2014 progress

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The Courier

Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014

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Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center Superior technology enhances quality care medicine technology

Submitted by St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center

Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center is a fullservice acute care, regional referral center for the River Valley region and beyond. Founded in 1926, it has been the area’s health care leader for nearly 90 years. Saint Mary’s is accredited by the Joint Commission and owned by Capella Healthcare, Inc. The hospital is licensed as a 170bed acute care facility. Saint Mary’s provides patients with some of the most advanced technology and medical services available, many of which are usually found only in larger, metropolitan hospitals. Saint Mary’s has a medical staff of more than 100 active physicians representing more than 18 medical specialties. Key services include: • 24-hour physicianstaffed emergency department • Cardiac catheterization and echocardiogram services • Cardiac and diagnostic nuclear medicine • 128-slice CT and CT Angiography • Cardiopulmonary and respiratory services • Medical and radiation oncology • Diagnostic and vascular ultrasound • Digital mammography services • MRI • Hyperbaric oxygen therapy and wound care management services • Inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services • Intensive care unit • Laboratory services • Inpatient and Outpatient surgery • Orthopedics services • Adult Behavioral Health • Sleep study lab • Women’s and Children’s services • Venous Ablation services Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center has sig-

Additionally, Saint Mary’s has installed two GE Discovery NM360 nuclear medicine imaging cameras. Valued at nearly $385,000, the cameras and re-designed facility place the hospital among the leaders in nuclear medicine imaging technology statewide. Nuclear Medicine cameras provide very precise images of the area of the body being imaged. The more precise the information healthcare providers can obtain about a patient’s condition, the more effectively that patient can be treated. With improved efficiency and speed, these cameras allow for scan times and doses as low as half that of standard nuclear medicine protocols.

Mike McCoy nificantly enhanced the healthcare technology available to the River Valley and remains committed to investing in superior systems, ensuring long-term access to quality care for the patients we serve.

The region’s first 128-slice CT scanner At a cost of $1.2 million, Saint Mary’s is the first hospital in the region to offer and fully utilize the powerful, new GE Optima CT660 128-Slice Computed Tomography (CT) scanner, revolutionizing non-invasive procedures including Coronary Angiography. The high speed scanner provides Physicians with the ability to see more anatomical detail at a lower radiation dose, in a fraction of the time previously required with conventional CT. The machine can scan the whole body in seconds and provide incredibly sharp 3D images of any organ. This technology has been particularly effective for studying the beating heart. CT Angiography utilizing the 128-slice Optima CT provides clear non-invasive images of the heart and its major vessels. The scans can help in determining whether either fatty deposits or calcium depos-

Saint Mary’s is the first hospital in the region to offer and fully utilize the powerful, new GE Optima CT660 128-Slice CT.

“We’re proud to offer this world-class technology right here in the River Valley. An accurate diagnosis is key to any health concern, and having access to sophisticated medical technology is vital to delivering a higher level of patient care.” Ken Dilday Director of Radiology its have built up in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. The scans can also be timed to use only images gathered between contractions, so that the heart and its vessels can be seen without blurring caused by motion. For patients requiring a CT examination, and in particular for those requiring cardiac, brain or peripheral vascular examination, the 128-slice Optima CT660 scanner provides increased speed, reduced radiation dosage, detailed diagnostic information, greater convenience and improved patient comfort. “This new technology

will give us more versatility in our imaging protocols,” said interventional cardiologist Dr. Ahmed Athar, board certified in cardiovascular CT. “Rather than a one-scanfits-all approach, we tailor each exam to meet the patient’s specific needs.”

The latest in MRI technology Patient expectations of MRI have shifted in recent years to an enhanced and more comfortable scanning experience. As part of its mission to exceed expectations, Saint Mary’s recently made the GE Optima MR450w, a powerful MRI system,

available to patients in the region. This technology offers increased comfort paired with the sharpest high resolution images on the market. “This is the most accurate MRI imaging tool in the region. This system offers excellent images for more definitive diagnosis and meets the patient demand for a more comfortable experience,” said Imaging Director Ken Dilday. The GE Optima MR450w, a $1.6 million investment, shares the spotlight with several advanced technologies at Saint Mary’s.

Cardiac and Vascular Care Center: Leadership, physicians & technology

Investing nearly $3 million in life-saving cardiac and limb-saving catheterization technologies, Saint Mary’s completed capital improvements in two state-of-the-art Cardiac Catheterization Labs for diagnostic and interventional cardiovascular and vascular procedures. Saint Mary’s has assembled a dedicated team of cardiac specialists devoted to providing outstanding cardiac care, right here, at home. These highly-trained, boardcertified cardiologists include Medical Director, Dr. Sastry Prayaga and Dr. Ahmed Athar, both interventional cardiologists, plus Drs. Dai-Yuan Wang and Shuja Rasool both invasive cardiologists. These physicians make life-saving cardiac care available in the River Valley. Their practice, Cardiology Associates of Please see

New nuclear

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Fighting cancer — your cancer — is the focus of Saint Mary’s Cancer Treatment Center. To that end, we’ve invested deeply in the fight. At Saint Mary’s, we are passionate about providing powerful, leading technologies and emerging treatment options, including one of the most advanced radiation therapy approaches available anywhere, right here in the Arkansas River Valley. We are equally excited that when you choose Saint Mary’s, you have at the center of your care a team of field experts who understand your concerns and possess an unyielding commitment to your best care. It’s the powerful technological resources and dedicated, compassionate care you can expect from Saint Mary’s Cancer Treatment Center. And it’s right here, close to home.

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Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014

The Courier

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Helping Halls surpasses 2,000 meals

BY SAM STRASNER A holiday tradition of giving by Arkansas Tech University students reached a milestone in 2013. Helping Halls, an annual initiative that encourages students living in residence halls at ATU to donate toward holiday meals for individuals served by the Salvation Army, has now helped provide more than 2,000 meals to those in need during the seven-year history of the program. ATU students donated 258 holiday meal kits to the Salvation Army for the 2013 holiday season. The food was delivered by representatives of the Arkansas Tech Office of Residence Life on Tuesday afternoon. “This project means that more families will have a nice meal together

“This project means that more families will have a nice meal together for the Christmas season” Capt. Warren Jones Salvation Army for the Christmas season,” Capt. Warren Jones of the Salvation Army said. “They’ll be able to enjoy that time together. It’s that time together around the table that can make such a difference in people’s lives. It is such a wonderful experience, and to see these college students grow from this is a great thing to see.” At $12 per meal kit, the

donation represents a gift of $3,096 from the pockets of ATU students to the surrounding community. Students collected the food and worked to meet population-based goals for giving in each residence hall. Residents of Caraway Hall won the competition for most generous residence hall. The meal kits have many of the staples of a traditional holiday meal, including turkey gravy, canned sweet potatoes, green beans, corn, cranberries, pie filling, stuffing mix, boxed mashed potatoes mix, marshmallows and a pie crust. The kits will be paired with a turkey or ham collected by the Salvation Army and given to families in need of assistance. In seven years, Helping Halls has collected 2,003 meal kits.

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North Central Arkansas, can be reached at 479968-4311.

AirStrip OB app helps doctors monitor labor Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center recently launched a cutting edge mobile patient monitoring program that allows Saint Mary’s OBGYNs to keep a closer eye on labor and delivery patients giving them immediate access to important data, improving patient safety and treatment. The hospital is the first healthcare facility in the

River Valley region to acquire the AirStrip OB technology to help obstetricians closely monitor women in labor. For obstetricians, the AirStrip OB program delivers live vital patient data — including fetal heart rate, maternal contraction patterns, along with vital signs and nursing notes from the hospital labor and delivery unit — to a physician’s smartphone or tablet. The program works with a variety of mobile devices, cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and support compliance with federal patient privacy regulations.

Foot Health Clinic Thomas G. Werner, D.P.M., P.A.

“AirStrip OB offers a crucial layer of protection and helps look after the comfort, safety and security of patients,” said Sherry McClure, Director

2503 W. Main Pl. Russellville 968-1311

of Saint Mary’s Women’s and Children’s Department. “No matter the demands of the day or a physician’s location, they can closely watch their patients in labor and be in a position to react immediately to a change in situation. That will contribute to improved patient care.”

• Diabetic Foot Care • Heel Pain • Ingrown Toe Nails • Warts, Calluses & Corns • Sport Injuries • Flat Feet • Complete Medical Care of Foot • Board Certified Podiatrist

In addition, Saint Mary’s purchased new laparoscopic surgical equipment at $150,000 for the Operating Room. Another $78,000 was invested in patient monitors for a Progressive Care Unit. “Improving accessibility to safe, high quality healthcare is an ongoing goal of Saint Mary’s Regional Health System. As our region grows, and many individuals and families gain access to coverage, Saint Mary’s is well positioned to provide enhanced access to some of the best diagnostic and treatment technologies as well as more physicians in more specialties,” said Mike McCoy, Interim Chief Executive Officer. “We are committed to meeting the growing medical needs of the communities we serve

well into the future.”

Recognized for quality and safety

The hospital’s dedication to patient safety is evidenced by consistently being recognized by state and national organizations. The Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care recently recognized Saint Mary’s for excellence in healthcare. The hospital recently earned a Hospital CAUTI Reduction Award from the AFMC annual Quality Awards program. Saint Mary’s is the only hospital in the state to be quoted in the Joint Commission’s Implementation Guide for Reduction of Surgical Site Infections, and is one of 17 hospitals in the U.S. to be highlighted for “best practice.”

Kirkland Family Medical Center Pictured from left to right: Dr. Thomas Werner, Kendall Werner, Alej Mendez, Deeneen Mendez, Allison Wood

The Foot Health Clinic provides medical care of the foot with emphasis on conservative and biomechanical treatment of medical related foot problems. Dr. Thomas G. Werner opened the Foot Health Clinic in 1979. He has practiced here continuously for 35 years. His services also extend to Johnson County as he travels to Johnson Regional Medical Center to see patients twice a month.

Allan Kirkland, MD Sam Hernandez, APN Stacy Greer, APN

Dr. Werner performs “at risk care” for diabetic and peripheral vascular disease foot related illnesses. Surgery is recommended and utilized on patients in need, but every effort will be made to treat patients conservatively. If you or anyone you know has these or other foot related conditions, call the Foot Health Clinic to set up an appointment.

Evaluating feet for qualified diabetic patients through the Medicare therapeutic footwear program.

Clinic Hours Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday - 8:30-5:00 Wednesday 8:30-12:00 479-229-8000 • appointments@kirklandfamilymedical.com

SERVING THE RIVER VALLEY FOR 35 YEARS 2503 W. Main Pl., Russellville • Call to make appointment • 968-1311

NEWTON’S PHARMACY

715 West Main St. Russellville, AR 72801 479-968-1157

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1652 W Hwy 22 • Dardanelle, AR • Free Delivery • Front Door Parking • Convenient Drive-Thru • Medicare Part-D Plan Finder • Free Flavoring of Children’s Medications • Special Packaging of Prescription Medication When Needed • Medication Syncronization (once a month billing & routine medication) • We bill Medicare for diabetic & ostomy supplies • 5 friendly pharmacists to meet your needs

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Johnson County implements eICU technology By Courier staff

CLARKSVILLE — The Johnson Regional Medical Center (JRMC) recently partnered with Baptist Health eICU care to give their patients an additional team of medical specialists. The eICU programs allows phyisicans or nurses at JRMC to instantly connection with the critical care team at Baptist Health in Little Rock. The eICU care team includes physicians and nurses who are specialized in critical care and trained to execute predefined plans or intervene in emergencies when a patient’s attending physician cannot be immediately present. Each critical-care room with eICU technology is equipped with a camera, microphone, and speaker that enable staff in the control center to communicate with caregivers and the patient in real time. The two-way video and “cockpit-like sensorsâ€? of this advanced telemedicine technology enables the eICU care staff to detect even the slightest change in the patient’s condition and communicate more effectively with the bedside team to reduce the time between problem identification and intervention. Terri Stumbaugh, assistant administrator of patient care services at JRMC, said she foresaw no problems with the system. “We anticipate it will be nothing but helpful,â€? she said. The eICU system will work to augment and add

The eICU system will work to augment and add to the services already offered by JRMC, but won’t replace any current staff or services. to the services already offered by JRMC, but won’t replace any current staff or services. Stumbaugh said the eICU technology will help especially during especially busy times and for more complicated cases. Staffed round-theclock, every day of the year, the Baptist Health eICU care command center and its staff helps rural hospitals like Johnson Regional Medical Center provide state-of-the-art intensive care to its sickest patients. Typically, eICU technology is used in emergency departments, surgical ICUs (including kidney transplants), trauma ICUs, cardiac surgery (including heart transplants and artificial hearts), medical ICUs, coronary care units, surgical step-downs, extended care hospitals and progressive care units. Hospitals across the country using eICU technology with critical care specialists have seen reductions in complications, reductions in mortality and better outcomes for patients.

Area Agency on Aging celebrates 40 years For The Courier

The Area Agency on Aging of West Central Arkansas is celebrating its 40th year of existence and continues to help seniors lead independent, meaningful and dignified lives. AAAWCA was established in 1974 by an amendment to The Older Americans Act to “monitor, assess, coordinate and pool� all resources, public and private, which provide services to seniors, the growing population of persons age 60 and older. The agency, along with the seven other similar agencies in the state, was originally part of the Planning and Development Districts in Arkansas. After a few years, however, it was clear that the AAA’s emphasis on social and human services required a different type of administrative style. The General Assembly passed legislation in 1979 making the Area Agencies separate entities, and the law was

AAAWCA was established in 1974 by an amendment to The Older Americans Act to “monitor, assess, coordinate and pool� all resources, public and private, which provide services to seniors, the growing population of persons age 60 and older. signed by then-Gov. Bill Clinton. Over those four decades, the scope of services has increased amid changes in the needs of seniors and the aging population. Today, the emphasis is on ensuring that seniors who wish to remain in their own homes are able to do just that. Through in-home personal care, Senior Companion volunteers and home-delivered meals, the agency delivers its promise to help seniors retain their inde-

pendence. AAAWCA also oversees the local Senior Activity Centers, which are located in Russellville, Dardanelle, Danville and Clarksville. The centers serve to keep seniors active and healthy through daily nutritious meals and activities, such as beanbag baseball, day trips, dances and exercise classes. In addition to in-home care, the agency provides a myriad of services including referrals, case management, family

caregiver assistance and long-term care ombudsmen. As a nonprofit organization, many of the services provided by AAAWCA are free of charge, while others have various income guidelines or other criteria for participation. Private pay arrangements are available for others. Veterans Administration and Family Caregiver Grants may cover all or part of some services. Knowledgeable case managers are always happy to talk to seniors about any needs they may have. AAA has been proudly caring for seniors since 1974. The Russellville office is part of the West Central Arkansas Division, which is managed by the Hot Springs Division office. For additional information, visit www.seniorspecialists.org or call (479) 967-9300. Visit the agency on Facebook at Area Agency on Aging of West Central Arkansas.

Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee â– Todd Sweeden, Chairman, Sweeden Florist â– Trish Henry, Past Chairman, Russellville Steel Co. â– Seth Coulter, Vice Chairman, Coulter Physical Therapy â– Todd Meimerstorf, Treasurer, Centennial Bank â– Tim Douglass, Atlarge Executive Officer, Chick-fil-A of Russellville â– Dr. Stephanie Roth, At-large Executive Officer, River Valley Foot & Ankle Clinic â– Sue Ann Strait, Atlarge Executive Officer, River Valley Realty

Board of Directors â– Adam Anderson, Nationwide Insurance â– Brad Allen, McDonalds â– Dr. Robin E.

Bowen, Arkansas Tech University ■Billy Cockrill, Suddenlink Communications ■Jason Fiori, Walmart ■Bryan Fisher, Arkansas Tech University ■Mike McCoy, Saint Mary’s Regional Health System ■Lee Ann Hartley, Lee Ann’s Fine Jewelry ■Paul Horney, Innovation Industries, Inc. ■Kathryn Kastner, Simmons First Bank ■Kylia Lee, Centennial Bank ■Bryce Mobley, Sawyer’s Corner ■Gina Pack, River Town Bank ■Gordon Shirron, Frank Griffin Oil ■Aaron Watson, Farm Credit Services ■Randall Williams, Russellville School District ■Dusti Yarber, La Quinta Inn and Suites

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Christy Renfroe, Executive Director

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311 East 3rd Street • Russellville www.choicesprc.org

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Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014

Health Department Hospice expands to add new physicians For The Courier

The Department of Health Hospice continues to educate the public of the benefits of hospice and meet the needs of the terminally ill. Holly Foster, RN hospice specialist, said the state hospice agency supports the belief that each life is special. Hospice is designed to help patients and family members by providing pain and symptom management and to educate the family in the death and dying process. Hospice provides services in patients’ homes or nursing homes. The hospice staff provides help to the patients through the changes and

adjustments those with terminal illnesses face, and they continue to provide support to family members after the death of a loved one. In the past year, the days of service hospice has provided to terminally ill patients has increased, according to Foster. In January, Dr. Mike Hendren, Dr. Lydia Trauth and Dr. Kyle Trauth joined the Arkansas Department of Health as new medical directors. Dr. Jack Patterson has also been with the agency for the last six years. “Our program could not function without the support of a large group of in-home services —

Dr. Lori Boyd Canfield Dr. Amy J.S. Daiber Optometric Physicians

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RNs, LPNs, social workers and nursing aides who support the hospice team. The hospice volunteers and hospice chaplains also are a tremendous asset to our patients and staff,� Foster added. The Department of Health Hospice is a nonprofit agency, governed by the State Board of Health. We are here to help all Arkansans, and our staff is dedicated to providing the residents in their community’s local staff to provide care. The Arkansas Department of Health Hospice Regional Office is located at 404 N. El Paso Ave. in Russellville. Call (479) 968-4177.

The Russellville and Dardanelle clinics offer prescription and non-prescription sunglasses, safety & fashion eyewear including: Coach, Nike, Flexon, Wiley X, Guess, Harley Davidson, Candies, Skechers, Rampage, Michael Kors, & Jalapenos.

• Glaucoma, Cataract, & Eye Health Management • Contact Lense Specialty, Pediatric Care, Sports Vision

204 N. Front St. Dardanelle

317 E. Parkway Russellville

479-229-1467

479-967-6113

Help Network flourishes under new leadership staff made sacrifices to get costs down. “We did have to cut payroll,� Seay said. “There were only two of us on staff in 2010. Our administrative assistant was made a part-time position, and I took a pay cut. In 2012, we made our administrative assistant a full-time position again, but because we had increased our level of assistance, our operating percentage was still lower than it was in 2009.� Help Network provided $59,000 in financial assistance in 2010 and more than $208,000 in 2013, with the help of the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG). “We initially received the Emergency Solutions Grant — a homeless assistance program — in July 2012, but we weren’t able to implement it until December 2012,� Seay said.

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON When Ed Seay took over as Help Network’s executive director in late 2009, the organization was close to shutting its doors. “In 2010, we were forced to cut costs in order to continue operating,� Seay said. Help Network provided $56,000 in financial assistance to clients in 2009, and its operating costs made up 47 percent of its budget. Under Seay’s direction, the organization cut operating costs to 33 percent of the budget in 2010 and to less than 25 percent in 2013. Seay cut printing costs by electronically submitting commitments rather than by mail or fax and cut down office supply costs by more than $2,000 from 2009 to 2010. The

The Help Network will reapply for the grant each year, but there is no guarantee of continued funding, he said. As Help Network’s funding increases, so can its operating costs. “Today, our goal is to only raise operating cost in proportion to the level that we raise our program costs,� Seay said. “We occasionally feel overwhelmed because we have chosen to keep our operating costs low, but our goal is to benefit our neighbors who are facing a crisis, and we want to be able to help them as much as we can.� The Help Network serves Pope, Johnson, Conway, Yell, Perry and Logan counties by providing assistance with utilities, rent, prescriptions and more. Visit www.helpnetworkinc.net for details.

Company donates $15,000 for track mile, is located behind the playground. Chandler began discussing the possibility of adding a walking track in fall 2013 with the Center Valley Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). Several PTO members began looking for a way to make the possibility a reality. They contacted Beacon Tire and the company volunteered to make the donation. “We want to give Beacon Tire a big ‘Thank you’ from all of the students at Center Valley,� Chandler said. “We are so grateful for their support.�

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON Beacon Tire Company in Russellville donated $15,000 to Center Valley Elementary School for a new walking track at the school in October. “I believe this will be an asset to the whole community,� Principal Tami Chandler said. “It will not only help with promoting our ‘Center Valley Cruzers’ walking club at school, as part of our fitness program, but will also be a place families can come after school together� The track, which is approximately a quarter

A.J. Burk, Beacon Tire Company owner, said he was happy to help when the PTO member approached him. “Her husband works at Beacon,� he said. “I knew it would be a long process to raise that much money. I checked the advertising money to see if we could help them out and get it built. Cooper Tire helped with the advertising funds, allowing us to make the full donation.� Burk and Beacon Tire representative Tim Crowder presented the check to the students at an Oct. 10 assembly.

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Saint Mary’s newest cath lab, part of our $5.1 million cardiac care capital investment.

We hope you never experience issues with your heart or vascular system. But if you do, you’ll thank us for the life-saving and limb-saving investments we’ve made on your behalf.

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aggressively recruited an impressive team of leading board-certified cardiologists who bring an exceptional depth of experience and unsurpassed dedication to your good health. Cardiologists Drs. Sastry Prayaga, Ahmed Athar, Dai-Yuan Wang and Shuja Rasool collaborate daily to make the Arkansas River Valley a heart-healthier place.

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We’ve invested in the right technology. Saint Mary’s boasts a new 128-slice CT scanner and two state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization labs where we provide advanced cardiac and vascular care. Whether you are here for a scheduled procedure, or experience a sudden life-threatening event requiring imminent intervention, we are ready to care for you. No one in the region

puts more into caring for your heart.

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TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH ONE OF OUR CARDIOLOGISTS, CALL CARDIOLOGY ASSOCIATES OF NORTH CENTRAL ARKANSAS:

479.968.4311

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RPD inaugural Bike Blast a success By Courier staff

The Russellville Police Department (RPD) hosted the inaugural Bike Blast on April 12 at the Train Depot in Russellville. The Bike Blast — a bike safety event — was free and open to public. RPD handed out nearly 200 free Schwinn bike helmets to the children and youth bike riders along with maps that highlight bike lanes throughout the city and free reflectors. RPD had a drawing for a $300 gift

RPD handed out nearly 200 free Schwinn bike helmets to the children and youth bike riders along with maps that highlight bike lanes throughout the city and free reflectors. RPD had a drawing for a $300 gift card to Carr’s Chain Reaction for one child, aged 4-13, to purchase a bike of his or her choice. card to Carr’s Chain Reaction for one child, aged 4-13, to purchase a bike of his or her choice. The Bike Blast had four obstacle courses set up and led by RPD bike officers. “[Attendees] learned

proper techniques and the proper signs to be safe on the roadways,” RPD Public Information Officer Drew Latch said. “We wanted to provide safety tips as they start to share the road. It’s really good to have the knowl-

edge when you have bike lanes.” Latch said the event was made possible by a $5,700 Local Law Enforcement Block Grant, the RPD and community sponsors Carr’s Chain Reaction, Wal-Mart, Arch

Ford Education Co-op, the Arkansas Department of Health and the River Valley Prevention Coalition. “The Bike Blast event was a huge success. Thanks to the community for coming out and show-

ing strong interest in bike safety,” Latch said after the event. “I would like to send a special thanks to the River Valley Prevention Coalition, River Valley Bike Polo Team, Arkansas Department of Health, Russellville Fire Department, City of Russellville, Pope County EMS, Arch Ford Education Coop., Carr’s Chain Reaction, Walmart, and LLEBG Grant. Without the support of all of these individuals and several more, this would have not been possible.”

Dardanelle continues improvements to better serve citizens For The Courier

DARDANELLE — The city of Dardanelle is continuing its efforts to improve services to its citizens. The city’s departments — Water, Sewer, Fire, Police, Street and Refuse — are all continuously looking at ways to make improvements to better serve the citizens of Dardanelle. In 2014, the Water Department installed a 12-inch water main on Pecan Street from North 3rd Street to the Tyson Processing Plant. This was done to improve the pressure and flow to the processing plant to meet the water demand, both present and future. The Water Department will also continue its work to replace some of the aging water mains throughout the city.

The city’s departments — Water, Sewer, Fire, Police, Street and Refuse — are all continuously looking at ways to make improvements to better serve the citizens of Dardanelle. Softball complex construction at Merritt Park was completed in June. This was funded in part from a grant with the Outdoor Recreation Grants Program through Arkansas Parks & Tourism.

The Street Department has applied for a grant to aid in the resurfacing of streets that were damaged during the installation of the drainage system in the area of the Intermediate School, (formally Primary) located at North 4th and West Streets. The department also plans to apply for a grant from the Arkansas Highway Department in its next grant cycle in order to complete the next phase of the Front Street Enhancement Project. During 2014, the city of Dardanelle made efforts to meet the needs of the Dardanelle Police Department. They have maintained a fleet of vehicles that are safe and reliable. This is important to the city and the public. Because of this, a new Chevrolet Tahoe was added to

the police department’s fleet. In 2014, the Dardanelle Police Department

was equipped with stateof-the-art audio/visual equipment. This equipment will serve as a useful

tool to the officers as they are performing their duties, as well as protecting the public.

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OPHTHALMOLOGY (Eye M.D.s) The Eye Care Specialists Dr. Murphy uses the newest high-tech cataract surgery implants available.

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it’s like having a single prescription - instead of 10

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Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014

The Courier

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Opening the doors for more complete care By Courier staff

The new Millard-Henry Clinic celebrated opening its doors in March. A brand new, multi-million dollar facility, it is home to 28 clinical practices and is one of Arkansas’ largest clinics, both in terms of staff and facility size. During the groundbreaking ceremony in December 2012, Dr. Keith Ison, current president of the Millard-Henry Clinic executive committee, said the new clinic initiative came after an intensive, targeted three-year effort that included input from clinic physicians and corporate leadership. Financed through partner Summit Bank (now Bank of the Ozarks), the year-long project was overseen by Russellvillebased EWI Construction. The project was a clear investment in our region that provided local jobs in tough economic times. The new Millard-Henry Clinic is a three-story, 47,000-square-foot steel structure that features a glass, stucco and brick facade. It sits slightly southeast of the existing 1970 structure and just east of the Millard-Henry Clinic Obstetrics & Gynecology Services. The new building has a large portico specifically designed to make dropoff and pick-up easier for patients. Appointed with large central waiting areas and an elevator for convenience, the stateof-the-art facility houses the clinic’s pediatrics, internal medicine, family practice, orthopedics and general surgery, as well as advanced laboratory and radiology services. Millard-Henry Clinic physicians anticipate that the clinic will enable them to provide more complete care to patients. They see several core components impacted by this healthcare investment in the Arkansas River Valley. “We want to provide state-of-the art medical care — care so complete that you would not have to go anywhere else to get better care in a nicer facility,” said Dr. Vickie Henderson, a gynecologist/obstetrician and past president of the MillardHenry Clinic executive committee.

More physicians “With the new MillardHenry Clinic, we have had aggressive recruiting efforts that have been award-winning. As a result, we have some top-

The new Millard-Henry Clinic is a three-story, 47,000-squarefoot steel structure that features a glass, stucco and brick facade. It sits slightly southeast of the existing 1970 structure and just east of the Millard-Henry Clinic Obstetrics & Gynecology Services. notch new primary care physicians. This effort will promote wellness in our community as well as allow us to provide more care for patients when

they are sick,” Henderson said. “I think Millard Henry Clinic is unique — one building holding many doctors who treat all

stages of life. With this new building, we’re able to expand and add two new physicians to our pediatric group. It just provides comprehensive care for the whole family,” Dr. Christina Bartlett, pediatrician, said.

More service and convenience Efficient design, including the wise use of technology and improved workflow, was critical to the facility’s new design. Every aspect of location, from the cashier’s office to departmental place-

ment, is designed around the primary goals of enhancing the patient’s healthcare experience and the physician’s ability to provide even greater care. “With larger elevators, bigger waiting rooms ... I think it’s going to be more convenient for the patient and the patient’s family. It will mean greater comfort and just a better overall experience,” Dr. Robin Kirby, pediatrician, said. Another pediatrician, Dr. Rick Harrison, concurred. “Having this new facility allows us to have on-

the-spot consults with some of our partners. It’ll make it easier for the patients and it’ll really bring cohesiveness to our department.” Because the surgery department (previously housed with MillardHenry Clinic Gynecology and Obstetrics Services) relocated to the new building, Millard-Henry’s women’s services benefit as well. “The new Millard Henry Clinic facility is significantly larger than our prior facility. Our Ob-Gyn clinic is now exclusively devoted to women’s healthcare, which I think will make our patients very comfortable when they come for their visits,” Dr. David Nelson, gynecologist/obstetrician, said. “The additional space in the new Millard-Henry Clinic provides greater access for care across the region,” Tim Whetstine, executive director of clinical operations, said. “We have more providers, more availability to see our patients each and every day. We are very pleased that this new facility, with all its innovations, provides something that is much needed at this time.” More physicians, more service, and more convenience are available now at Millard-Henry Clinic. The new clinic is now operational, as all practices have moved into their offices.

