the contributions of the Rotary Club’s wells that provide clean water to the villagers. Cathy also met with fellow Rotarians in South Africa to discuss how to write grants to
Photo submitted
Cathy Handley, the president-elect of Eureka Springs Rotary Club, is shown volunteering during a recent trip to Africa.
get funds for additional wells in the area. Blessman Ministries provides food for tribes as well as education on agriculture, irrigation and other practices that will help them self-sustain, Larry explained. The Handleys also prepared and provided food for many people while there. In one day, they fed 490 people with rice
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that was donated by Iowan farmers, Cathy said. She also said their group gave shoes to mentally handicapped residents who are mostly ignored by other Africans. The group also gave to other adults and children, who were extremely grateful, Larry said. “I am a geographer, and I have taught in colleges and universities,” Larry said. “It is great to go to places like this because sometimes the pictures painted by the textbooks are quite general and you don’t get into the nitty-gritty details of how things fit together, like how their education system works or how their politics work.” The Handleys left for Africa on Sept. 26, but months before departure they participated in several conference calls that let them know what they were getting into and offered additional instructions for
their arrival. “We got there and they gave you instructions on what to expect,” Cathy said. “Like keep windows shut because wild monkeys will demolish your room, and we were told that if you see a bug, kill it, because there are no window screens.” Cathy said every morning she would see a slew of animals that before the trip she only has seen in zoos. She described them as running wild across the countryside and twice as big as captive animals. The couple is planning a reunion trip for September 2014. They also said that the people who accompanied them were strangers at the beginning of the journey, but by the end they were lifelong friends. “It was definitely a trip of a lifetime,” said Cathy. “They say that you can leave your heart in Africa, and I think you can, too. It makes you want to go back to help more, and I will absolutely go back.”
October 24, 2013 – Lovely County Citizen – Page
Opera in Ozarks Director Jim Swiggart retiring “Those people brought their skills, and next thing you know there were kids Jim Swiggart, general director for here who have never been around a proOpera in the Ozarks, is retiring after fessional before and all the sudden there more than 25 years of directing and is a professional here sitting across the teaching others table from them helping them develop how to make their music talents.” music. The first production under Hobart Swiggart was was “Hansel and Gretel” in 1950, and born in Chanone year later the production was teledler, Okla., and vised and the colony started gaining a he attended and reputation. graduated from “It caught on like a prairie fire and Oklahoma City everyone wanted to be a part of it,” University with Swiggart said. “It started in 1950 with majors in voice, 12 students and some staff and by 1955 instrumental there were 115 students with an opera Jim Swiggart and church mucompany, orchestra and ballet compasic. He has taught music in Kansas, ny.” Oklahoma and Arkansas. As the colony grew, it started attractHis connections to Opera in the ing a more mature and talented student Ozarks go way, way back. body. Swiggart attended as a student In 1955, he was a junior in high from 1955 until his second year of colschool and attended a music camp at the lege in 1958. At that time it was a sixInspiration Point Fine Arts Colony. The week camp that produced 10 operas a colony would later year, with the support change its name to of the Eureka Springs Opera in the Ozarks community and the under Swiggart’s “It is a very energizing thing National Federated tenure as director. for a person to be a part Music Clubs. The colony was In 1980, after a few of someone else earning previously owned by years of teaching musuccess. That is why I teach a German minister, sic at public schools, … it is about producing a who sold it to ProfesSwiggart was apsor Henry Hobart of program that fulfills the proached by his old Phillips University high school vocal needs of young people that in Enid, Okla. The instructor to conduct inspires them to go on and minister was using a band camp at the have a life in music.” it as a church camp, colony and help them but the grounds were become profitable. – Jim Swiggart too worn down to With the help of a continue the camp, “brillant college proso Hobart started a fessor,” Swiggart led music education program for some of his campers to produce 20 music selecthe best and brightest music students tions in one week, which is a lot comfrom Oklahoma and surrounding areas. pared to band camps at other colleges “The first thing he did was call his that only did three in as much time. friends who were they very best pro“We challenged them, and when you fessionals, like Constance Eberhart and are challenged you grow,” Swiggart Isaac Van Grove,” Swiggart explained. said. “Those kids grew very quickly,
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Queen’s Contest participants
By Landon Reeves
CCNnews@cox-internet.com
Photo Submitted
The 2013 Queen’s Contest contestants are, sitting, Clare Ray and Cassie Roy; standing, from left, Kyla Boardman, Brenna Malone, Josie Muskratt, and Angela Tenan. Not pictured is contestant Raven Leggett. The Queen’s Contest, part of the Ozark Folk Festival happening this weekend, takes place Thursday night at The Aud beginning at 7 p.m. and features entertainment by The HedgeHoppers.
and I did that for several years until they needed someone to come and run the opera in 1989.” With 30 students, a grand piano and the help of Carol Freeman, an instructor who attended the colony and the same university as Swiggart, the colony generated profits for the first time in several years and paid its bills with the help of Swiggart’s leadership and direction. The next year they built an orchestra and started establishing an even bigger, stronger reputation. The colony changed the name to Opera in the Ozarks at Inspiration Point in the early ‘90s to help outside music programs and officials from other venues better identify with the purpose and location of the program. They decided to keep Inspiration point in the name so that the colony’s alumni could recognize their former program as well. “This program fulfills a need that nowhere else can,” Swiggart said. “I was challenging kids because I wanted them to experience more, and if you teach right, you will get it done. There is no
other pace quite like it in the United States. We give the students a hands-on experience that no one else gets, and that has what made me continue this until the point to where I am ready to retire.” The music education programs at Opera in the Ozarks have graduated singers to see them go directly to major opera companies, and some of OIO’s alumni have even sung at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. “It is a very energizing thing for a person to be a part of someone else earning success,” Swiggart said. “That is why I teach … it is about producing a program that fulfills the needs of young people that inspires them to go on and have a life in music.” Swiggart attributes all of his success and all of the opportunities he has enjoyed to his experiences with true professionals at the Fine Arts Colony. He said he and the students he has taught were only able to continue their path thanks to spending time with the great instructors at OIO.
Page 6 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
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October 24, 2013 – Lovely County Citizen – Page
HI Theater Guild play opening
Photo Submitted
Pictured is the Holiday Island Association of the Arts Guild’s cast for “The Ladies Man”: Noah FitzPatrick, Bill Harris, Ron Huibregtse, Susan Vernier, and Vicky Vander Horn. Not pictured are Tom Lukken, Clare Thompson Roy and Mary Kolbe. The dinner theater on Thursday night (limited seating - $27.50 per person) will begin at 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday night productions ($10 per person) begin at 7 p.m. For more information, call 479-253-7766 for the dinner theater; or 479-253-5622 for Friday and Saturday tickets.
The Holiday Island Theater Guild is once again in pre-production for its fall presentation, “The Ladies Man,” a French farce by Charles Morey and translated and adapted from “Tailleur Pour Dames,” by Georges Faydeau. Returning director Elise Buchman is excited to bring this production to the HI stage. “It is set in the early 1900s and the Guild is grateful to Celebrations and Traditions by Michelle McDonald for her assistance in bringing the time period to life,” said play staff. This fast-paced and uproarious production features a cast of four men and four women, some of whom have seen on the Holiday Island stage before, specifically Ron Huibregtse as Dr. Hercule Molineaux, a middle-aged physician; Susan Vernier as Yvonne, his wife; Yvonne’s overbearing mother Madame Aigreville (Vicky Vander Horn), French maid Marie (Clare Thompson Roy) and Bill Harris as Bassinet, a patient of Dr. Molineaux’ with an unfortunate speech impediment. Mary Kolbe reappears on stage, this time as Suzanne Aubin, a patient with an unexplained interest in the
good doctor. Newcomers to the HI stage include Tom Lukken, as Suzanne’s Prussian husband Gustav, and Noah FitzPatrick as Molineuax’ valet. “In Belle Epoque Paris, the recently married Dr. Hercule Molineaux (Ron Huibregtse) tells ‘one, tiny, little,hardly noticeable lie’ to cover an innocent but embarrassing indiscretion. From that single untruth tumbles a cascade of increasingly convoluted deceptions, misunderstandings and mistaken identities,” writes the play’s publisher. The play also includes “more slamming doors than realistic architecture should ever accommodate, all adding up to a hilariously zany and infectiously charming farce.” This production is scheduled for Nov. 7-9. The dinner theater on Thursday night (limited seating, at $27.50 per person) will begin at 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday night productions ($10 per person) are at 7 p.m. For further information, call 479-2537766 for the dinner theater; or 253-5622 or 253-5385 for Friday and Saturday tickets.
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Spaghetti dinner a roaring success The Fall Holiday Island Presbyterian Church Spaghetti dinner held Sept. 23 was a roaring success, by all accounts. Proceeds were presented by Reverend Clare Kelley, left, to Jerri Marlowe, Carroll County Senior Activity and Wellness Center Director (Meals on Wheels); Mary Osborn, Older Youth Specialist, CASA of Northwest Arkansas; and Don Shafer, Mission and Outreach Chairman of Holiday Island Presbyterian Church. CASA and Meals on Wheels each received a check for $1,850. “Thank you to the folks who donated their time, talents, and food to make this annual event possible,” said organizers. “Special appreciation goes out to everyone in the community who bought tickets and joined in for fun, food, and friends. In supporting this event you became a part of something very special and important!”
Photo submitted
Page 8 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
Michael Johnathon: Eureka Springs, WoodSongs are a ‘perfect’ match By Catherine Krummey
CarrollCountyNews@cox-internet.com
This will not be Michael Johnathon’s first stop in Eureka Springs. “I was there about a year and a half ago, and I did a concert at The Aud,” he said, before calling the city’s downtown area “adorable.” “I loved the people, I loved the music,” Johnathon added. “Eureka Springs is a perfect place for WoodSongs to come.” Johnathon’s “WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour” is headlining this year’s Ozark Folk Festival, going on now through Sunday. Johnathon said City Advertising and Promotion Commissioner Charles Ragsdell and other Eureka tourism officials approached him a year and a half ago at a WoodSongs recording in Little Rock about coming to the folk festival. “They said, ‘Please give us some time so we can bring it to Eureka Springs,’” Johnathon said. On Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at The Aud, WoodSongs will be taping two shows for listeners (and online viewers) on radio stations around the world (including KUAF in Fayetteville), the American Forces Radio Network, Blue Highways TV Network and public TV stations nationwide. The shows recorded at The Aud will feature a celebration of Ozark folk music, and Johnathon is encouraging locals – especially families – to come out and enjoy the performances. “Parents should bring their children to this,” he said. “It should give them a real sense of pride in being from the Ozarks.” Johnathon said they received hundreds of submissions from Ozarks-based musicians to perform on WoodSongs at The Aud. “Anybody and everybody with a CD sent it in,” he said. “We got a huge pile of CDs, and we picked what I thought
Photo submitted
Michael Johnathan’s hit radio program, “WoodSongs,” will tape two episodes live at The Aud this Saturday as part of the Ozark Folk Festival.