The Courier

Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014

www.couriernews.com

7P

Habitat for Humanity works on two houses

BY LAURA BEAN The Habitat for Humanity of Pope County is exceeding its expectations. The organization had the goal of building one house per year, but in June, the construction of two houses were underway. Standing next to the first Habitat for Humanity house, built on the 800 block of 6th Street in Russellville, the framing of the two houses are up and covered with messages from construction workers and volunteers. Becca Anderson and her two daughters, Emma and Emily, were selected for one of the two houses under construction. Anderson moved to Russellville in 2008 and serves as the worship leader at Fellowship of Christians. She has a degree in theology and biblical studies and is employed by the Russellville School District to work with special-needs students. Anderson also gives piano and vocal lessons. Anderson’s house is sponsored by Dow Chemical Company of Russellville. Russellville Site Director at Dow Chemical Company and board member of Habitat for Humanity Bert Fleck said his company is excited to

sponsor another Habitat for Humanity house. “After such a great experience with the first Habitat build in Pope County two years ago, Dow Chemical Russellville is proud to support another build with a $25,000 do-

nation,� Fleck said. “It’s a pleasure for us to not only contribute funds and employee volunteers to help make this project possible but also the products that will reduce energy consumption, helping make this home affordable for

a family in our community.� Stacy Nason, her son Skylar and her mother Sheila Dowdy were selected for the second house under construction. Nason is a single mother raising her 9-year-old son,

who attends Sequoyah Elementary. She has worked at Newton’s Soda Shop for the past seven years. Nason’s house is sponsored by the Williams family. Using a challenge grant, Jane Williams and Anne Rye, daughters of

Martha and Robert Hays Williams, matched funds up to $30,000 for the house. The community raised $30,000 and the sisters donated the money in honor of their parents, who believed the strength of the community could be measured by its weakest link, Habitat for Humanity Public Relations Director Cheryl McCormick said. “Anne and Jane have followed their parents’ example of rolling up their sleeves to serve their communities,� McCormick said. “The two sisters have joined forces not only to raise funds to help a young family purchase a home of their own but to grab a hammer and raise the walls and lay the roof and shingles.� McCormick said the largest portion of the money needed to build the two houses came from community support. “The heart of this community is the reason these local families will realize their American dream of owning a home,� McCormick said. “Too many people to mention continue to pray and to contribute their time, money, labor and resources. Every donation, no matter how small, moves construction one step closer to a finished home.�

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8P • Sunday, Oct. 26 2014

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The Courier

To provide superior healthcare technology in the Arkansas River Valley, Saint Mary’s recently invested $1.2 million in the GE Optima 660 128-Slice Computed Tomography (CT) scanner.

BRINGING REVOLUTIONARY NON-INVASIVE CARE TO THE RIVER VALLEY Revolutionary care means maximum clarity with minimized exposure to radiation. Saint Mary’s is the first hospital in the region to use the powerful new GE Optima CT660 128-Slice Computed Tomography (CT) scanner. This state-of-the-art technology can scan the entire body in mere seconds – far faster than a conventional CT scanner. For patients requiring cardiac, brain or peripheral vascular examinations, the 128-slice CT provides increased speed, reduced radiation dosage, detailed diagnostic information, and greater convenience. It also helps maximize patient comfort.

Revolutionary care means incredibly sharp MRI images. Saint Mary’s once again leads the way with the newest MRI technology featuring innovative software technologies that provide uncompromised image quality with an expansive 50cm field of view. This technology’s bore diameter and field of view make MRI scans accessible to larger patients who need them. The GE Optima MR450w scanner also continues our emphasis on patient comfort. Cutting-edge technologies and wide-bore design allow the patient to experience less anxiety and motion.

In our commitment to providing quality care for the Arkansas River Valley, Saint Mary’s is at the forefront of bringing advanced, revolutionary technology to the region.

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The Courier

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Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014

9P

Conway Regional achieves Governor’s top award for quality “It’s not given every year. This is a rigorous process. To achieve this is pretty monumental. This is a tribute to everyone in the organization. It’s the process that’s really important.” Governor Mike Beebe Submitted by Conway Regional

Gov. Mike Beebe presented the 2014 Governor’s Award for Performance Excellence to Conway Regional Health System during the 20th annual Awards Celebration for the Governor’s Quality Award in September. Conway Regional was the only healthcare organization achieving the Governor’s Award, which is the highest award bestowed by the quality awards program. Conway Regional is also the first organization from its surrounding five-county market area (Faulkner, Perry, Van Buren, Cleburne and Conway counties) to achieve this prestigious award. Beebe continued the celebration on the Conway Regional campus later in the week, recognizing the health system’s leadership and staff. He said, “It’s not given every year. This is a rigorous process. To achieve this is pretty monumental. This is a tribute to everyone in the organization. It’s the process that’s really important.” Conway Regional President and CEO Jim Lambert said the orga-

nization started working two years ago toward improving various aspects of its business in an effort to earn the performance excellence award. In the process, the staff decreased the number of patient urinary tract infections and early elective deliveries and increased the number of new mothers who are breastfeeding. The medical center also saw improvements in its employee engagement and satisfaction as well as health gains among employees, and improved overall physician satisfaction, he said. “The journey itself has been the greatest benefit of this award process for us as an organization,” Lambert said. “I want to express my deepest gratitude to the physicians, employees and volunteers who are the heart and soul of our health system. This tremendous achievement would not be possible without their dedication to quality.” The goal of the Governor’s Quality Award Program is to encourage Arkansas organizations to engage in continuous quality improvement, which leads to performance excellence, and to

provide significant recognition to those organizations. Conway Regional Health System provides complete, compassionate health care services to the growing communities of north Central Arkansas. The 154-bed, notfor-profit medical center serves patients with comprehensive care including the state’s top rated cardiovascular surgery program, as well as cancer diagnosis and treatment, women’s services, and rehabilitation therapy services. Additional components of the Conway Regional Health System include an all-digital outpatient imaging center, an outpatient surgery center, a free-standing rehabilitation hospital, several primary care clinics and one of the largest hospital-owned fitness centers in the nation. For more information about Conway Regional Health System visit www. conwayregional.org or follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/conwayregional or Tweet to @ConwayRegional.

Conway Regional President and CEO Jim Lambert (center) accepts the Governor’s Award for Performance Excellence from Gov. Mike Beebe and Dr. Mark Enderle.

Where is the state’s #1 ranked hospital for cardiac surgery?

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*2012-2013 Analyses by Healthgrades® **Based on independent research conducted by CareChex®

Exceeding your expectations.

10P

Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014

The Courier

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Senior activity center gets wellness designation By Courier staff

The Pope County Senior Activity Center received a new designation in November 2013 as a wellness center. Beverly Dunlap, program coordinator with the Department of Human Services Division of Aging and Adult Services, said the wellness designation is given to centers focusing on a holistic approach and trying to address the whole person. She said out of 190 senior centers statewide, the Pope County center is one of only 16 taking this type of approach to wellness. “We are very proud to announce that the Pope

“As the first Baby Boomers began entering their 60s in 2009 and the number of those entering their 60s continues to increase, we need to do all we can to create wellness circles within our centers. We need to provide for all the dimensions of wellness and to draw in the younger and more active members of our older adult population. Our goal is to keep people as healthy and active for as long as possible.” Davis Gateley PCSWAC site coordinator County Senior Activity Center is now number 16, has been issued a certificate and we are now officially the Pope County Senior Wellness and Activity Center (PCSWAC),” Davis Gateley, PCSWAC site coordinator, said. “We are extremely proud

to be offering many varied programs to enhance the quality of life of those we serve.” Dunlap said there are seven dimensions of wellness: intellectual, vocational, environmental, spiritual, emotional, social and physical. Many

programs can combine elements from more than one dimension of wellness. Travel can combine the social and intellectual dimension and gardening can combine the social, physical and spiritual dimensions. “We know that these di-

mensions fit together like a jigsaw puzzle,” Dunlap said. “If one piece is missing, the puzzle is not whole.” Once a center has been given an assessment by the Division of Aging and Adult Services and it has been determined the cen-

ter provides the seven dimensions of wellness, then the center is issued a certificate of that determination. “As the first Baby Boomers began entering their 60s in 2009 and the number of those entering their 60s continues to increase, we need to do all we can to create wellness circles within our centers,” Gateley said. “We need to provide for all the dimensions of wellness and to draw in the younger and more active members of our older adult population. Our goal is to keep people as healthy and active for as long as possible.”

Russellville airport grant offer accepted Russ Bus continues

BY SEAN INGRAM The Russellville Regional Airport Commission learned during its regular meeting on Aug. 27 that the PAPI and REIL lighting system grant offer was received, processed and accepted. Engineer Bob Chatman explained that Rick McGinty Co. of Greenbrier submitted the low bid of $98,160 to install new runway end identifier lights (REIL) and precision ap-

The 90/10 grant — paid for 90 percent by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and 10 percent by the Arkansas Department of Aeronautics (ADA) — was approved by the Russellville City Council and cost the city absolutely nothing. proach path indicator (PAPI) systems. Chatman

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said a preconstruction conference with the contractor will be scheduled, and the contract must be signed by Mayor Bill Eaton. He estimated eight weeks for the contractor to get the equipment. The 90/10 grant —paid for 90 percent by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and 10 percent by the Arkansas Department of Aeronautics (ADA) — was approved by the Russellville City Council and cost the city absolutely nothing, airport commissioners emphasized. The FAA’s portion totaled $217,840, while the grant total appropriation was $242,045.

Background The runway approach lighting improvements, part of the airport’s master plan for 2014, consist of a glide slope guidance system for the east end of the runway (Runway 25) and a runway end identifier light system for the west end of the runway (Runway 7). The PAPI system consists of four lights that turn progressively from white to red as seen by the pilot from a too-high to a too-low position. A pilot on a correct glide slope sees two red and two white lights. More white lights appear when they are too high, and all red lights indicate a pilot is too low. The last light must turn red with at least one degree clearance above the highest obstacle within 10 degrees either side of the runway centerline. A REIL system increases the probability that pilots will be able to spot the runway when breaking out of the clouds after an instrument approach in low-visibility weather.

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■ President — Danny Bunting (Bunting Electric) ■ 1st Vice President — Tanya Hendrix (Johnston Trucking) ■ 2nd Vice President — Celia Velazquez (Tyson) ■ Treasurer — Nancy Moore (Liberty Bank)

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To get involved with The Russ Buss, visit its website at www.therusbus. org.

and often does not discuss Christianity with the homeless, hoping to lead through example. “We don’t discriminate against anyone,” Teague told The Courier. “We’ve dealt with prostitutes and drug dealers. They know that they’re welcome to go to the church. If the door opens, I will share. But if my action don’t bear witness with my Savior, then my words will do no good.” The Russ Buss is part of The One, Inc., a Christian organization that seeks to help the underprivileged. According to its website, the mission of the organization is to seek out the one who is ignored, overlooked and forgotten.

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BY LAURA BEAN The local nonprofit The Russ Bus has aided thousands of homeless get back on their feet in the Arkansas River Valley area in the past year. “We’re this group of people that actively seeks out homeless people so we can take care of them,” Fred Teague, a core member of the nonprofit, told The Courier. In addition to providing the homeless clean clothes and a shower, The Russ Bus takes meals to the homeless once each week. The nonprofit recently handed out 136 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches from Arkansas Tech University’s Which Wich, in addition to raising fund to purchase more tents for the homeless community. The Russ Bus has also started to sell T-Shirts with the slogan “No rules. No apologies. Just help.” The Russ Bus offers help in-discriminatory

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2424 W. Main Russellville, AR 72801 Mon-Fri 8:00-5:00

The Courier

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Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014

11P

RPD adds Interceptors to fleet

BY COURIER STAFF The Russellville Police Department (RPD) enhanced its fleet by adding eight 2014 Ford Interceptor Utility vehicles. According to RPD officials, the decision to move from a Crown Victoria or other sedan to the Interceptor was based on both ergonomics and economics. The Interceptor is designed to be more comfortable for officers as they will spend much of their 12-hour shifts in the vehicle. “We want to make sure that’s as comfortable as can be for them,” RPD Capt. Jarrod Smith said. The units also offer hands-free Bluetooth operation of the officers’ cell phones and integration of the police mobile radio’s functions into the steering wheel of the vehicle. From an economic perspective, the cost of a fully-equipped Interceptor is about $600 more than a Crown Victoria, but it maintains a better resale value and has better gas mileage —even while offering more horsepower — than the Crown Victoria. The Interceptor also has a better turning radius, an extra inch of ground clearance and more cargo space than the sedan. RPD maintains a fiveyear replacement program for its vehicles, and the new Interceptors are

being incorporated into the fleet as part of the program. The department anticipates incorporating more of the SUVs into its fleet as more of the older cars are retired. Four of the eight Interceptors have already been equipped and will be out

on the streets after officers go through a “driving school” to become comfortable with the new vehicles. “No officer is going to drive these on the street until they have been through that training,” Smith said.

From an economic perspective, the cost of a fullyequipped Interceptor is about $600 more than a Crown Victoria, but it maintains a better resale value and has better gas mileage —even while offering more horsepower — than the Crown Victoria.

Dardanelle doubles officers, chooses county over city

Centennial Bank donates property to school

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON DARDANELLE — The Dardanelle Board of Education approved adding seven years to its contract with Centennial Bank, extending it to 2024, in return for the bank donating property at 102 S. Front St. to the district during a special meeting Aug. 1. The contract wasn’t scheduled to expire for three years. “We were elated about the donation,” Superintendent John Thompson said after the meeting, adding the property’s value is assessed at more than $430,000. The official transfer

The official transfer was completed in early September. The property, which was a Centennial Bank branch, closed in August. was completed in early September. The property, which was a Centennial Bank branch, closed in August. Thompson said the district plans to convert the property to administration offices, leaving the current offices open to several possibilities. “It can be used as the IT department, freeing up two classrooms,” Thompson said. “Or, it

could be converted to special-needs classrooms or preschool. There are some options.” The first floor of the donated property “requires little adaptions,” Thompson said, which means the district could start the process shortly after the transfer. “We’re making plans,” Thompson said. “We want to get in as soon as we can, but it will be a

process.” He said the office is expecting a little downtime and “growing pains because of technology” during the move. The property’s second floor hasn’t been used in more than a decade. Thompson said the area “definitely needs some attention.” “It’s an older building,” he said. “Hopefully, we can keep breathing life into it. I feel like it’s going to take care of us.” Extending the contract and accepting the donation, which were the only agenda items, were approved 4-0. Vice President Jerry Don Woods was absent.

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON DARDANELLE — Instead of one school resource officer (SRO) from the Dardanelle Police Department, the district was provided two from the Yell County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) for the 2014-15 school year. The Dardanelle Board of Education approved terminating its contract with the city in favor of partnering with the county for the 2014-15 school year during its meeting in July. The district will pay the officers’ salaries — no more than $42,445 each per year — for 10 months and the county will pay during the summer when school is out. The maximum the district would be out for the 10 months would be $35,370 for each SRO. “It’s somewhat of a co-op agreement,” Yell County Sheriff Bill Gilkey said. “We provide the officer, the school district provides the funding for it.” Gilkey told the board he would post the jobs immediately, but the selection process can take time. “Not every officer is cut out to be a resource officer,” he said, adding the district could be a part of the interview process. Superintendent John Thompson said the city required a 30-day cancellation notice.

“It’s somewhat of a co-op agreement.” Yell County Sheriff Bill Gilkey

Board President Sherry Hicks said the main reason the district wanted the switch was because the city often had to pull the SRO during the school year. Gilkey assured the board the county wouldn’t do that. “One thing we do, those resource officers that are in those schools, they’re there for that school,” he said. “They’re not a part of our daily officer roster. Their job is to come work at this school every day.” In the event an SRO is used because of a traumatic event after school hours, Gilkey said, YCSO “cuts the officer a check for his time, and he will be back at the school the next day.” Gilkey said the YCSO for 10 years has had an SRO at the Danville School District and last year provided one at the Two Rivers School District. “Never one time have I pulled an officer from the school; there’s no need to,” he reiterated. “Our main goal is to see to it that you get the security you need, get what you pay for.”

Winter Wonderland Christmas lights to shine in downtown Russellville By Courier staff

Residents throughout the River Valley have become accustomed to driving out State Highway 7 North to Pleasant View Park to view the annual Winter Wonderland Christmas lights. This year, the holiday lights will shine in a new place, right in downtown Russellville. Betsy McGuire, ex-

ecutive director of Main Street Russellville, said Christie Graham, director of the Advertising and Promotion Commission, approached her about moving the lights downtown after the announcement was made that they were not going to be at Pleasant View Park any longer. “There was some discussion about moving the

lights downtown,” McGuire said. “She asked if we would be interested, and we decided we would do it. “It’s our first year, and it’s a big challenge,” McGuire said. “We have great people helping us.” McGuire added that the light display will take on a new spin this year. “In past years it has been a drive through

display only, but this year it’s going to be a drive through and walk through,” McGuire said. “We want people to stroll through downtown and see the lights. It changes to the whole atmosphere of a holiday light display.” The light display will open each night at dark from Nov. 29 to Jan. 6. “It’s going to be open every night of the week,

not just weekends,” McGuire said. “It’s going to be a full holiday experience.” McGuire noted that finding room to insert all of the displays has presented a challenge. “We are going to put the large pieces in public places,” McGuire said. “We want to engage the public to go through all of downtown, not just one

part.” McGuire added that she feels the light display is a way for Main Street Russellville to give back to the community. “This is a really big endeavor,” McGuire said. “We want the community as a whole to be proud of it. We are doing our part to improve the quality of life we all want in our community.”

12P • Sunday, Oct. 26 2014

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Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014

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13P

Zarepour joins Sherwood Urgent Care WYC school district survives fiscal distress

By Courier staff

Sherwood Urgent Care, an affiliate of Urgent Team, announced Roya Zarepour, APRN, has joined its Russellville center. “We are excited to have Roya join the Sherwood Urgent Care family,” said Dr. Chad Sherwood, Chief Medical Officer for Sherwood Urgent Care. “She has over 20 years experience in nursing, and her knowledge will be a great asset to our Russellville Team.” Zarepour comes to Sherwood Urgent Care from Onsight Senior Care where she served as a nurse practitioner for two years. She has made geriatric care a main focus throughout her career, but also has experience with adult and pediatric care. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway. Zarepour earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Tehran. She is a member of the American Academy of

Nurse Practitioners. Zarepour is licensed in Arkansas as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner and nationally certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She also has prescriptive authority in Arkansas.

“We are excited to have Roya join the Sherwood Urgent Care family. Her knowledge will be a great asset to our Russellville Team.” Dr. Chad Sherwood Chief Medical Officer for Sherwood Urgent Care

Its chances of surviving seemed bleak last year.

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON HAVANA — The Western Yell County (WYC) School District was removed from the fiscal distress list in July after being on it for two years. The district was added to the list in April 2012 due to a loss in assessed value and a drop in enrollment. Its chances of surviving seemed bleak last year. Bradley Spikes, thensuperintendent, told The Courier in February 2013, the school board and administration had conversations about possible annexation with the Dardanelle, Magazine and Paris school districts. Spikes retired in July 2013, and Leona Cleveland took his post. If a school district is unable to overcome its financial woes and be removed from the fiscal distress list within two years, the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) will consolidate, annex or reconstitute it — a fate WYC narrowly avoided.

In compliance with state law, an ADE representative certified the district had corrected all criteria that landed it on the fiscal distress list before it was removed. Cleveland told The Courier in February that after months of working closely with ADE, she was hopeful the district would be removed from the list. “We’re at a standstill,” she said. “Every time the phone rings, we hope it’s them.” Cleveland resigned as superintendent effective in early July. Joe Staton, who replaced her, was a teacher at Magazine for 10 years and a WYC principal for one year. He said he looks forward to leading the district. “I’m excited to be here and have this opportunity,” Staton said.

anticipated aquatic center to be located on N. Phoenix. The renewal of the city sales tax will also provide funds for a much needed new Central Fire Station. The facility will be built on half a city block at West B and North El Paso. Fire Chief John Cochran recently said that he is preparing to put out an announcement for qualified architectural firms so that the design phase of this project can get underway. A new Central Fire Station will allow the department to function more effectively

by adding more training and classroom facilities, more office space, better storage areas for equipment, and more adequate living quarters for on-duty personnel. The long proposed and anticipated Convention Center has finally reached the initial design stage as a result of an agreement signed between the city and Hunt Properties LLC of Tennessee. There will be three stages including a high end, full service hotel, convention center facility, retail area and ultimately an additional hotel.

City of Russellville For The Courier

Most citizens are mentioning the progress they see in Russellville. The city is striving for more than basic change. Emulating those cities which are noted for providing great quality of life for their residents is part of the plans that have been initiated. A large number of the things included here are the result of individuals, businesses and corporations having seen potential and opportunities within our borders. Some are even the result of empowered employees with initiative. The City continues a “Wellness Works Program” involving employees to improve their health and well being. We along with the National League of Cities offer all citizens a free prescription drug discount card accepted by all Russellville pharmacies. The average savings to participants is about 23%. The city continues to reinforce healthy lifestyles by expanding our trail system and adding to the Parks system, the most recent being Depot Park. The city is partnering with the Corps of Engineers to develop a veteran’s memorial park along the east end of Bona Dea Trails. We have just been awarded a Community Development Block Grant to include a section of trail between the ATU campus and the area where the new aquatic center will be constructed on N. Phoenix and extended to Bona Dea relative to the

City’s Trail Master A sign of an improving economy and its effect on our city is the continued growth in the number of commercial building permits issued this year, to date at 88, and 145 residential building permits have been issued. The total estimated cost of construction for these commercial and residential permits is $2,896,498. Something significant about the new housing developments is the method of home construction. They are extremely energy efficient as a result of new adopted IECC Codes (International Energy Conservation Code for Residential and Commercial). The owners will be extremely pleased with their utility bills. If someone does not regularly use Russellville’s airport they are unaware of the many improvements recently made and of life extension work on the runway to be completed this year. Last year we received a grant to install a selfservice aviation gasoline fueling facility. That project has been completed and is providing an extremely functional service to the customers of the Russellville Airport. Probably most obvious to citizens and visitors alike are the many street improvement projects completed in the last year and currently under construction. Construction on North Phoenix, including the railroad overpass has been completed. This “complete street”

project included bicycle/ pedestrian lanes, beautiful landscaping and period lighting for added safety. The railroad overpass now provides easier access to emergency medical facilities and will allow our emergency services to respond much quicker when needed. This street will see a great deal of use in the future once construction of the aquatic center is completed on the N. Phoenix Site. From the standpoint of sustainability, vital to the well being of all towns and cities, revitalization is key to continued growth and maintaining healthy neighborhoods. The H Street and Parker Road project, a signature neighborhood revitalization project converting two aging streets with various construction styles into a “complete street” has been completed and should help bring new life to an older neighborhood. North El Paso is getting the same “town to gown” makeover between historic downtown and a thriving Arkansas Tech University campus and is almost complete. We cannot over emphasize the importance of Tech to Russellville. Underscoring public safety and security is paramount for some. Last year the City Council approved a new radio dispatch system which has been installed and includes all city departments. This system is providing much needed inter-agency

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communications with state and Department of Emergency Management offices. The new system also provides coverage in areas of the city where communication was previously impossible. That department continues to increase public awareness and citizen support through conduct of the Citizen’s Police Academy, the latest class began on September 30th. Our citizens have recognized the value of the penny and as a result of the renewed city sales tax, we are preparing to break ground on the long

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Bulb-outs, brick crosswalks — added features downtown BY JEANETTE ANDERTON Repairs to the downtown crosswalks, unveiled at the end of March, seem to have done the trick. Former Public Works Director Michael Oakes said in August that he was pleased with the crosswalk repairs and with the bulb-outs. “Everything went according to plan and they seem to be performing very well, as anticipated,” he said. “Everything

“Everything went according to plan and they seem to be performing very well, as anticipated. Everything looks great, with a lot of flowers blooming and with the banners. People keep telling us how much they like them.” Michael Oakes Former Public Works Director looks great, with a lot of flowers blooming and with the banners. People keep telling us how much they like them.” He added there are some holdouts. “Some people don’t like

them in general because they don’t understand the traffic-calming affect and they’re afraid they will hit them [bulbouts],” he said. “We get a few calls with concerns, but many more say they like them.”

If there were going to be problems with the repaired crosswalks, Oakes said, he would expect to have seen indicators by now. Shortly after the crosswalks were initially completed, bricks began

to sink, causing them to fail. In March, the Russellville City Council appropriated $42,000 for repairs that were completed March 29. Repairs included replacing con-

crete and rock aggregate with reinforced concrete. City officials said poor soil was the reason the crosswalks failed. Oakes said he doesn’t have an exact timeline for the next step of the project because it’s up to the state highway department. “Sometime soon the state’s coming to put in new asphalt and restripe everything, which will add to the beauty and to the smoothness of the ride.”

First Free Will Baptist changes name to Connect Church

BY PASTOR BLAINE ROGERS Over the past few years, God has continued to do miraculous things through His people and His church. At First Free Will Baptist Church in Russellville, we’ve seen it firsthand! We have been asking Him for continued clarity of His perfect will for us. Fortunately, He has been doing that. He has revealed to us a Master’s Plan that He wants us to play in the Arkansas River Valley and around the world (to our neighbors and nations). We’ve grown much simpler and more effective and more intentional. Our mission (mandate) is to Help People Find and Follow Jesus. Regardless of where you are in your process of faith, we want to be a resource and help you take your next step — then your next. From doubts about God to increasing your faith; we want to help. There is room for you here. However, at times, churches have been guilty of asking the question, “What advances our/my kingdom?” Instead, we are asking, “What advances His Kingdom?” and “What obstacles are we creating/perpetuating which may keep people from a relevant relationship with Jesus?” We must be obedient to the answers that come from those questions. We have recognized one of the hindrances we consistently deal with is our name: First Free Will Baptist Church. We love our name — we know what it means. We know

who we are. We know where we came from. We know what we believe and why. However, as God has taught us, we do not exist for ourselves, but for our community whom we have discovered often struggle with questions of faith. We have always been an outward thinking congregation. Therefore, we are always ready to do what is needed for those outside of Christianity. A church name ought to point people in the direction of Jesus, reflect congregational charac-

ter and/or provide some sense of meaning as to why a church exists. We have found that ours may not be doing that. Our name does create curiosity, which is good, but it does not elicit the right kind. We want our name to provoke thoughtful conversation about why we exist. We want people to be curious about Jesus, hope, truth and eternity. “What is a Free Will Baptist?” Well, rather than explain to you what Free Will Baptists are (which is a wonderful story, however each Free Will Bap-

tist church is as unique as its local body) we would rather begin the conversation talking about our Savior and Lord. It is He we want you to know; it is He that changes lives! Because we desire to please God and because He has shown us how, both by His Spirit and His Word, we have elected to change our rich, proven, reputable, respected name from First Free Will Baptist Church to Connect Church. You will continue to hear about many miraculous things God is doing in our city and around the

world through Connect Church. We want you to know that it is the same church in many ways; we still stand upon the authority of Christ and His Word (and always will). We are still a Free Will Baptist Fellowship. We just want the initial conversation to be about Jesus and we are more intentional about being and making a difference and partnering with His transforming power. Instead of knowing where we have come from; we want our city to know where we are going, Connected to His Kingdom.

Who are we? Connected to Christ (the Great Commandment); What do we do? Connect with each other (the Great Commission). So, if you are looking for a connection to God, a connection to truth, a connection to life‚Äôs purposes and a connection to God’s will ... CONNECT CHURCH! We’ll see you soon! Blaine Rogers is the Lead Pastor of Connect Church, located at 1103 E. L St. in Russellville, www.myconnectchurch. cc blaine@myconnectchurch.cc

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Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014

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Pope County Library System continues to grow, improve services brary partners as well as a daily courier delivery, reference support, youth services support, and outreach.