were the best.” For the smaller bands performing on the show, this means exposure on a national level. WoodSongs has over 500 radio affiliates and is carried on Armed Forces Radio Network. The show has more than 2 million listeners each week, and its accompanying TV show is carried on the Public Broadcasting System, with each show being broadcast twice. WoodSongs has recorded more than 700 shows since the program began in 1999, on Georgetown College’s WRZG radio station in Georgetown, Ky. “We used to give them the show on cassette tape,” Johnathon laughed. “We’ve gone from 15 to 20 people crammed in that studio to a 500-person theater in Lexington, Ky.,” he added. “It just grew really fast.” Johnathon started his days as a radio DJ just after graduating from high school, when a friend gave him a line on a job at KVOZ in Texas. “A friend of mine thought I would
have fun with it,” he said. “Like many 18-year-olds, I was just looking for something to get me out of my parents’ house.” So Johnathon drove 44 hours straight, from his hometown of Beacon, N.Y., to Laredo, Texas. One night, he played “Turn, Turn, Turn” by the ‘60s folk-rock group The Byrds. As the song played, he recalled seeing the songwriter, his Beacon neighbor Pete Seeger, performing in his hometown in New York. “I didn’t even know he was Pete Seeger,” Johnathon recalled of his childhood. By the time the song had ended that night in Texas, he decided to pursue a career as a folk singer. Shortly after that night, Johnathon moved to Mousy, Ky., and explored the folk music scene. “I started playing music with my neighbors there,” he said. Johnathon said he and his fellow mu-
sicians started to notice that it was harder to get on the radio, giving him the idea to start WoodSongs. “We needed a gateway to the audience that would respect the art,” Johnathon said. “That’s all I want WoodSongs to be about – who’s good.” Ahead of the WoodSongs show, Johnathon and other festival acts will be performing at Basin Spring Park on Friday. The free music begins at noon. “I’m excited about playing at the folk festival Friday night,” he said. Following is the full list of performers slated for the WoodSongs broadcast at The Aud on Saturday and more information about each musical act: • MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY – One of Johnathan’s primary special guests on WoodSongs in Eureka will be Michael Martin Murphey, who is best known for his hits “Wildfire” and “Carolina in the Pines.” Murphey has six gold albums, including “Cowboy Songs,” the first album of cowboy music to achieve gold status since “Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs” by Marty Robbins in 1959. Murphey is also the author of New Mexico’s state ballad, “The Land of Enchantment.” Murphey grew up in Dallas, Texas, where he developed a special love for cowboy songs and stories. As a youth, he enjoyed writing poetry and loved listening to his uncle’s old 78 rpm records – particularly the music of country and folk artists such as Hank Williams, Bob Wills and Woody Guthrie. In junior high school, he began performing as an amateur, and later as a camp counselor at a summer camp. At the age of 17, he took his first “professional” music job, playing Western songs around a campfire at a Texas ranch. By the early 1960s, Murphey was playing clubs in Dallas, performing country music, folk music, and rock music. He won over the conservative Texas audiences with his charm and talent, and
October 24, 2013 – Lovely County Citizen – Page
soon formed a band that developed a significant following in the Dallas area. Murphey’s first big break came through his friend Michael Nesmith, who had become part of the popular television musical group, The Monkees. Nesmith asked Murphey to write them a song for the next Monkees album, and Murphey composed “What Am I Doing Hangin’ Round.” The album “Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd.” sold more than 5 million copies. Murphey went on to write hits such as “Geronimo’s Cadillac,” “Carolina in the Pines” and his masterpiece “Wildfire.” His 1990 release “Cowboy Songs” was the first Western music gold album since Marty Robbins’ 1980 album “Number 1 Cowboy.” Murphey went on to record a series of “Cowboy Songs” albums that reinvigorated the Western music genre. Murphey has multiple Grammy nominations and six gold records. His songs have been recorded by Kenny Rogers, John Denver, Cher, Lyle Lovett, Flatt and Scruggs, Hoyt Axton, Roger Miller, Bobbie Gentry, Michael Nesmith and the Monkees. For more information, visit www. michaelmartinmurphey.com or watch a video at www.youtube.com/ watch?v=gl4Y4FWWkn0. • LEROY TROY AND THE TENNESSEE MAFIA JUG BAND – Also to be featured at the Eureka WoodSongs broadcast will be Leroy Troy and the Tennessee Mafia Jug Band. Leroy Troy and the Tennessee Mafia Jug Band is a six-piece band that has graced the stage of the Grand Old Opry over a dozen times, and have played all around the world. Leroy was in the cast of the long-running television show Hee Haw, and it shows with their humorous music and corny jokes. Also in the group are “Lonesome” Lester Armistead, David “Ferg” Ferguson, Dan Kelly, and Mike Armistead. Their music has been featured in movies and television shows, but their most infamous performance was playing at Billy Bob Thorton and Angelina Jolie’s wedding. For more information or to watch a video, visit www.TennesseeMafiaJugBand.com or www.youtube.com/ watch?v=-WOP9dW-F78.
Photo submitted
Michael Martin Murphey, best known for his hit “Wildfire,” will headling The Aud performance and taping of the international radio program “WoodSongs” Saturday.
• THE CLARK FAMILY TRIO is from Searcy, Ark. They perform modern bluegrass, Americana and Gospel favorites featuring tight, three-part “family” harmonies along with finger-style and flat-picked acoustic guitar. Nine-yearold Sally Ann Clark and her big sister, 15-year old Sophie, have grown up singing with their mom, Cindy, who also plays upright bass for the group. They are joined by Little Rock super-picker Bill Nesbitt on acoustic guitar. For more information: http://ClarkFamilyTrio.com/ or www.youtube.com/ watch?v=JdlNZuGwWAs • CLANCEY FERGUSON has been hailed as “Princess of Bluegrass.” This 15-year-old fiddler from Mountain View, Ark., is the 2012 Arkansas State Junior Fiddle Champion and the 2013 Arkansas Junior Contemporary Fiddle Champion. Despite her tender age, Clancey has amassed an impressive list of appearances including playing on stage with Rhonda Vincent on numerous occasions and being interviewed by Chelsea Clinton for “NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams.” For more information: http://ClanceyFerguson.com/ or www.youtube.com/ watch?v=ZF30oXWDvR0#t=22. • THE OZARK ALLIANCE is a fam-
ily band from Salem, Mo. Alex, Jenny, Allison, Robin, and Dennis Vaughn have been playing together as a band since 2002 -- with the exception of Allison, who was only born in 2004. The band specializes in traditional and modern bluegrass and bluegrass-Gospel music performed around a single mic. They won 1st place in the National Single Mic Championship at Silver Dollar City in 2008. For a video of the group, visit www. yout ube .c om / wa t c h? v=gnBF KQ E OX5U. • MOUNTAIN SPROUT is a highly energetic hillbilly music machine, spitting original tunes and blowing minds with witty lyrics and face-melting musicianship. Hailing from Eureka Springs, five incredible musicians work seamlessly to bring forward the kind of bass-thumping, banjo-picking, guitar-playing, fiddle-shredding music that makes you get up and stomp your feet. For more information: MountainSprout.com or www.youtube.com/ watch?v=m-Gv4xVGXGQ. • DAVID KIMBROUGH III is a genuine bluesman living in Northwest Arkansas. He began his career singing alongside his father, the great Junior
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Kimbrough. David has recently added the mountain dulcimer to his presentation of original, Delta, North Mississippi Hill Country and cotton-patch blues. For a video, visit www.youtube.com/ watch?v=iLp6sEcBOik. • FIDDLIN’ BANJO BILLY MATHEWS has been playing music for over 40 years in the old-time genre. Still residing in the Ozark Mountains, he is known far and wide across the country for his musical skill and old-time fiddling ability. For more information: www.BanjoBilly.net/ or www.youtube.com/ watch?v=yQM1wSGlhJc. • MARTIN JOHNSON is a native Arkansan and masterful young acoustic guitarist. At times classical, his fretwork drifts fluidly into finger-picking and on into what Martin affectionately refers to as his own “slap-hit” technique, where he uses his fingers to slap the fretboard to create syncopated rhythms and harmonic tones to accompany the more traditional elements of his playing style. For a video, visit www.youtube.com/ watch?v=sd58JWV7chg. • BRICK FIELDS will perform at a Gospel Brunch in Basin Park at noon on Sunday, Oct. 27 to close down the festival. Rachel Fields-Brick and Larry Brick are Arkansas natives who offer a natural approach to original Arkansas blues and folk music. The multi-awardwinning couple are definitive blues artists, although their repertoire includes originals written by both and of various genres including Gospel, ballads, folk, and R&B as well as well-tested standards. The Nashville Blues Society has called Brick Fields Music an “Unleashed cleansing of the soul!” and New Music Of Tomorrow says, “Brick Fields is by far the most soulful artist I have heard in years!” For more information: www.BrickFieldsMusic.com Tickets for reserved seating for the WoodSongs performances range from $35 to $75 (all fees included), and are available at www.TheAuditorium.org. For a complete schedule, tickets and more information, visit www.OzarkFolkFestival.com or www.WoodSongs. com.
Page 10 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
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espite facing terrible odds and the opposition of the state’s Executive Branch, after a 33-hour special session, the Arkansas House and Senate concluded a marathon process over the weekend that exemplified how a bipartisan effort to do the right thing could yield positive results. We were privileged to lead courageous legislators from both sides of the aisle who took a principled stand and prevented the Governor from appropriating funds from the school property tax revenue, which would have harmed eight small school districts, including Eureka Springs, and would have violated the Arkansas Constitution. So, for now, Eureka Springs no longer faces the 17 percent drop in its budget and the negative impact that would have occurred had the Governor been successful in his attempted confiscation of local school funds. While we may justifiably celebrate a victory, we must continue to be vigilant. We
are told this issue will not be brought up for consideration during the Legislature’s Fiscal Session in February; however, we were also originally promised that this issue would not be a part of this special session, yet somehow it appeared. We have also been told that it will appear again during the 2015 General Session of the Legislature, so we must stay alert to any opportunities for individuals who may attempt to challenge current law and ultimately seize funds that belong to our schools. Rest assured we will remain diligent and constant as we continue our effort to do what is right for the hard-working taxpayers of Carroll County and our fellow Arkansans. We will continue to work to be good stewards of our state and local resources and make government as efficient as possible while protecting education in our community. — STATE SEN. BRYAN KING STATE REP. BOB BALLINGER
we want your
Veterans Send us a photo of your veteran and tell us their story. In honor of Veterans Day and those who have served our country, on Nov. 7, the Lovely County Citizen will print photos of all the local veterans we can find – but we need your help. The Citizen also will recount the best veteran stories we’ve heard this year – and yours could be chosen! Send your photo and information to CitizenVeterans@gmail.com or drop it off at the Lovely County Citizen, 3022 E. Van Buren, Suite H, Eureka Springs. Submissions MUST INCLUDE the veteran’s name, hometown, current age, branch of service, years of service, and contact information for either you or the veteran. Submission deadline to have your veteran included in this Citizen Special Edition is noon on Monday, Nov. 4.
David “D-Bob” Crook
Guest Editorial Letter from our state lawmakers
Citizens of the Week
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layne Thiebaud is this week’s Citizen of the Week. The Mountain Sprout fiddler is leaving the Eureka Springs-based band after seven years, and moving to Hawaii. (See related article on Page 22.) Blayne has brought smiles to thousands of faces, including ours, and inspired no-tellinghow-many new jigs as the most energetic and enthusiastic member of the popular hillbilly-bluegrass band. His soulful, thoughtful and spiritual demeanor when he’s not on stage — and his pure, honest character — are a stark
juxtaposition to his on-stage party personality. It takes a big person to admit they’re headed in the wrong direction and make a drastic move in order to find themselves and a better path for their lives. Blayne is not only doing it, he has been willing to tell the world about it, inspiring us and likely many of his fans to check the shape of our own ships and right them where needed. We wish Blayne the best on his Big New Adventure, and we hope to see him again — all well-rounded and spiritually sound — in Eureka Springs very soon.
October 24, 2013 – Lovely County Citizen – Page
What do
think
Citizen Opinion by Margo Elliott
What’s your favorite part of the Folk Festival?
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Send your opinions to Citizen, P.O., Box 679, Eureka Springs, AR 72632, fax to (479) 253-0080 or e-mail to: citizen.editor@yahoo.com
Editorial Policy The opinions on the Editorial page are our opinions. The opinions on the Forum pages are your opinions. All forum entries must be signed and verifiable. We reserve the right to edit submissions.
Stars and Stripes Forever show to kick off flag fundraiser
Randy Seward McKenna Hussey “Egg Man”
I stay home raising “Ukulele Girl” my 48 chickens. I always enjoy the parade and all the Fall colors.
Josie Yerby
“Crystal Queen” Our wonderful community coming together, and the long history. (See Vernon Tucker’s facebook page for more history)
Linda Asher Williams
James Elliot Tune “Mo Crispy”
I love the elaborate story telling.
Cassie Wilson
“Only Ginger in the Irish Pub” “Transient The music. Flamingo” My favorite part Strolling around of the Folk Festi- town, listenval is “The Folk”. ing to it and watching people There wouldn’t dance. be a festival without all the folks.
The American Legion, Walker-Wilson Post #9, in cooperation with Mayor Morris Pate and the Greater Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce a new Flag Initiative, through which American flags will be installed on existing utility poles throughout Eureka Springs. The flags will be placed on poles that have street lights, allowing them to be installed permanently. This project will be carried out in stages, with the first stage running from the top of Planer Hill to the Train Station. There are also plans to add a larger flag at the top of Planer Hill, and to encourage residents and local business operators to display flags at their homes and places of business. The eventual goal is to create a good presence of American flags all over the city, displaying loyalty to our country, support of our servicemen and women and to show our pride as Americans. A special fund is being established through the American Legion to cover the cost of purchasing these flags. To kick off fundraising efforts, Pine Mountain Theater is hosting a special show, “Stars and Stripes Forever,” on Friday, Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. This show will feature special
m I like the parade the best. m I prefer the live musical performance at The Aud. m I love the live music at small venues around town.
Go to www.lovelycitizen.com and weigh in.
Tell us what you think!
Citizen, P.O., Box 679, Eureka Springs, AR 72632, fax to (479) 253-0080 or e-mail to: citizen.editor@yahoo.com
Citizen Survey m I enjoy the storytelling the most.
music by local performers along with the “Presentation of Colors” by the American Legion Color Guard. The highlight of the evening will be a keynote address by retired Air Force Lt. Col. Steve Gray, who currently serves as the senior military and veterans’ affairs liaison for U.S. Sen. John Boozman. The whole community is invited and encouraged to attend this special night to salute our country, our flag and our veterans. The show is free but donations will be accepted. Individuals can sponsor a flag for $50, and local civic clubs and organizations are being asked to consider supporting this event. Mayor Pate has issued a challenge to anyone pledging that he will match a single donation of $500. For more information contact Jack Baker, 479-2532519 or Mike Bishop, 479-244-7641. Donations can be dropped off at the Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center located in the Village at Pine Mountain. — MIKE BISHOP President/CEO Greater Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce
LAST WEEK’S QUESTION
50 votes cast Do you think it’s right for the state to confiscate the “extra” school funding property tax dollars paid by Eurekans if all the money isn’t needed by the local school district? Why/why not?
m No! We paid that money for our school district and that’s what it should be used for.: 74.0% (37 votes) m Yes. The whole state should chip in to support poorer school districts, especially when we have extra money we don’t need.: 26.0% (13 votes) Go to www.lovelycitizen.com and weigh in. Vote by Wednesday 9 a.m.