For The Courier

Changes this year in the library system Pope County Library System (PCLS) Director Shawn Pierce, and the staff of PCLS have spent 2014 writing plans to carry out recommendations from the 2013 Master Plan while waiting for the non-profit status of the Pope County Library System Foundation (PCLSF) to be approved. The PCLSF was declared tax exempt on Dec. 17, 2013, and received its non-profit status Sept. 4, 2014.

History

Plans of services & building

PCLS kicked off the plans with a Public Services Survey, which gave recommendations for the County Libraries plan of public services. The Public Survey was about PCLS’ services, how the system is doing, or what services the public would like to see offered. Results from that survey were turned into a Plan of Public Service. Service recommendations from the Public Services Plan will program the new buildings in the Building Facilities Plan. The Building Facilities Plan is built on services offered and considers many factors: some of them based on services, technology and funds available. The plans build on each other and prepare the system for the next 20 years. PCLS will work on several plans until the end of the year including a: Technology Plan, Advocacy Plan, Marketing Plan and Fundraising Plan.

Mission, logo, tagline January kicked off with a rebranding of the system’s image with a rewrite of the mission

and vision for the library system. Out of that came a logo and a tagline which was a natural progression to freshen up the face of the library system. The logo and tagline will be unveiled on Oct. 16 at Russellville City Hall. The event will kick off with a presentation by local Young Adult author Aaron Slade, and the logo will be unveiled shortly after his presentation.

PCLS Foundation (PCLSF) After receiving the Master Plan recommendations, the Pope County Library Board sought to raise funds to build the libraries that were not millage-based. Pierce recommended the formation of a Library Foundation and started to work on the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws. The PCLSF is a private nonprofit corporation committed to supporting the funding of the Li-

Right now, the Library Foundation is working on Board Development. PCLSF would like to find board directors that have the time and commitment to help expand the library system and its services to the community. brary System that is out of the realm of tax dollar support such as building or renovating library buildings, and supporting library programming endeavors for all ages to increase literacy in Pope County. The support of the Foundation works hand-in-hand with the Pope County Library Millage, but does not replace Pope County’s responsibility for continued funding of the Pope County Library System, and serves as a catalyst for attracting private funding from individuals, businesses, organizations and foundations to enhance library services

for our community. Visit http://popelibrary.org/ foundation/ for more information about the Foundation. Right now, the Library Foundation is working on Board Development. PCLSF would like to find board directors that have the time and commitment to help expand the library system and its services to the community.

Library role in community development The four branches of the Library System are county libraries, which offer services that comple-

ment services offered by the county departments and offices. The County of Pope offers services for the health and safety of the citizens of Pope County. Pope County roads are maintained and updated, and payment of taxes are received. PCLS provides services that are outside of the realm of the Pope County government. The primary purpose of the libraries are to supply access to information and services not provided by the typical county and city services. Library services include, but are not limited to: a collection of materials at its four locations, Interlibrary Loan, Bookmobile, Wi-Fi, eBooks and other resources that promote literacy. The Pope County Library System utilizes county tax funds to its branch libraries to provide library service to all county residents. It also provides central technology support to our li-

The present-day PCLS Headquarter Library is located in Russellville, and has three branches located in Atkins, Dover and Hector. The idea for a city library in Russellville started with a group of civic-minded young men in the Excelsior Club who started raising funds for a library in 1885. From that time, several civic groups including the San Souci Russellville Women‚Äôs Group, Friends of the Library, the Junior Auxiliary, Kiwanis Club, Lion’s Club and the school children pitched in to help build the libraries. The school children donated pennies to buy one of the Russellville Library’s 86,000 bricks. In 1889, Superintendent A.E. Lee donated books to a group of literary-minded women who started a library in Wiggs‚Äô Drug Store. The first home for the library was the City Hall building, and in 1924, a small one-room frame building called the Russ-Ark Library was erected on the vacant lot north of the Central Presbyterian Church. The first brick and mortar building was erected in 1937 at 114 E. Third Street in Russellville, and is now called the Heritage Hall. In 1975, the library system received a Library Services and Construction Act grant to build an 8,100-square-foot building, a $324,000 project that held 12,000 books, but currently houses a rotating collection of 67,447 items. There are 119,323 items in all of the branch libraries collectively.

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History in the making at Arkansas Tech New president, doctoral program, enrollment growth highlight 2014 Submitted by Arkansas Tech University

The year 2014 has been filled with milestone moments that will help shape the future of Arkansas Tech University. From the introduction of a new president to gaining state approval for its first doctoral program to becoming the thirdlargest university in the state, Arkansas Tech has continued the pursuit of its potential in 2014 while maintaining its traditional role as a place of opportunity for its diverse community of learners.

Welcoming Dr. Bowen Dr. Robin E. Bowen, who was unanimously elected as the 12th president of Arkansas Tech by the institution’s Board of Trustees on April 22, 2014, sensed a connection with her new university from the very beginning. “There is genuine commitment to the student here,” said Bowen. “You feel it every place you go. The faculty and staff are really dedicated to making this a good place to work and a good place for students to be. The community — their excitement about the university is contagious. There is just goodness to the individuals here. I look around, and I think, I’m back home. These are people I know and understand, and the place I want to be.‚“ When Bowen took office as president of Arkansas Tech on July 1, 2014, she became the first female president of a public, four-year university in Arkansas. Bowen previously worked at Fitchburg State University (Mass.), where she was hired as vice president for academic affairs in 2011. Her achievements at Fitchburg State included leading a universitywide strategic planning process, increasing financial support for fac-

ulty scholarship, working with department chairs to develop a procedure for data-driven decision making and increasing the diversity of both the faculty and the student body. Bowen also instituted programs that reached out to first-generation college families and increased retention among students with identified socioeconomic barriers to higher education. Her track record in academic innovation at Fitchburg State included facilitating the development of new programs in chemistry and game design. She collaborated with faculty to revamp developmental mathematics on campus and participated in an effort to develop the Common Community Read program to serve both the institution and the surrounding community. Bowen added the titles of executive vice president and provost at Fitchburg State in July 2013. Her additional duties in that role included representing the president in various external and internal activities, participating in local, state and national legislative affairs. Bowen and her husband, Doug, who is an engineer, are parents of three children: son, Brock; and daughters, Alexa and Brynn.

As she begins her presidency, Bowen looks back to the lessons she learned growing up along the Kansas-Missouri border for guidance. “It was very important to my grandpa that he and my daddy have integrity and be honest and fair in all their dealings,” said Bowen. “That’s first and foremost. Accountability, professionalism and collegiality are important values. Equality is very important to me. Diversity is very important to me. Those are things I would like to see on the campus, and not only tolerance, but acceptance and celebration of difference of thoughts and belief systems. In all, what I would really like to

help develop is positive, transformational change for the students, for the faculty and staff and our community to make it an even stronger place for generations to come.”

Doctor of Education degree approved There is a new option in Arkansas for individuals who wish to pursue higher education at the highest level. Arkansas Tech was granted a change in role and scope by the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board on July 25, 2014, a measure that will allow the institution to offer doctoral programs for the first time. “This is an historic mo-

Dr. Robin E. Bowen ment in the life of Arkansas Tech University,” said Dr. John W. Watson, vice president for academic affairs, on the day of the announcement. “The opportunity to offer doctoral programs is a milestone in our continuing efforts to meet the educational needs of our constituents. I offer my appreciation and congratulations to Dr. Mary Gunter, dean of the Graduate College, and her faculty colleagues for their hard work to make

this possible.” The decision by the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board was the culmination of a series of related events that began in July 2010, when the Arkansas Tech Board of Trustees approved a letter of intent notifying the Arkansas Department of Higher Education (ADHE) that the university was developing a Doctor of Education program. One month later, the board approved a letter of intent to ADHE concerning the change in role and scope necessary to allow Arkansas Tech to offer doctoral programs. In November 2010, the Arkansas Tech Board of Trustees approved the program proposal that outlined the Doctor of Education degree as developed by the faculty in the Arkansas Tech Center for Leadership and Learning. The years since have seen a site visit by an outof-state review team in March 2012 and program reviews by the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board, all of

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which led to the decision to grant Arkansas Tech a change in role and scope and permission to begin offering a Doctor of Education degree in school leadership. The program is designed for K-12 education professionals who currently serve or wish to serve in school district leadership positions. The Arkansas Tech Doctor of Education degree in school leadership will build upon the curriculum of the institution’s existing Educational Specialist degree, which consists of 30 hours of coursework beyond the master’s degree level. The first cohort of Doctor of Education degree in school leadership students in Arkansas Tech history is scheduled to begin its studies in summer 2015.

For more information about the forthcoming Arkansas Tech Doctor of Education degree in school leadership, call (479) 498-6022 or send email to cll@atu.edu.

16th consecutive record enrollment Arkansas Tech reported a preliminary 11th day enrollment of 12,003 students for the fall 2014 semester on Friday, Sept. 12. Enrollment at Arkansas Tech has increased 5.6 percent over fall 2013. With the increase, Arkansas Tech has surpassed the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and the University of Central Arkansas to become the third-largest institution of higher learning in the Natural State. Only the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and Arkansas State Uni-

versity have larger enrollments among Arkansas colleges and universities. Enrollment at Arkansas Tech has increased by 183 percent since 1997. This fall marks the 16th consecutive year that Arkansas Tech has established a new institutional record for largest enrollment. The growth in fall 2014 is bolstered by the largest

freshman class in Arkansas Tech history. There are 1,684 incoming freshmen on the main campus of Arkansas Tech in Russellville this fall. The previous record for largest Arkansas Tech main campus freshman class was 1,572 students, which was established in fall 2011. The Arkansas Tech Class of 2018 achieved a

Pope County Library System Bookstore

high school grade point average of 3.24 and an average ACT score of 21.88. This fall marks the 20th consecutive year that the Arkansas Tech freshman class has beaten the national and state averages on the ACT exam. When the first-time students from Arkansas Tech-Ozark Campus are included in the count,

there are 1,951 freshmen enrolled at Arkansas Tech this fall. The enrollment announcement by Arkansas Tech came on the heels of the release of the “Almanac of Higher Education 2014,� by The Chronicle of Higher Education. The almanac reported that Arkansas Tech is among the 10 fastest-growing master’s degree-granting universities in the United States for a second consecutive year. The “Almanac of Higher Education 2014� showed that enrollment at Arkansas Tech increased by 87 percent from 2002-2012, making it the fastestgrowing university in Arkansas for that time frame. Discover Arkansas Tech. Schedule a campus tour by calling (479) 9680343 or (800) 582-6953, or by sending e-mail to tech.enroll@atu.edu

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Russellville approves $12.5 million for gymnasium

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON The Russellville Board of Education approved a contract with Van Horn Construction for a new high school competition gymnasium with a maximum price of $12,560,200 during a called meeting in early April. A groundbreaking ceremony took place at 8 a.m. on April 2. “We plan to be in the facility by late October [2015],� Athletic Director Johnny Johnson said. “Hopefully, in time for the new basketball season.� Johnson said the gym tops the list of needs for the athletic department. The facility will be used regularly for basketball, volleyball and wrestling, as well as hosting premier events such as cheer and band camps. “In the past two years, we’ve been fortunate enough to bring a lot of state events to Russellville,� Johnson said. “This facility should attract even more premier events.�

Russellville School District

The Russellville School District (RSD) believes that students should have the best educational opportunities available to them through a wide variety of learning experiences that inspire their interests and ambitions. RSD exposes students to one of the most challenging, wide-ranging curricula in the state, prepares them to be competitive on the global stage, and allows them to participate in a diverse co-curricular and extracurricular program. At RSD, students get the opportunity to attend a school where the students come first. RSD offers a wide variety of academic opportunities and learning experiences that include innovative science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs, a commitment to the creative arts, preparation for college and career and a well-rounded instructional program in all academic areas. Students can participate in science curriculum beginning in kindergarten, engineering and robotics courses beginning in eighth-grade, the first biomedical program in Arkansas and the sixth such program in the nation, beginning in ninthgrade, and 14 STEM courses. The district offers a Gifted and Talented (GT) program beginning in elementary school, PreAdvanced (Pre-AP) classes in all the core content areas in middle grades and Advanced Placement (AP) classes at the high school. Additionally, the district, in partnership with Arkansas Tech University, has in place a concurrent credit program that allows Russellville High School (RHS) students to earn more than 30 hours of college credit while attending high school. This year, Russellville Junior High School (RJHS) was one of six schools in the state to be named a School of Innovation with the expansion of its STEM program by the Arkansas Department of Education for the next four years. A School of Innovation is a school that participates in a district of innovation to transform and improve teaching and learning through new or creative alternatives to the existing instructional and administrative practices that are intended to improve academic performance. To qualify, RJHS had to develop a School of Innovation plan, obtain

At RSD, students get the opportunity to attend a school where the students come first. necessary exceptions from laws, rules and local policies, and be approved as a district of innovation by the Commissioner of Education. RJHS focused its plan on enhancing the STEM initiative to students in the eighth-grade. Its plan included two goals, (1) providing more students the opportunity to participate in STEM courses, and (2) improving student performance in math. This year, 401 out of 802 students are enrolled in some type of STEM initiative or Environmental and Spatial Technology (EAST) class at RJHS. This fall, Russellville High School (RHS) launched its 1:1 Initiative, which provided all students with a Lenova Yoga ThinkPad, which is a laptop and tablet hybrid, for an interactive classroom environment. Students are able to take the devices home with them each day, and the district purchased Internet hotspots for students without Internet service at home. Students received the devices at the beginning of the school year and programs needed for their classes were loaded onto the device and ready for use on the first day of school. A Student Technology Help Desk was created so that students are available each period to help trouble shoot the devices or to help students with any technology needs. The goal of the program is to be student centered by providing better communication between teachers and students and more collaboration within the classroom environment. Last year, RHS piloted the program in two classrooms to help prepare for the initiative. The students were given a chance to test out different devices and had a voice in what they wanted to use in the classroom. The teachers at RHS also spent the year completing professional development such as Moodle training to prepare them for the transition, and a core group of teachers researched other schools with a similar program in place to ensure success at RHS. This year also saw the

creation of the Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) program at the Secondary Learning Center. JAG is a nationwide program, which offer students school-to-work curriculum, career planning support, and onthe-job training. The District has also expanded the theater and music program with the completion of the Center for The Arts facility. Last year, the Center hosted 45 student-centered events that included theatre productions by RHS students, numerous RSD choir and band concerts, and District assemblies. Last fall, the RSD Board of Education led a strategic plan campaign for the District. This campaign entitled, “Building Our Future Together,� connected all stakeholders in a conversation concerning the direction and goals of the Russellville School District for the next five years. The Board began this process by looking at the legacy, the current state of affairs, and the future of the Russellville School District. The Board then held meetings with the community, employees and students to receive input on how to make Russellville School District the School of Choice in our area. A combined meeting of community and District stakeholders met at Arkansas Tech University in late May 2014 to review all responses. The common responses were collected and referred to the Russellville School District Leadership Cabinet Committee who created an action plan with achievable strategies to accomplish each goal. The Leadership Cabinet Committee submitted the recommended goals to the Board, who asked the Leadership Cabinet Committee to further develop the action plan, and approved the following three goals with a culture of high expectations embedded into each goal: ■Goal 1: Be the “School of Choice� in our region for parents, students, and employees. ■Goal 2: Increase partnerships that create a unified community that values and supports education. ■Goal 3: All students achieve a level of preparedness and readiness to reach their individual potential so that businesses and universities seek out RSD students. Randall Williams Superintendent

Hector School District HECTOR — On Sept. 23, 2014, the Hector School District began moving into its new special services building for elementary education. We are currently housing students and returning to a routine in the areas that were disrupted due to the fire. It is exciting to move forward and put behind us the December 13, 2012, fire that destroyed our historic building. While we can’t and would not want to forget or replace all the fond memories of the old building, we are thrilled to provide our students and teachers with such a nice facility to serve

them. The new building houses the principal’s and counselor’s offices at the entrance of the building. It also includes the reading specialist’s classroom, a computer lab, a special education resource classroom, a special education selfcontained classroom, an art room, an indoor physical education and multi-purpose room, and an additional classroom. The District is planning an open house soon for our patrons and neighbors to get a firsthand look. Hector Schools would like to thank our students, employees, pa-

trons and neighbors throughout the Arkansas River Valley and abroad for your support during difficult times. We have been the beneficiary of great love, support and kindness over the past couple of years from too many people to recognize individually and that will never be forgotten. We have a great school with unmatched community pride and togetherness. Thank you to all who have helped us maintain these strong traits! Go Wildcats!

Walt Davis Superintendent

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Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014

The Courier

www.couriernews.com

Pottsville School District

ATU can now offer doctoral programs

BY SAM STRASNER Arkansas Tech University was granted a change in role and scope by the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board in late July, a measure that will allow the institution to offer doctoral programs for the first time. “This is an historic moment in the life of Arkansas Tech University,” Dr. John W. Watson, vice president for academic affairs, said. “The opportunity to offer doctoral programs is a milestone in our continuing efforts to meet the educational needs of our constituents. I offer my appreciation and congratulations to Dr. Mary Gunter, dean of the Graduate College, and her faculty colleagues for their hard work to make this possible.” The decision by the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board is the culmination of a series of related events that began

“This is an historic moment in the life of Arkansas Tech University. The opportunity to offer doctoral programs is a milestone in our continuing efforts to meet the educational needs of our constituents.” DR. JOHN W. WATSON Vice president for academic affairs

in July 2010, when the ATU Board of Trustees approved a letter of intent notifying the Arkansas Department of Higher Education (ADHE) that the university was developing a Doctor of Education program. One month later, the board approved a letter of intent to ADHE concerning the change in role and scope necessary to allow ATU to offer doctoral programs. In November 2010, the ATU Board of Trustees

approved the program proposal that outlined the Doctor of Education degree as developed by the faculty in the Arkansas Tech Center for Leadership and Learning. The years since have seen a site visit by an out-of-state review team in March 2012 and program reviews by the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board, all of which led to the decision in late July to grant ATU a change in role and scope and permission to

begin offering a Doctor of Education degree in school leadership. The program is designed for K-12 education professionals who currently serve or wish to serve in school district leadership positions. The Arkansas Tech Doctor of Education degree in school leadership will build upon the curriculum of the institution’s existing Educational Specialist degree, which consists of 30 hours of course work beyond the master’s degree level. The first cohort of Doctor of Education degree in school leadership students in ATU history will begin its studies in summer 2015. For more information about the forthcoming Arkansas Tech Doctor of Education degree in school leadership, call (479) 498-6022 or email cll@atu.edu.

POTTSVILLE — Another year has come and gone, and the Pottsville School District is continuing to undergo positive transformations to maintain our high standards. Since October 2013, our student enrollment has increased which indicates the trust and the respect that parents and the community have in Pottsville’s abilities to help our children succeed. With that in mind, to ensure our students have a safe and positive learning environment, we now have a full-time resource officer furnished by the district as well as a part time resource officer provided by the county. We also know that in order to continue helping our students grow academically and personally, we must keep

“Big Enough to Challenge — Small Enough to Care”

up with societal changes — including the ongoing technology demands and challenges of our world. Therefore, our classrooms are equipped with state-of-the-art devices such as SmartBoards, Chromebooks, iPads, laptops and other forms of technology to provide our students with the hands-on skills and realworld applications they need for their future endeavors. Furthermore, in 2012, our High School (grades 10-12) was one of the first schools in the surrounding area to imple-

Please see

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Dardanelle High School Outstanding Performance in THE ARTS ATHLETICS ACADEMICS

Dardanelle

Annual Events Calendar of Events

MARCH The Renaissance- Talent Contest & Chili Cook-Off

MAY Dardanelle Chamber of Commerce Yell Fest

APRIL The Renaissance - Rummage Sale Hwy 22 (Barry & Angie Sims Home)

JULY July 4th City Celebration

“Rock’n On The River” FREE Concert Front Street Dardanelle 5-9 p.m. State Jazz Festival with Mr. Clay Hooten including Art Walk & Motorcycle Show www.arjazzzed.org

AUGUST Dog Daze Festival August 10 SEPTEMBER Mt. Nebo Pageant Chicken Fry Time & Date: TBA Contact: Dardanelle Chamber of Commerce 479-229-3328

OCTOBER Taste of Dardanelle and BBQ Cook-off October 10th 5-8 p.m. NOVEMBER The Renaissance will be kicking off Christmas Festival Date & Time TBA Contact: 479-229-3567 or email the_renaissance@ymail.com DECEMBER Dardanelle Christmas Parade and Festival Time: Friday, 6th Contact: Dardanelle Chamber of Commerce 479-229-3328

All events time and dates subject to change

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The Courier

Atkins unveils new brand

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON ATKINS — Superintendent Mark Gotcher revealed the new Atkins School District logo during a school board meeting on Dec. 11. The district’s new logo was created by the Nicholson Group. Dan Nicholson, agency president, was on hand at the meeting to present the new brand and answer questions. Nicholson said prior to the new brand, Atkins had 16 different logos in use and the one used most often was a 1960s design. “It’s hard to build strength in a brand with so many different images out there,” he said. “The new image has contemporary, fresh graphics

Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014

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The district’s new logo was created by the Nicholson Group. that meet modern standards. By developing a strong brand, you add value and strength to your enterprise.” The brand should be relevant for many years to come, Nicholson said. Little by little, the school district purged

the old images and use only the new logo for everything, including merchandise. Gotcher said he was pleased with the new brand. “We’re very proud of what Dan’s team has done,” he said.

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Atkins School District ATKINS — “Red Devil Pride” is a phrase heard often throughout the community of the Atkins School District. That pride is currently being demonstrated in many visible ways throughout the community. Atkins current enrollment is 1,002 students. This reflects about 10 fewer students than last year at this time. Yet several of our elementary classrooms are near state limits. We are also pleased that there is an increased participation in the band and choir programs. The Atkins School District continues to be proud to provide for our school and community the storm shelters at the K-8 Building and

the High School. These facilities will provide a safe place for our students and community in the event of a potentially dangerous storm event. The Atkins School District is proud to see continued renovations on our campus. This past summer our old middle school gym received an upgrade by installing new red siding and paint to improve its image. The old gym has a rich tradition and we want to keep it looking good for years to come. Our most aggressive project was our campus asphalt project. We provided new asphalt or sealant on the parking areas of our High School campus, cafeteria, and gym, including our new stadium ticket booth

parking area. This fall, Atkins Middle School added laptops for the 7th & 8th students to continue our 1:1 laptop initiative where every 7th through 12th grade student has received a laptop computer for their classroom instruction. Teachers and students received training on effective use of laptops and how this tool can improve teaching and learning. The board of education, administration, teachers, community, parents and students are proud of their school and community — Red Devil Pride! Your Child...Our Commitment, Mark Gotcher Superintendent

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Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014

The Courier

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Enrollment, ratings highlight Ozarks success For The Courier

UACCM celebrates 50th anniversary For The Courier

MORRILTON — The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton (UACCM) is a two-year community college serving west-central Arkansas. UACCM celebrated 50 years as an institution, 20 years as a community college and 10 years as part of the University of Arkansas System in 2011, and this past spring, the college celebrated the 50th anniversary of its first graduates. Throughout its 50-year history, UACCM has been committed to excellence in learning and personal enrichment. It is a simple mission that focuses on the student. As the largest two-year college in the UA System, UACCM offers a variety of degree options including transfer programs and occupational/technical programs. A core component is technical education. The campus offers technical programs such as nursing, drafting, surveying, auto mechanics, welding, auto collision repair, heating/air conditioning, industrial technology, and petroleum technology. Demand for these programs is high because they offer excellent opportunities for graduates. The programs have

strong support from business and industry. Internship opportunities, technical expertise and funds have all been committed by area businesses and industry to support these programs. The success of technical programs is directly related to the quality of the training space and the access to technical equipment. The current technical facilities are over 50 years old. Although well maintained, the facilities need to be replaced. The college is con-

ducting the “Give Meaning” capital campaign to help fund a Workforce Training Center (WTC) which will house many of the college’s technical programs and allow for expansion. Leaders have been in discussion concerning the inclusion of Arkansas State Workforce offices. This concept would allow unemployed and under-employed people to see first-hand technical training opportunities. An open area within the facility will allow new

or existing industries to obtain customized training for their employees as workforce partners with UACCM. The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration recently announced that UACCM will receive a $1.1 million grant to fund site preparation and water and utility improvements to support construction of the Workforce Training Center. The college plans to break ground as early as spring 2015.

Fair for an educational booth on safety; over 60% of our students taking the AP exam/s scored a 3 or better; and 82 out of 104 seniors enrolled in a post-secondary school and were awarded approximately 3 million dollars in scholarships. ■ Pottsville Junior High — Recognized as a High Achieving School in the State of Arkansas by the Office of Educational Performance (Ranked 11th in the State in Literacy); earned 1st place in Quiz Bowl-Regional Competitions; Beta Clubattended the National Convention and led a campaign for our State Elected Vice President; and won many Statewide Awards in FBLA Competition (Spring 2014). ■ Pottsville Middle Grades — Recognized as a High Achieving School in the State of Arkansas by the Office of Educational Performance (Ranked 2nd in the State in Literacy and 7th in the State in Math). ■ Pottsville Elementary — Recognized as a High Achieving School in the State of Arkansas by the Office of Educational Performance (Ranked 13th in the State in Literacy and 4th in the State in Math); and received the ATU Partnership Award for working with observers and interns. As we journey into the 2014 school year, we are also proud of the teamwork exhibited at Pottsville to promote positive social skills, citizenship,

and lifelong lessons. For example: ■ At Pottsville Elementary, we have Family Fun Nights promoted by our teachers to help parents and students learn strategies for literacy and math; our 1st grade students perform an Arkansas History Musical; there are monthly Character Education Assemblies that students and teachers attend; they visit places such as the Arkansas Arts Center and Lake Dardanelle State Park to learn about various cultures; Elementary PTO sponsors fundraisers like the Harvest Hoe Down to help supply books for the Book Room, playground equipment, etc.; and there is our Proud to Be An American Day in honor of our military and veterans. ■ At Pottsville Jr. High, our Pre-AP Art students donated several pieces of their artwork to “Log a Load for Kids” to be auctioned. They earned around $11,000.00 and gave all the proceeds to Arkansas Children‚Äôs Hospital; our History students recently participated in the reenactment of the Civil War skirmish occurring at Potts Inn 150 years ago and will also present Ozark Mountain Folk Tales at Potts Inn; A team of EAST students are (1) teaming up with Arkansas State Police, Arkansas Tech University Department of Emergency Management and local schools (Project Troop J)

to help design and create emergency action plans of schools in Troop J’s jurisdiction, (2) currently collaborating with the Russellville River Valley Shelter for Battered Women and Children to organize a golf tournament at Galla Creek to help raise funds to help support the needs of the shelter, (3) collaborating (along with our Jr. High Beta) and with Russellville Animal Shelter to help provide assistance with the upcoming WoofStock event to collect supplies needed for the animal shelter including blankets, food, collars, and socialization of the animals, (4) currently studying online weather courses, weather software (Storm Predator) to learn, study and accurately predict the weather in the River Valley, and (5) continuing a project from last to investigate a grant opportunity through the United States Tennis Association for the approved construction of tennis courts within the community of Pottsville. We credit our accomplishments to the vast array of hard-working students, supportive parents and community members, and our outstanding and dedicated teachers and staff who perform well above and beyond the call of duty to ensure student success happens.

POTTSVILLE CONTINUED FROM 20P

ment the 1:1 Initiative. Last year, we added our Junior High (grade 9) to the implementation process. And, this year, we are excited to extend the 1:1 Initiative to all of our Junior High students (grades 7-9). In addition to our advancement in safety measures and technology, we are proud to announce our school achievements and top honors earned over the past year: ■ Pottsville High School — 2013-2014 EAST Superior School; Beta State Competitionsearned three trophies in Art (1st place pencil art/2nd place colored pencil art) and Spanish ( 1st place); 4th place in Quiz Bowl; 11 students competed at the Regional Science Fair with 4 placing and competing at the State Level; Winners of various Art Competitions- 1st place winners of Downey Competition four years straight, Postcard (Nasco Art Supply) Competition, and Duck and Fish Stamp Competition through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, and two 2nd place winners in the Arkansas High School Competition through the River Valley Art Center; our FFA Chapter received the National Chapter Award for the third year in a row at the FFA State Convention, and they also won 1st place at the Pope County

Larry Dugger Superintendent

CLARKSVILLE — The largest enrollment in three years, notable rankings by several national publications, and the addition of new athletic programs are highlights of the recent progress at University of the Ozarks. The private, four-year college in Clarksville, which is celebrating its 180th anniversary this year, had a 2014 Fall Semester enrollment of 587 students, the largest enrollment since 2011 and a two percent increase since 2012. “It has been exciting to be a part of enrolling the largest University of Ozarks class in three years,” said Joe Havis, vice president for enrollment. “It has been especially exciting and rewarding to see full classes, no empty pews in chapel and an especially packed room for our first athletic meeting. The increased enrollment has created new energy on campus and provided opportunities to reinvest in our student experience.” The 2014 Fall Semester enrollment numbers include 171 first-time, full-time freshmen, the largest figure since 186 in 2011, and 29 new transfer students. Also, 20 states and nine countries are represented in the student body. The University also continues to earn strong rankings from several national publications. U.S. News & World Report ranked Ozarks fourth among regional colleges in the South. Washington Monthly magazine ranked Ozarks among the top 25 Baccalaureate colleges in the nation. And, Forbes rated Ozarks 88th in its “100 Most Financially Fit Colleges” rankings. In its 2015 edition of America’s Best Colleges, which hit the newsstands on Sept. 9, U.S. News & World Report listed Ozarks fourth overall among the 117 Regional Colleges in the South Region. The overall rankings examine such criteria as academic reputation, graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources and alumni giving. It is the 16th consecutive year that Ozarks has been ranked a “top tier” university by the publication. Ozarks moved up two spots from its sixthplace ranking in 2014 and five spots from its ninth-place ranking in 2013. In addition, Ozarks was ranked fifth in the South Region in the “Great Schools, Great Prices” category of the annual late summer publication that analyzes institutions of higher education. It is the 15th time in the last 16 years that Ozarks has been ranked in the top five of the best value category. The value rankings evaluate the cost of attending a college or university relative to the quality of the institution. According to the magazine, “the higher the quality of the program and the lower the cost, the better the deal.” The magazine listed 117 universities in the Regional Colleges category within the 12-state South Region. The South Region consists of colleges and universities in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia and Virginia. In August, Washington Monthly listed Ozarks 21st overall among the nation’s Baccalaureate colleges in its 2014 College Rankings edition. It was the third consecutive

year that the publication has ranked Ozarks among the nation’s top 25 Baccalaureate colleges. Washington Monthly ranks more than 1,500 colleges and universities on such criteria as recruiting and graduating low-income students and commitment to public service. “These rankings are a testament to decades of investment by our alumni and friends, coupled with the hard work and dedication of our students, faculty and staff,” said Ozarks President Richard Dunsworth. “We continue to gain recognition locally, regionally and nationally for creating extraordinary learning experiences for our students in a supportive, innovative and Christian environment. We will continue to work hard to cultivate a supportive and dynamic learning environment and to make it accessible to as many students as possible.” Another highlight of the recent year was the addition of several new sports programs within the athletics department. The University added men’s wrestling, a competitive cheer/ STUNT team, an archery program and expanded its competitive sports shooting program. All of the new and expanded programs are being implemented during the 20014-15 academic year. “The addition of these sports will allow students the opportunity to compete at the NCAA Division III level while earning a degree a degree and developing their personal and professional calling,” President Dunsworth said. “Studentathletes at Ozarks experience academic success and professional preparation, increasing further educational opportunities as well as greater job placement. It is a perfect time to create additional opportunities for young people to experience that success.” Along with the new sports programs, the University made numerous improvements to Mabee Gymnasium, including the addition of a new weight room for athletes, an expanded training center, a new wrestling and cheer facility, and new lightning and paint throughout the gym. Other highlights at University of the Ozarks in the past year included: ■ The April 11 inauguration of Richard L. Dunsworth as the 25th president at theUniversity. Among the high points of inauguration week included a private concert for the campus community by Christian singer Matthew West, the 2013 American Music Award Best Contemporary Inspirational Artist. ■ The renaming of Munger-Wilson Memorial Chapel on campus in honor of Frances Wilson and her late husband, Thomas D. Wilson, of Tulsa, Okla. ■ The completion of a new pedestrian safety zone along College Avenue that includes light poles and banners to welcome visitors to campus. ■ The volunteering from students, faculty and staff of nearly 6,000 hours in the Clarksville community and beyond during the past academic year. The campus community participated in such projects such as Christmas Angels, Habitat for Humanity, habitat restoration and cleanup, translation services for schools and medical centers, Special Olympics, Alpha & Omega mission trips and animal shelter volunteerism.

The Courier

Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014 • 23P

www.couriernews.com

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www.philwrightautoplex.com

479-754-5454

Schedule Your Mammogram http://www.jrmc.com Today.

402 E. Parkway Drive

24P • Sunday, Oct. 26 2014

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Discover the 3rd-Largest University in the State.

This year, more than 12,000 students have enrolled at Arkansas Tech, making us the nation’s 9th fastest-growing public university among ones that grant master’s degrees.* As our enrollment numbers grow, we continue our commitment to quality by offering five of the most sought-after degrees and adding more than 50 new programs of study in the past two decades. Tech has one of the highest graduation rates in the state and is dedicated to providing the best overall experience for students. With Greek Life and student activities available both on campus and in the surrounding area, you’re sure to find your place at Tech. Take a tour of the campus and discover why more than 12,000 students choose Tech. Get started at discover.atu.edu. *Chronicle of Higher Education Issue LX, Number 45

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Russellville Hearing Clinic branches out Submitted by Russellville Hearing

Dr. Charlie Palmer started Russellville Hearing Clinic in 2001 following the decision to branch out from the office he shared in Little Rock with another audiologist, Dr. Jayme Pultro. With Little Rock Audiology growing to the point it had to hire a third audiologist, the timing was right to expand. Russellville was Dr. Palmer’s first choice. “At that time, there were three hearing aid dealers in Russellville, but not an audiologist, so there was clearly a need in the area. I had originally planned on splitting my time between Russellville and Little Rock, but that didn’t work out.” Once word got out in the healthcare community, within a couple of weeks, Russellville needed his full attention, which couldn’t have made him happier. “Being close to home and work is important to me, other than a couple of years as a child and a couple as a young adult, I’ve called the river valley area my home.” Although things were going well, Russellville Hearing Clinic got another big boost when the clinic joined forces with River Valley Ear, Nose and Throat, owned by Stephen Killingsworth, M.D. and Ezechiel Nehus, M.D., about 10 years ago. The two clinics now share space at 200 North Quanah, right next to St. Mary’s Hospital. This arrangement has created the only clinic in Russellville to offer total hearing care as well as medical care by an otolaryngologist. “While there are other places in town to buy a hearing aid, we offer much more. We are providing true healthcare for your ears.” Another asset to the clinic is Kim Conley, who came on board about seven years ago as patient care coordinator. “As first point of contact, she truly does an amazing job. Patients know immediately

“We appreciate that our first-time patients are sometimes unsure with such a large investment and we want them to be comfortable in their decision. We also know that everyone will adjust to their new hearing at a different rate, that’s why I’ve always offered a 60 day trial period to help set their mind at ease.” Dr. Charlie Palmer Russellville Hearing Clinic when they walk in the door that they are going to be in good hands.” Dr. Palmer is also the most experienced audiologist in town, with over 20 years in the business. “It doesn’t seem like I’ve been doing it this long, but like is often said, if you love what you do, it doesn’t seem like a job. I think I’m good for 20 more,” he laughs. Over the time he’s been in the business, he’s seen a lot of technological changes as well as changes in manufacturers of hearing instruments. Most consumers do not realize that there are only six major manufacturers of hearing aids. This can be confusing

to patients because they see so many brand names on the market, but almost all of those are being built by one of these six companies. Often, a clinic will enter a franchise agreement to sell only one particular brand or belong to a buying group that can sometimes either limit the brand choices or encourage one product over another. Palmer does neither of these things as he indicates that either would limit the availability of various products to his patients. “No one company builds a product for every patient’s need. If it’s on the market, I want my patients to have access to it, plain and simple,” he said.

Of course when it comes to hearing aids, the most common question is concerning costs. While there are more budget-conscious devices on the market, a good quality pair will normally start around $2,600, and could go to around $4,800 a pair. The less advanced products are great for people leading pretty quiet lives. If going to church and communicating in very small groups is all you do, these work very well for many people. With the upgrade into the mid-range product, the patient can expect better performance in noise with a greater ability to fine tune the instrument to their liking.

With a high-end product, the patient can expect the most advanced speech detection, greatest noise processing and highest level of fine tuning adjustments available. There’s a great deal of talk these days about wireless connectivity as well. All of the major manufacturers allow some sort of connection to other devices wirelessly. Some products have been specially designed to be used in conjunction with Apple products. It is now possible to hear your iPhone through both hearing aids, as well as stream music or voice from some other personal devices such as an iPad or laptop computer. While

this sort of technology isn’t for everyone, those that use it really enjoy the benefits. One of the more difficult aspects of the job is how long people wait before they admit to having a hearing problem and that it’s adversely affecting their lives, Palmer said. On average, a person will wait over seven years from the time they recognize a problem until the time they seek answers. “While this number does continue to fall, it’s a shame how much people miss out on before they get our help,” he said. When a hearing test has been performed and the determination has been made that the hearing loss can not be medically treated, hearing aids are then recommended. It’s at this point that patients should know what to expect from their hearing healthcare provider. The patient should always make sure that they have multiple brands available, been given options on instruments within their budget, are not pressured into a fitting, and above all else at this point, make certain they are receiving a FREE trial period. “We appreciate that our first-time patients are sometimes unsure with such a large investment and we want them to be comfortable in their decision. We also know that everyone will adjust to their new hearing at a different rate, that’s why I’ve always offered a 60 day trial period to help set their mind at ease,” Dr. Palmer said. This past year Russellville Hearing Clinic saw more patients than in any previous year. “In reality, I probably should have hired some extra help a few years ago, but that would change how we do things, and how we’re currently doing it has been the key to our success. I hate to have patients waiting a few days to see us, but I’d rather know that it’s being done right.”

Call today to schedule an appointment with the most experienced audiologist in the Russellville area.

Charlie Palmer, Au.D.

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Main Street Mission gets internship assistance

BY COURIER STAFF More than 70 teenagers participating in a Centro Christian Hispanic (CCH) internship program from around Arkansas came together in July to assist the Main Street Mission (MSM) on its endeavor to provide food and necessities to area residents in need. As part of the internship, teenagers assisted in the mission’s everyday responsibilities such as cooking, packing food boxes and unloading deliveries. In its fourth year, the internship provides teenagers an opportunity to learn the art of giving and a safe, constructive way to work through life’s many trials, according to CCH founder and pastor John Molina. “We have this intern-

Raul Torres, MSM president, said the mission provides between 140180 meals to needy people in the Russellville area each day, not counting food boxes provided to families every other Wednesday. MSM also provides emergency food boxes to home health and Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center patients, fire victims and even to local children who need food for school. ship to get these children involved and to help them through issues that they may have” Molina said. “We want them to know that even though their life may be hard, that they have a purpose.” Assisting the teenagers in all aspects of life — from personal struggles to relationships with their parents — Molina said the internship is rewarding to both the interns and their advisors. “It’s absolutely amazing to work with them,”

Clarksville Chamber of Commerce Chamber Board of Directors Baskin, Kevin — AR Valley Electric Black, Cody - 2nd VP — Arvest Bank Boen, Sherry — Bank of the Ozarks Caldwell, Clayton - 1st VP — First Security Bank Cogan, Chivon - Pres — Holiday Inn Express Dickerson, Erik — The Journey Hartley, Alicia — JC Peach Festival Harvey, Doug — Hanesbrands, Inc. Helms, Billy — City of Clarksville Kersey, Julie — Julie’s Perks Killough, Betty — Tyson Foods Lewellen, Tim —Green Source Recycling Miller, Susan - Past Pres — Simmons First Bank Muldoon, Kris — Farm Bureau Insurance Patterson, Jay — Patterson Law Firm Penix, Sterling — Clarksville School District Stanley, Jim — Coldwell Banker Realty Stephens, Travis — Chamber CEO Taylor, Jim — Wal-Mart DC Wilkins, Gina — Chamber Director Wood, Karla - Secretary — University of the Ozarks Woodard, Milisa — Woodard Carpet

Chamber Ambassadors Anglin, Dawn — Clarksville Insurance Agency Baskin, Kevin — AR Valley Electric Boen, Sherry - President 2014 — Bank of the Ozarks Cantu, Leo — Regions Bank Chappell, Don — Retired Cogan, Chivon — Holiday Inn Express Dercksen, Arthur — Retired Dorn, Nikki — Johnson Regional Medical Center Evin, Lisa — Clarksville Insurance Agency Kinsey, Sue —Chamber of Commerce Lee, Charity —Centennial Bank McClatchey, Marshall — Roller-Cox Funeral Home Miller, Susan — Simmons First Bank Nowotny, Jackie — First Security Bank Sanders, Erica — Arvest Bank Senter, Ashley — University of the Ozarks Shoptaw, Krista — State Farm Insurance Turner, Kutrenia — Bank of the Ozarks Walters, Shonda — First Security Bank Wilson, Natasha — Wal-Mart DC Wood, Amber — First Security Bank Wood, Karla — University of the Ozarks

Molina said. “To see the changes in their lives and sometimes in their entire families, it sometimes changes us, too.” From MSM’s perspective, the interns bring much-needed assistance to the organization’s ongoing process. To founder Marilyn Williamson, each intern is a blessing. “We are always welcoming volunteers and donations, so having all of this help is wonderful,” Williamson said. “They’ve come from all over to help us out.”

Nearing its 20th year as a Russellville nonprofit organization, Williamson said she and her husband created MSM after feeling the hand of God at work in their life. “I was just praying one day and I felt God tell me to feed his sheep,” Williamson said. “And that is how we got started, by listening to God’s word.” Raul Torres, MSM president, said the mission provides between 140-180 meals to needy people in the Russellville area each day, not count-

ing food boxes provided to families every other Wednesday. “Our food boxes are not all the same size,” Torres said. “It all depends on the size of the family. We try to give each family enough food to last about a full week. That will include canned goods, pastries, cereals and any other foods that we may have available at the time.” MSM also provides emergency food boxes to home health and Saint Mary’s Regional Medi-

cal Center patients, fire victims and even to local children who need food for school. Living by the principal that no person should ever go hungry, Torres and Williamson said they are pleased to see the community working with their organization. “Local enterprises such as Little Caesar’s, Kroger, Cash Saver, Harps and many others give us a lot of food for our pantries and freezers,” Torres said. “We go weekly and pick up their donations. It‚Äôs wonderful. We are very grateful.” For additional information about the Main Street Mission, contact Williamson or Torres at (479) 968-8303 or visit the organization’s website www.mainstreetmission.org

ATU becomes third-largest university in state BY SAM STRASNER Arkansas Tech University reported a preliminary 11th day enrollment of 12,003 students for the fall 2014 semester on Sept. 12. Enrollment at ATU has increased 5.6 percent over fall 2013. With the increase, Arkansas Tech has surpassed the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and the University of Central Arkansas to become the third-largest institution of higher learning in the Natural State. Only the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and Arkansas State University have larger enrollments among Arkansas colleges and universities. “Today marks a significant milestone in the history of Arkansas Tech University,” said Dr. Robin E. Bowen, who took office as the 12th president of Arkansas Tech on July 1. “The fact that in one decade we have grown from the sixth-largest university in our state to become one of the three largest is a testament to the quality of our academic programs and our institutional commitment to serve a diverse community of learners. This achievement is a point of pride for each member of the Arkansas Tech family.” Enrollment at ATU has increased by 183 percent since 1997. This fall marks the 16th consecutive year that Arkansas Tech has established a

Enrollment at ATU has increased by 183 percent since 1997. This fall marks the 16th consecutive year that Arkansas Tech has established a new institutional record for largest enrollment. new institutional record for largest enrollment. The growth in fall 2014 is bolstered by the largest freshman class in ATU history. There are 1,684 incoming freshmen on the main campus of Arkansas Tech in Russellville this fall. The previous record for largest ATU main campus freshman class was 1,572 students, which was established in fall 2011. Much of the growth in freshman enrollment came from Pulaski County and Benton County. The number of Arkansas Tech freshmen from those two counties increased by 76.9 percent from fall 2013 to fall 2014, going from a combined count of 143 freshmen one year ago to 253 freshmen from Pulaski and Benton counties this fall. Freshman enrollment at ATU main campus for fall 2014 increased 17.5 percent over fall 2013, when 1,433 incoming freshmen enrolled. The Arkansas Tech Class of 2018 achieved a high school grade point average of 3.24 and an average ACT score of 21.88. This fall marks the 20th

consecutive year that the ATU freshman class has beaten the national and state averages on the ACT exam. Among the 1,684 freshmen at Arkansas Tech in Russellville, 844 (50.1 percent) are female and 840 (49.9 percent) are male. When the first-time students from Arkansas Tech-Ozark Campus are included in the count, there are 1,951 freshmen enrolled at ATU this fall. The enrollment announcement by ATU comes on the heels of the release of the “Almanac of Higher Education 2014” by The Chronicle of Higher Education. The almanac reported that Arkansas Tech is among the 10 fastest-growing master’s degree-granting universities in the United States for a second consecutive year. The “Almanac of Higher Education 2014” showed that enrollment at ATU increased by 87 percent from 2002-2012, making it the fastest-growing university in Arkansas for that time frame. Growth at ATU has included many enrollment

milestones along the way. Arkansas Tech exceeded 5,000 students for the first time in 2000; 6,000 students in 2003; 7,000 students in 2006; 8,000 students in 2009; 9,000 students in 2010; 10,000 students in 2011; 11,000 students in 2013; and now 12,000 students in 2014. Other numbers of note from the fall 2014 enrollment at Arkansas Tech: ■ Included in the overall enrollment number are 2,172 individuals studying through Arkansas Tech-Ozark Campus, which has seen its enrollment increase by 622 percent since joining Arkansas Tech in 2003; ■ There are 904 graduate students at ATU in fall 2014, the highest such count in institution history; ■ 53.9 percent of Arkansas Tech freshmen this fall self-reported as first-generation college students; ■ Students from minority groups represent 22.4 percent of the ATU student body, compared to 10 percent of the student body in 2004; ■ Arkansas Tech enrolled 450 international students representing 33 foreign countries for the fall 2014 semester; ■ Among the 1,951 freshmen at ATU, 1,831 (93.8 percent) are from the State of Arkansas. For more information about Arkansas Tech University, visit www.atu. edu.

Parade Of Progress 2014

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1898 Cornwell Funeral Homes

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Leonard’s Hardware Ace

Arkansas Tech University

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Lemley Funneral Home

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Saint Mary’s Hospital

A timeline of business successes 1944 Peters Family Living

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Burris Office Products Inc.

Tastee Freez

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Peters Family Living First established in 1944 as Peters-Baldwin Company, the name changed to F. C. Peters & Sons, Inc., and then to PETERS FAMILY LIVING. After 70 years of retailing Furniture and Appliances, the firm’s success is based on a Customer-Focus that includes providing the Highest Level of Service Possible, from the initial sales process, through financing, delivery, and in-home post-sale service. That same Peters tradition continues today and will continue into the future with its constant striving for excellence in customer service. The Peters Family Living staff extends appreciation to its Family of Customers who have made possible these 70 years serving families of the River Valley..

Celebrating 50 Years!!

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1991 1970

Price’s Town And Country Main Street Russellville

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Newton’s Pharmacy Big Red Drive In

1971

1903 S. ARKANSAS

(479) 968-3991

2012

Davis Neurology

Davis Neurology is happy to serve the Russellville area. Anthony ‘Tony’ Davis, M.D. was born in 1978 at Saint Mary’s Hospital in Russellville. He grew up in the River Valley and attended Russellville schools, graduating in 1997. After high school, he attended the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville where he earned his bachelor’s degree. From there, he moved to Little Rock to attend UAMS, where he received his medical degree. He continued his education at UAMS for the four years of his neurology residency. Dr. Davis practiced as a hospital neurologist at Baptist Health from 2009 through 2012. Dr. Davis and his wife, Athena, who has worked in Neurology since 2004, wanted to open a private practice and ultimately decided to return to Dr. Davis’ hometown to do so. They bought the building at 220 North Phoenix and remodeled it themselves with the help of their parents. Davis Neurology has been operating since July of 2012. Davis Neurology has 4 employees and is committed to offering neurology services to Russellville and the surrounding area. We would like to thank all of our referrers and our patients!

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In 1964 Mr. & Mrs. Keith Williams opened Tastee Freez. In 1971 they became independent and changed the name to Big Red Drive-In. The current owners are Jo Ann Williams Scott, their daughter. Celebrating 50 years on February 19, 2014

Anniversary Circa 1916, Before WWI

2007 - Present

1953

Burris Office Products, Inc.

1319 South Arkansas

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Opening in 1970, Newton’s Pharmacy was established by Dr. Billy Newton. Originally at 218 West Main, Billy decided to move to a larger building (now current location) in 1986 to help serve his growing business & community. Newton’s Pharmacy offers front door parking, convenient drive-thru and delivery service. With 5 friendly pharmacists, they are continuing to grow and expand to meet your needs. The soda fountain offers old fashioned milkshakes, drinks and ice cream treats as well as daily lunch specials. Stop by and visit today at 715 West Main in Russellville.

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Arkansas Hospice

Davis Neurology

Big Red Drive-In

Newton’s Pharmacy

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The Russellville Democrat, forerunner of the Weekly Courier-Democrat, was established in 1875 by a group consisting of J.L. Shinn, George E. Howell and J.F. Munday and M.L. Baird. The photo to the right shows the Courier office, in 1905, with the staff and Rev. Eakes, pastor of the Southern Methodist Church and Arthur Livingston, editor.

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Cornwell

FUNERAL HOMES 207 Quay St. Dardanelle 479-229-2524

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Russellville Hearing Clinic

2012

In 1940, he bought the business and had the stone building built at 300 S. Commerce where he continued the feed, food and hardware sales until 1958. His son, Jack, then returned from the U.S Air Force to partner with him in Bill Price & Son. Seeing the need for an expanded feed division, Jack and his wife, Helen, founded Price Milling Co., on South Knoxville in 1964. Along with their sons, Jay and Randy, they custom mixed animal feeds, handled government corn and had the only bulk garden seed table in the area. They also formed a long standing partnership of 34 year with the Purina Company becoming one of their Premier stores. Again seeing the need to diversify, daughter Andrea came on board to handle bookkeeping and plans were made to build this present facility in 2004. Andrea’s husband, John Looper, joined the team and many new items for the home and garden were added too reflect the name change to Price’s Town & Country Store.

201 E. 2nd Russellville, AR www.couriernews.com

Russellville Family Clinic

Sorrells Body Shop

At age 16, Bill Price was making deliveries in a mule drawn wagon filled with animal feeds, 20 pound sacks of flour, meal and sugar and parts for tools and harness. Often it meant going up into the mountains for the company he worked for which was located on South Commerce in Russellville.

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to town and buy a locally crafted wooden coffin from Lemley and Sons. Families soon wanted full service and Lemley Funeral Service began. From a downtown store building in 1916, to theirnew family-friendly home completed in 1998, Lemley Funeral Service has had the honor and privilege of serving our neighbors in their times of need for more than five generations. For more information, call 641-2589, stop by their office at 1401 N. Church St. in Atkins or visit online at www.lemleyfuneral.com.

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Going Beyond the Original Dream

In 1903, W.M. Lemley and Sons partnered in a General Mercantile business that branched out in several directions. One son, O.R. Lemley, developed the funeral and furniture businesses with his father. Families would come

Price’s Town & Country Store

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A History of Pope, Yell, and Johnson County Businesses

Lemley Funeral Service

1964

The Courier

The Courier

756 Main St. Danville, 479-495-2525

Russellville Family Clinic 108 Skyline Drive (behind Four Seasons market) 479-968-7170 • Hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm • Monday - Friday “Committed to Serving the Families of the River Valley”

1520 South Arkansas

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968-2142

Free Popcorn on Friday

Leonard’s Hardware

Burris Office Products, Inc. is the largest and oldest office products retailer and office furniture dealer in the area. Troy Burris opened the store in 1953 in downtown Russellville, and the business has remained a family business ever since. The staff at Burris Office Products, Inc. take pride in offering the best customer service that you can find in any business and feel that we will do whatever it takes for you to have a positive shopping experience.

Is the oldest retail business in Russellville and was started by John Paul Leonard’s grandparents, Jesse F. Leonard and Sara Ellen White Leonard. The business has changed from a small business downtown to a 36,000 square foot store. The store is operated today by Shirley Leonard and Lucy Leonard Carr.

Established 1925

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Living our values. Keeping our promise. (479) 968-2841 1808 West Main Street Russellville, AR 72801

Serving the River 2 Valley Since 2000

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Charlie Palmer, Au.D. Russellville Hearing Clinic 200 N. Quanah, Russellville• 479-968-7250

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Sorrells Body Shop Sorrells Body Shop, now owned and operated by Jamie Sorrells and Eric Hartzell, has been repairing cars in Russellville for over 40 years. Ray’s Body Shop was established in 1971 by Jamie’s parents, Raymond and June Sorrells, in a two-bay gas station at the corner of Eighth and South Arkansas. In 1975, Ray purchased Buchanon’s Body Shop at 410 West D Street (now Parkway) and changed the name to Sorrells Body Shop. Ray retired in 1988 and sold the business to Jamie who later moved the operations to the present location at 1903 South Arkansas. Eric Hartzell became a partner in the business in 2003 and now manages the daily operations of the shop. Over 12,000 vehicles have been restored since Sorrells Body Shop opened their doors in 1971.

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Saint Mary’s changes blood drive partner

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center has a new blood drive partner — the Arkansas Blood Institute (ABI). Saint Mary’s officially replaced the American Red Cross with ABI in January after months of planning. “We became their exclusive blood provider on Jan. 1,” Dan Miller, ABI program consultant, said. “We’ve been working together for the past few months.” The hospital was impressed with ABI’s focus on community, Brenda Harrison, Saint Mary’s community relations and

marketing director, said. “Arkansas Blood Institute Saint Mary’s serves as the blood bank for our region, so blood donated with the Arkansas Blood Institute truly helps the people of the [Arkansas] River Valley,” Harrison said. “If a person is a patient at Saint Mary’s and needs blood, the blood will come from donations made to the Arkansas Blood Institute.” ABI conducted an inaugural Saint Mary’s blood drive at the hospital on Feb. 24. Because of its proximity to Valentine’s Day, the event was called the Sweetheart Blood Drive. Donors received a

mini-physical at no charge. The donor’s blood pressure, cholesterol levels and other information was mailed to them. The test results were also available to registered donors at ABI’s website, www.arkbi.org. ABI is associated with the Oklahoma Blood Institute and the Texas Blood Institute and would like to expand its partnerships in the Arkansas River Valley. “We’re excited to be here and work with everyone in the community,” Miller said. “We encourage other organizations to contact us to support the local needs.”

Improvement projects started at Dover Schools

BY SHANE CRABTREE DOVER — Before the arrival of the summer, the Dover School District prepared to begin several campus improvement projects. Focused on currently used buildings, the projects included re-roofing the lower middle school, repainting the high school gymnasium, adding sidewalks, reworking the asphalt in the gymnasium parking lot and upgrading the landscape around the football field. Superintendent Jerry Owens said the majority of the projects were set to begin in July, and the anticipated finish date was Aug. 1. The district’s largest project, the lower middle school’s $162,000 roof replacement, will occupy the majority of the summer project focus, followed by the landscape work around the football

field, Owens said. “The new roof will be a great addition to our school,” Owens said. “And regarding our football field, we want to improve the area as much as we can.” Jack Berry Field was once the school’s baseball field. Estimated at $7,000, the landscaping project will improve designs around the northern end of the home stands and will improve drainage. Owens said the district was also looking to improve access ease. “The cosmetic and drainage improvements are important, but we are looking to make things easier for our visitors as well,” Owens said. “Previously, everyone had to enter and exit out the south end of the field. We will add an exit gate on the north end for visitors to make that entry and exit a bit easier.”

Summer projects aside, the Dover School District is still awaiting a response from the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) regarding a district millage. Owens said the process is currently on hold until the district is notified by ADE. “We do know that the fire marshal has given us two years to repair the old gym and the upper middle school,” Owens said. “But that is all easier said than done. Those buildings were built in the 1950s, and we are facing handicap-access and outdated plumbing and electrical system issues. If we go in and try to renovate everything, we’d end up doing more repairs than the buildings are worth.” Owens said if the state approves a third millage attempt, the district will conduct a special election in early 2015.