Page 12 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
Gubernatorial candidate Hutchinson visits
“I grew up going over to Bible camp in Green Forest,” Hutchinson said, adding he and his wife, Susan, who was EUREKA SPRINGS – Gubernato- also at the Carroll County Republican rial candidate Asa meeting, celebrated Hutchinson spoke their first wedding to Carroll County in Eure“I believe in more individu- anniversary Republicans Monka Springs. day night, hitting his al choice. I believe we have In discussing his platform highlights, political views and a good health care system talking about his what he would bring in place. We don’t need ties to the area and to the table, Hutchinthe government answering questions son discussed being from the group. involved in that.” against Obamacare “There’s a lot of and gun control and – Asa Hutchinson energy for the future having a “passion” here,” Hutchinson for job creation. said of Carroll Coun“What I bring to ty. the table is a conservative philosophy The former United States Attorney which I’ve been following for the last for the Western District of Arkansas, two decades,” Hutchinson said. Congressman and U.S. Department of “I believe in more individual Homeland Security Under Secretary has choice,” Hutchinson said, referring to been coming to Carroll County since he Obamacare. “I believe we have a good was a child living in Gravette. health care system in place. We don’t By Catherine Krummey CarrollCountyNews@ cox-internet.com
State regent visits DAR chapters
Photo submitted
The two area Daughters of the American Revolution chapters of Abendschone and Harrison Colony gathered at the Inn of the Ozarks on Oct. 19 for a luncheon to greet the Arkansas State Regent Jo Ann Cooper and State Vice Regent Mary Deere on their bi-annual visit to meet all of the ASDAR chapters in Arkansas. In front from left are Abendschone Chapter Regent Fayette Schmutzler, Arkansas State Regent Jo Ann Cooper, Harrison Colony Chapter Regent Kathleen McMurrin, State Vice Regent Mary Deere, Vive Allen of Harrison Colony, State Chaplain. Back row, from the left, Harrison Colony Chapter Registrar Sally Jo Gibson, Abendschone Chapter Vice Regent Phyllis Jones, and Valerie Waterman of Harrison Colony.
Photo by David Bell
Former U.S. Rep. Asa Hutchinson, now a candidate for governor, speaks to Carroll County Republicans at Forest Hill Restaurant on Monday night in Eureka Springs.
need the government involved in that.” He also talked about how he saw Arkansas’ current job market as “non-competitive” compared to surrounding states such as Missouri, Louisiana and Texas, adding that the state’s income tax has a lot to do with that. “We have the highest state income tax, at seven percent,” Hutchinson said, adding – through conversation with State Rep. Bob Ballinger – that while it’s going to be going down to 6.9 percent, it should be lower. “Through efficiencies… we can lower that rate.” Locally, he said that “having a voice” on the economic development commission would be helpful in getting more jobs to the area. “We need to have people on our economic development commission from every part of the state, especially northern Arkansas,” he said. When asked about another local issue, fluoridation of public water, Hutchinson was unaware that it was an issue governed by state law. Also to improve the workforce, Hutchinson addressed the need for better vocational and technical education.
“We have to have that opportunity for good voc/tech education as well,” he said. Under education, the candidate also talked about the recent threat to the Eureka Springs School District’s budget. “The state should not be able to take the money from Eureka Springs schools,” Hutchinson said. Additionally, Hutchinson expressed frustration with the Common Core State Standards, citing its omission of cursive writing and mathematics tables. “It was an idea that made sense at the beginning,” Hutchinson said of the Common Core. “Bureaucracy got a hold of it along the way. … As governor, I will call our secretary of education in and look into changing this.” When questioned by Sheriff Bob Grudek about the damage done by the government shutdown, Hutchinson said he thought it would have no bearing on next year’s election. “I believe it’s very short-term,” Hutchinson said. “I don’t think it’ll effect the elections next year. I hope we have the strength to overcome this by next year.”
October 24, 2013 – Lovely County Citizen – Page
Calendar of Events Oct. 23-27: Original Ozark Folk Festival Tickets are on sale for the 66th Annual Original Ozark Folk Festival. Tickets for reserve seating range from $35 to $75 (all fees included) and are available at www. TheAuditorium.org. The Original Ozark Folk Festival has been celebrated annually since 1948, making it the longest consecutively held annual folk festival in America. The festival takes place on Oct. 23-27 in Eureka Springs. The music, poetry, stories and art of the Ozarks will be featured throughout the weekend. Bands, musicians, singer-songwriters, poets, artists and crafters are encouraged to submit samples of their music or art for consideration. Submissions are being accepted until Sept. 15. They can send a press kit or digital samples of their work to submissions@ozarksfolkfestival.com. They can also mail their submission to the CAPC, 121 East Van Buren, Suite 3B, Eureka Springs, AR 72632. For more information, please visit OzarkFolkFestival.com and WoodSongs.com. Oct. 24: Library help for writers This Thursday, Oct. 24, Carnegie Library Director Loretta Crenshaw will speak on the library resources available to writers. She will demonstrate use of the EBSCO databases and show how the library can help with research, craft, English or story. The evening begins at 6 p.m. at the Village Writing School at 177 Huntsville Road in Eureka Springs. Writers’ Night Out is a free weekly event open to the public. Come learn how the library can make you a better writer. For more information, call 479-292-3665.
ming and operating expenses at Eureka Springs School of the Arts. Oct. 25-26: Voices from a Silent City The Eureka Springs Historical Museum will host its fifth annual “Voices from Eureka’s Silent City” cemetery walking tours on Oct. 18, 19, 25 and 26. The living history tours feature live actors in period costumes telling the stories of early citizens of Eureka Springs. Tours begin at 5:30 p.m. with the last at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under. They may be purchased at the Chamber of Commerce, any Cornerstone Bank location or the museum. There is no parking at the cemetery, but free parking and shuttle service will be provided at the former Victoria Inn parking lot located on Hwy. 62 East. Tickets will also be available at the parking site, or may be reserved by calling the museum, 479-253-9417. Oct. 26: Large item trash pickup day in Western Carroll County Carroll County residents are invited to participate in the eighth annual Load Up Your Pickup Day, to take place on Oct. 26 at the Beaver Lake Exxon at the intersection of Highways 62 and 187, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Accepted items include old appliances, old furniture, tires, electronics, sinks, toilets and bathtubs. Volunteers are needed at the locations to assist in directing traffic and unloading vehicles. For more information, call Gary Gray at Carroll County Solid Waste at 479-253-2727 or 870-423-7156. Oct. 26: 4-H Trick-or-Treat for charity The Carroll County 4-H will Trickor-Treat for nonperishable food items on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 10 a.m. to noon. The food will go to Loaves and Fishes, a food bank in Berryville. Put donations by the door and they will pick it up. For more information contact the local 4-H office at 870-423–2958.
Oct. 25: Mad Hatter Ball The 11th Annual Mad Hatter Ball is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 25 from 6:30 p.m. until 11:30 p.m. Tickets will be available starting 3 p.m. the day of the ball at the will-call desk in the lobby of the Crescent Hotel. Maybe you will go home with a beautiful, one-of-a-kind art masterpiece by a featured ESSA instructor in the silent Oct. 26: Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser auction. Don’t forget to enter the hat conHungry? Come to the Berryville Senior test for a chance to win a prize. All pro- Center on Saturday, Oct. 26, and enjoy ceeds raised support educational program- fresh homemade pancakes. Breakfast will
be served from 7 to 11 a.m. Plain, blueberry, pecan and chocolate are just some of the choices you have, in addition to sausage plus all the juice and coffee you can drink. All proceeds go directly to the Meals on Wheels program, which provides nourishing meals to residents of Carroll County. Bring a neighbor, bring a friend and enjoy conversing and visiting others who come out to support this worthy cause. The Pancake Breakfast is sponsored by the Carroll County Republican Committee. Join us as we work to help provide for the needs of Carroll County residents in need. The cost of the delicious pancakes is by donation at the door. The Berryville Senior Center is attached to the Library and Courthouse Annex. Oct. 26: 18th Annual Howl-O-Ween Spooktacular Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge has scheduled its 18th Annual Howl-O-Ween Spooktacular for Oct. 26 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Games, food and a children’s costume contest provide a fun experience for all ages. The annual Halloween party is the only time the refuge animals can be viewed in the dark of night. Visitors to the refuge during the day will be allowed free entry to the Spooktacular party in the evening, but must exit the refuge at 6 p.m. and re-enter with a pass at 7 p.m. to allow the staff preparation time for the party. Normal admission prices apply: $15 for adults, $10 for children 12 and under, seniors and military members. Children under 3 are free. All donations are welcome. For refuge and event details, visit www.turpentinecreek. org or call (479) 253-5841. Oct. 28: Hog farm presentation The Waterkeepers Alliance will have a presentation on hog factory farms on Monday, Oct. 28, at 5:30 p.m., in the Eureka Unitarian Universalist Fellowship church at 17 Elk St. Please bring food and drink to share after the meeting. Waterkeeper Alliance professionals will discuss impending health and economic issues, pollution of air and water, and the threat to the entire Buffalo National River watershed. Nov. 2: Fall Village Craft Show The Village at Pine Mountain on U.S. Highway 62 in Eureka Springs will be
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hosting its annual Fall Village Craft Show on Saturday, Nov. 2 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Applications are currently being accepted for booth spaces. Spaces are 12’x12’ and cost $35, or $40 for a space with electricity. Only handmade items are allowed. For more information, please contact Gayle Voiles at 479-244-6907 or 479- 253-7047. Nov. 2: Help for children’s authors Berryville’s award-winning children’s writer, editor, and publisher Craig Froman will conduct a half-day workshop on Writing for Children at the Village Writing School in Eureka Springs on Nov. 2. The workshop will begin at 1 p.m. at the Village Writing School at 177 Huntsville Road. Cost for the half-day workshop is $25. For more information, call 479-2923665. Nov. 3: Grizzly bear habitat debuts at Turpentine Creek Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge will introduce their popular grizzly bear, Bam Bam, to his new enlarged habitat with a grand opening celebration at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 3. Bam Bam, a 6-year-old male grizzly bear rescued by TCWR in 2009 from a private owner, has become a visitor favorite with his “hind-and-seek” antics and love of his miniature stock tank soaking pool. Thanks to private and corporate donors, Bam Bam will move from a small concrete and wire enclosure to almost a half-acre natural habitat featuring an in-ground swimming pool with a waterfall. Bam Bam will be relocated from his current enclosure to his new indoor den in the all-new Bear Bungalow Building. His den door will be opened an 10 a.m. with a special ceremony so visitors can see Bam Bam feel grass between his paws for the first time. All interns, staff and the refuge Board of Directors will be on hand for this historic achievement by Arkansas’ most popular wildlife sanctuary. The refuge opens at 9 a.m. for wildlife viewing with hourly Walking Tours from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Trolley tours also available. Wildlife feedings start at 5 p.m. Normal admission prices apply, $15 for adults, $10 for children 12-under, seniors, and military members. Children under 3 are free. For refuge details, visit www.turpentinecreek.org or call 479-253-5841.
Page 14 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
NEW FALL
INVENTORY
Best Prices In Town • Lots of Adult Clothing • Halloween Costumes • Thanksgiving Decorations • Holiday Serving Dishes
Purple House Thrift Shop
“The Fun Place To Shop”
Open Week Days 10 - 4 24 Norris * Eureka Springs On The Eureka Springs Hospital Campus
Pet of the Week
Ripley is a large solid black cat with thick short hair. She came to the shelter in January as a stray. Ripley is most content when lounging on her pillow, but also enjoys batting around a ball with a friend. She is a sweet cat who likes attention, but doesn’t care to be held. Ripley has been spayed, vaccinated and is ready to go home. She can be adopted for half the usual fee. For more information, call the Good Shepherd Humane Society Animal Shelter at 479-253-9188 or stop by the shelter on Highway 62 East in Eureka Springs. Shelter hours are noon to 5 p.m. daily except Wednesdays.