Dover steps closer to new community fitness trail BY JEANETTE ANDERTON DOVER — The Dover City Council approved during its regular meeting Sept. 2 applying for a grant that would fund construction of a fitness trail at Dover Primary School. During its August meeting, the council showed its support of the project but took no action until after the Dover Board of Education approved it. The school board gave Lt. Barry Walker of the Dover Marshal’s Office its support of the project during a meeting last week. “Since last meeting,

I met with the Dover school board and they unanimously approved their portion as far as land use, in fact, extending the land if we wanted to,” Walker told the council. The community fitness grant would be 100 percent federally funded and would be used to construct a half-mile trail to be used by residents and students. Walker said the primary school was an “excellent choice” for the trail because of its landscape and accessibility. Walker, following a suggestion by the school board, will check to see if restrooms and water fountains can be included

in the grant money. “I haven’t really dug into it any further because I wanted to get approval from both parties before really working with the agency offering the grant to come up with the specifics and find out what the ceiling amount is on the funding and so forth,” he said. Grant submission is due Jan. 1, and must include all plans, materials and costs. “Once the complete package has been reviewed by you guys and signed by the mayor and [Superintendent Jerry] Owens, it’s just a matter of seeing if we get the grant,” Walker said.

Russellville Kiwanis Club

ATU students enjoy 2014 Summer-Send Off

Rotary Club of Russellville For The Courier

Rotary will celebrate 110 years in 2015! The Rotary Club of Russellville that meets at noon was the 9th Rotary club to be established in Arkansas. It was organized and chartered in 1922. Rotary in Russellville has stood the test of time and since it began Rotarians in Russellville have put “Service Above Self.” Community leaders have been joining together to exchange ideas and take action. The areas of focus include promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, saving mothers and children, supporting education and growing local economies. This past year the local club has worked to support and encourage local organizations and activities such as The Equestrian Zone, Arkansas Hospice River Valley Home,

The River Valley Battered Women’s Shelter and Pope-Yell County Single Parent Scholarship Fund. Our local Rotary club makes quarterly contributions to the Rotary Foundation to help fund the polio eradication efforts worldwide. The World Health Organization announced on March 27 of this year that India is polio free having had no new cases of the disease reported in that country for three years. Polio is 99% gone! Now that India is free of the disease only three countries remain polio-endemic: Nigeria, Afghanistan and Pakistan. We are committed to continue in this fight until the world is 100% polio free. Relaxing our efforts in the slightest could mean a rebound of the disease infecting thousands of children each year.

“I’m so proud to belong to an organization that is committed to serving others on a local level as well as a global outreach. I really enjoy our weekly meetings and feel that I learn so much about so many different things. Rotary is a way to grow as a person and as a leader and to give back to our community and to the world. Bring us your projects and join us,” Club president Tonya Gosnell said. The club meets every Thursday at noon at the Saint Mary’s Annex Building (1800 W. C Street) behind the hospital. The weekly program features a speaker informing the club of projects, activities and organizations that would be of local interest. For additional information call Gosnell at 501-6800055.

FOR THE COURIER Kiwanis International is a global organization of 207,790 members in 7,427 clubs in 80 nations dedicated to serving the children of the world. The Russellville Kiwanis Club meets from noon to 1 p.m. each Wednesday at Western Sizzlin’. The club’s motto is “serving the children of Russellville and the Arkansas River Valley, one child at a time.” The Club has a website, and it can be visited by going to www.russellvillekiwanisclub.org. Club officers for 201415 are: George C. Stone, president; Billy Cockrill, president-elect; Matt Steven, vice president; Susan Allen, secretary; Steve Huett, treasurer; Karen Yarbrough, immediate past president,

The club’s motto is “serving the children of Russellville and the Arkansas River Valley, one child at a time.” 2013-14. The board of directors includes: Charlie Cravens, Nicholas Davelaar, Richard Price, John Stottman, Pam Magness, Bill Saxton, Matt Steven, Dana Gann and Stephen Gann. The Russellville Kiwanis Club raised over $28,000 during 2013-14 in its fundraising efforts such as Kiwanis Pancake Day; Mixed Nut Sales; Kiwanis Concession Trailer; Pope County Fair Kiwanis Restaurant; Kiwanis Christmas Tree Sales; Kiwanis Silent Auction; and the Kiwanis Rummage Sale. Proceeds from the

fundraising efforts were distributed to the Russellville and Arkansas River Valley Children’s organizations as follows: Age to Age Program, Arkansas Children‚‘s Hospital, Arkansas Tech University scholarships, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Boys State, Girls State, CASA, Easter Egg Hunt, Equestrian Zone, Key Clubs, Boys and Girls Club Summer Program, Oakland Heights Step Program, Russellville Program, Habitat for Humanity, Children’s Fund, Kiwanis Kid’s Kamp and Kiwanis International Program.

Russellville Lions Club For The Courier

The Russellville Lions Club has conducted Vision Screenings at 15 Community Child Day Care facilities or public

events and screened 714 pre-school children. Of those children screened 130 or about 18% of the children required future screening by a licensed

optometrist. These early screenings not only provide children with a good start in their education, they also may help prevent further vision issues.

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Two new master’s degrees approved at Arkansas Tech For The Courier

The Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board (AHECB) granted approval in February for Arkansas Tech University to establish two new master’s degrees. Arkansas Tech began offering a Master of Science degree in strength and conditioning studies and a Master of Science degree in applied sociology during the fall 2014 semester. Both program proposals were previously approved by the Arkansas Tech Board of Trustees, and the AHECB gave its approval during a meeting in Little Rock on Jan. 31. According to a program proposal submitted by the Arkansas Tech Department of Health and Physical Education, the new master’s degree in strength and conditioning studies was designed using standards set forth by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). “This represents a visionary evolution of the traditional fitness pedagogy component of the physical education and exercise science disciplines,” reads a portion of the program description submitted by Dr. Annette Holeyfield, professor of physical education and head of the Arkansas Tech Department of Health and Physical Education. “The 33-hour program is designed to meet the needs of coaches, physical educators, physical therapists, athletic trainers and

others interested in the fitness profession.” Graduates of the strength and conditioning studies degree program may pursue certifications such as NSCA Certified Personal Trainer or NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. The program proposal states that Arkansas Tech will become the first institution in the state to offer a graduate program in strength and conditioning studies that aligns with NSCA standards. Students who received their undergraduate training in a field other than health and physical education may pursue the Master of Science degree in strength and conditioning studies at Arkansas Tech following the successful completion of leveling courses in anatomy and kinesiology. The Master of Science degree in applied sociology was developed by the Arkansas Tech Department of Behavioral Sciences. A program proposal submitted by Dr. Daniel Martin, professor of sociology and head of the Arkansas Tech Department of Behavioral Sciences, indicates that the development of an applied sociology master’s degree is consistent with emerging trends nationwide. “The increase in options at the master’s level in sociology is, in part, a response to student demand for degrees that improve job opportunities outside of the traditional academic setting

and traditional sociology department,” reads a portion of the program proposal. “Among the most prominent and successful options available in sociology graduate programs is an emphasis in applied sociology. Graduates from such programs are in demand in the job market for their expertise in community organization, human resource management and research methodologies.” According to the program proposal, Arkansas Tech will be the first institution in the state to offer a graduate program that focuses specifically on applied sociology.

JOHNSON COUNTY

New roof for Lamar clinic

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON The Lamar Board of Education approved accepting a bid of $17,650 for the installation of a new roof and guttering on the district’s Coordinated School Health Clinic during a meeting in December 2013. Construction began a few days later and was completed before the students returned from Christmas break. Renovations on the building started the previous year, but the new roof wasn’t included in the budget at that time. “We applied for a grant and did the budget before we realized the roof had to be replaced,” Superintendent Roy Hester said. “We did some patching and then applied for the grant [for the roof] to be put in this year’s budget. We just got the grant approved a month ago. The timing worked out pretty good.” The board approved funding “any carpentry repairs” because once the sheet metal from the old roof is removed, there may be unforeseen problems. The type of roof the contractor is using has a 25year warranty. Additionally, All-Pro Roofing gave the district a five-year warranty on workmanship. The clinic houses medical staff and counselors from outside sources such as Counseling Associates, the school’s registered nurse and a nurse practitioner and is open three days a week to Lamar students, faculty and staff. The district has tentative plans to change the current procedures. “The plan is to open [the clinic] to the public in January and be open five days a week,” Hester said. “The students and staff will use the east entrance and the public will use the west entrance.” The hope is that opening to the public will bring in additional funds to keep the clinic operational, Hester said.

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City Corporation Maintaining high standards of water quality and quantity Submitted by City Corp.

The search for lost water

All water utilities monitor and track the amount of water that is produced but not sold. This water is typically referred to as “Unaccounted For Water‚“ often abbreviated as “UFW”. City Corporation has historically monitored this number as a simple percentage of the amount of water not billed in a given month divided by the amount of water produced during that same month. For example, 100 million gallons of water produced in a month and 90 million gallons sold during the month yields “Unaccounted For Water” of 10% for that month. While there is not an established minimum or maximum that we are required to meet, the industry standard has historically been around 10% as a tolerable limit. That being said, the range of acceptable UFW varies for each utility based on many factors including cost of water produced and the cost of recovering the lost water. In other words systems that produce and deliver water very inexpensively may be able to tolerate a larger percentage as repairing smaller leaks may actually not be cost effective. At City Corporation, we have adopted the 10% industry standard as our goal for UFW and have done well staying at or below that number for a good number of years. However, recently, we have noted that our UFW has slowly increased over the past few years and our 12 month average has now exceeded 15%. The graph illustrates the recent rise in the UFW percentage and also illustrates the impact that changing out aged water

meters has on the percentage. City Corporation implemented a meter replacement program beginning in 1996 and the graph shows that the UFW was reduced by 15%. “Real losses” are defined as water that is not consumed but truly lost due to leaks in distribution system. Correction of real losses has both a direct positive impact on treatment costs and water plant demand/production. As real losses are primarily system leaks, eliminating these leaks produces a positive result through reducing the amount of water needed to satisfy the system demand. Correcting these losses directly results in lower system demand and, consequently, a reduction in required water plant production. This reduction, if significant, can extend the life of existing facilities and delay capital improvements including plant expansion, pump station upgrades and pipeline improvement projects. “Apparent losses” are defined as water that is actually consumed/ used by customers, but not billed, such as water theft, metering and/ or billing inaccuracies. Correction of apparent losses have a direct positive impact on revenues, but may not have a significant impact on reducing plant production as the water is actually being consumed by the end user. The increase in revenues can have a positive impact by reducing the amount and/ or frequency of rate increases to cover rising operational and capital costs. The Board of Directors at City Corporation has made this a priority moving forward and we have subsequently increased our efforts with regard to addressing the issue.

City Corporation proposes changes to standard specifications The City Corporation Engineering staff is in the process of reviewing the construction standards that have been in place

since 1995. In addition to the specifications, staff is also reviewing our policies and procedures regarding water and wastewater extensions to our system. These documents are being reviewed with the goal of bringing our standards up to those current-

ly recognized by the water industry. Periodic updating of our specifications, policies and procedures is critical to facilitating uniform growth of our area with regards to water and wastewater services. It ensures that we are consistent with other utilities

in the industry, a critical consideration when our city is being compared with others for a new industry or commercial development. In order to consistently compete

Please see CITY CORP. | 2P

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Russellville completes street projects

BY COURIER STAFF Several road projects that would add both functionality and aesthetics to Russellville city streets were completed in 2014. Two of these will create what Michael Oakes, former city engineer, called “complete streets.” “The term ‘complete streets’ refers to building streets that are designed for all modes of transportation — all potential users — as opposed to just designing our streets for autos, as we have been doing for many years,” Oakes said. The first complete street project starts at East ‘H’ Street and North Arkansas Avenue. The improvements follow ‘H’ Street to North Parker Road and follow Parker Road north until its culmination at East ‘Ä’ Street. Elements of the project included two 10-foot traffic lanes, bike lanes, sidewalks with a median between the walkway and the street, redbud trees and period lighting. Oakes said improvements along East ‘H’ Street and North Parker Road give continuity to the area. “There are about five or six different sections, or widths, as you go along,” he said. “Curbs, no curbs, certain widths between the curbs. The street is obviously the result of many years of different developments going in and putting in whatever they were able to get approval to put in.” Another complete street runs along North El Paso Avenue, stretching from Parkway Drive to the Arkansas Tech University campus. Though El Paso Avenue has its own design, the concept

Each of these improvements will contribute to the character of the city. is similar to the ‘H’ Street and Parker Road project, with vehicle travel lanes, bike lanes, trees, sidewalks and period lighting. “It’s going to be one cool street,” Oakes said, when the project was underway. Each of these improvements will contribute to the character of the city, Oakes said. He added that

capital road projects such as these are paid for with proceeds from the city’s one-cent sales tax. Public Works’ operational budget is funded by turnback funds from the state gasoline tax. Those funds pay for general road maintenance throughout the city, but can’t cover larger projects such as complete streets.

CITY CORP. CONTINUED FROM 1P

Pictured at Sunrise Point on Mount Nebo:

Wendy Davis, Regina Tucker, Michael Witt, Renee Crow, Rebecca Hopkins, Tracy Woods and Isabel Lira (not pictured Mack Streety).

Chambers Bank is focused on rising to the top of the list when it comes to customer satisfaction.

with other cities when it comes to attracting new businesses to the river valley, we have to be diligent in keeping up with mandated standards for water quality, changing technology, and improved materials and methods of construction. One of the more notable recommendations is to implement a commercial meter sizing program based on actual fixture count of the building’s plumbing. In times past, bigger was thought to have been better when it comes to meter sizing. In actuality, bigger means a larger upfront capital cost and a larger monthly cost for the consumer. At the same time, if the meter is oversized, it may not pick up low flow usage. This results in un-metered water usage. The cost of the un-metered water is subsidized by every customer in the water system. A properly sized meter will insure each customer is

paying only for their water use. The good news is that we do not have to create a new set of standards to accomplish this. We only have to follow the current Arkansas Plumbing Code and the American Water Works Association guidelines for meter sizing. As mentioned above, keeping our specifications current helps ensure that we are continually reviewing the latest information available with regards to local, state and federal rules and regulations. With the ever-changing regulatory environment, it is critical that we stay up to date to prevent costly replacements and punitive fines. We have enjoyed solid growth for many years in the Russellville area as evidenced by the graph showing customer accounts for each class since 1988. We are dedicated to the orderly growth of the water and wastewater system and this begins with a good set of construction standards.

W

hen you think community banking Chambers Bank wants to be at the top of your list. In 2014 we proudly added three new faces to our lending staff, Michael Witt, Mack Streety, and Rebecca Hopkins. We take pride in being able to give you the personal customer service you deserve. Please come in and see our staff at 510 Union Street in Dardanelle.

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Bridgestone celebrates 50 years of commitment

BY TANNER OTT Dozens of Bridgestone executives and employees joined members of the community Thursday, Oct. 16 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Firestone plant in Russellville. The celebration included remarks from Scott Gateley, general manager of Firestone; John Vasuta, president of GCR Tires and Service; Russellville Mayor Bill Eaton; Johnny Johnson, athletic director of the Russellville School District; and Mack Hollis, director of the Russellville Recreation and Parks Commission. The plant has experienced a number of changes, upgrades, awards and special recognitions throughout its history including: ■ Firestone began production on Oct. 26, 1964, in the original structure that was 136,000 square feet. ■ In 1988, Bridgestone Corporation purchased The Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, including its global operations. ■ In 1997, the fifth expansion of the plant increased its total square footage to 320,000 square feet. ■ The company celebrated two achievements in 1999 and 2003, with Firestone Tube Company achieving an ISO9000 certificate of approval for the Quality Management System in 1999 and an ISO14001 certificate of approval for the Environmental Management System in 2003. ■ In 2005, Bridgestone Americas became the only inner tube manufacturer in the United States and Canada. Three

years later, Firestone Tube Company changed its name to Bridgestone Americas Tube Business. ■ The company received a CEO Safety Recognition Award for 1 million hours without a lost-time injury in 2011. Gateley congratulated the company for its commitment in a number of areas. “There has been a commitment not to just survive, or to succeed, but to thrive,” Gateley said. “This community has really supported us over the years, and it has been wonderful.” Gateley added that the company had employed more than 2,000 people during its existence. Gateley noted a saying

that was passed around the Russellville plant that drives his message home. The message relates to breakfast. “The chicken makes a

contribution to breakfast, but the pig makes a commitment,” Gateley said. Vasuta credited the company’s employees for its success.

“The quality of the workforce has been remarkable,” Vasuta said. “We’ve achieved so much over the past 50 years. After 50 years, we are

still on top of our game, standing by ourself.” Eaton stressed the importance the company has meant to the community. “Bridgestone has remained committed to our area,” Eaton said. “They have become and remained one of our biggest employers in our area.” Eaton added that the company has provided many employees to make a good living and support their family. “There is an old military phrase, ‘When the going gets tough, the tough get going.’ I think that’s the culture here.” “It is my hope and desire that the next 50 years will be just as successful,” Eaton said. “Everyone that has been associated with it should be extremely proud.” Eaton presented a certificate of appreciation to Gateley to honor the 50year anniversary of the company. Johnson thanked the company for its donation to help purchase a scoreboard for the baseball field the Cyclones use at Hickey Park. A check of $21,000 was presented to RSD for the scoreboard, which covered its entire cost. Johnson added that many people from inside and outside the community will see the scoreboard and admire the donation the company made. Hollis expressed thanks to the company for its contributions. Hollis noted that the company was the first group to adopt a park. Bridgestone donated funds to purchase equipment for the park and has maintained it, Hollis said.

Development of Overland Indoor firing range and retail Park subdivision on track gun store to open in Atkins

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON One year, two overridden vetoes and three city official resignations later, the Overland Park subdivision is back on track. The Russellville City Council during a called meeting Sept. 23 overrode Mayor Bill Eaton’s veto of an ordinance to accept the final plat of the Overland Park subdivision. The council also approved authorizing City Engineer Kurt Jones to accept the final plat when it conforms to land use and development code. Aldermen Mark Tripp, Richard Harris, Freddie Harris, Martin Irwin, Spence Roberts and Robert Wiley voted to override the veto and for the city engineer’s authorization. Alderman Randy Horton abstained and Alderman Garland Steuber did not vote because he was acting mayor in Eaton’s absence. “We need to make things easier, not harder,” Tripp said after the meeting. During the council’s regular meeting earlier that month, aldermen approved the ordinance with a 5-3 vote. Tripp, Richard Harris, Freddie Harris, Roberts and Wiley voted in favor while Martin Irwin and Garland Steuber voted against and Randy Horton abstained. Eaton vetoed the ordinance the next day, his second veto concerning the subdivision.

Background

The proposed subdivision — which would include more than 80

The Russellville City Council during a called meeting Sept. 23 overrode Mayor Bill Eaton’s veto of an ordinance to accept the final plat of the Overland Park subdivision. The council also approved authorizing City Engineer Kurt Jones to accept the final plat when it conforms to land use and development code. units and be bordered on the south by West 12th Street, on the west by Camelot Village and on the north by Brookside Estates — first went before the Russellville Planning Commission in September 2013. The proposal landed before the council during its regular meeting Jan. 16, at which time aldermen unanimously approved a plat that included two entrances to the subdivision along West 12th Street and an emergency access at South Durant Avenue. On Jan. 22, Mayor Bill Eaton vetoed the decision, recommending the council stick with a plat approved by the Russellville Planning Commission, which included one entrance each at West 12th Street, South Durant Avenue and Camelot Drive. The council met again the next day and overrode the veto in a 7-1 vote. Alderman Martin Irwin dissented, saying he’d changed his mind because he didn’t want to see a trend of ignoring the zoning code. During the Jan. 23 meeting, Gerald Hook,

a Russellville Historic District commissioner, said he was disappointed in the council for ignoring the city engineer and planning commission and suggested the council may have ulterior motives for overriding the veto. Hook’s comments, along with suspected comments from two planning commissioners, led the council to call a meeting Jan. 27 in which all present aldermen voted in favor of denying allegations of accepting bribes or any instances of impropriety in regard to its actions relating to the subdivision. Richard Harris was absent from that meeting. The two members of the planning commission accused of making statements similar to Hook’s accusation — Richard Perkins and Herschel Hargus— resigned from the commission, though Hargus later withdrew his resignation.Commissioner Nick Patel also resigned because of the Overland Park saga, though it was unclear if he had spoken out against the council.

BY SEAN INGRAM ATKINS — The Atkins City Council listened to Dennis Hurley, who explained his idea to open a retail gun store and indoor firing range on Southwest First Street. “Safety is the idea behind this,” Hurley told aldermen during the September meeting, adding he also planned to teach a concealed weapons permit course. “Safety will be the utmost concern.” Alderman Sean Rehm said noise complaints from other businesses was his only concern. Hurley said he contacted

“Safety is the idea behind this. Safety will be the utmost concern.” Dennis Hurley a company in Las Vegas that will soundproof the building. Alderman Dave Belcher asked Hurley what hours the gun store and indoor firing range would be open. Hurley

replied the store would be open during normal business hours, while the firing range would probably be open from 5-10 p.m. Monday through Friday. “We’re trying to think 20 years from now, not 20 minutes from now,” Hurley said. Mayor Jerry Don Barrett and City Attorney Bill Swain agreed since Hurley will put the store and indoor firing range inside an existing building, the Planning Commission didn’t have to consider the issue. Hurley thanked aldermen for their time.

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Interstate 40 work continues

BY COURIER STAFF Work on Interstate 40 continues in the Arkansas River Valley. With a preliminary estimate of more than $42 million, the project to reconstruct and resurface 7.2 miles of Interstate around Russellville is ongoing. While Interstate improvements to the east of Russellville are nearly complete, but building bridges to the west of Russellville has steadily kept traffic congested. The improvements started at Mill Creek Road and continue westward to State Highway 331. Four bridges are being replaced with composite girder spans ranging from 376 to 583 feet. Blackstone Construc-

tion of Russellville has been awarded the contract, according to a news release from the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department. The project is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2015. The project was originally scheduled in the 2000 roadway project initiative, but the project was never started. Additional road work on I-40 in Pope and Conway counties was recently completed. More than 18 miles of roadway and four bridges between Atkins and Plummerville was rehabilitated. A median cable barrier was installed, which is part of a project to install 500 miles of cable barrier by 2016.

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Reasoner Lane extension would benefit city BY JEANETTE ANDERTON The Russellville City Council tabled the Reasoner Lane extension during its monthly meeting in July. A fact-finding meeting for the project was canceled on July 15, and

though the finance committee recommended the project, it was tabled for further research. The proposed extension would cost $100,000 for planning and designing and would include two roundabouts: one where East Harrell Drive inter-

sects Reasoner Lane and one where Reasoner Lane would intersect State Highway 124, once extended. The extension of Reasoner Lane would run parallel with Interstate 40 and is designed to alleviate traffic.

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BY SEAN INGRAM The Russellville City Council called a special meeting Aug. 5 and voted unanimously to authorize Mayor Bill Eaton and City Clerk Kathy Collins to enter into a master development contract with Hunt Properties, GP, for the construction of The Landing north of Interstate 40. “I feel very humbled to come to this community and be a very small part of something that will benefit the community for years and years to come,” David Hunt, CEO of Hunt Properties, told aldermen inside Russellville City Hall. “We feel very strongly and positive about the direction we are going. We feel like we can have a drawing of the hotel and convention center ready toward the end of the year. “We want to bring people from all around the southeast part of the United States and tell them why they should invest in this project.”

When Alderman Martin Irwin pointed out “This is a pretty ambitious project,” Hunt replied, “If you don’t dream big, you don’t accomplish anything.” The contract calls for Hunt Properties to start construction on a hotel and convention center within 180 days. Hunt told the council that he started doing some things after he first addressed aldermen in May, adding there are several things to get done and prepare before you can start moving dirt. “We have a lot of cars on the interstate we need to capture,” Hunt said, “and I believe we will capture a lot of those cars.” “I believe in the project, too,” Harris said. “Thank you. I like what I’ve read here, and I’ve read it twice.” “Over the last few years, the convention center has been a point of controversy in the community,” Alderman Rich-

ard Harris said. “There are those who thought it would never get off the ground. I went through this contract, and I am encouraged and like what you said about the people in the community. I look forward in seeing this come together, something all the people can look at and they can be proud of.” Irwin added, “I can’t tell you how much I hope you have success in this project.” Eaton explained there were people in the audience and who couldn’t make Tuesday’s called meeting “who have worked very diligently to put something like this together, in several different ways. It has finally come ot fruition. I can’t over-emphasize my pleasure and thanks to all of those who have been a part of making this happen. It has been kind of an arduous task, but I think we are there, and we are ready to go.”

Governor presents honors to 5 companies For The Courier

Five Arkansas companies took home awards

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sented the awards at a May 22 luncheon at the Governor’s Mansion. The companies were honored for leadership in exporting goods and services. Those honored are POM Inc. of Russellville, Harris International of Springdale, Sweepscrub. com of North Little Rock, Triangle Engineering of Jacksonville and Arkansas Steel Associates in Newport. Beebe says the companies prove that large and small Arkansas businesses can succeed in the global marketplace. The program is sponsored by the Arkansas District Export Council, the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, U. S. Commercial Service, and the Arkansas World Trade Center. ■■■

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968-5252

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Who’s Who in River Valley Real Estate BRENDA RICE brice@rivervalleyrealty.com

ED STINGLEY Put me to work for you!

886-1506

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City Corp. to see $428,145 upgrade BY JEANETTE ANDERTON The City Corp. Board approved a $428,145 contract with Brown Engineers to upgrade its human machine interface (HMI) system during its regular meeting in June. The contract includes an upgrade to the hardware and software that comprises the existing water and sewer HMI system. “Since we are at the crossroads of having to either renew or replace, staff is opting to replace

the software with a more reliable and economic software package,” Lance Bartlett, utility engineering manager, said. “Additionally, the servers that operate the HMI system are aging and need to be replaced for reliability and technology upgrades.” “This is a vital system for operation of our plants and communication with our pump stations, lift stations and tanks.” The board also approved a $49,995 contract for installation of

“Since we are at the crossroads of having to either renew or replace, staff is opting to replace the software with a more reliable and economic software package.” Lance Bartlett Utility engineering manager, said. supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) remote terminal units (RTU) at five locations that don’t currently have them.

In other business, the board approved: ■ An amendment to the $30,000 contract with Garver Engineers approved in December 2013

for construction of a bypass on the raw water line that feeds the water treatment plant. During the design phase, engineers discovered electrical components that were not up to code. The amendment added $17,500 to the contract. ■ A resolution extending the City/City Corp. lease by one year. ■ First State Bank’s bid to re-issue a 12-month maturing certificate of deposit worth $477,289 at a rate of 4 percent.

■ The 2014-15 capital budget and the May 2014 financial report. ■ Renewing annual contracts from July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015 with Brown Engineers for SCADA support and electrical engineering services; with Garver Engineers for ConAgra support, wastewater system support and water system support; and with CWB Engineers for general engineering support. All board members were present, and all actions were unanimous.

Russellville Building Permits

North Phoenix UP Railroad overpass opens BY LAURA BEAN The North Phoenix Union Pacific Railroad overpass opened to traffic in June. The project was completed two months earlier than expected, and after plans were changed from an underpass to an overpass, it saved the city more than $2 million. The overpass is valu-

able to not only vehicular traffic but also bicyclers and pedestrians, Russellville Mayor Bill Eaton said. “We are extremely pleased to have the opportunity to have all these modes of transportation available to us,” Eaton said. Eaton said the overpass will benefit Russell-

ville Junior High School and Arkansas Tech University. Pope County Judge Jim Ed Gibson added the overpass will help in emergency situations. “It’s going to add several minutes to the time we can get to Saint Mary’s Hospital,” Gibson said. Former City Engineer

Michael Oakes said the overpass is a great asset to the western part of the city, and the Zephyr train models that mark the ends of the overpass add aesthetic value. “You don’t get the chance to do one of these every day,” Oakes said. “It says something about the spirit of Russellville.”

ConAgra expansion completed ConAgra Foods has completed expansion on its new facility. The expansion was originally announced in September 2012. ConAgra has expanded its Russellville manufacturing operations numerous times since the plant was built in 1964.

Jail tax to fund new facility passes in Yell County BY COURIER STAFF DANVILLE — By a margin of more than 15 percent, Yell County voters approved a 1-cent sales tax to fund construction of a new jail facility. During the Jan. 14 special election, 863 votes, or 58.2 percent, were cast in favor of the temporary 3⁄4-cent tax to fund construction of the facility. Six hundred and twenty voters, 41.8 percent, opposed the measure. As a separate but related ballot item, 57.76 percent, or 860, of ballots were cast in favor of a permanent 1⁄4-cent sales tax for jail operations and maintenance; 629 voters, or 42.24 percent, opposed the measure. Yell County Judge Mark Thone and Sheriff Bill Gilkey have been active proponents of the new jail, and both men were on hand as votes were being counted. “The people of the county saw the need, and

they got out and voted,” Thone said. “We had a pretty good turnout for a special election — I think we’re right up there around that 1,500 (voters) number. We’re real pleased, and we’re thankful for the citizens, that they saw there is a need and we needed something now, and we’re going to be able to proceed.” Thone said he was unsure exactly when collections for the tax would begin. He said design work for the facility will begin right away, and groundbreaking could occur as early as summer. He said the estimated time for construction is 18 months to two years. Cost of the new jail facility, to be constructed in Danville, is $7 million and will be funded via a 20-year bond.

Background County officials cited

the inadequacy of current facilities in Dardanelle and Danville as the reason a new jail was needed. Neither of the existing facilities meet state guidelines or can be feasibly renovated to do so. “Currently, the two existing jails at Danville and Dardanelle are not within state compliance and state jail standards,” Yell County Sheriff Bill Gilkey said in a video statement posted on the department’s Facebook page. “Both facilities were built in the latter part and completed in 1975. In 1976, the state of Arkansas came out with Arkansas Jail Standards, a measurement that all jails in Arkansas should be built by. “Even though our two facilities were new in 1976, neither jail met the state standards. We have continued to operate this way for 25-plus years. It has come to the time —

the state of Arkansas has done a recent inspection of our jails and said that our current facilities do not meet the compliance standards.” The Danville facility was placed on a six-month probation because the jail’s cell space is not adequate. Because of physical and fiscal constraints, Gilkey said the jail cannot be brought into compliance. “We feel that probably at the end of February or first of March when the state returns to make their inspections, that they will close the Danville jail at that time,” Gilkey said. While the Dardanelle jail faces similar problems, it has not been placed on probation at this time. The proposed new facility would contain 75 beds and have the ability to be expanded in the future if necessary.

COMPILED BY SEAN INGRAM The following commercial building permits for projects valued at $10,000 or greater were filed between October 2013 and September 2014. They are listed below, with reference to date, property owner or tenant (when available), address and cost of construction: ■ Oct. 1, 2013, 1203 N. Glenwood, $47,000. ■ Oct. 3, 2013, 915 W. Main, $21,104. ■ Oct. 10, 2013, Inglewood Manor, 3112 W. 2nd, $700,000. ■ Oct. 16, 2013, Good Deal Charlie‚Äôs, 2209 E. Main St., $65,000. ■ Oct. 21, 2013, Payless, 3091 E. Main Ste A, $19,500. ■ Oct. 21, 2013, CAT Inc., 201 S. Erie, $36,000. ■ Oct. 21, 2013, 106 Weir Road Ste 4-6, $385,202 ■ Oct. 28, 2013, 502 N. Knoxville, $125,000. ■ Oct. 28, 2013, 3230 Dow Drive, $10,000. ■ Nov. 8, 2013, Wasabi Japanese Steak House, 2301 E. Parkway Drive, $720,000. ■ Nov. 13, 2013, 1310 W. B St., $160,000. ■ Nov. 14, 2013, 2410 E. Parkway Drive, $12,000. ■ Nov. 15, 2013, 1107 S. Arkansas Ave., $35,000 ■ Nov. 22, 2013, New Life Church, 130 E. Harrell Drive, $550,000. ■ Dec. 4, 2013, 115 Skyline Drive, $50,000. ■ Dec. 13, 2013, Sherwood Urgent Care, 106 Weir Road Ste 4, $10,000. ■ Jan. 2, 2014, 301 N. Sidney Ave., $1,500,000. ■ Jan. 17, 2014, Humphrey Funeral Home, 2801 W. Main St., $19,820. ■ Jan. 28, 2014, Walmart Neighborhood Market, 201 S. Vancouver, $4,890,000. ■ Feb. 18, 2014, 2407 N. Arkansas Ave., $40,000. ■ Feb. 24, 2014, Arvest Bank, 209 W. Main St., $12,500. ■ Feb. 24, 608 W. B St., $95,000. ■ Feb. 26, 2014, 1303 State Highway 124, $100,000. ■ March 13, 2014, 914 W. C St., $12,500. ■ March 14, 2014, Brookfield Inn, 2407 N. Arkansas, $17,500. ■ March 28, 2014, 1225 East 14th St., $17,500. ■ April 3, 2014, 109 N. Fargo, $30,219. ■ April 7, 2014, 220 W. 10th St., $262,444. ■ April 10, 2014, 717 S. Arkansas Ave., $15,200.

■ April 14, 2014, 1301 Russell Road, $120,000. ■ April 14, 2014, Peters Family Living, 201 N. Arkansas Ave., $13,062. ■ April 15, 2014, Russellville High School, 2203 S. Knoxville Ave., $12,500,000. ■ April 17, 2014, 1310 W. B Ste A, $45,000. ■ April 22, 2014, 2601 E. Parkway Drive, $475,000. ■ April 21, 2014, Cyclone Car Wash, 1020 N. Arkansas Ave., $600,000. ■ April 24, 2014, 104 Skyline Drive, $65,000. ■ April 28, 2014, First Baptist Church, 200 N. El Paso Ave., $150,000. ■ May 19, 2014, 400 East C St., $160,000. ■ May 19, 2014, 319 West B St., $300,000. ■ May 22, 2014, 221 N. Phoenix Ave., $260,000. ■ May 22, 2014, 709 S. Elmira, $16,000. ■ May 22, 2014, 602 W. Main St., $19,925. ■ May 27, 2014, Oakland Heights Elementary, 1501 S. Detroit Ave., $823,598. ■ May 27, 2014, Russellville High School, 22-3 S. Knoxville Ave., $460,000. ■ May 28, 2014, Bath and Body Works, 3093 E. Main Space 11, $225,000. ■ June 3, 2014, 405 N. Arkansas Ave., $795,000. ■ June 4, 2014, 1301 E. Main St., $17,600. ■ June 4, 2014, 1301 E. Main St., $28,000. ■ June 5, 2014, St. John Catholic Church, 1900 W. Main St., $107,650. ■ June 11, 2014, Russellville School District, 1116 Parker Road, $35,000. ■ June 16, 2014, Conagra Foods, 3100 E. Main St., $300,000. ■ July 7, 2014, Car Mart, 3502 S. Arkansas Ave., $14,550. ■ Aug. 4, 2014, 2006 E. Parkway Drive, $75,000. ■ Aug. 5, 2014, Rockline Industries, 500 Industrial Blvd., $500,000. ■ Aug. 13, 2014, Planet Fitness, 405 N. Arkansas Ave., $10,000 ■ Aug. 14, 2014, 1001 S. Arkansas Ave., $100,000. ■ Aug. 18, 2014, 2410 E. 2nd St., $245,000. ■ Aug. 20, 2014, 3800 W. Main St., $179,000. ■ Aug. 21, 2014, Venezia‚Äôs, 1321 E. Main St., $125,000. ■ Sept. 11, 2014, Car Mart, 3502 S. Arkansas Ave., $14,500. ■ Sept. 11, 2014, Dollar Tree, 1105 W. Main St., $290,000.

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Center for the Arts board seeks quality entertainment

BY COURIER STAFF A dedicated group of volunteers is looking to bring more entertainment opportunities to Russellville. Russellville’s Center for the Arts Board of Directors, a nine-person volunteer group, has created Raise the Curtain, a fundraising campaign designed to generate sufficient funding to maintain a performing artist series. Operations Manager Wendy Sparks said the Center of the Arts functions as a source for community entertainment and as a tool of education. Sparks said the Board of Directors came together to launch the fundraiser. “Through the board’s efforts, the campaign [was] kicked off [in June],� Sparks said. Sparks said the Raise the Curtain promotion will continue throughout the year. “This group of volunteers has put forth a lot of time and effort in order

to bring quality entertainment to the community,� Sparks said. “But in order for that to happen, we need the community involved. That is what the board is here for.� The board said the overall goal is to bring entertainment opportunities into Russellville such as seen at the Reynolds Performance Hall on the University of Central Arkansas campus in Conway. “Our model is somewhat patterned after Alma’s performing arts center,� board member Wesley White said. “They’ve been able to establish a strong foundation there and they’ve been able to consistently bring in good, quality entertainment each month.� The board hopes to achieve enough funding to host monthly events. Sparks said that thus far, however, private promoters bring in all events. “We hope to bring even more events and bigger

events to the community,� she said. “We would like to bring in family entertainments such as magic shows, acrobat shows, dances like ballet and things like that.� Just as the board wishes to see events benefiting and entertaining the community, board members noted the economic benefit of bringing quality entertainment to the Russellville area. White

said he foresees an economic growth, should Russellville begin hosting quality entertainment. “When you start bringing these events in, you start having people coming in from out of town,� he said. “Many of these people will make a night of entertainment out of it. They will eat in Russellville and in some cases pay to lodge here as well. This effort would certain-

ly complement the city of Russellville.� Board member Phil Carruth said in association with White’s comments on economy, Russellville has already established itself as a destination city. “Russellville is already on the map. We don’t need to worry about that,� he said. “A few weekends ago, we had thousands of people here. Now we’ve

got this facility to add to it all. If we use it properly, I can see it being big.� As fundraising and sponsorship events occur, Sparks said the Center for the Arts will publish information regarding their upcoming season of entertainment at the end of summer. Sparks said the board would love to see sponsorships arise in the future to assist in the Raise the Curtain project. “We are receptive,� Sparks said. “And we want to reach out to our local businesses to support us as season sponsors, show sponsors or otherwise.� Members of the 201314 Board of Directors are Mike Miller, Todd Sweeden, Judy Taylor, Maysel Teeter, Carruth, Richard Peel, White, Truman Hill and Randal Williams. For details regarding the Center for the Arts or Raise the Curtain, call Sparks at 498-6600.

Local 4-H youth: Looking back

BY COURIER STAFF 4-H has accomplished many feats over the past year. Two of which are highlighted below: A group of eight youth attended 4-H livestock camps, quiz bowls and competitions to learn more about feeding, caring for and showing cattle. Not only have they learned about beef cattle, their knowledge has increased in the dairy cattle field as well. These youth have learned to care for young beef and dairy animals, learned the many breeds, cattle parts and real-life cattle handling scenarios such as weighing for accurate dosage, vaccinating and tagging calves in a hydraulic chute. Hay quality, milking practices, sanitation and keeping herds

healthy are also important areas covered. Because of the tremendous time and effort put into studying by this team, the junior and senior teams placed 1st in Dairy Quiz Bowl. The junior team placed 2nd in Dairy Judging, and the senior team placed 5th. The senior team has earned the opportunity to go to the National Dairy competition in Louisville, Ky., in November to compete in both Dairy Quiz Bowl and Dairy Judging. We are so proud of this group of young men and their hard work. Not only are they well prepared to compete in the upcoming competition, they have also learned skills and information to take care of their own cattle. Another group of 10

4-Hers competed this past summer at the State 4-H Horse Show in the Hippology and Horse Quiz Bowl competitions. These competitions allow the youth to test their knowledge and understanding of equine science in a unique and challenging atmosphere. After practicing weekly for six months they were ready to compete with other 4-H counties to determine the best of the best. Pope County’s teams took 1st, 6th and 9th place in Hippology and 2nd place in Horse Quiz Bowl! These youth have made us proud but most importantly, they have learned so much about how to feed and care for horses, the many parts of a horse, the tools and supplies needed to care for a horse and that hard work pays off!

Works Harder.

WE ARE “ALL-IN� FOR PROGRESS The Arkansas Valley Alliance for Economic The Arkansas Valley Alliance for Economic Development is excited and proud to be involved in the Development is excited and proud to be continued involved progress of the River Valley. Since our inception 1997, in the continued progress of the River Valley. in Since the Alliance has successfully brought 17 new industries our inception in 1997, the Alliance has secured over to the area creating over 950 new full-time jobs. During million in economic development for 60 this$6 same period, the Alliance assisted withgrants more than communities in Pope and Yell Counties. During thisof industrial expansion projects resulting in the creation same2,400 period, Alliance assisted with more than over newthe full-time jobs. In addition, the Alliance has secured over $6.4 million in economic development 60 industrial expansion projects that resulted in the grants for communities in Pope and Yell Counties. creation of over 3,500 new full-time jobs.

A special thanks to the following organizations who help us move forward: City of Russellville, City of Dardanelle, City of Atkins, City of Pottsville, Pope County, Yell County, the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, and Entergy

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The City Corporation board of directors is a group of dedicated citizen leaders from our community who give their time and expertise freely, without compensation, to serve the needs of our customers. They take great pride in the leadership. Art Jones, Chairman Frank Russenberger, Vice-Chairman Luke Duffield, Secretary Harold Barr, Member Bill Harmon, Member Renae Taylor Human Resources

Board of Directors While many across the state and nation are struggling to meet current water demands and facing difficult and costly options for expansion, we are fortunate that previous leadership at City Corporation and the City of Russellville made it a priority to secure a long term water supply almost twenty years ago. We are equally fortunate that the citizens of Russellville also realized this critical need and voted for a 1 cent sales tax to address that need in the early 1990’s. This investment by our community is the primary reason Russellville has been able to maintain high standards of water quality and quantity. Prior to 1995, the city of Russellville depended on the Illinois Bayou for our drinking water, which at times presented major challenges with water quality and/or quantity to the treatment plant. The decision was then made to develop a long term water source for Russellville and the river valley that could provide safe and reliable quantities of high quality raw water. This was accomplished by the construction of the Huckleberry Creek Reservoir. Since 1995, this reservoir has provided exceptional raw quality water to our treatment facility on a consistent basis. The most recent study shows that the reservoir has the capacity to meet the projected water demands through 2040, assuming typical growth. With regards to the water treatment facilities, we are again, in a very favorable situation compared to others in the state. Our existing treatment facility has the capacity to handle growth until around 2037 based on current projections. The exceptional raw water quality provided from the reservoir, when coupled with modern treatment facilities and a dedicated plant staff, allows us to consistently exceed the water quality criteria set by state and federal agencies. This not only is of great service to our customers in the Russellville area, but also serves as a great incentive to attract new business to the area. We are required to provide an annual report that illustrates our performance in meeting these criteria, which can be viewed on our website at www.citycorporation.com or can be picked up at our office at 205 West 3rd Place in Russellville. Thanks to the foresight of the Russellville community, City Corporation is poised to handle growth in the water system with regards to our supply and treatment facilities for years to come. Steve Mallett, General Manager

“On behalf of the staff at City Corporation, I want to extend our appreciation to the community for the opportunity to serve the River Valley by providing quality water and wastewater services at the best value.”

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Arkansas Nuclear One Powering life in the River Valley four powerful decades Submitted by Arkansas Nuclear One

Arkansas Nuclear One is a source of safe, clean, secure and reliable power located in Russellville. The site is home to two pressurized water reactors. Unit 1 of Arkansas Nuclear One began commercial operations on Dec. 19, 1974, followed less than six years later by Unit 2, which began commercial operations on March 26, 1980. For nearly 40 years, the station has been providing low cost power to customers in Arkansas, including the River Valley. Together, the units have enough capacity to supply over 25% of the total energy demand of Arkansas.

Electrifying the economy In addition to electricity, ANO also generates a significant positive eco-

Countless hours are donated each year by employees who live and raise families in the community and have a vested interest in seeing our neighbors thrive. nomic impact in the River Valley. Entergy remains one of the area’s premiere employers and attracts highly-skilled, well compensated workers who live and invest in the community. The station currently employs approximately 900 full-time workers with an annual payroll of more than $75 million. Approximately 150 baseline contractors are also employed to assist in daily plant activities each year and 2014 has seen the addition of roughly 300 long-term contract personnel to complete major site projects. During a typical re-

fueling and maintenance outage, about 1,000 workers — including hundreds of locals — are hired to assist in helping plant employees complete required maintenance activities. Many travel to the area and are patrons of local hotels, restaurants and stores for up to a month during a given outage. Economic gains are also realized through the annual purchase of more than $12.2 million of materials, services and fuel from more than 175 Arkansas companies. The site pays more than $9 million in state and local taxes which help to sus-

tain the community.

Commitment to community Entergy and the employees at Arkansas Nuclear One have a strong commitment to help the communities we serve. Each year, grants totaling over $100,000 are awarded to local non-profit organizations, and employees partner with Entergy Corporation to donate in excess of $200,000 to the River Valley United Way for distribution to its partner agencies. The ANO Women in Nuclear chapter coordinates a site food drive to support the Summer Food for Kids program and sponsors foster children from the Angel Tree program each Christmas. Our employees enjoy educating school groups, leading Please see ANO | 10P

Future

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A message from Entergy Arkansas, Inc. ©2008 Entergy Services, Inc. Inc. All Rights Reserved. ©2011 Entergy Services, All Rights Reserved

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scout troops, judging science fairs and coaching sports teams. Many also serve on various community committees and boards. Countless hours are donated each year by employees who live and raise families in the community and have a vested interest in seeing our neighbors thrive.

2014 Entergy Community Grants Russellville Habitat for Humanity CASA ■ Manna House Food Pantry ■ All Saints Edible Churchyard Project ■ Friendship Community Care ■ Eggin’ In the Valley — River Valley Shelter for Battered Women & Children ■ River Valley Literacy Council ■ River Valley Arts Center ■ ■

ANO’s FLEX Strategy As part of an industrywide initiative to further enhance safety and guard against challenges posed by any type of extreme event, ANO is implementing what is known as the diverse and flexible coping approach, or FLEX strategy. FLEX was developed by the nuclear

energy industry to quickly and effectively implement enhancements and safeguards to address the main safety challenges faced at Fukushima in Japan in 2011. The plan provides additional backup electrical power and cooling capacity if an extreme event of any type

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Peters Family Living celebrates 70 years

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON Peters Family Living in Russellville celebrated 70 years in 2014. F.C. Peters opened the store in 1944. His two sons — Bill and Flave Peters — grew up learning the business. Flave retired 14 years ago, leaving Bill as the sole owner. “My brother and I worked in this business all our lives,” Bill said. “I was 4 years old when my dad opened the store.” Bill said customer service is the reason the store has been so successful for so long. He said the first step in the customer service formula is professionalism. “From time they come

in store, the sales process is very professional,” he said. “We listen to what the customer has to say and we try to educate the customer on the product we sell so the customer can make a more intelligent buying decision.” He said offering inhouse credit with no credit check as well as outside credit with extended terms, such as 0 percent interest for 18 months, is the second step, and delivery is the third. “Our delivery people are trained to care for customer’s property as if it’s their own,” he said. The last step is continuing with customer service even after the sale. “If they have a question,

the customer calls us instead of an 800 number,” Bill said. He said his goal is to “constantly exceed customers’ expectations.” “We’re always finetuning and trying to get better,” he said. “Everything we do is to take of our customers. They are the most important part of our business. We don’t take our customers for granted.” Bill said he can’t take all the credit for the store’s success. “I have surrounded myself with employees that care about the customer and they do things better than I ever did,” he said. “I am blessed with good employees.”

Highway Commission OKs roadway bids Alcohol tax continues BY SEAN INGRAM The Arkansas State Highway Commission approved various bids for roadway improvements in Pope, Yell and Johnson counties in late April, according to Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD) officials. In Pope County, bids include a project to resurface 2.8 miles of State Highway 7 (Arkansas Avenue) in Russellville and will extend north from D&R Railroad to U.S. Highway 64 (Main Street). Blackstone Construction of Russellville was awarded the contract at $954,584. ■ Also approved was a project to resurface 11 miles of Interstate 40 between Russellville and Atkins. It includes

the rehabilitation of two bridges, guardrail and cable median barrier. The work will extend from just west of State Highway 331 in Russellville to State Highway 105 (N. Church St.) in Atkins. Blackstone Construction was awarded the contract at $6,710,022. This project is part of the 2011 Interstate Rehabilitation Program that will improve 450 miles of Arkansas’ interstates in the coming years. ■ A project to resurface 6.7 miles of State Highway 326 was approved. The work will extend eastward from State Highways 124 to 105. Blackstone Construction, LLC of Russellville was awarded the contract at $1,345,253. The project is funded

with revenue generated from the severance tax on natural gas. ■ Another bid has been approved for a project to resurface 2.9 miles of State Highway 7, north of Russellville. The work will extend north from Linker Creek to near McCoy Creek in Dover. Blackstone Construction was awarded the contract at $777,771.

Yell County State highway commissioners approved a bid to resurface 6 miles of State Highway 10. The work will extend west from State Highway 309 (N. Main St.) in Havana to Highway 309 in Waveland. Blackstone Construction was awarded the contract at $1,497,171.

Johnson County A project to resurface 6.8 miles of U.S. Highway 64 at the Franklin County line to North Main Street in Coal Hill; State Highway 164 (East of Coal Hill) to State Highway 194; and east of Interstate 40 to near Ray Road in Clarksville has been approved. Blackstone Construction was awarded the contract at $1,147,856. ■ A project to reconstruct 8.3 miles of Interstate 40 has also been approved. The work will extend east from Ozark to State Highway 164. Blackstone Construction was awarded the contract at $6,904,141. The project is part of the 2011 Interstate Rehabilitation Program that will improve 455 miles of Arkansas’ interstates.

to benefit Russellville BY LAURA BEAN As Russellville’s alcohol sales continue to climb, the city is reaping the benefits of its alcohol tax. According to Finance Assistant Connie Holstein, the city collected $57,188 January through August on its 5 percent alcohol tax. With annual fees of more than $3,000 coming in from private clubs with a liquor license, the city collected a total of more than $61,000. The city collected more than $66,000 from a 5 percent tax on alcohol sales — $1.3 million — in 2013, which is more than a 10 percent increase of the nearly $60,000 received in 2012. Holstein said there are currently 15 vendors with a license bringing in revenue in Russellville, including: the Eagles Aerie 3928, North Forty,

Rogers-Rye VFW Post 2283, Hawthorn Park Inn and Suites, Ruby Tuesday, Colton’s Steakhouse and Grill, Umami Sushi and Grill Fusion, Brick Oven Pizza, La Huerta, Oak Tree Bistro, Fat Daddy’s Bar-B-Que, Venezias Pizza and Pasta, Italian Gardens, ULike Oriental Buffet Hibachi and most recently, Buffalo Wild Wings. The city collects a $250 permit fee and $500 business permit fee from private clubs each year in addition to the 5 percent tax on alcohol sales. According to Arkansas law, cities and counties can levy a tax no more than half of the tax collected by the state on alcohol sales, which is currently 10 percent. Alcohol sales are considered to be a private clubs’ sale of mixed drinks, beer and wine.

Chili’s Grill & Bar looks to open in Russellville

Nine-mile mountain bike trail open The Russellville Recreation and Parks Department announced the addition of the Ouita Coal Company mountain bike trail to the city’s park system. The 9-mile trail is designed for mountain bikers, walkers and joggers, and rule signs are posted. The trailhead is at the Illinois Bayou Park, 6630 U.S. Highway 64 West. For more information call 968-1272.

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON More shopping and dining options for Russellville residents could be just around the corner. A Chili’s Grill & Bar spokesman confirmed to The Courier on Sept. 11 that the company is “looking to come into the area.” In mid-August, J.J. Jamadar, a contractor from Dallas, Texas, met with city officials to discuss the permit process for Russellville and look at sites. “We have talked to them [Chili’s],” City Planner David Harris said. “They haven’t officially

applied for a permit.” Harris said the company is considering property on North Elmira Avenue. Brian Holstein, Russellville Community Development director, said the process was still in the pre-design stage. “If it doesn’t fall through, we should see plans by the end of next month,” Holstein said on Thursday. A new Dollar Tree could be opening soon in Russellville. A sign in front of the former USA Drug building at 1005 W. Main St. announced a Dollar Tree coming soon, but doesn’t indicate a date.

Pottsville FD remodel latest in improvements

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON POTTSVILLE — The Pottsville Fire Department (PFD) expanded its meeting and training room, added two offices and renovated the kitchen in early 2014. The remodel is the latest in a series of improvements the department has seen in the past few years. PFD was able to remodel the firehouse with help from a Hero’s Grant from Lowe’s for $1,200. “Because of the grant and the guys doing the majority of the work themselves, we were able to it for just under $8,000,” Chief Brad Judkins said, adding that the remodel had an estimated price tag of $20,000. The larger meeting/ training room will allow firefighters to invite in other area fire departments for training, as well as allow PFD to complete

more types of in-house training. As Pottsville’s population grows, so does its fire department. In the past 10 years, PFD has gone from averaging 55 calls per year to more than 200 per year. It answered 257 calls in 2013. Additionally, PFD has added a second fire station on State Highway 247 and began running first responder medical calls, a feat it accomplished in large part because of being funded by a half-cent sales tax. Of the 257 calls in 2013, nearly 50 percent were medical calls. Previously, the department was subscription-based, meaning its funding came from membership fees. In recent years, PFD was able to save homeowners money on their home insurance by lowering its Insurance Service Organization (ISO)

rating from a Class 7 to a Class 4. “The average homeowner saw a 20 to 25 percent reduction in insurance rates,” Judkins said. “Some saw a 50 percent drop.” Dropping the ISO rating even lower — Class 1 is the best rating — is among the department’s goals for the future as well as recruiting more volunteers. “You’ve got to find that balance between having plenty of people and being able to get them the training they need,” Judkins said. Judkins said training is vital. A person has to complete about 40 hours of training to become a volunteer firefighter. PFD trains three times per month and completes auto-aid training with other area departments three to four times per year.

Picwood theater sale final

United Entertainment Corp. (UEC) purchased the Picwood 11 movie theater from Jack Lowrey on July 31. UEC is excited to become a part of Russellville and surrounding community. Unlike other theater chains, UEC owns the real estate in nearly all of its towns and shows its long-term commitment to the communities it serves. UEC later closed the theater to commence with construction. The company reopened the lobby and seven screens in October. It will run with seven screens until the final opening date on Dec 19.

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Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014

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Downtown parking deck needed

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON Gregg Long, Crafton Tull vice president, on Oct. 2 presented the Downtown Parking Deck Committee with two options based on the results of a feasibility study. Option A would include 300 spaces and cost around $6.3 million, or $21,000 per space. Option B would include 215 spaces and cost around $5 million, or a little more than $23,255 per space. Long said Option A would extend over B Street, which is one of the reasons it offers more

spaces. “One other thing that affects the final number [of spaces] is how much of the bottom floor would end up ultimately for some office or storage space,” Long said, adding that either option would take about 16-18 months to construct. Long said the study only used the site recommendation listed in the Downtown Master Plan, the courthouse. Ideally, the parking garage would be used by people who work downtown or who have business at the courthouse, freeing up the spaces in

front of local businesses for patrons, attorney Jimmy Streett said. The study indicated a deficit of parking spaces downtown. “We feel like, without using those private parking lots, the city of Russellville now has a deficit of 233 parking spaces,” Long said, adding that construction of a parking deck at the courthouse would eliminate 70 current spaces. “That’s kind of our target number as far as a parking deck ... [it] needs to accommodate about 300 spaces. That’s the bottom-line figure.”

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Price, number of homes sold in Pope County drop BY LAURA BEAN The average price and number of homes sold in Pope County has decreased over the past year. A recent report by the Arkansas Realtors Association (ARA) showed a nearly 3 percent drop in average price per new and existing residential units sold since August 2013. The average statewide price was reported at $159,186. The ARA reported nearly a 4 percent de-

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County has dropped more than 17 percent. According to the ARA report, 2,772 units were sold statewide this August — 47 units fewer than in August 2013. The number of units sold in Pope County was 90, 19 units fewer than recorded in August 2013. Year-to-date totals also recorded 39 fewer units, at 562 in 2014 compared to 601 in 2013. Forty-three counties were surveyed in the ARA report.

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Commission gives $50,000 for Hickey renovations

BY LAURA BEAN The Russellville Advertising and Promotions (A&P) Commission voted to provide $50,000 for the Hickey Park baseball and softball field renovation project during its regular meeting in August. Russellville School District (RSD) Athletic Director Johnny Johnson requested a grant from A&P during its last meeting to help fund four new dugouts at the high school baseball and softball fields at Hickey Park. “What we want to do for the home dugouts is put a bathroom and changing room in there,” Johnson said, explaining athletes have had to change in the Hickey Park bathroom or in their vehicles. “We are going to make our home dugouts nicer for our kids.” For the two visiting dugouts, Johnson said extra storage areas will be built for coaches to store equipment. Johnson said RSD and the city of Russellville partnered to repair backstops. RSD will repair the baseball infield, and local businesses have donated funds for scoreboards for both fields. A concern of A&P members was that the two renovated fields

Russellville School District (RSD) Athletic Director Johnny Johnson requested a grant from A&P during its last meeting to help fund four new dugouts at the high school baseball and softball fields at Hickey Park. would not be maintained properly. Both are taken care of by RSD employees only during the playing season because the park is owned by the city. Johnson said RSD administration has considered hiring a groundskeeper to maintain the fields throughout the year once completed. “I’m hoping that by doing the improvements, we can get American Legion [baseball] back out there and more baseball during the summer,” Johnson said, adding he also plans to bid to host the Class 6A state base-

ball tournament once the renovations are complete. A&P Director Christie Graham said she thought the renovation of the high school fields will lead to the repair of the other fields, eventually attracting more baseball tournaments. “Hopefully this will initiate that this park will be taken care of better,” Graham said. “Right now, we are not at the place where I feel comfortable going out and selling Hickey as a baseball complex.”