Eureka musician makes his mark By Kristal Kuykendall
Citizen.Editor.Eureka@gmail.com
Many of his Eureka Springs neighbors may not know it, but Ron Landis, 59, is known all over the world for his coin engraving and minting skills. He maintains a studio on White Street where he mints coins using methods and machinery typical of 200 years ago, and he hand-engraves “hobo nickels,” which he sells to collectors all over the world. But this past weekend, he gained quite a bit of new notoriety for his musical ability — something most Eurekans are already very familiar with. His former band, the Doe Brothers, was the “house band” at Chelsea’s Corner Cafe & Bar for years, beginning in the 1980s, and now he regularly sits in with several different groups all over town and plays with his “regular” group, Magic Mule. He has long been known around the region for his guitar and mandolin playing, but here lately, he’s built a reputation as a skilled performer on dobro and on steel guitar, also called “lap steel.” Over the weekend, Landis won not one but two picking contests at Yonder Mountain String Band’s Harvest Music Festival, which took place last Thursday through Saturday at Mulberry Mountain just north of Cass on Highway 23. On Friday, he entered the mandolin-picking competition and went up against three other entrants; Landis won, and his reward was $50, a basket of prizes and the opportunity to perform a song with Mountain Sprout. The prizes including things like T-shirts, a wool cap, artwork, a copper bracelet, a hand-carved Jerry Garcia handprint, and “lots of other neat stuff,” Landis said. “My main competition then was a young hippie-looking kid, he looked a lot like a young Sam Bush and he was really good,” he explained. “It was a really close decision between the two of us, so I ended up sharing my prizes with him.” The performance part of the prize ended up being a lot more fun than he’d expected, he said. “When I got up to the stage, it was dark, and Grayson (lead singer of Mountain
Sprout) asked me my name,” Landis said. “I guess he couldn’t see me with the lights shining in his face. I said ‘Ron Landis,’ and he looked closer at me and said, ‘Oh, it’s you! Get on up here!’ So because I knew them and they knew me, they let me play the whole show with them.” Despite the rain and frigid temperatures that evening, there were hundreds of fans present (if not more) and “they knew all the words to the songs, it was a lively crowd,” Landis described. Saturday morning brought the guitar flat-picking contest, which requires that you use a flat pick — and not fingers — to make the notes. “The Sam Bush-looking kid was also my main competition at guitar, and he was really good but he did the finger-picking style,” Landis explained. “There was another guy who was pretty good too, but what hurt the other entrants was that their styles just weren’t appropriate for a flat-picking competition.” Landis won that contest, too. And because he won both competitions, he was awarded the opportunity to choose which instrument to play and which band he wanted to perform with on the Main Stage that evening. He chose Railroad Earth, an internationally renowned progressive jam-bluegrass band based on the East Coast that headlines major festivals all over the country and has for over a decade. And he decided to play the mandolin with them. “I really wasn’t that familiar with Railroad Earth before that, but they really rocked,” Landis said. “They were great sports about it. I told them, ‘Thanks for letting a new guy come in like this, it’s got to be a scary thing sometimes,’ but they were very cool about it and had fun with it.” When Landis was introduced by Railroad Earth and he walked out on stage, the audience — several thousand people — emitted the loudest cheers they had all evening, by all accounts. “I had a lot of support out in the audience, and it felt so great,” he says. “I savored every moment of it; it was a huge rush for sure.” Landis says the moment was definitely a lifetime high point, right up there with the
time that Sam Bush sat in with his former band, the Doe Brothers. “Sam Bush is one of my heroes, so that was really special,” Landis recalled. “But Saturday night, they had the light show and thousands of people in the audience and the fog machine and everything. “The Railroad Earth guys were so cool; they hammed it up a little and really let me milk it while I was up there on stage. It was so much fun!” The band members and Landis performed the song “Old Dangerfield,” a classic but difficult bluegrass tune by Bill Monroe — another one of Landis’ musical heroes and major influences. It was the same song Landis had performed in his competition, so he was very familiar with it after learning it and practicing it over the past several weeks. “They suggested that song, and it’s the only tune I’ve been playing for the last two weeks, so I was prepared,” he said. “I played it for the band backstage before the show to show them I knew it and how I played it. The Railroad Earth guys suggested that we slow it down and add a little groove to it, and it ended up sounding fantastic I thought.” The audience – and this reporter – agreed wholeheartedly, as the seasoned music fans on hand literally stopped the show with extended cheers for Landis after the song ended. The Railroad Earth members grinned wholeheartedly as they waited for the applause to die down, and the band’s regular mandolin player, John Skehan, held up Landis’ arm like a boxer who’d just won a big fight. He sure felt like he had, he said. Landis also plays the banjo, fiddle, harmonica, tenor banjo, bouzouki, and dobro. A longtime music counterpart and Eureka Springs fiddler, Chuck Onofrio, said he isn’t surprised by Landis’ victories. “He inspires me musically, and has ever since we first started playing together after high school in Denver,” Onofrio told the Citizen on Tuesday. “He’s also a great craftsman. The first time I saw him he was playing a banjo he had built. He inspired me to go to instrument repair school to learn how to repair and build violins.
October 24, 2013 – Lovely County Citizen – Page
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Photos by ???????????????????????
“The area we grew up in in Denver turned out some really great musicians like Tim O’Brien and many others – and Ron is one of them,” Onofrio continued. “Right from the beginning we were playing with fantastic musicians, and Ron held his own even in the early years when we were beginners.” Not long after high school, Landis had formed a band in which he played banjo, his primary instrument of choice at that time. He also had already learned to play guitar. But with several other banjo players available and a scarcity of mandolinists, Landis decided to try his hand at the instrument. It’s known for its difficulty to play, with the strings very close together and chords requiring holding down eight strings at once, Onofrio explained. It requires strong hands, fast but short hand and arm movements, and a great ear, he added. “He really excelled, almost instantly, at mandolin,” the fiddler recalled. “He learned it really fast — within a couple of months of first picking it up, he was playing at bluegrass speeds and had really learned how to get around on the instrument. It takes some people years to get to where he got in a couple of months.” Onofrio says of all the instruments Landis
plays, mandolin is his favorite to watch him on. “But I’m also really enjoying his dobro playing lately; he’s really come a long way on that instrument too.” The fiddler says that Landis is one of few musicians that any band can hire, and “Ron can just show up and do a great job without rehearsing with them or anything – and not many people can do that.” Landis says that music has helped him overcome many challenges in his life, including losing his business partner, best friend and Doe Brothers counterpart in 2005, when Joe Rust committed suicide. “He suffered from depression, so it was no surprise to his family when he committed suicide,” Landis said quietly. “We had such a symbiotic relationship, it was like someone tore my arm and leg off.” Landis says he drank heavily for a few years and fought his own depressive battles, before a serious car accident helped him “wake up.” “I just got back into my music then,” he recalled. “It’s my cozy place; it’s my therapy.” And for thousands of fans last Saturday night, it was clearly everyone’s therapy.
Page 16 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013 Photos by David Bell
Cocktails for a memorable Cause
Cocktails for a Cause is a monthly Eureka Springs Downtown Network gathering. The third Thursday of each month, a different business hosts C4C to the benefit of a local non-profit organization. The cover charge and a portion of the sales of each libation goes to the month’s cause. Last Thursday the cause was the Eureka Springs Preservation Society, and the event was held at the Grand Central Hotel. The two-hour “cocktail hour” drew numerous folks who came to have fun talking and networking with their peers. And at this C4C, guests were treated to music by the regular pianist/singer at the Grand Taverne, Jerry Yester, a member of the ‘60s folk-pop group The Lovin’ Spoonful.
AT LEFT: Glenn Crenshaw and Tom Carlin swap stories. AT RIGHT:Susan Ozborne reacts to her first sip of a double-olive martini. Her husband, Guy McCormick sits behind her. The couple splits their time between Wichita, Kansas and their Eureka home on Lake Lucerne.
AT LEFT: Guy McCormick places his order. AT RIGHT: The lobby of the Grand Central Hotel was ground zero for this month’s Cocktails for a Cause.
October 24, 2013 – Lovely County Citizen – Page
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Photos by Charles Chappell
Highlander boys handily defeat Omaha
The Eureka Springs Highlander boys’ basketball team defeated Omaha 73-42 on Tuesday in the school’s home opening game. Jake McClung led in scoring with 17 points including three 3-pointers, Reggie Sanchez had 15 points, Ryan Sanchez had 13 points, Trevor Lemme had 11 points including three 3-point shots, and Dalton Johnson contributed 7 points including two 3-pointers. The Lady Highlanders didn’t fare so well in their contest with Omaha on Tuesday, losing 31-27. Abby Moore led with 12 points and 12 rebounds, and Samantha Mueller contributed 4 points. The Highlanders travel to St. Paul for their next game, on Friday, Oct. 25.
Page 18 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
Voices from a Silent City haunts spectators
Photos by Chip Ford
The 5th annual Voices from Eureka Springs Silent City Cemetery Tour kicked off Friday evening amid scattered showers. Ten locals portrayed various Eurekans and mimicked their attire and personalities for the tours, lead by six guides – Alexa Pittenger, Carolyn Green, Rochelle Bales, Mary Diehl, Christy Braswell and Glenna Booth. Rod and Phyllis McGuire handled produced the tours with help from the local historical genius of June Westphal.
Ida Bentley, played by Hannah Grat, tips back the forty grains of strychnine after being jilted at the alter by her lover Harvey Bryant, as life without Harvey was too much to bare.
Okemah (Kim) Morrell, played by Karen Pryor, takes time away from playing in The Hill Folk band to entertain the crowd in her trademark costume.
John Wynn, played by Terry Miller, emerges from his unmarked grave in Potter’s Field to fiddle for onlookers.
Perry Mark, played by Tim Grat, stands alongside his pride and joy, the Claude Fuller, played by Mike Maloney, rises aside his gravestone to pose for a pho- Augusta “Mama” and Adolph “Papa” Kukler, played by Joanie Kratzer and Jim White, first motorcycle to rumble through Eutune their zither moments before the rain showers started. reka Springs. tograph. AT LEFT: Rod and Phillis McGuire stand at the entrance of the cemetery, greeting tour takers. Along with producing the tours, Rod was also the acting Greeter at the Gate. AT RIGHT: Joe Parkhill, played by Jake Allen, takes time away from putting Eureka Springs in the limelight to pose amid torchlight. AT FAR RIGHT: John Philip Sousa, played by Terry McClung, stands amid the rainfall that was marching all around him.
October 24, 2013 – Lovely County Citizen – Page
Flu shot clinic coming to Carroll County Those looking to ward off the flu this season should mark Oct. 30 on their calendars. The Carroll County Health Department will be conducting a Mass Flu Shot Clinic on Oct. 30 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the county fairgrounds. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the 2013-2014 flu season starts this month and could last for more than six months. It is recommended that all individuals 6 months of age and older should get the flu vaccine. Vaccinations are especially important for people at higher risk of flu, including health care professionals, children younger than 6 and people over 65. In addition to the Mass Flu Shot Clinic, the CCHD will be providing vaccinations to students and staff members at area schools. CCHD representatives will be at the Green Forest Alumni Center today from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. They will also be at Eureka Springs schools
on Oct. 21 and Berryville schools on Oct. 23. For more information about any of the Carroll County flu shot clinics, call the health department at 870-423-2923. Between five and 20 percent of the U.S. population develops influenza, commonly called the flu, each year, according to a release from the health department. This leads to more than 200,000 hospitalizations from related complications. Flu-related deaths occur every year, ranging from a low of about 3,000 to a high of 49,000 people. The most common problems associated with the flu shot are mild, according to the CCHD. The side effects include soreness, redness or swelling where the shot was given; hoarseness; sore, red or itchy eyes; cough; fever; aches; headache; itching; and fatigue. If these problems occur, they usually begin after the shot and last one or two days. If they persist longer, call your doctor.
Dispatch
was broken down and the driver was waiting for assistance. Oct. 17 10:49 a.m. – Caller reported elderly male walking back and forth along. Highway 62. Officer responded and he was okay. 1:45 p.m. – Caller reported her neighbor was harassing her. Officer responded and spoke with both parties. Can’t we all just get along? Oct. 18 11:22 a.m. – Routine traffic stop on Passion Play Road resulted in an arrest. 7:39 p.m. – Caller from a local restaurant reported a noise compliant on a local tavern. Officer responded and they turned the music down. Oct. 19 1:46 a.m. – Caller from local hotel reported a man screaming behind the building. Officer responded, but was unable to locate the subject due to “some
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8:50 a.m. – Animal Control found two stray dogs and followed them to their home then issued a verbal warning to the owners about a dangerous cat roaming the streets, rendering the dogs unsafe for canine passage. 4:24 p.m. – Caller form Victoria Woods reported some missing pills. Officer responded and pills were later found. 8:08 p.m. – Caller from Ridgeway Avenue reported a domestic disturbance. Officer responded and spoke with complainant. 9:58 p.m. – Traffic stop on Highway 62 led to the arrest of subject on a Berryville warrant. 11:10 p.m. – Caller reported a suspicious vehicle at a gas station’s gas pumps. Officer responded and vehicle
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Master Gardeners get advanced
Photo submitted
Carroll County Extension Agent Randy Forst addresses the advanced class of Master Gardeners. Some 70 people attended the class at First Christian Church on Passion Play Road in Eureka Springs last week.
psychopath screaming too loud” for him to hear the directions from dispatch. Just kidding. 3:01 a.m. – Caller from Ridgeway Avenue reported a noise complaint. Officer responded and told party to keep it down and inside. 8:30 a.m. – Caller advised they had security footage of their neighbor’s dog knocking over their trash cans. Officer responded and a follow-up was made by Animal Control Officers. 7:41 p.m. – Guest from local motel wanted to fill out a police report about a stolen wallet. Officer took report, but wallet was found the next day. I hate it when I report my wallet stolen and then find it exactly where I left it. 8:29 p.m. – Anonymous caller reported someone using a leaf blower on Main Street. Officer responded, but the complaints were unfounded, it was just some Texan chasing teenagers with a
chain saw, no need for a report. Happy Halloween! 10:42 p.m. – Officers were advised to be on the lookout for a reckless driver on Mountain Street, but did not locate. Oct. 20 12:26 a.m. – Traffic stop at Rapid Roberts resulted in a DWI arrest. 11:38 a.m. – Caller from Chestnut Street reported a truck and trailer blocking his driveway. Officer responded, but no report was needed. 10:30 p.m. – Caller reported a vehicle leaving Grand Taverne headed to Chelsea’s that should not be driving. Officer responded, but was unable to locate. 11:40 p.m. – Caller reported his dog was missing and ask for someone to notify him if it is found. The malingering killer cat strikes again! 11:41 p.m. – Routine traffic stop lead to the arrest of two subjects on charges of DWI and a Carroll County warrant.