New Clarksville PD to open next year

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON CLARKSVILLE — Despite rain delays, construction of the new Clarksville Police Department is nearing the halfway mark. “I’m very hopeful it will be complete by February or March,” Chief Greg Donaldson said, adding construction began in the spring. In 2011, Clarksville residents approved a 1-cent sales tax which funded a bond that generated $17 million. The bond money was used for construction of the 12,500-square-foot police department as well as an indoor aquatic center and a satellite fire station. “It’s a huge jump for us,” Donaldson said, adding the current PD is around 3,000 square feet. “The Police Department never had its own facility before. We always got hand-me-downs through the years.” Donaldson said the additional space will be put to good use as lab space for processing evidence, interview rooms, holding cells, a conference room for training, an evidence

Innovation Industries, Inc. acquires Monitor Elevator For The Courier

“I’m very hopeful it will be complete by February or March [2015].” Chief Greg Donaldson room and more. “Right now we have three separate evidence rooms, two that are offsite,” he said. “This will allow us to put all our evidence securely in our

building.” The new facility will boast a training/weight room complete with men’s and women’s locker rooms to shower after workouts.

Donaldson said officers who are currently “stacked in cubicles” will have their own space in the new building. “We’re very excited,” he said. One feature Donaldson said he was especially pleased with is the bullet-resistant paneling being installed this week. “I’ll feel better knowing they’re safe,” Donaldson said.

Innovation Industries, Inc. of Russellville has completed the purchase of Monitor Elevator Products of Hauppauge, N.Y., from parent company, Halma of London, UK, according to Paul Horney, President and CEO of Innovation Industries in late May. “Monitor has been a solid competitor with a very strong presence in the Northeast U.S. market for many years,” said Horney. “Since the 1960s, Monitor has developed an excellent reputation for building high quality, custom elevator fixtures for the largest elevator market in North America. The addition of Monitor’s products and established customer base is an excellent complement to Innovation’s product lines and sales network,” added Horney. Horney stated all Monitor employees and management will be retained. Innovation Industries, Inc. is a privately held company that designs and manufactures an extensive line of elevator push buttons, fixtures

Innovation products are used throughout North America in countless commercial buildings, as well as places of interest such as Yankee Stadium, the Space Shuttle launch pad, and the Smithsonian Institute.

and components. Innovation products are used throughout North America in countless commercial buildings, as well as places of interest such as Yankee Stadium, the Space Shuttle launch pad, and the Smithsonian Institute. Innovation currently employs 136 workers in Russellville while Monitor employs 76 at its Long Island facility.

Bost employee named 2014 Direct Support Professional of the year For The Courier

On May 6, the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR) recognized Christina Ponsetta, an employee of Bost, Inc., as the 2014 Direct Support Professional of the Year for Arkansas. The Executive Director for Bost, Inc., Kent Jones, announced: “We are extremely proud of Christina and all of the Bost direct support professionals we employ to provide the support and care for the many individuals with disabilities we serve. The ANCOR award shows the dedication and

“The ANCOR award shows the dedication and love Christina has for people with disabilities, and reflects the quality of services provided by Bost, Inc.” KENT JONES Executive director for Bost

love Christina has for people with disabilities, and reflects the quality of services provided by Bost, Inc.” Christina was nominated for the prestigious ANCOR award by Jennifer Paterak, Bost’s Waiver Director in Russellville. Paterak shared, “Christina has been employed with the Russellville Waiver program at Bost,

Inc. for over 5 years and has demonstrated nothing but excellence. Christina loves her job and it is evident in the care and joy she gives. She has reshaped her life to include the individual she serves. They consider themselves family now, to the extent that Christina always thinks of the individual’s needs first.” Bost, Inc. Waiver Ser-

vices office is located at 409 N. Elmira Avenue in Russellville. This Bost office provides a home for case management and coordination for direct care staff as well as a training facility. More information about the types of services offered by the Bost, Inc. Waiver Program can be found at www.bost.org. Bost, Inc. serves more than 1,000 men, women

and children with disabilities on a daily basis in 34 counties in Western. Bost, Inc. is a communitybased, nonprofit agency dedicated to developing services for and providing services to individuals in Western Arkansas and adjacent regions who have mental and developmental disabilities and other related conditions. More information can be

found at www.bost.org or by calling (479)478-5554. ANCOR’s Direct Support Professional Recognition Award is given to those who personify the values of ANCOR’s National Advocacy Campaign, which works to ensure a well-trained and sustainable direct support workforce. Nominees are judged on the work they’ve done to build social networks, substantive community participation and advocating for the people they serve. For more information about ANCOR, visit www. ancor.org

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Sunday, Oct. 12, 2014 • 15P

1964-2014

October marks 50 years of commitment of Bridgestone Americas Tube Business in Russellville! We’re celebrating five decades of innovation and achievement made possible by our hardworking teammates. Since 1964, we have been at the forefront of tube manufacturing and related technologies, while remaining dedicated to the safety of our workers and minimal environmental impact for our community. It has been an honor to be an active member of the River Valley Business community, and we are grateful for all the support you have provided us. We look forward to continuing to serve the community in years to come!

16P • Sunday, Nov. 2 2014

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Community River V alley Ar ts Cent er

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We fuel growth. We ignite development. We power communities. At Arkansas Nuclear One, we believe that we have an obligation to help the communities we serve. That’s why we’re working hard to improve education, economic development, and our environment. Arkansas is our home–where we live and raise our families. Our commitment is strong, because our state’s future is our future.

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Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014

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Saint Mary’s Regional Health System Access expands to clinics, physicians and specialties Submitted by Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center

Committed to meeting the growing medical needs of the River Valley well into the future, Saint Mary’s Regional Health System (SMRHS) has aggressively recruited seventeen family medicine and specialty physicians in the past 30 months. This brings the total number of active physicians on the medical staff to more than 100. In addition, physician assistants and nurse practitioners have joined the hospital’s network of clinics and hospital emergency department to serve higher patient volumes, improve accessibility and reduce wait times. “Improving accessibility to safe, quality healthcare is an ongoing goal of Saint Mary’s Regional Health System. As our region grows, and many individuals and families gain access to coverage, Saint Mary’s is well positioned to provide better access to more physicians in more specialties close to home,” said Mike McCoy, Interim Chief Executive Officer. “Our demonstrated commitment to excellence, investments in

“We continue to build on our foundation of outstanding physicians, with ongoing efforts to engage additional specialists through 2015.” Mike McCoy Interim chief executive officer evolving technology, and our focus on quality and safety, have helped us to attract some of the best and brightest medical professionals in their fields to join our staff,” added McCoy. “We continue to build on our foundation of outstanding physicians, with ongoing efforts to engage additional specialists through 2015.”

New Millard-Henry Clinic designed with patients in mind Millard-Henry Clinic (MHC), part of the Saint Mary’s Regional Health System, is one of the largest multi-specialty clinics in Arkansas. The new 48,000 square foot, patient-friendly medical building opened in February 2014. Built at a cost of $6.2 million, the new threestory clinic was designed utilizing “Lean concepts,” which promote more efficient patient access and optimize patient time while in the facility. This

translates into more available appointments and reduced wait times for patients. The clinic currently accommodates 28 medical practices. With the addition of a pulmonologist in mid-November, the clinic will be at capacity. Millard-Henry Clinic is home to medical specialties including Internal Medicine, Family Practice, Pediatrics, Urology, General Surgery and Pulmonology. The Millard-Henry campus is also home to their Obstetrics/Gynecology medical offices. General Surgery, is now located in the main clinic and the Obstetrics/Gynecology Clinic is solely dedicated to women’s health and cosmetic surgery. Additional Millard-Henry Clinics are located in Atkins and Dover. Tim Whetstine, Executive Director of Clinic Operations for SMRHS, explained: “Quality care has never been more accessible than it is today. MHC Open Access is at its

best with six new physicians joining the medical staff in 2013 and three additional physicians coming on board this year. When you call for an appointment you can expect to hear ‘Yes, the doctor is in and can see you.’ Also, our mid-level providers allow an additional avenue so you can address your healthcare needs when it suits your schedule. Whether your needs are routine or urgent, our clinic enterprise is here to take care of you and your family.”

Cardiology Associates of North Central Arkansas adds cardiologists to Cardiac and Vascular Care Team Heart disease kills more people than any other disease and continues to be the No. 1 cause of deaths in Arkansas and accounts for about 26 percent of deaths each year in our state. Saint Mary’s has assembled a dedicated team

of cardiologists devoted to decreasing this statistic. The highly-trained, board-certified cardiologists include, Dr. Sastry Prayaga, and Dr. Ahmed Athar, both interventional cardiologists, plus Drs. Dai-Yuan Wang and Shuja Rasool, invasive cardiologists. These physicians make emergency cardiac care available in the River Valley. Investing $5.1 million in life-saving cardiac and limb-saving catheterization technologies, Saint Mary’s completed sweeping capital improvements in two state-of-the-art Cardiac Catheterization Labs for diagnostic and interventional cardiovascular and vascular procedures. The addition of the region’s first 128-Slice Computed Tomography (CT) scanner to Saint Mary’s arsenal of diagnostic imaging technology revolutionizes non-invasive procedures including Coronary Angiography. This technology is partic-

ularly effective in studying the beating heart, producing clear non-invasive images of the heart and its major vessels. The scans can help in determining whether fatty deposits or calcium deposits have built up in the coronary arteries. They can also be timed to use only images gathered between contractions, so that the heart and its vessels can be seen without blurring caused by motion. “This new technology will give us more versatility in our imaging protocols,” said interventional cardiologist Dr. Ahmed Athar, board certified in cardiovascular CT. “Rather than a one-scan-fits-all approach, we tailor each exam to meet the patient’s specific needs.” Cardiology Associates of North Central Arkansas is located at 2205 West Main in Russellville. To schedule an appointment please call 479-968-4311.

Urology Associates of North Central Arkansas continues to grow Urologist Dr. Kenneth

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Local economy soars due to recent events BY SHANE CRABTREE Russellville’s economy boomed in May. The economic boost was attributed to the many state and national events taking place in and around Russellville. Arkansas Tech University’s Tech Field hosted the NCAA Division II Central Regional Baseball Championship. Russellville High School’s Cyclone Stadium and the Soccer Complex hosted the Class 6A State Tournament. Throw in the Bassmaster Elite Series fishing tournament on Lake Dardanelle, and tourists came to Russellville in waves. Christie Graham, executive director of tourism for Russellville, said the events were more than successful, drawing in positive business all over town. “We have several events occurring at once and consecutively, and so far, it has been very successful,â€? Graham said. “When event participants come to Russellville, they rarely come alone. They often have family and friends that accompany

“We have several events occurring at once and consecutively, and so far, it has been very successful. When event participants come to Russellville, they rarely come alone. They often have family and friends that accompany them and there are always people who travel to see these events. That means more hotel rooms are rented out and more money spent at area restaurants.� Christie Graham Executive director of tourism for Russellville effect that often leads to a further economic impact. “Our tournament will air on national television, and there will be coverage in the Bassmaster magazine,� Mulone said. “And even more, say someone such as Kevin VanDam from Michigan does well while fishing somewhere. People will respond to that by going to check the location out themselves, and that goes further than the media does.� Johnny Johnson, Russellville School District athletic director, said hosting the 6A soccer tournament also impacted the local economy. “There are 26 soccer teams, not counting Russellville’s teams, attending the tournament this year,� Johnson said.

them and there are always people who travel to see these events. That means more hotel rooms are rented out and more money spent at area restaurants.� Michael Mulone, director of events and tourism for B.A.S.S, said that the Bassmaster Elite Series tournament has a much larger economic impact than what meets the eye. “After we host our Bassmaster tournaments, we allow our cities to do an economic impact analysis,� Mulone said. “On average, the cities have reported $2.5 million in revenue. But even more, there is a residual effect.� Mulone said after a large event, such as Bassmaster Elite, goes through a city, there is a lingering

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“These teams are coming from places as far away as Texarkana, and they are staying in our area.� But there was also a small amount of headshaking from event organizers such as Johnson and Mulone, who said several of the events could have had a greater instantaneous impact on Russellville. Their reasoning? There simply wasn’t enough space to temporarily house so many guests at one time. Graham said many hotels across the River Valley area were indeed booked. “There is a lot going on right now,� Graham said. “On top of all the events that are taking place, the nuclear plant is undergoing maintenance. They have brought in a lot of personnel, and they are staying in area hotels as well.�

Entergy was also performing routine refueling and maintenance, often referenced as an outage, on Arkansas Nuclear One’s (ANO) second reactor. As a general practice, Entergy supplies the facility with crews specifically trained for the refueling and maintenance process. “Every 18 months, we take down each unit and we replace about onethird of the fuel bundles in the reactor core,� Sarah Millard, communications coordinator at Arkansas Nuclear One, said. “We generally bring in supplemental workers who are specialists and engineers, and we usually have about 1,000 come into the River Valley area.� While ANO’s routine maintenance brings an additional 1,000 people into the Russellville area, the hotel rooms and ser-

vices consumed by Entergy’s staff can sometimes conflict with those seeking temporary residence while attending other Russellville events. Mulone said that ANO’s maintenance came as a surprise and caused several last-minute changes. “When we planned the Bassmaster tournament, maintenance at the nuclear plant was reported to be in March,� Mulone said. “I’m sure they had their reasons, but it made it very difficult at times to find hotel rooms for our people.� Mulone said regardless of the situation, the tournament went on and is going better than expected. As far as the economy, it is expected to continue its present course for a while longer. According to Graham, even after events begin to settle, another one pops up. “We had the RussVegas half marathon draw in an estimated 2,000 people and we estimate that several hundred people are in town for the bass fishing tournament,� Graham said. “And even after all of this, we have a week-long break, and then we have the Miss Arkansas Teen pageant. We are staying busy.�

ST. MARY’S CONTINUED FROM 17P

Meacham provides much needed urology services to our community. Now located in Millard-Henry Clinic at 101 Skyline Drive, Meacham’s practice offers the experience, technology and surgical precision that you expect. Call (479) 498-6581 for more information.

Rural Outreach Clinic Valley Health Services in Hector is an additional Saint Mary’s outreach clinic offering substantial healthcare services for those in rural northeastern Pope County. Candace Welcher, APN is the primary healthcare provider at this facility. This clinic may be reached at

(479) 284-5001.

Outpatient Therapy Center Complimenting the growth of specialty services, Saint Mary’s Outpatient Therapy Center expands its offerings. For those with heart and lung problems, the Therapy Center provides physical therapy with telemetry, and oxygen saturation monitoring. Patients with diabetes can participate in both group and individual classes for diabetes self-management education. In addition, treatment programs are available for incontinence for both men and women. Lymphedema treatment is available for patiets with chronic swelling of

limbs. Call Melanie Mullinax at 479-968-3733 for more information or visit the Center at 809 West Main. Talk to your doctor regarding a referral.

Extraordinary care always

Saint Mary’s Regional Health System with its network of clinics works diligently to deliver extraordinary healthcare to patients throughout the Arkansas River Valley region. The dedicated physicians, employees, volunteers and board members continue the passionate pursuit of excellence and strive to exceed the expectations of those we serve. To learn more visit www.saintmarysregional.com.

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Big Red Drive-In keeping it simple for 50 years

BY SEAN INGRAM Feb. 18 was a historic day for one family-owned business in the Russellville community. But there won’t be any parades, pomp or circumstance. It will be just another day at the Big Red Drive-In for the employees and owner Jo Ann Scott. The restaurant will still offer its traditional favorites — burgers, fries, chicken fried steak, catfish — along with a few new additions to the menu — jalapeno poppers, fried green beans and catfish curls, among others. But the formula for success for this family has worked from day one and continues today — keep it simple. Offer simple menu items in a simple environment and maintain a simple, loving, family relationship with the employees and customers who keep coming back — even when they move out of the area or state. And, of course, those who make up the Big Red Table. They include Tommy, David, Harl, Rocky, Phil and Gerald, just to name a few. And they may make some fireworks on the 50th anniversary. “I have to remind them to use their inside voices,” Scott mused. “They come here to eat and drink cof-

fee and dish it out. But they find out real quick I can dish it right back to them. Then we’ve got the ones who have been coming in for so long, that we have lost.” She mentions a few names, adding she could always count on hugs and kisses from a favorite patron. “A very sweet lady,” she explained. “I miss those. And we have the kids who still come in from when the (Gardner) junior high was over here, and they’re coming in with their kids, which are adult teenagers now. And they’re still coming in. That’s what 50 years means.” Scott’s parents, Keith and the late Anna Williams, opened a Tastee Freez on East Fourth Street on Feb. 19, 1964. They became independent in 1971 and moved to the current location of the Drive-In, at the corner of 16th Street and South Arkansas Avenue. It used to be a gas station in the 1940s, Scott said she recently discovered. “When we worked at the Tastee Freez, I was 8 or 9 years old, I once rearranged the coins by size. I never did it again,” she pointed out. “We would close up Tastee Freez, and mom and dad would go to Old South. I would be in the car asleep. I’d

wake up, get a soda or something, and go back to sleep. “It was no big deal. That’s just the way it used to be. We didn’t even lock our doors, unless we were going out of town. That’s how much times have changed.” But things are still kept simple at the Big Red Drive-In, and for a good reason. “If you’ve got something good going, don’t mess it up,” Scott said. “I’m not going to change anything. If it’s a good thing, don’t mess with it. I

Scott pointed to an article framed on the restaurant wall about the drive-in’s 40th anniversary a decade ago. It mentioned the hours and hard work the family put in to keep everything simple, but still a success. “That is very true,” she said. “Now we’re only six days a week and close at 7 o’clock these days. It’s hard, not as easy as it used to be. Still, it’s a job and I do love it. It’s in my blood.” Family also includes the employees of the Big Red Drive-In. Pat has worked at the drive-in

City council approves indoor aquatic center site BY JEANETTE ANDERTON After months of discussion and debate, the Russellville City Council unanimously approved a site on North Phoenix Avenue for the indoor aquatic center during a called meeting on Aug. 26. The nearly 20 people in attendance stood and cheered after the council voted. The Pool Committee, during a rare Saturday meeting on Aug. 23, narrowed the possibilities to the North Phoenix site, where the city already owns land, and property near the L.V. Williamson Boys and Girls Club, where the city could’ve purchased up to 11 acres of land for $10,000 per acre. The Russellville Recreation and Parks Commis-

sion recommended the North Phoenix site to the council in April. However, the city was told at the time that only 4.6 acres of the site was usable land and discarded the location as a possible site. Later, it was determined with about $80,000 of dirt work and $110,000 for water/ sewer mains to be routed to the site, 7.7 acres would be usable. “So you’re looking at approximately $190,000 ... to be able to utilize seven plus acres for a longterm goal of meeting the city’s needs for an aquatic center,” Alderman Mark Tripp said. Tripp said it was a difficult decision choosing between the North Phoenix and the Boys and Girls Club sites. “Both are suitable

sites,” he said. Gary Knudsen, Russellville High School swim coach, was the sole resident who addressed the council during the meeting. He said he believed the North Phoenix site was the smartest choice. “The city already owns the property,” he said. “It’s close to the junior high and ATU [Arkansas Tech University].” Knudsen acknowledged the Boys and Girls Club would be closer to the high school, but said he preferred the North Phoenix site. “I’m more interested in it being close to the junior high than high school because it’s harder for my ninth graders to get to swim practice than the high school folks,” he said. “It’s a high-visibility area, a unique setting.”

Bibler Bros. changes owners Balloons over RussVegas a success The inaugural Balloons over RussVegas festival in May provided residents of the River Valley with multiple opportunities to view and enjoy colorful hot air balloons throughout a weekend full of activities.

Building permits up over 50 percent

BY LAURA BEAN With the recent completion of Buffalo Wild Wings and current construction of Sumo, Russellville residents can see the city is growing. According to the city’s monthly permit reports, the city issued 53 percent more permits this June compared to June 2013. Community Development issued 49 permits this June, which is 17 more permits than in June 2013. Overall, the city has issued a year-todate total of 198 permits, 11 more than last year at this time. Community Development’s Kathy Collins said more growth is expected. “I think it will contin-

love all my customers. Every now and then, I could wring a few necks at the Big Red Table — God love em. “One family who moved to Florida come back when they come to Russellville, because they want my chicken. Another comes in from Texas for a family reunion, they come in here. This is the way it’s gone on since I moved back here in 1990. The kids and people who come in, I’ve known since grade school, high school, and now they’re bringing their families.”

for at least 17 years. Cory has worked there two years. Saleena, almost a year. Mary Ann, probably five years, and Jessica, almost six years. “Those girls think I’m their mother. I’ve known Jessica since she was 5 years old,” Scott noted. “I love every one of them. We back each other up. We may fight, but when times are tough, we are together as glue. “We’re still family. If one of us needs something, we’re there for each other. That is what family is about. That’s just the way it is. That’s the way all businesses should be. It’s not about the business. It’s not about the money. It’s about people caring for each other.” It’s just 50 years, Scott said, trying to keep the anniversary simple and low-key. But it’s no simple feat to not only stay in business for five decades and counting, but to treat all the people who have made Big Red Drive-In what it is today, a part of the family. “I have some that will come in who haven’t been here in years and say, ‘You’re still here. Wow.’ Well, we’ll be here until I say ... It means a whole lot. Nobody can do everything right, but we do try to take care of our people.”

ue,” Collins said. “I think Russellville is continuing to grow and will see more construction.” Permits are divided into four categories: commercial construction, new business, new residential construction and other residential construction. Twenty commercial construction permits were issued this June, and only four were issued June 2013. Construction projects such as alterations at Oakland Heights Elementary, Bath and Body Works and St. John‚Äôs Catholic Church have added permits to the number issued. The city issued 18 new business permits this

June, while 17 were issued June 2013. Businesses such as Massage Works, United Entertainment and Healthy Vending applied for permits this past month. One more permit was issued for new residential construction this June for a total of three, compared to two in June 2013. Other residential construction was the only type of permit issued fewer times than last June. Eight were issued this June, while nine were issued June 2013. Visit www.russellvillearkansas.org/communitydevelopment or call (479) 968-1002 for more details about permits.

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON After more than a century in business, Bibler Bros. Lumber Company in Russellville was bought out by Canadabased West Fraser Company in April. Terry Freeman, Bibler Bros. owner and president, announced the sale on April 8. “I am excited to see our company continue to grow and prosper with the West Fraser Company,” Freeman said. “West Fraser Company is impressed with the Russellville area, and I believe they will be an asset to our community.” West Fraser — with the purchase of Bibler Bros. ‚Äî has four sawmills in

Arkansas and 16 mills in the U.S. It employs more than 7,300 people. Bibler Bros. Lumber currently has nearly 200 employees. Freeman said he expects business to “continue as usual.”

Background David Albert Bibler founded the company in 1909 and later moved the sawmill to Scottsville where it was in operation until the family bought the Arkmo Lumber Company holdings in Russellville. In 1935, after the death of its founder, the company changed names, and became Bibler Bros. Lumber Company to reflect the company’s

transfer to David Albert Bibler’s sons. In 1960, Bibler Bros. bought 40 acres of land and soon began construction at what is the current business site, removing itself from the retail operation. In 1969, a fire destroyed the company’s largest sawmill. The brothers rebuilt it, putting in cutting-edge, modern equipment. In 1973, the company merged with a Wisconsin paper company, and then bought out the paper company 13 years later. Terry Freeman, through a log purchase sales agreement, bought the company from James Bibler — David Albert’s grandson — in 1998.

Yell County awarded grant for repairs BY LAURA BEAN DANVILLE — Yell County Judge Mark Thone told the Quorum Court during its regular meeting in July the county received a courthouse renovation grant. The county was awarded a $138,500 grant from

The county was awarded a $138,500 grant to repair the roof of the Dardanelle courthouse. the Arkansas Historical Preservation Society to repair the roof of the Dardanelle courthouse. “This will be used to re-

move all the many layers of roll roofing that is up on the roof and put a new roof on there,” Thone said.

20P • Sunday, Nov. 2 2014

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A Reputation for Excellent Service and Affordability • No Hidden Charges • All Existing Life, Burial and Pre-Paid • Policies Accepted • In-Home Arrangements • Family’s Needs First • Proven Excellence Cornwell Funeral Home, and on-site cremation service with locations in Danville and Dardanelle, is a family-owned business established over four generations ago. President Rush Cornwell expressed that since its establishment in 1898, “Cornwell Funeral Home has strived to ensure that we provide personalized and compassionate services to the families who have entrusted the care of their loved one to us.” He further adds that at no additional cost, Cornwell Funeral Home accepts all pre-arrangement contracts & and insurance policies that a family has with other funeral service providers. According to the Cornwell family, honesty and a true concern for those we serve have been the building blocks and hallmark of our reputation. The professional staff at Cornwell Funeral Home is committed to providing dignified, respectful and personalized assistance to every family. Recognizing that each family is unique, it is important to Cornwell’s staff to work with each family to create a meaningful service that honors the life and memory of their loved one. Mike Cornwell always believed that such personal service is part of the reason Cornwell Funeral Home is the second oldest existing business in Yell County, the fifth oldest funeral home in the state of Arkansas and why more families put their trust in Cornwell Funeral Home more than any other, year after year. And the only funeral home with an on-site crematory and personalized caskets, Cornwell Funeral Home is moving into the 21st century.

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Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014

21P

Keating named new superintendent at LDSP

Lake Dardanelle State Park experienced a change in leadership over the past year. Sarah Keating was named the new superintendent after the retirement of the former superintendent, Andy Thomas. A manager of the park, a superintendent oversees the staff, budget, projects, equipment and maintenance. Keating’s co-workers are one of the reasons she was eager to move into the superintendent position. “It is an amazing group of people who love their jobs,” she said. “I have always been excited to be a part of that team.” One reason Keating loves her job is Lake Dardanelle’s natural beauty. “Our lake is still natural,” Keating said. “That’s why we have such great opportunities here; we haven’t used it unwisely.” Opportunities such as swimming, fishing, camping, boating and kayaking are what keeps the lake busy. Keating enjoys kayaking because it is peaceful and relaxing. “I’m a naturalist at heart, and kayaking allows me to watch wildlife,” she said. “My family enjoys kayaking together on the lake.” Keating encourages families to visit Lake Dardanelle State Park for not only its camping and water opportunities

Dallis Clark but also for its monthly programs and city-sponsored events. Along with Keating, Dallis Clark was also given a new title in the state park system — assistant superintendent. The park hosted many fishing tournaments this past year, including the Bassmaster Elite Series, Big Bass Bonanza and the 2014 High School World Fishing Finals. Lake Dardanelle State Park offers two areas on Lake Dardanelle, a 34,300 acre reservoir on

the Arkansas River. The Russellville and Dardanelle locations offer camping (74 sites in the Russellville area and 18 sites in the Dardanelle area). The park also features a barrier free fishing pier, a visitor center with exhibit gallery, trails, kayak rentals and interpretative programs. For additional information about Lake Dardanelle State Park, call (479) 967-5516 or visit www.arkansasstateparks.com/lakedardannelle.

Sarah Keating

Inaugural RussVegas Half-Marathon, Relay Race makes way through Russellville The inaugural RussVegas Half Marathon and Relay race started at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 26, in Russellville. All proceeds from this event benefited Arkansas Children’s Hospital through the Arkansas River Valley Circle of Friends. The relay started in downtown Russellville and wound through the historic Russellville district, the Lake Dardanelle area and the Arkansas Tech University campus. The event, which is presented by the Russellville Chamber of Commerce, featured 18 current and former Arkansas Children’s Hospital patients along the race route cheering on participants.