Page 20 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
Village View
I
Alison By Sandra TaylorSynar Brown
YOUR Children’s Story
t is a truth universally acknowledged that a single writer in possession of a good desire to write must be in want of a children’s story. Apologies to Jane, and the desire to write a children’s story is not “universal” among writers. But I’ve been very surprised at how many people who are writing memoir or adult fiction also have a children’s story perking on the back burner. Sometimes, the children’s story is fully written—even illustrated. Sometimes, it’s just a idea. But it’s been waiting patiently—perhaps for decades. I, on the other hand, do not have a clue about writing for children. I don’t have a clue about children. They seem mostly to emit piercing shrieks in Wal-Mart or bang things on my coffee table. I’m grateful for the people who are parents. It’s a dirty job but someone has to do it. But what appeals to children in this tech-
Village Writing School upcoming workshops November 2 WRITING FOR CHILDREN Have your Children’s Story Critiqued by an award-winning Childen’s Author & Publisher 1-4 pm $25 Coming in December WRITING YOUR CHRISTMAS STORY A free gift from the Village Writing School January 18, 2014 GETTING STARTED (the first 2 pages, research, to outline or not, story arc, writing rules to live by) For more info or to register visit villagewritingschool.com or contact 479 292-3665 or alisontaylorbrown@me.com
nological age? What vocabulary is appropriate for each age group today? In what ways are today’s kids more sophisticated in perception than my generation? In what ways are they less? How has cultural and social collective memory and understanding shifted generation by generation? What iconic archetypes are still relevant? Which are not? I can’t answer any of these questions. So what will I do with all these children’s stories that our eager local writers are waving about with excitement? How can I judge where these stories miss the mark and where they hit it spot on? “A prophet is not without honor,” Jesus said, “except in his own country and among his own people.” Now that is a universal principle. Do we appreciate the quiet talent that lives among us and never draws attention to itself? Do we allow our opinion to be slanted by a difference in ideology? We have an award-winning children’s author and editor living quietly among us who day by day drives from Berryville to his job in Green Forest. Craig Froman doesn’t have a huge sign on his car to say that his children’s book won a USA Best Book award. But that, in today’s glutted book market, is no small thing. Nor does he advertise that in his job as an editor he sees hundreds of children’s manuscripts in a year; as a publisher, he knows what parents buy; as a trained educator, he knows what children love. Because he loves children and does not see them solely as WalMart shriekers and coffee table demolishers. So the next question I faced was how to leverage this talent into the most useful workshop for local writers and their stories. Craig and I decided that the quickest way to jumpstart these stories would be to have him critique them, drawing concepts from them that he could then discuss as general principles of writing for children. And people who don’t already have a story written can still take the workshop to listen and learn. I’m calling for submissions now, anything from coloring books and picture books
Writer’s Night Out to feature Library Director This Thursday, Carnegie Library Director Loretta Crenshaw will speak on the library resources available to writers. She will demonstrate use of the EBSCO databases and show how the library can help with research, craft, English, or story. The evening begins at 6 pm at the Village Writing School at 177 Huntsville Road, Eureka Springs. Writers’ Night Out is a free weekly event open to the public. Come learn how the library can make you a better writer. For more information, call 479 292-3665. to chapter books. The deadline is October 31. Email your story to me at alisontaylorbrown@me.com or, if you only have a hard copy, call me at 479 292-3665. The workshop will be November 2 from
1-4 at the Village Writing School at 177 Huntsville Road. The cost, including the critique of your story, is only $25. Let’s get these stories finished to keep these kids quiet and off the coffee tables.
•••
Alison Taylor-Brown has an MFA in Fiction and a lifetime of teaching experience from preschool to university levels. She directs The Village Writing School, whose mission is to foster the development of area writers through workshops, writers’ circles, and coaching. Her column, Village View, appears weekly. To talk to Alison about your writing goals and dreams, contact her at alisontaylorbrown@me.com or 479 292-3665.
October 24, 2013 – Lovely County Citizen – Page
The Village Writing School “Tell me a story, Dad.” “What do want me to tell you?” “Tell me a story about a little gray mouse.” And so began the gray mouse adventures that Richard Schoe told his youngest son. The mouse was the pet of a little English girl who moved to Africa when her parents became missionaries. This story makes lavish use of the onomatopoeia so popular with children while keeping the dramatic tension high. Try it out on a child you know.
T
The Little Gray Mouse and the Boa
he little gray mouse’s fear changed colour. The snake was hungry and had just discovered where the little girl was sleeping! As if the boa had heard those thoughts, he moved soundlessly back to the little gray mouse’s cage, nosing up against it, darting his tongue out into the air inside the cage. Quite large enough to keep a mouse in, but what could these ridiculously skinny bars keep out! The little gray mouse backed opposite the snake, slowly, purposefully until he bumped into the little girl’s pin cushion and pricked himself straight up. Taking an eyeful of the snake’s darting tongue, the rather sharp-witted mouse hesitated, then, quicker than a mongoose, the little gray mouse grabbed the longest sewing needle, leaped as though shot right at the boa’s face, and stabbing like a sailor, the mouse harpooned the snake’s darting tongue. With a half twist, the mouse bolted the boa’s nose to the cage; his tongue was speared through by the needle and locked against the cage wires. Thrashing in pain, his nose trapped against the cage by his own tongue, the boa flailed and flopped and slambam-ded to get loose. The little gray mouse held on for dear life, his dear life. “Oh! My thtongue! My thtongue! You Ssthabbed my thtongue!” wailed the snake. “Owutch! Owutch! Owutch!” Like a fresh-caught fish landed on a boat deck, the boa flipped and fluttered. The cage thumped this way and walloped that way and thumped this way again. “Oh! My thtongue. My thtongue. Let go my thtongue! Bad mouthe. Bad mouthe.” What a ruckus! The snake bashed and crashed and trashed the orderly contents of the tent most inhospitably. From the little gray mouse’s first stab, the monkey alarm had hoot-hooted the call to the jungle neighbourhood. All the village heard. Well, even a strong and keenly determined
mouse can only hold on for so long against a battering boa a hundred times longer and a thousand times bigger. The cage had quite disassembled itself under such tremendous poundings from the snake, and the little gray mouse was tossed loose outside. Tumbling, rolling he spilled out onto the tent floor, out of the cage, out into the open. . .still holding the needle. “I am ssthooo mad!” listhpped the swollen-thtongued boa, ranting his threats on and on at the little gray mouse and preparing his dreadful wrath. “I am going to eath you! I am going to hide and waith and sthqueeeethze the life outh of every living thing thath comes intho this tenth! Sthqueeeethze them and eath them…All of them!” “Thwack!” It was the little girl, whiteeyed and panting. She swung the broom, straight, even and real hard, just as if the snake’s head were an oversized baseball. Spinning like a ballerina, moving her head only at the last, dipping her raised foot down to stop her spin, planting both feet solid, she unleashed the broom again. “Thwack!” the snake’s head tried to leave the tent but was held by its neck much like a rope being thrown to someone needing rescue that drops short when played out. “My head!” groaned the hateful boa lifting himself up off the tent platform. “You are sthooo going thwo be my lunch.” Like a slinky thrown sideways, the boa uncoiled toward the little girl now dizzy and all unwound after her second swing. The snake, too close to hit and too strong to stop, made his first wind around the girl’s feet before she could think to step away. The little gray mouse’s eyes snapped wide. The little girl! Up he bound, needle in hand, landing all crouched on the boa’s flowing form, rounding for its second wind on the girl’s legs.
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To support our local writers, the Lovely County Citizen is providing space each week to showcase a student of The Village Writing School. For more information, email alisontaylorbrown@me.com or call (479) 292-3665
This Week’s Writer:
Richard Schoe “Owwutch!“ winced the boa. In aggravated rage the snake bucked, and the little gray mouse lost his grip on the sewing needle now deep in the snake’s bottom or where his bottom ought to be, if a snake were to have a bottom. “That…sthmartths!” With yellow-eyed murder, the snake struck towards the mouse, dumping the little girl out of the tent like a mean jump rope hooking her legs out from under her. Blessing that it was, the little girl tumbled free, having hampered the snake’s strike just enough for the little gray mouse to hop clear, all fangs considered. His eyes glazing vengefully over, the boa constrictor smoothly drew his body around behind him, picking the needle out of himself as it swam by. He hatefully swore an oath, promising inevitably gruesome doom to the girl and the mouse. Sounds of the jungle escaped from the air, vanishing into muted self-preservation as all the neighborhood watched the inevitable fact of jungle life and jungle death: how one would feed the other. Then, as abruptly as it had stopped, chatter and play would be resumed by the living. The little girl scooped the mouse up, holding him high and close, just above her heart. Making slow deliberate steps back and back, her eyes upon the snake, her heart upon the mouse, and her thoughts upon her savior as she prayed, “And deliver us from evil. . .” The snake coiled, then reached back to strike. . . “Stuuumphf.” The spear chomped into the ground. Cracking his body like a whip, the boa lashed out for the tall grasses behind the tent with its long body in hot pursuit of its head. “Stuuumphf. . .Stuuumphf. . .Stuuumphf. . .”another and another and another spear
stitched after the snake’s retreating tail, the last spear just grazing the side of the wiggling boa as it escaped. A final listphing “owwutch’’ was muffled by the rescuing hubbub. The villagers flooded the grasses, fanning out and poking their spears in unwelcoming jabs ahead of their feet so that if anything were there, it would decide to relocate to a different neighbourhood, one without spears. ••• A long-time transplanted flat-lander to Eureka Springs, Richard Schoe is the father of three grown sons, is somewhat retired, somewhat self-employed; and the caregiver for his mother, Betty H. Schoeninger.
Page 22 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
‘It’s Been a Long Time Coming’
Fiddler Thiebaud leaving Mountain Sprout; band pushing on with new member By Kristal Kuykendall
Citizen.Editor.Eureka@gmail.com
Some might say that Blayne Thiebaud IS Mountain Sprout. No doubt, his energetic and oftentimes wild presence fills up the stage when the Eureka Springs-based hillbilly-bluegrass band performs. Thiebaud, the band’s fiddler, is never still when he’s playing, bending forward and back, side to side – all while sawing his fiddle with bullet-like speed, lightning-like electricity and stopwatch-like precision. Reviewers have sworn they’ve seen smoke coming off his bow, and it would surprise none of Mountain Sprout’s fans if that actually occurred. Fans adore his on-stage persona, and Eureka residents have come to adore him off-stage as well. Friends and bandmates alike describe him as a “joker with a spiritual and serious side.” But now Thiebaud, 30, is leaving Mountain Sprout, moving to Hawaii early next week. His last performances with the band will be Friday night, Oct. 25 at Chelsea’s Corner Cafe & Bar, and Saturday, Oct. 26 at a live taping of the international radio program “WoodSongs,” happening at The Aud as part of the Ozark Folk Festival this weekend. Mountain Sprout has built a reputation over the last seven years as a hard-partying, rambunctious, irreverent group whose hits include tunes like “Screw The Government,” “Marijuana,” “Town Drunk,” “Dry Counties,” and “Tweeker,” which pokes some tongue-in-cheek fun at meth users. They’ve toured the country a number of times and are favorites in the Mid-South region, particularly at music festivals large and small. The band typically performs several times at major annual Arkansas music festivals such as Wakarusa and Yonder Mountain String Band’s Harvest Music Festival, which incidentally was last weekend. Festivals are a favorite place to perform for Mountain Sprout, and its members can usually be found pickin’ and singing around a campfire with friends and fans
Photo by Joe Huff
Performing to a very enthusiastic audience at Harvest Festival last Thursday are Mountain Sprout members, from left, Blayne Thiebaud, new member Mike Schembre, Dean Thiebaud, Grayson Van Sickle, Adam Wagner and Daniel Remond.
till sunrise at such events. It is at festivals that Thiebaud is best known for his rowdy behavior, said lead singer Grayson Van Sickle. “He’s kind of known for passing out by the bonfire and burning his boots, so he’s constantly having to buy new ones after almost every festival,” he said with a laugh. “But seriously, he’s the world’s best fiddler in my opinion. He’s irreplaceable, actually. It will definitely be hard to reproduce the kind of energy Blayne brings to the stage.” Thiebaud’s energy and carefree spirit have made him a lovable character, both on stage and off, but they’ve also led to several abrupt life changes, some hard times and some difficult lessons. One of those was his unexpected exit from the U.S. Army in 2002. He’d been enlisted for 11 months and was stationed in Hawaii when the Sept. 11 attacks occurred. “It was intense during that time,” he recalls. “At first, my initial reaction was that it was some fake military exercise. Then we found out it was real, and we were pretty sure we were all going to war.”
Luckily for Thiebaud, the Army units stationed in Hawaii were at the bottom of the list to be sent overseas, so he didn’t have to go. It wasn’t too much later that his independent thinking and penchant for rebellion got him excused from further military service. He was honorably discharged, since he “didn’t quite see eye-to-eye with the Army,” he says, grinning. He stayed in Hawaii for another six months before moving back to his home state of Texas; he grew up in Odessa. “I got derailed a little bit in Texas by the party lifestyle, so I left Texas and went to Illinois to stay with my older brother, Dean, who I’d never really known till then,” Thiebaud explained. “I slept on Dean’s couch for three months. He was in a band called The Woodbox Gang, and that’s when I started really playing music.” He’d taken violin lessons as early as sixth grade, but had focused on guitar in the years leading up to his move to Illinois. Fans may be surprised to learn that his favorite music to play on guitar was heavy metal: Pantera, White Zombie and Marilyn
Manson were among his faves. Fans also may be surprised to know that Thiebaud doesn’t consider himself a “real” fiddle player. “I just try to mimic whatever I hear and like,” he says. “I don’t even know the lick to Turkey and the Straw, for example, I just play it like I remember it in my head.” Whatever his methods, it was during his time at his brother’s – who earlier this year moved to Eureka and joined Mountain Sprout as well – that Thiebaud picked up the violin again and began to learn to play it bluegrass-style. “I’d sit on the church steps at an old church where Dean’s band practiced and listen to them play,” he recalls. “One day, a guy named Adam Wagner walked up to listen, too. That’s how I met Adam.” The two became fast friends and music-playing buddies, eventually forming a band called the Broke Strang Band. They performed around the Midwest region, coming through Eureka Springs the first time in 2004. “I just kept coming back here after that; it was like I never really left.” At that time, Mountain Sprout was based in New Orleans as a street band with a rotating membership of about a dozen musicians. Thiebaud met Van Sickle busking on a New Orleans street, and he ended up sleeping on his floor for several months, joining the group of Mountain Sprout musicians not long after. They traveled back and forth between NOLA and Illinois, performing at bars and festivals in between and staying in Eureka Springs as often as possible. In 2006, Van Sickle, Thiebaud and Wagner sat down and decided to get serious about Mountain Sprout. They were at PK’s in Carbondale, Ill., when they made a pact that they were going to move to Eureka Springs, where their bassist, Melissa Carper, already lived. “Grayson was looking for a place to settle down and raise his family, and Eureka was a good centrally located hub for the Midwest to branch out from. We already had some connections in the business here, and a fan base, so we moved to Eureka in
October 24, 2013 – Lovely County Citizen – Page
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Photo by Kristal Kuykendall
Mountain Sprout performs last Saturday on the Main Stage at Yonder Mountain String Band’s Harvest Music Festival at Mulberry Mountain just north of Cass.
the fall of 2006,” Thiebaud explained. “I lived in a storage unit with Adam until we got kicked out, in the dead of winter – it was cold as sh**! Later we met Caitlin Cantele and Whitney Capps and ended up renting a house on Owen Street with some of our new friends.” It didn’t take long for the gang to become known as the hard-partying band. Some have criticized Mountain Sprout for this and have advised them to “calm down” and focus more on their musicianship. “Duh,” Thiebaud says of those who say the band parties too hard. “It’s always been like that. We’ve been partying hard since before we started playing music. I started playing the fiddle for free beer, who wouldn’t? Then I learned I could actually make money at it, too.” Mountain Sprout took off, growing in popularity and in reputation. In 2009, Carver quit the band and bassist Daniel Redmond of Broken Arrow, Okla., moved to Eureka to become a full-time member. The party lifestyle and spending nine or more months a year touring and performing began to wear on Thiebaud within a few years of Mountain Sprout moving to Eureka Springs, he says. Then, last New Year’s Eve, he decided
it was time to move on. “The lifestyle just got to me, all the drugs and alcohol that come with being a professional musician and playing in bars,” Thiebaud says. “Grayson joined Alcoholics Anonymous and stopped drinking, Adam finished his first solo CD and starting hitting that hard, and Dan also had a side project, Ice Cold Fatty, starting up. I went on a three-month bender and after that I knew I had to go.” It took a few months longer than he’d planned to make his exit, he says, but it’s all worked out. The band recently hired a new fiddler, Mike Schembre from Columbia, Mo. Now, Thiebaud is going to pursue “other creative avenues,” though he will also likely end up playing fiddle whenever he can – “just not right off the bat,” he says. “I’m thinking about going to massage school just to have another profession under my belt that has nothing to do with playing music in bars.” He will be living in the town of Captain Cook on the Big Island of Hawaii, just south of Kona. He has a job lined up working for his room and board by cleaning, cooking and entertaining for guests at a bed and breakfast, and he has several entertainment-job interviews lined up, he says.
“I’m relieved to finally be moving,” Thiebaud says. “I feel like I don’t have to carry the weight of the world on my shoulders anymore, that weight of the lifestyle and being a so-called rock star.” He says he will miss the people of Eureka the most – “and Chelsea’s. It’s just home; it’s the living room of Eureka, at least for me. I still get mail at Chelsea’s. “It was the first place I stepped into here, literally, and it’ll be the last place I step out of.” His bandmates are not at all happy that he’s leaving, but they’re determined to carry on with Mountain Sprout’s music. Redmond says that while Thiebaud does bring the most energy to the stage, “Mountain Sprout is Grayson, who writes almost all of our songs. As long as Grayson is comprehensive, Mountain Sprout will happen. “I think every one of us is a big part of Mountain Sprout, but we are all ultimately following Grayson’s lead,” Redmond continued. “But I hate to see Blayne go. He’s the most artistic of all of us.” Thiebaud, listening to Redmond, jokingly repeats, laughing: “Autistic or artistic?” Redmond replied by giving Thiebaud some tongue-in-cheek advice: “You know what I suggest you do before you
go to Hawaii? See as many possums as possible. That’s the first thing I’d miss in Hawaii. ‘Man, I really wanna see some possums.’” Thiebaud laughed. Then Redmond gets serious, when asked to describe his bandmate in three words: “Brother I love,” he quickly replies. Dean Thiebaud, when asked the same question, said “World’s best fiddler.” “I think it sucks that he’s leaving, but he’s got to do what he’s got to do,” the guitarist and protective big brother said. He and Wagner provide acoustic rhythms for the band, taking turns on lead and both contributing vocals as well. “The band will be fine, and I hope Blayne will go get his head together and come back in a few months.” Time will tell. Meanwhile, Mountain Sprout will tour in support of the new album it recorded two weeks ago, entitled “Long Time Coming,” after a new song written by none other than Blayne. “It’s been a long time coming,” the song says. “I have paid my dues. It’s been a long time coming, and all my dreams are coming true.” Theibaud’s fans and friends — and especially this reporter — certainly hope they do.
Page 24 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
Lively Entertainment By Kristal Kuykendall
By Kristal Kuykendall
Mountain Sprout and bluegrass, country standouts Following are my recommendations for the best live music in Eureka Springs this weekend. Below that is the complete schedule of entertainment for Eureka Springs venues during the coming week: FRIDAY New Delhi Cafe has lined up quite a treat of music for Friday, Oct. 25. In the evening, starting at 6:30 p.m., Foleys Van will take the patio stage for a stellar evening of bluegrass music. (For more on bluegrass standout Foleys Van, see www.LovelyCitizen.com/blogs/1880/entry/54693.) During the day on Oct. 25, from noon to 4 p.m., Josh Jennings Band will perform on the (covered) patio stage. Fayetteville-based Josh Jennings has been writing and recording music for more than 15 years. His songwriting skills earned
him the top prize at last fall’s 65th Annual Ozark Folk Festival held here in Eureka Springs, and he is scheduled to perform in the main event this year, which is also this same weekend, Oct. 23-27. In June 2012, Josh Jennings Band released its debut album, “Ol’ Car,” which has received great reviews and is being played on Spotify and Pandora as well as local country radio. Teaming up with lead vocalist, guitarist and frontman Josh is Bob Alexander, a seasoned flat-picker who adds a lot of drive to their sound, and Kris Hurt holds down the rhythm with upbeat, walking bass lines. The group performs all originals, but they have a familiar feel and sound to them — likely thanks to the accessible and amicable nature of Josh’s songwriting.
Josh Jennings will take the stage at noon Friday at New Delhi at 2 N. Main St. No charge for admission; open to all ages. ALSO FRIDAY Eureka Springs’ own Mountain Sprout performs their final public show with fiddler Blayne Thiebaud this Friday night, Oct. 25 at Chelsea’s Corner Cafe & Bar. You have never seen anyone play a fiddle as fast and as technically accurate as Thiebaud of the much-loved hillbilly-bluegrass band Mountain Sprout. You just haven’t, and you probably never will again. What’s more, Thiebaud manages to still hit every note within that lightning speed that leaves rosin burnin’ and smoke coming off his bow. But all of Mountain Sprout’s members are highly energetic, spitting out original tunes and entertaining listeners with whitty lyrics and face-melting musicianship. You won’t hear Mountain Sprout cover old bluegrass standards, either; but you won’t mind when you hear these humorous story-songs about this group of back-country, pot-smoking, nature-lovin’ good ol’ boys trying to survive life in a dry county. The Sprouts are a full-time working
band and play shows year-round all over the country, including at Wakarusa Music Festival and its younger, smaller sister festival, Yonder Mountain String Band Harvest Fest, also held at Mulberry Mountain Ranch near Cass. Critics and fans alike adore Mountain Sprout, which also features Grayson VanSickle playing his machine-gun banjo, singing out a redneck novel of the members’s hilarious lives; guitarist Adam “Chucky Waggs” Wagner, who yanks the melody up by the ear and keeps it kickin’; smilin’ Daniel Redmond, who pulls out cannon-fire notes pounding the stand-up bass; and newest member Dean Thiebaud, with his silky-smooth, country-tinged, deep vocals and Western finger-picking guitar style. Kevin Kinder of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette wrote of the band after a performance in Little Rock: “Mountain Sprout has the look of wild all over them in their long beards and smoke and drink while they play attitudes. It is a potent combination and it works. The Quartet plays wild and loose too, sawing fiddles or trashing banjos. They inject their funny songs about
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smoking and drinking and fighting with fervor and a sense of believability.” The Sprouts have shared the stage with the likes of global icons Willie Nelson and Leon Russell as well as with jamgrass standard-bearers Yonder Mountain String Band and jamband titan Widespread Panic. Since late last year, the group has drastically cut back on its national touring schedule, and now, news comes in that Thiebaud is moving away and leaving the band as of next week – so you should probably get in on some Sprout love while you still can. (See related article on Page 22.) Mountain Sprout will take the stage around 9 p.m. It WILL be crowded so get there early. Admission is $5; open to ages 21 and up. Chelsea’s is located at 10 Mountain St., 479-253-6723. SATURDAY One of Eureka Springs’ newer original music acts — with the most impressive songwriting I’ve seen around these parts — Chucky Waggs, is headlining what is sure to be a relaxing-but-upbeat good time along with special musical guests on Saturday, Oct. 26 at Chelsea’s. Chucky Waggs, which is actually Adam Wagner of Mountain Sprout fame, will perform with some of his more talented musical friends. Chucky Waggs features upbeat acoustic guitar music with vocals in the style of traditional Americana, classic country, folk and blues, with a little bit of old punk flavor thrown in for good measure — though the “punk” mostly comes through in the lyrical form, not the musical stylings. Wagner explains: “The melody and chords and song structure are more rooted in old-time, traditional music, Americana, folk and blues stuff, while the lyrics are a bit more modern — I still listen to a lot of the old punk bands I grew up with,” he says. “One of my favorite songwriters is Shane MacGowan from The Pogues, because he has a way of writing songs that could be 100 years old or they could be current. I’m into that.” Still wondering if you’ll dig Chucky Waggs? This might help: If you like anything about Bob Dylan’s music or Arlo Guthrie’s songwriting, or if you enjoy an energetic acoustic set that somehow never drags and features strong but beautiful male vocals and some gifted, technical-
Photo by Ryan Richardson
Adam Wagner of Mountain Sprout is also “Chucky Waggs,” his side project. Chucky Waggs & Friends will perform Saturday at Chelsea’s.
ly superior guitar-picking, you will love Chucky Waggs. His album, released in January, is a pleasure to listen to. If you’re lucky, you’ll make it to this show and go home with a new Chucky Waggs CD. And if we’re all lucky, his “friends” playing with him at Chelsea’s will include a fiddle this, too, thrown into the sound mix of Wagner’s friends for great measure. I’m tellin’ ya, you will thoroughly enjoy this performance. Chucky Waggs’ show at Chelsea’s begins around 9 p.m. Ages 21 and up are admitted. Admission $5. Chelsea’s is located at 10 Mountain St., 479-253-6723. THURSDAY, OCT. 24 • Basin Park Hotel Balcony Bar & Restaurant, 12 Spring St., 479-253-7837: Maureen Alexander, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. • Blarney Stone, 85 S. Main St., 479-3636633: Open Mic, 8 p.m. to midnight • Chaser’s, 169 E. Van Buren, 479-2535522: Jesse Dean & special guest, Joe Grover • Jack’s Place, 37 Spring St., 479-2532219: Karaoke with DJ Goose, 8 p.m. to midnight • Squid & Whale, 37 Spring St., 479-2537147: “Open Mic Musical Smackdown” with Bloody Buddy FRIDAY, OCT. 25 • Basin Park Hotel Balcony Bar & Restaurant: Hogscalders, noon to 3 p.m.; Hogscalders, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• Berean Coffee House, 4032 E. Van Buren, 479-244-7495: live music, 7 p.m. • Blarney Stone: Sam Clanton, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. • Cathouse / Pied Piper, 82 Armstrong St., 479-363-9976: Desi & Codi, 9 p.m. • Chaser’s: Ozark Thunder & TOGA Party, 9 p.m. • Chelsea’s, 10 Mountain St., 479-2536723: Mountain Sprout, 9 p.m. • Eureka Live!, 35 N. Main St., 479-2537020: DJ & Dancing, 9 p.m. to close • Eureka Paradise, 75 S. Main St., 479363-6574: DJ & Dance music, 8 p.m. • Henri’s Just One More, 19 1/2 Spring St., 479-253-5795: Juke Box, 9 p.m. • Jack’s Place: Barflies, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. • Legends Saloon (Lumberyard), 105 E. Van Buren, 479-253-2500: DJ and Karaoke, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. • New Delhi Cafe, 2 N. Main St., 479-2532525: Josh Jennings, noon to 4 p.m.; Foley’s Van, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. • Rowdy Beaver Den, 45 Spring St., 479363-6444: Bottlerocket, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. • Rowdy Beaver Tavern, 417 W. Van Buren, 479-253-8544: Karaoke, 8 p.m. • Squid & Whale: 1 oz. Jig, 9 p.m. • Voulez-Vous Lounge, 63 Spring St., 479363-6595: Kaps and Stems Band, 9 p.m. SATURDAY, OCT. 26 • Basin Park Hotel Balcony Bar & Restaurant: Chris Diablo, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. • Blarney Stone: Brick Fields/CD release
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party, 9 p.m. • Cathouse / Pied Piper: Desi & Codi, 8 p.m. • Chaser’s: Left of Center, 9 p.m. • Chelsea’s: Billy Don Burns, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Chucky Waggs & AJ Gaither, 9 p.m. • Eureka Live!: DJ & Dancing 9 p.m. to close • Eureka Paradise: DJ & Dance music, 8 p.m. • Henri’s Just One More: Juke Box, 9 p.m. • Jack’s Place: Barflies, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. • Legends Saloon (Lumberyard): DJ and Karaoke, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. • New Delhi Cafe: Steve Jones, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.; Pete & Dave, 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. • Rowdy Beaver Den: Jesse Dean, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; Third Degree/Annual Halloween Bash, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. • Rowdy Beaver Tavern: Ozark Thunder/ Annual Halloween Bash, 8 p.m. • Squid & Whale: R.J. Mischo & Nate Boff, 9 p.m. • Voulez-Vous Lounge: Kaps and Stems Band, 9 p.m. SUNDAY, OCT. 27 • Basin Park Hotel Balcony Bar & Restaurant: Steve Emery, noon to 3 p.m.; live music, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. • Blarney Stone: Pro Football Game Day • Chaser’s: The Pickers & Jambalaya Feast, 5:00 p.m. • Chelsea’s: Chucky Waggs, 7:30 p.m. • Eureka Paradise: Local night • Jack’s Place: Pro Football with Dylan • New Delhi Cafe: Nathaniel, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. • Rowdy Beaver Den: Jesse Dean, noon to 4 p.m. • Squid & Whale: Pro Football Game Day • UU Church, House Concert, 17 Elk St., 479-244-0123: Audrey Auld, 6 p.m. MONDAY, OCT. 28 • Blarney Stone: Pro Football night • Chaser’s: Pro Football night and pool tournament • Chelsea’s: Springbilly, 9 p.m. TUESDAY, OCT. 29 • Chaser’s: Game Challenge night • Chelsea’s: Open Mic, 9 p.m. WEDNESDAY, OCT. 30 • Chaser’s: Ladies night • Squid & Whale: Sweetwater Gypsies — Ladies Night & Pie Social
Page 26 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
ECHO Clinic to expand Sheriff says ‘yes’ to run for another term services, thrift store from some local hotels, said Arnett. CCNnews@cox-internet.com They do not deal in cash, and appliEUREKA SPRINGS — The Eureka cants must pass a police background Christian Health Outreach is planning to check and an interview. expand its dental services and thrift store “We needed to address the homeservices. less situation in this area” she contin“We have room in the facility to ex- ued. “So we formed this group called pand some of the medical services,” said H.O.M.E.,Hands Open for Ministry and Janet Arnett, clinic administrator. “We Empowerment, because some of our pasee that maybe we can expand our dental tients are homeless.” services. Right now, we do extractions The clinic services, free meals and only. We are investigating what we could thrift store are served and staffed by emdo to expand, such as ployees and mostly cleaning or fillings.” volunteers. Though There are also plans they have more than “The volunteers that I talk add another building 300, they are always with seem to find it very to house a communilooking for more. ty meeting room for rewarding. They are giving Anyone interested 20 to 30 people, a can come to the clinup their time to help other furniture store and a people from the area.” ic/store to fill out an special shop with all application. merchandise priced “We have volun– Janet Arnett a dollar or less, said teers that come from Sharon Sikes-Evans, nearly every church thrift store manager. in the area,” Arnett The profits from the store fund the said. “We are always open to anyone that clinic, which also provides free meals wishes to volunteer one of the area. We for the patients or anyone who needs are looking for someone with computthem. The funding and supplies for the er experience right now. The volunteers meals are donated from local churches that I talk with seem to find it very reand banks. warding. They are giving up their time to The clinic provides general care med- help other people from the area.” ical services along with psychological The idea for the free meal and medical services, dental extractions, optometry services came from Dr. Dan Bell and Suservices, Spanish translators, physical zie Bell during a brainstorming session therapy and access to a social worker on at the First United Methodist Church in the second and fourth Thursday of every February 2005. month, except for holidays. The thrift store was opened in October “We interface with our patients,” said 2009 after the clinic had moved from its Arnett. “That is the beautiful part of hav- original location at the Faith Christian ing the meals. We sit down with our pa- Family Church. tients and get to talk to them.” “Serving ECHO is a gift,” said Grace Thrift shop employees also give gift Nance, who helps manage the meal proreceipts to victims of property damage, gram. “It’s a sheer delight to see our such as fire or tornadoes, to help replace community come together to share a any lost items. The clinic provides ser- meal and care for one another’s needs. I vices that help pay utilities or provide get to witness physical, emotional and cheap temporary housing with the help spiritual healing.” By Landon Reeves
By Catherine Krummey CarrollCountyNews@ cox-internet.com
EUREKA SPRINGS – In an aboutface from previous public statements, Carroll County Sheriff Bob Grudek apparently will be running for re-election in 2014. At a meeting Monday night, Carroll County Republican Committee Chairman Garry DeRamus asked, “Sheriff, will you be running for sheriff?” Grudek — who last year said he would not be running again — simply replied, “Yes.” The Carroll County Republican Committee meeting featured gubernatorial candidate Asa Hutchinson as its guest speaker, and Grudek questioned the possible future governor both about the effects of the government shutdown and county reimbursement for housing state prisoners. “Twenty-eight dollars a day has been the figure for a long time,” Grudek said.
Bob Grudek
In response to Grudek, Hutchinson said he would like to make changes to ensure the counties are being adequately paid for housing state prisoners and that he would also like to see Arkansas’ parole system strengthened, which the sheriff agreed with. “We have a broken parole system,” Hutchinson said. “[There are] not enough parole officers.” Grudek told CCN this morning (Tuesday) he had no further comment at this time, but said he’d “made that decision a long time ago.”
Passion Play offers local discount for final shows The Great Passion Play will be having a Carroll County Weekend this Friday and Saturday. Residents of Carroll County can get tickets to those performances for only $5. Simply show proof of residence in Carroll County and enjoy the Play, the Bible Museum, the Sacred Arts Museum, free music concerts, David the shepherd and the Parables of the Potter. “These are the last 2 performances of the 2013 season,” Randall Christy, CEO of the Passion Play, said. “I know everyone here at the Play is so thankful to the residents of Carroll County for their
prayers and support this season.” Christy spearheaded the effort to make a 2013 season possible. “This season has been such a success that we have released the 2014 schedule, and we are selling tickets and booking groups for next year already,” Christy said. Reservations can be made online with the coupon code “CARROLLCOUNTY”, over the phone at 800-882-7529 or in person at the box office. Present valid photo ID or proof of residence when you pick up your tickets for Friday, Oct. 25 or Saturday, Oct. 26.
October 24, 2013 – Lovely County Citizen – Page
The Natural Way What to do when you have the flu
H
ere we are in October and flu season is typically months away, but already there are Jim Fain fears being generated. Scary words are being televised and flu vaccine booths are popping up in grocery stores like weeds. No one knows what flu strain will be strongest this year so being vacinated may be helpful for some and not others. For sure, right now is the time to begin adjusting your supplements and herbals. It’s time to ramp up the amount of vitamin D you take daily in anticipation of winter. I personally take 2,000 iu/day. This is good to do to keep respiratory diseases at bay. When colds start to show up, flu won’t be far away; so here is a primer on natural care for these predictable nasties. First, at the first symptom of cold or flu go heavy on Monolaurin and you may stop it in its tracks. Otherwise, did you know tropical red Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) tea, traditionally used to ease indigestion, also relieves colds and respiratory trouble? Hibiscus is also a natural source of Vitamin C. This can be added to my favorites for both ailments, Elder tea straight (colds) or blended with Peppermint (flu) and is very effective at stopping or preventing them. Cheap, too! I like brewing the tea in large amounts, as drinking more is the way to go. How I brew leaves, flowers and herbs: (Rooibos, Green, Chamomile, Lavender, Hibiscus, Elder, Peppermint etc.) Make as an infusion - Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 to 1 1/2 tsp. of the tea. Steep 10-12 minutes. Strain - or use a very clean or dedicated Mr. Coffee type maker- place 1 oz of herb in the basket to 1 full carafe of water - try a second batch with the same herb. Aromatic herbs or essential oils can ease stuffy noses and chest congestion. A fully natural approach would start early (now) with a good strong immune booster like Astragalus or mushroom extracts. I’d go high value if the going gets rough. I’d then take large amounts of Monolaurin and maybe combine it with grapefruit seed extract. I’d also drink large amounts of Elder tea (mixed with peppermint if I got a fever) every day. I’d stay away from crowds; wash my hands a great deal, keep tissue paper around to catch sneezes and use herbal disinfectant on door handles, keyboards and telephones. Soap and water is one of the best germ killers/disinfectant. A good night’s sleep, healthy diet, extra vitamin C (ascorbyl palmitate) and a good multiple vitamin goes a long way.
Wisecrack Zodiac ARIES: Sometimes you aim for the sexy mystique of Dracula, but end up as a friendly fruit bat. You can still get a few laughs by seeking out someone with a beehive hairdo. TAURUS: Every dog has its day, but play your cards right and you could squeeze a whole week out of Tuesday. You’ll be thanking the universe for dog years and belly rubs by the time Wednesday rolls around. GEMINI: You may feel like a diamond in the rough, but look at the bright side: at least you weren’t swallowed by a Great Dane. No one would want to polish you after that. CANCER: On Thursday you feel like a pair of itchy polyester pants in a cool cotton world. You might not be fit for everyday wear, but Lady Gaga would still slap some sequins on your butt and call you pretty. LEO: It’s better to take life as it comes instead of snatching it from the Universe’s grip and shaking it down for answers. That just crinkles its collar and pisses it off. VIRGO: When you job becomes unbearable, remember that nearly any work situation can be made a little better by sneaking some vodka in the water cooler. Not too much, though; you don’t want someone dancing on your desk and messing up your TPS reports. LIBRA: There’s a fine line between practical joke and felony, so put down the duct tape and grab a whoopee cushion. It’s just as funny, and you’ll be able to enjoy Thanksgiving without a hairy cellmate named Bubba. SCORPIO: Your sweetie is sending signals you can’t decipher. Better find a codebook fast, before they escalate to rat-a-tattapping their message upside your head.
© Beth Bartlett, 2013 Want more? Visit Beth at www.wisecrackzodiac.com
SAGITTARIUS: Expressing yourself is fine, but bodypainting with pumpkins in the Walmart produce section isn’t the way to do it. Grab your own gourd at home, unless you want to pay for half the town’s therapy. CAPRICORN: Three things you’ll need to know for Saturday: bacon grease is hard to wash out of a thong, bulls can be very temperamental and you should always wear your running shoes, even to formal events. AQUARIUS: Everything’s cool. The wombat has been paid off, and
Beth Bartlett
the parrot promises not to squawk. Don’t buy any tube socks at the swap meet for a while, and you’ll be in the clear. PISCES: `There’s a reason your deepest desires are buried that far down: your subconscious threw them into the well with good reason. Unless you like weird Korean horror movies, don’t drag those thoughts into the murky light of day.
Crossword Puzzle ACROSS 1. Appease 8. Olympian Comaneci 13. Binds with a cord 14. Mimicking 15. Glossy paints 16. “Of all the _____!” 17. Excuse maker’s word 18. Sprat’s wife’s diet no-no 20. Aviv precedent 21. Tone-out reason 24. Anger 25. Broadcast 26. Exit 28. Disdain 31. Green areas 32. Beat grain 34. Cyst fluid container 35. Sparing it may spoil a child 36. Galactic measure 41. Famous Whitney 42. Iona or Skye 43. Prevaricate 44. Mortise insert 46. Grove of fruit trees 49. Diet guru
Jenny 50. NASA vehicle 51. Some are hallowed 52. Enigma DOWN 1. Military academy newbie 2. Flax genus 3. A variegated chalcedony 4. Type of shaft 5. Came off a fast 6. Cashier 7. River Ruhr city 8. She might be an angora 9. Parrot
27
Answers on page 29
10. Sullies 11. Upside down 12. Eternal 19. Hotshot pilot 22. Hard to find 23. Vintage cocktails 27. Risque 28. Elastic does it 29. Intestinal disease 30. Book of rites or numerical position of an object 33. Towel embroidery 34. Dessert or
cheese wine, often 37. Doom partner 38. Make happy 39. Clothes drying rack 40. Remove moisture again 45. Leak in news 47. Letterman’s
Page 28 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
Advertising in the Citizen classifieds is not only a valuable marketing tool offline, it is also a powerful way to reach thousands of potential customers ONLINE.
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October 24, 2013 – Lovely County Citizen – Page
29
HISID counters TRL offer By Kathryn Lucariello
CCNhi@cox-internet.com
Roommate Wanted
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CROSSWORD ANSWERS
HOLIDAY ISLAND – A month after receiving a six-point offer from Table Rock Landing Owners Association to settle its lawsuit against Holiday Island, the HISID Board convened a special meeting yesterday and approved counter-offers on five of the six points. HISID attorney Matt Bishop summarized the lawsuit and started by pointing out that HISID’s Assessment of Benefits classifications of R-1, C-1, etc. are not “zoning,” contrary to accusations the district had changed zoning. “You have never zoned,” he said. “These are covenants on the land.” Ken Brown challenged fellow commissioner Greg Davis to recuse from voting on the TRL settlement because county records show Davis owns a TRL time-share, which Davis denied, saying he had turned it back in more than a year ago. Later, during public comment, property owner David Blackford said he was “disappointed” that the board member (Davis) who accepted a quit-claimed deed valued at $15,000 as a gift from Holiday Island Development Corporation (owned by developer Tom Dees) refused to recuse himself. Davis did not recuse. Point #1 of TRL’s settlement offer was that TRL units would be assessed at a rate equal to an R-1 improved lot. This was discussed at length, with commissioners attempting to decide what should be the assessment amount on time-share units, which had been 10 times the amount of an R-1 assessment in the past, then were reduced to 2.23 times the 2011 R-1 rate by the 2011 Assessment of Benefits. Based on calculations by Commissioner Linda Graves, which define how much of the time-share fee goes to assessments and to infrastructure vs. amenities, the board voted unanimously to waive late fees for 2012 and 2013 on advice of Bishop because the assessments are in a legal appeal, and then voted to
charge TRL $17,000 per year for assessments from 2012 and going forward. Point #2 of TRL’s offer was that it would dismiss claims for punitive damages, refund of assessments paid prior to 2011 in excess of the R-1 rate, its claim for excess amenity charges to TRL property owners in 2012 and its attorney fees if HISID would pay $100,000. This was soundly rejected by the board, who approved unanimously a counter-offer of $10,000. Point #3 calls for an agreed declaration that TRL owners are “Holiday Island property owners year-round and for all purposes.” Commissioners objected that they know of no other timeshare that gives its owners year-round privileges and that the phrase “for all purposes” leaves the door open to giving time-share owners votes. The board voted 4-1, Davis voting nay, to ask TRL to clarify what it means by “for all purposes.” Point #4 asks HISID to accept its assessment payments for 2011 and 2012 (each around $18,000) as payment in full and that the 2013 assessment will be paid at the R-1 rate. The 2012 assessment was addressed in Point #2, and for 2011, TRL owes around $129,000, of which $25,000 is penalties. In consideration of the large amount of money, Graves suggested a compromise of TRL instead giving HISID 800 available nights of time-share use to market Holiday Island. “They’re not going to give us 800 nights in the time-shares,” said Davis. “That’s the craziest thing I’ve ever heard in my life.... If we’re not willing to negotiate that down to the rate we’re willing to collect for 2012 and ‘13, then we’re wasting our time.” The board approved 4-1, Davis voting nay, to waive the $25,000 penalty on 2011 and then approved 4-1, again Davis voting nay, to ask TRL to come up with alternative means of paying the $104,000 balance. Point #5 asks that the temporary restraining order against the district, not
to tell time-share owners that they are not property owners, be made permanent. Bishop said no motion was needed because the issue was dealt with in Point #3. Point #6 asks that the pending litigation be dismissed with prejudice, which means it cannot be sued again, except for the issue of voting rights, which can be sued again within a year. Bishop said the plaintiff always has the right to dismiss without prejudice “whether you like it or not.” The board voted 4-1, Davis voting nay, to leave it as is. Bishop will present these counter-offers to the TRL attorneys. The board then allowed a lengthy public comment session, during which Dees, who sits on the TRL board, spoke for about 45 minutes, chiding the board for not coming to him to resolve the problems and avoid the lawsuits. He said major problems selling lots were exacerbated by HISID making the golf course public and told the board this lawsuit will probably cost $400,000.” He warned the lawsuit could end up at the Supreme Court. “So we’ve made our own mess, and we’ve got to clean it up. And it’s going to be extremely difficult to do.” He ended by saying, “I can’t save you. I could have five or six years ago.” Editor’s note: For a link to an mp3 of Dees’ comments, see this story on our web page at www.holidayislandnews. com.
Keep up with the latest & watch for what’s coming up in the Citizen!
@LovelyCoCitizen
Page 30 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
Dining Guide YOUR GUIDE TO THE EATING OUT IN EUREKA SPRINGS AND THE REST OF LOVELY COUNTY
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October 24, 2013 – Lovely County Citizen – Page 31 Photos by Chip Ford
Railway Winery benefit brings out supporters, friends
It started with a thought, “Helping fellow Chamber members... that’s what it’s all about.” Judy Kelly posed that to the Holiday Island Chamber of Commerce and the group decided to organize a benefit for Railway Winery at the Holiday Island Hospitality Center on Friday night – the winery was completely destroyed and washed downstream during the flooding earlier this year. Eight artists setup booths selling their wares for the night, with 10% of the proceeds going to the winery – though there were a few artists who gave more than the 10%. 65+ donations from across the area were sold off during the silent auction also.
Mariellen Griffith and Don Soderberg posed aside their artwork within their booths.
Frank and Kathy Williams peer at a Jim Sexton piece named Holiday Island Fall Glory.
KESA Sales Manager, Play-by-Play announcer for Highlanders Greg and Vicki Schneider, owners of Railway Winery pose in games and radio personality Lynn Worley, chats with Déjà Vu front of a family heirloom. and Farm to Table Fresh owner Kenneth Ketelsen on air.
Master photographer and painter Jay Vrecenak poses beside her piece she created exemplifying the struggle with SWEPCO in the area.
Keel’s Creek Winery owners Doug Hausler and Ed- Photo guru Steve Shogren was all smile wige Denyszyn come in from the rain to help support at his booth filled with photographic Railway Winery. works.
Page 32 – Lovely County Citizen – October 24, 2013
AL HOOKS – SELLS EUREKA ... FOR INFORMATION ON ANY HOME IN EUREKA, CALL 877.279.0001 HOOKED ON EUREKA – Al, Cheryl and Paul
LIKE NEW Custom built 3bed/2bath home on the “Island”, granite counters, hardwood floors, fenced yard, sunroom w/lakeview. Meticulously maintained, MOVE IN READY $234,000.
This prime retail building located right on historic Spring St. is waiting for you! This building boasts a prime retail location PLUS a nightly unit (with separate entrance) on 2nd floor. Off-street parking, balcony in front & back with views. A great opportunity to have a home & business. $490,500.
CHERYL COLBERT 479.981.6249
AL HOOKS 479.363.6419 alhookseureka.com • alhooks@me.com
eurekaspringsrealtor.com – cjceureka@yahoo.com
Lovely brick home meticulously maintained. Oversize windows affords great views of the golf course. Spacious master suite. Split floor plan. Open living/formal dining area is warmed by gas log fireplace. Tons of cabinets/counter space in the kitchen. Covered brick patio area for outdoor dining. $207,000. $199,999.
REDUCED
AL HOOKS 479.363.6419
CHERYL COLBERT 479.981.6249 eurekaspringsrealtor.com – cjceureka@yahoo.com
NEW
Fabulously restored 8,528 sq ft historic 2 story landmark building w/basement. Presently home of unique shop on main floor and balconied living quarters upstairs both hosting approximately 3000 sq. feet each. Located in historic downtown on Main St. in the heart of the dining/shopping & entertainment district w/one of Eurekas highest pedestrian & vehicle traffic counts, flanked by parking on 3 sides. This rare totally restored piece of history has amenities galore ... call for details & private showings. $859,000. AL HOOKS 479.363.6419
alhookseureka.com • alhooks@me.com
alhookseureka.com – alhooks@me.com
NEW
8 Main Street Lots !!! Beautiful commercial lots located between Planner Hill and downtown Eureka shopping. The heavy foot & road traffic make this an ideal location for a commercial business. $349,000.
Paul Faulk 479-981-0668
Fabulous 3 story 5,000 sq ft home on mountain top ridge near Blue Springs Resort. Stunning river & mountain views abound. Great privacy factor on 1.72 (+,-) acres. Minutes to historic downtown Eureka Springs. This 3+bed/ 4 bath, 3 car garage home has too many amenities to list. Call for a private showing today! $439,000.
AL HOOKS 479.363.6419
eurekasprings-realty.com - pbfaulk@cox.net
alhookseureka.com – alhooks@me.com
The perfect marriage of home & lake. This geo Dome Home & fab guest house are nestled on pristinely landscaped grounds & gardens with million dollar views. Multi leveled decks surround this home, and invite the Ozarks into your living areas. The home has been immaculately maintained with attention to detail and quality. Amenities too numerous to list. $369,000. $304,000. REDUCED $65K.
NE PRIC W E!!!
Beautiful 3/2 Federal style home offers charm & appeal with its landscaped yard, ample living space, basement and off street parking right off of the Historic Loop. Call me for a Showing TODAY! $242,000.
Paul Faulk 479-981-0668
eurekasprings-realty.com - pbfaulk@cox.net
AWE INSPIRING LAKE VIEWS ~ AMAZING ARCHITECTURAL DETAILS ~ BOAT SLIP. Custom built in 2010 this 4 bedroom 3.5 bath custom home is a MUST SEE $469,900.
AL HOOKS 479.363.6419 alhookseureka.com – alhooks@me.com
Cedar home w/guest house on 8.29 (+/-) acres, pond, beautiful mtn. views & land. The home features large open rooms, geothermal heat, generator, large windows, 2-car garage, 1-car carport, detached 3-car carport w/storage, guest house w/kitchenette, bath. POSSIBLE OWNER FINANCING. $399,900.
AL HOOKS 479.363.6419 alhookseureka.com – alhooks@me.com
HOOKSREALTY.COM
1,240 sq ft 1800’s shotgun-style farmhouse on 1 acre offers end of road privacy. Double parlor, covered porches and old barn. Open garden area. Minutes to downtown. $124,000.
AL HOOKS 479.363.6419 alhookseureka.com – alhooks@me.com
Converted school house w/guest cottage nestled on 10 unrestricted acres. This perfect marriage of land & homes has unlimited usage. Your dream hideaway offers multiple possibilities, lovely home, commercial development or whatever you can imagine. Amenities galore! $249,900.
AL HOOKS 479.363.6419 alhookseureka.com – alhooks@me.com
Single family 2,250 sq ft home with finished downstairs boasts 4 Bedroom , 2 & 1/2 baths, 2 kitchens, 2 covered decks, 2 living areas - one with gas log fireplace and Jacuzzi tub. $139,900.
AL HOOKS 479.363.6419 alhookseureka.com – alhooks@me.com
43 PROSPECT AVE. • EUREKA SPRINGS • 877.279.0001 • 479.363.6290 All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.