Main Street Russellville looks to upgrade Depot Park

BY WHITNEY SNIPES Main Street Russellville (MSR) has developed Depot Park into a venue for downtown events. MSR Executive Director Betsy McGuire said in late March the organization used grant funds to pull together a preliminary conceptual design to turn the area directly across from the depot into an entertainment and gathering venue. From there, a $50,000

MSR Executive Director Betsy McGuire said in late March the organization used grant funds to pull together a preliminary conceptual design to turn the area directly across from the depot into an entertainment and gathering venue. grant for developing a more complete design was obtained. Early estimates for the project were around $415,000, McGuire said. “That design has not been refined yet,” McGuire said. “It could be that, ultimately, the proj-

ect comes in less than that.” Because Russellville does not have a town square, McGuire said the development of Depot Park will create a public gathering place that can host an array of events and activities.

Russellville A&P events bring in record-setting revenues

BY COURIER STAFF The Russellville Advertising and Promotion Commission supported several major community events throughout the past year, including the RussVegas Half Marathon, Balloons Over RussVegas and the Miss Arkansas’ Outstanding Teen Pageant. The commission do-

nated a total of $10,000 to the half-marathon event. During its regular July meeting, Director Christie Graham told commissioners the A&P brought in a record-setting $44,123 for the month of May. “It’s the highest revenues we’ve ever brought in before,” Graham com-

mented. “We still have two properties to come in for the end of the month, so we’ve set a new record.” The A&P Commission collected nearly $370,000 in 2013, which was a growth of more than $100,000 since 2007. So far this year, A&P has collected $258,104.

MSR Board of Directors chair John Harris said the Downtown Master Plan also calls for development of the park. He said an MSR poll conducted during a Fall Fest event showed 80 percent of respondents would like for there to be more

concerts downtown. Use of the space has grown rapidly since the renovation of the depot in 2004, but McGuire said renovations need to be completed to maximize the park’s potential. One possibility for potential renovations is to

lower the grade of the park and bring it down to street level, McGuire said. A covered stage area with access to sound elements is expected to be part of the final design. Harris said several meetings have been conducted with musicians who have played at Depot Park to gather their input on what the park needs. “We’ve listened and gotten good suggestions on what’s needed,” he said.

River Valley Foot and Ankle Clinic opens at new location BY COURIER STAFF Though Dr. Stephanie Roth’s River Valley Foot and Ankle Clinic changed locations this past summer, its dedication to serving the Russellville area has not. Now located at 2524 W. Main St. in Russellville, the River Valley Foot and Ankle Clinic continues to provide patients with all

their podiatry needs. Roth specializes in correcting foot and ankle problems of all kinds. Though her main office is in Russellville, she has satellite clinics in Paris and Ozark. Roth specializes in a complete range of services, including state of the art diagnosis, expert corrective treatments, per-

sonal care, professional advice and careful follow up of patient needs. Roth was voted “Best Podiatrist” by Reader’s Choice Best of the Best 2012, 2013 and 2014. She had three years of training at the University of Texas Health Services Center at a Level 1 trauma center for extensive foot and ankle training.

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Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014

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22nd Taste of the Valley Main Street Russellville held its 22nd annual Taste of the Valley on April 24 at the Hughes Community Center in Russellville. The signature fundraiser was moved from its original venue at the downtown Depot due to high chance of inclement weather. This year’s packed-house event featured various foods from more than 30 exhibitors. In addition to the delicious food, live entertainment was provided throughout the event by The Journey, Steve Kaufmann and Jazz Reunion.

Craig Campbell celebrates 25 years River Valley Realty For The Courier

When Craig Campbell opened his “scratch agency” State Farm office in Russellville on Oct. 1, 1989, he had no idea it would grow to the thriving business it is today. “Celebrating 25 years has been fun for me,” he said. “I have contacted some of my long-time customers just to say ‘thank you for not hanging up on me’ when I called them, and for giving me a chance to be their insurance agent.” In 1989, Craig knew he wanted to work for State Farm. They gave him the chance to move

Being voted the Best of the Best several times over the years has been particularly satisfying. to Russellville, hang a sign and go to work. Being a “scratch agency” meant he did not inherit an existing business. He started with two phone lines and a phone book in his home. He and his wife of 10 months at the time, Connie, spent time calling area residents and asking for their business. That business model worked. The couple’s agency still has some of those customers they met on the phone, calling

night after night trying to build their business. Multiplying from newlyweds to a family of five children over their 25 years, the River Valley has become their home. “The Lord has blessed us with five children who were all born here in Russellville and we count it a privilege to call Russellville our Home,” Craig said. Being voted the Best of the Best several times over the years has been

particularly satisfying. “We are so thankful for the many people who have chosen us to be their insurance agency over the years,” Craig said with a smile. “We continue to work hard at teaching our staff and our children to show the attitude of gratitude. We have so much to be thankful for. This community welcomed us and our family with open arms and gave us the chance to build a successful business here. Together, we can all do our part in continuing to make the River Valley a great place to live and raise families.”

enjoys new ownership BY COURIER STAFF Located at 800 E. Main St. in Russellville, River Valley Realty continues to be the go-to source for all real estate needs. With new owner Chris Abington, River Valley Realty employs more than 20 agents. Abington has been in the real estate industry for more than 10 years and has lived in the Arkansas River Valley for more than 30 years. Abington graduated from Russellville and earned a degree in eco-

nomics and finance from Arkansas Tech University. River Valley Realty is focused on provided customers with the best results and service in the industry by carefully listening to real estate goals and hard work to create sensible solutions. Whether one is new to the market or an experienced investor, River Valley Realty has the expertise, proven track record and resources to help you achieve one’s real estate goals.

Harps Food to begin construction in Dover

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON Construction of a Harps Food Store on State Highway 7 in Dover started in early October and is scheduled to be complete in 2015. The Dover City Council during its regular meeting Oct. 7 approved two variances the Dover Planning Commission recommended for the store’s construction. According to the current ordinance, a store of that size must have 125 parking spaces. The plat submitted by Harps shows 91 parking spaces. The ordinance calls for 10-foot parking spaces and the plat proposed 9-foot spaces. Planning Commission Chair Ron Walker told the council the ordinance will likely need to be changed in the future as more contractors are going to 9-foot spaces.

All present aldermen voted in favor of the variances. Alderman Carl Wetzel was absent. The council also approved a quit-claim deed for part of Slabtown Road. “Surveying lines show that, in essence, Harps owns part of Slabtown Road,” Mayor Pat Johnson said. “They want to deed it back to [the city].” Johnson added that Harps will contribute $10,000 toward resurfacing Slabtown Road, which should cost around $15,000 to $20,000. Alderman Roger Lee said he had heard comments that the city was holding up construction and asked Hopper if the process had been slower than in other towns. “No,” she said. “Some of the stuff, because it was brand new, but no, not in general. Everyone’s been very helpful.”

Pediatrics Plus celebrates grand opening

Pediatrics Plus celebrated its grand opening Aug. 18 at its new 23,000 square-foot facility located on North Sidney Avenue in Russellville. The developmental preschool and therapy center will provide up to 50 new jobs. The $4 million acquisition and renovation of the former Hog Wild Fun Center was announced in January. For the past seven years, Pediatrics Plus has been providing physical, occupational and speech therapy, early intervention services and family support in the Arkansas River Valley area.

Buffalo Wild Wings up and running Buffalo Wild Wings in Russellville opened its doors to customers on Monday, April 14. Construction began last year with an original completion day in November.

The Crossing: A River Valley staple BY COURIER STAFF Few places in the River Valley offer the services and atmosphere of The Crossing. Functioning as a gathering place where lives intersect through faith, music and community, The Crossing has become a staple in Russellville since its inception in April 2012. The Crossing serves customers with various soups, salads and sandwiches along with an extensive selection of specialty drinks. However, the food is not the primary focus of The Crossing says DeeDee Autry, who serves as the pastor at Wesley United Methodist Church in Russellville. “It was an effort to create a place where people could gather and build friendships and communicate. We wanted it to be a place where lives would cross and intersect,” Autry said. As a ministry of Wesley United Methodist Church, The Crossing strives to display the love of Christ by surrounding its customers with an atmosphere where they feel comfortable to build

trust and share faith Autry said. “We recognize that most people will not wander into church, so it’s our primary goal to demonstrate love and grace through our restaurant,” Autry said. One unique feature of The Crossing is the Giving Wall, which serves as a place where customers can donate a portion of the funds they pay for their food or beverages to a local non-profit organization. One dollar of each purchase is given back to the customer in the form of play money, and it is the customer’s choice on which nonprofit he wants to give to. “We want to help people and improve the quality of life,” Autry said. A few of the nonprofits The Crossing is involved with includes Habitat for Humanity, Help Network, River Valley Christian Clinic, Equestrian Zone and the Age to Age ministry of the Wesley Foundation. “We want to provide a connection with something of value. We

would like to see more than just money put toward these organizations, but for people to get involved in them,” Autry said. Another feature of that is highly popular with its customers is the variety of music offered, which ranges from area bands that perform on weekends to karaoke and open mic night. “It is a perfect place for local musicians to perform and display their talents. We have a variety of people who play, and it creates a sense of community and provides a reason for people to come,” Autry said. “I have been overwhelmed at how many new musicians we have.” Autry hopes that The Crossing can continue to grow and prosper. “Our goal is that it becomes sustainable. We are actively pursuing volunteers and others who would like to help. We are always open for partners and supporters,” Autry said. “We believe in working for something greater than ourselves.”

The Courier

Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014 • 23P

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A Conversation Piece

Historic Russellville Depot

We are a gallery of local, unique & handcrafted

Home of over 30 Artisans

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HOLIDAY EVENTS TAKING PLACE IN RUSSELLVILLE DOWNTOWN November 7 Holiday Wish List Night 6-9 p.m. November 14, 15 & 17 Pre-Black Friday Open House & Sale November 29 Small Business Saturday, Winter Wonderland Downtown Lights On, 1st day of Carriage Rides December 4 6:00 Lighting of the Community Christmas Tree, 6:30 Russellville Christmas Parade December 5 Downtown Art Walk 6-9p.m. December 12 Sip & Shop 6-9 p.m. December 19 Men’s Night Out 6-9p.m. January 6 Winter Wonderland Downtown Lights Off!

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24P • Sunday, Nov. 2 2014

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Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014

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George Termite & Pest Control Business upgrades by crossing street, doubling space

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON George Termite & Pest Control in Dardanelle saw the completion of its new building in 2014. “It’s a huge upgrade for us,” Manager Dusty George said. “We rented the building across the street for 20 years.” He noted the new headquarters was 2,000 square feet “under the roof,” and included a lot of land, making the 800-square-foot building the company used for so long feel like “a hole in the wall.” Dusty said the new space boasts a conference room for meetings, a garage to work on trucks and equipment and administrative offices. “We have our own office now,” he said of him and his father, owner Jess George. “It makes a huge difference. We didn’t have any privacy before.” Having extra land is important as well, Dusty said. “Before we didn’t have anywhere to park our trucks,” he said. “With the size of company we are, we needed more space.” Dusty, who has 12 years experience in termite and pest control, graduated from Arkansas Tech University with a bachelor’s degree in emergency management in December 2013. He plans to use his knowledge to better serve his customers. “I just want to work with my family,” Dusty said. “It’s something I love. I’ve grown up with this business. It’s all I know.” He said his dad opened the business 30 years ago when Dusty was 6 weeks old and that it’s “been going ever since.” “He decided this community was the best place to open a business,” Dusty said. “He’s lived here his whole life. He’s very wellknown. Everybody likes him.”

“We want to continue servicing the River Valley, where we’ve been for 30 years.” Dusty George Now that the company has more space and knowledge, Dusty said the plan is to keep serving the community they love. “We want to continue servicing the River Valley, where we’ve been for 30 years,” Dusty said. “Hopefully, we will last another 30 years.” George Termite & Pest Control’s new building is located at 1966 State Highway 22 in Dardanelle.

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Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014

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Walmart Neighborhood Market opens in Russellville

BY COURIER STAFF The new Walmart Neighborhood Market opened its doors Aug. 18 to shoppers following a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The grand-opening celebration included presentations of $5,000 in grants from Walmart to local community groups. Grant recipients included the Pope County Library, Dwight Elementary School and Crawford Elementary School. In addition to the grants given as part of the grand opening, the new store will further Walmart’s pledge to fight hunger in America. As part of Walmart‘s and the Walmart Foundation’s $2 billion commitment to fight hunger through 2015, Walmart stores in Arkansas donated approximately 16.7 million pounds of food, in fiscal year 2014, or the equivalent of 13.9 million meals. Additionally, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation gave more than $79 million in fiscal year 2014 in Arkansas alone. For more information on Walmart’s fight against hunger, visit http://foundation.walmart.com/our-focus/hunger

Casey’s General Store now open in Atkins community

BY COURIER STAFF Atkins welcomed a Casey’s General Store on July 10. Located at the intersection of Interstate 40 and North Church Street (State Highway 105), the gas station and convenience store is open 24 hours each day and employs 21 people in its nearly 90,000-square-

foot facility. Casey’s General Store showcases fresh bread, which is made every day. The service station makes its own hot dog and hamburger buns, dinner tolls, donuts, cookies, salads, wraps and sandwiches. In 1959, Casey’s founder Don Lamberti leased Des Moines, Iowa, country store from his dad.

Nine years later, his gas supplier and friend, Kurvin C. Fish, suggested Lamberti purchased the Square Deal Oil Company. Lamberti purchased the service station and named it after Fish’s initials — K.C. Casey’s success spread beyond small Iowa towns to include 1,842 corporate stores.

Company to add fuel tank lot BY COURIER STAFF A Morrilton trucking company erected a 10,000-gallon fuel tank alongside a parking area near the Russellville Regional Airport. The Russellville Plan-

ning Commission approved a request from the company, Wayne Smith Trucking, during its meeting in September. The company requested to install a fuel station and construct a large-

scale truck and trailer parking area for trucking equipment. Based in Morrilton, Wayne Smith Trucking is a full-truckload carrier for the central and eastern U.S.

THE COURIER / Courier staff

Sumo to open in Russellville The Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse, recently renamed Sumo Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar, will soon be completed. The incoming restaurant is located at the corner of Weir Road and Parkway Drive.

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Price’s Town and Country celebrates 50th

BY LAURA BEAN Located at 207 S. Knoxville Ave., Price’s Town and Country Store has been a family owned and operated feed store since 1964 and a proud Purina dealer since 1980. Owners Jack, Helen and Jay Price, along with Andrea Price Looper and manager John Looper, recently celebrated the businesses’ 50th anniversary. “Celebrating 50 continuous years in business, we are grateful to the many

folks who have been a part of helping us grow,” Helen said. At the age of 16, Bill Price was making deliveries in a mule-drawn wagon filled with animal feed, 20-pound sacks of flour, meal and sugar and parts for tools. In 1940, he bought the business he worked for on South Commerce Avenue, where he continued the feed, food and hardware sales until 1958. His son, Jack, then returned to form Bill Price and Son.

Seeing the need for an expanded feed division, Jack and Helen founded Price Milling Company in 1964, where they custom mixed animal feeds, handled government corn and had the only bulk garden seed table in the area. Seeing the need for an expanded feed division, Jack and Helen founded Price Milling Company in 1964, where they cus-

tom mixed animal feeds, handled government corn and had the only bulk garden seed table in the area. The current facility was

built in 2004, and the name of the business was changed to Price’s Town and Country Store. Plans are currently under consideration for expanding the store, and it has recently expanded its supply of specialty items. Muck Boots and dog and cat foods have been expanded to include specialty items, though the business also carries wildlife feeds. Bulk vegetable and garden seed is also available exclusively at Price’s.

Price’s strives to bring quality products and service to customers from a knowledgeable and friendly staff. Price’s carries a wide variety of products, such as animal feeds, animal health products, animal supplies, gloves, boots, lawn and garden seed, lawn and garden insecticides and herbicides, home pest control, saddle, tack and fencing. Avid hunters can find food plot seed, feeds and supplements.

New Fat Daddy’s opens downtown BY COURIER STAFF In November 2013, Fat Daddy’s Bar-B-Que opened a new location in downtown Russellville. The popular restaurant has enjoyed growth since opening in its first location in 2006, and decided downtown Russellville was the ideal location to open a new restaurant. Eric Markle, general manager and head chef, said the goal of the new location was to create a unique atmosphere and a fun environment. To achieve that goal, President Gordon Shirron purchased and completely renovated a downtown building that

was constructed in 1958. The transformation took more than a year and a lot of work. “It was never going to be a chrome and brass shiny building,” Shirron said. “We always knew that. But, we had the old rafters and the concrete floor. We were able to incorporate that urbanindustrial setting.” The time and hard work paid off. Since opening its new location, the restaurant has stayed busy. Fat Daddy’s Bar-B-Que is located at 104 N. Denver Ave. in Russellville. For more information, call 967-0420.

Arkansas Storm Shelters Clarksville opens indoor pool adds new products, clients

BY COURIER STAFF Arkansas Storm Shelters reported increased business activity in the past year. With the purpose to provide safety and security in the threat of severe weather and shelters, Arkansas Storm Shelters sells and installs concrete shelters, fiberglass shelters, safe rooms, garage floor shelters, community shelters, safe room doors and survival bun-

Safe room doors, do-it-yourself safe rooms and ground fiberglass storm shelters are three products the business added in 2014. kers. Safe room doors, do-ityourself safe rooms and ground fiberglass storm shelters are three products the business added in 2014.

Recent clients include the River Valley Boys and Girls Club and Air Evac. Arkansas Storm Shelters is located at 4142 E. Main Street in Russellville.

BY COURIER STAFF CLARKSVILLE — The weather is getting cooler, but Clarksville residents are ready to don their swimsuits at the city’s indoor pool, which opened Nov. 15. Parks and Recreation Coordinator Tom Cogan said the first day was busy but smooth. “No surprises,” he said. “Everybody’s very happy.” The indoor pool, built as an expansion of the city‚Äôs Marvin L. Vinson Multipurpose Building, contains an eightlane, 25-yard lap pool, a 12-foot diving well and a therapy pool. The pool is housed in a glass building with a retractable roof for year-round use.

In addition, new offices, restroom facilities and showers have been added to the multipurpose building. The pool is available to the general public, as well as local swim teams. The Clarksville Sea Dragons will practice at the facility, and other teams may be added as well. In addition, a variety of other groups will use the facility for water aerobics, water Zumba, senior water aerobics, swim lessons, lifeguard training and even scuba training. The pool will also be available to rent for private parties. Three different water aerobics classes are scheduled to begin next week.

“They start on Monday, and they’re filling up fast,” Cogan said. Indoor pool hours are 5 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Memberships for individuals can be purchased by the day for $5, or for increments of time up to 12 months. Family packages are also available. The opening of the indoor facility follows as the second phase of Clarksville’s aquatic center. In the summer of 2013, the city opened the outdoor water park for its first season. Cogan said the park had a successful, though short, first season, which opened July 3.

BY SAM STRASNER Arkansas Tech University will sell a parcel of land near Interstate 40 to Narayan Hotels LLC for $1.15 million following action by the Tech Board of Trustees in July.The property, which is adjacent to exit 81 on the north side of I-40 in Russellville, was pur-

chased by ATU on June 21, 2006, for $1.5 million. Over the next five years, ATU operated a student housing facility — Campus Court — on the property at a net operating profit of $878,893. The housing facility was closed in 2011 and

soon after demolished. The property was listed as available for purchase on Jan. 30, 2013. Narayan Hotels LLC made an offer on the land on June 24, 2014. Closing date on the transaction between ATU and Narayan Hotels LLC is scheduled for Dec. 1, 2014.

Employment Solutions expands location, services in Russellville Trustees approve sale of I-40 property

BY COURIER STAFF Employment Solutions has been in business for 14 years. The Corporate office is based in Bryant, Arkansas at 2900 Horizon. Billy Mountjoy is the President of the company. There are offices in Bryant, Russellville and Helena. There was an exciting

change on May 19, 2014, when Employment Solutions became the new owner of the Preferred Staffing location in Russellville. The Russellville office has been in operation for more than 25 years with Julia Light working as manager for the past 15 years. Under her

leadership, this office has achieved the honor of being voted “The Best Employment Agency” for six of the past seven years. Under the new ownership, you can expect the same dedication, screening, and personal service from Julia and Amber that you have always enjoyed and expected.

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Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014

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Hindsman appointed to parks commission

BY LAURA BEAN Tommy Hindsman was appointed to serve as commissioner for the Russellville Recreation and Parks Commission during the Russellville City Council meeting on Sept. 18. Hollis said he made the recommendation to appoint Hindsman to Mayor Bill Eaton, who in turn made the recommendation to the Russellville City Council. “I knew he would be a really good fit and help us out a lot,” Hollis said. Hindsman, co-owner of Hindsman & Son Tires, has a degree in parks and recreation and parks management from Arkansas Tech University, as well as experience with turf management at the Russellville Country Club. Hindsman said his experience with turf management has already assisted the commission. “I’m already getting advice for a turf program for next year,” Hindsman said. “It all has to do with growing decent turf on our ball fields.” Hindsman said as commissioner, his role is to assist Hollis in

Hindsman, co-owner of Hindsman & Son Tires, has a degree in parks and recreation and parks management from Arkansas Tech University, as well as experience with turf management at the Russellville Country Club. preparing programs for the city council and act as a mediator between the commission and the public. “It allows the public to have a commissioner to talk to,” Hindsman said. “We run it the way the city of Russellville and the general public wants it to be run.”

THE COURIER / Tanner Ott

Planet Fitness opens in Russellville

Construction of the new Planet Fitness in City Mall on North Arkansas Avenue in Russellville began during the summer. The center opened its doors in September. Planet Fitness currently has more than 800 locations across the country.

New Arkansas Tech academic facility named for Dr. and Mrs. Brown BY SAM STRASNER The Arkansas Tech University Board of Trustees voted unanimously on May 10 to name the academic, student support and administrative facility currently under construction on the Arkansas Tech campus at Russellville in honor of retiring president Dr. Robert C. Brown and his wife, Jill Lestage Brown. The vote was taken in the Green and Gold Room at Tucker Coliseum during a special called meeting of the board on commencement Saturday for the spring 2014 semester at Arkansas Tech. In early May, ground was broken on the new $11.6 million facility, which is scheduled for completion in December 2015. The building named in honor of Dr. and Mrs. Brown will be located near the intersection of North Arkansas Avenue and West O Street on the

In early May, ground was broken on the new $11.6 million facility, which is scheduled for completion in December 2015. parcel of land previously occupied by Bryan Hall, which was demolished in 2013. Once complete, the new 66,900-square foot facility is scheduled house the following operating areas: admissions on the first floor; financial aid, student accounts and the student identification card office on the second floor; registrar, Upward Bound and Student Support Services --a pair of federally-funded

programs that provide students that have identified barriers to higher education with resources to achieve their academic objectives --- on the third

Celebrating 21 years!

floor; and payroll, budget and human resources on the fourth floor. There will be classrooms and conference rooms on all four floors of the facility. Brown announced on Aug. 23, 2013, that the current academic year would be his last as active president of the university. President at Arkansas Tech since July 1, 1993, Brown has the longest tenure at his present institution among all fouryear College and uni-

versity presidents and chancellors in Arkansas. He is the second-longest serving president in Arkansas Tech history. Only Joseph W. Hull, president at Tech from 193267, held the office for a longer period of time. Enrollment at Arkansas Tech has increased by 168 percent since 1997, and the institution set its 15th consecutive record enrollment with 11,369 students for the fall 2013 semester. Among all degrees that Arkansas Tech has

awarded during its 105year history, 61 percent have been earned during Brown’s 21-year tenure as its president. Upon his retirement from the active presidency on June 30, 2014, Brown will hold the titles of president emeritus and distinguished professor of economics at Arkansas Tech. He will become just the second person to hold the title of president emeritus and just the third to hold the title of distinguished professor at Arkansas Tech.

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RVAL cottages completed Two of the four cottages being built for River Valley Assisted Living (RVAL) were completed during the summer. One cottage has 15 private apartments, and each apartment is large enough to house one couple. Liz Blankenship, an owner of RVAL, said two additional cottages will be completed within a year. The cottages are located at 1909 E. Fairway Blvd. in Russellville.

THE COURIER / Laura Bean

HUD awards improvement grants for public housing

BY COURIER STAFF The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded $16.5 million to 105 Arkansas public housing authorities to make major large-scale improvements, including $623,785 to agencies in the Arkansas River Valley. The grants announced March 19 are provided through HUD’s Capital Fund Program. The program provides annual

The grants announced March 19 are provided through HUD’s Capital Fund Program. The program provides annual funding to approximately 3,100 public housing authorities nationwide to build, repair, renovate and/or modernize public housing. funding to approximately 3,100 public housing authorities nationwide to build, repair, renovate and/or modernize public housing. “This funding is critically important to public housing agencies as they

work to provide the best housing possible for their residents,” U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan said. “While the funding we announce today will never be enough to meet

the tremendous backlog of capital needs, HUD will be working closely with the Congress to expand efforts to generate approximately $6 billion in private investment for the recapitalization of public housing.”

The work can include replacing roofs or updating plumbing and electrical systems to increase energy efficiency. In the Arkansas River Valley, housing authorities in the following cities received funds

through the program: Atkins, $27,271; Clarksville, $176,946; Coal Hill, $18,533; Dardanelle, $86,754; Dover, $19,590; Ola, $118,535; and Russellville, $176,156. Nationally, $1.8 billion was awarded to public housing authorities in all 50 states and to the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Arkansas Tech-Ozark breaks ground on allied health facility For The Courier

OZARK — A groundbreaking ceremony was held on Oct. 23 for a new 20,273 square-foot allied health facility at Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus. Members of the River Valley communities joined Arkansas Tech University and Arkansas Tech-Ozark officials in celebration of the new facility. The new allied health building will house five of the campus’ allied health programs — paramedic, health information technology, physical therapist assistant, practical nursing and registered nursing. Chancellor Bruce Sikes said the building represents campus dedication and partnership in providing access to a quality educational environment. “This facility is the result of strategic planning with faculty, staff and students,” he said. “It also reflects the commitment of the Board of Advisors and Board of Trustees.” Sandra Cheffer, chief fiscal officer at Arkansas

Tech-Ozark, said the facility will benefit the five programs to be housed there but will also benefit the entire campus from the additional space and computer labs to the fitness center and student lounge areas. The multipurpose facility will be the campus’ first two-story structure and will also feature laboratory and technology expansion, offices for faculty and support staff and a testing center. Cheffer added the building provides opportunity for campus growth in program offerings as well as services to stu-

dents and the region. Arkansas Tech President Dr. Robin E. Bowen said the facility is “a critically needed new building.” “We’re bursting at the seams,” she said. Enrollment at Arkansas Tech-Ozark has increased 619 percent, Bowen said. When the campus merged with Arkansas Tech University in 2003, it had an enrollment barely over 300 students. Enrollment for fall 2014 was 2,172. “Our friends and citizens will need and deserve excellent health care services,” Bowen said.

“The first step to excellent health care is excellent education in the health care professions. In this building, the education of tomorrow’s health care providers will directly benefit those in this audience, in this city, this county and this great state.” The building is scheduled to be open for spring 2016 classes. According to Cheffer, the construction will be funded by proceeds from revenue bonds. The Arkansas Department of Higher Education (ADHE) Higher Education Coordinating Board approved the economic

feasibility of bonds toward the construction during its regular quarterly meeting on July 25. The Arkansas Tech Board of Trustees previously approved the funding during its May 15 board meeting. The architect is Wes Burgess from Crafton Tull out of Rogers with the construction bid going to The Cone Group, Inc., out

of Little Rock. Arkansas Tech-Ozark offers health care options in health information technology, physical therapist assistant, cardiovascular technology, occupational therapy assistant, medical assisting, nursing assistant, practical nursing, registered nursing, emergency medical technician, paramedic and human services.

Voters approve new Dardanelle school remodel approved Yell County jail “It is one of the legs of our

BY COURIER STAFF Demolition has begun to make way for the new Yell County Jail. Funded by a 1-cent sales tax that was passed by Yell County voters earlier this year, the project is expected to take at least 18 months, Yell County Clerk Sharon Barnett said. For about $7.5 million, the new Danville jail will feature 75 beds. Three-fourths of the 1-cent sales tax is a temporary tax to fund the construction of the facility, while one-fourth of the tax is permanent, which will provide operation and maintenance funds.

Because neither the Danville or Dardanelle facilities are up to code, the county must build a new facility to meet state standards. The new facility will include a control tower to monitor the complex visually and from video. Bond hearings and medical issues will be addressed in a more controlled environment to reduce the number of opportunities for inmates to escape. Once the jail is open, the other two jails will be closed. The Yell County Sheriff’s Department will maintain facilities in Dardanelle for tax collection and law enforcement work.

BY JEANETTE ANDERTON DARDANELLE — The Dardanelle Board of Education approved accepting bids for a remodel of the intermediate school during a special meeting on Feb. 11. The remodel has an estimated price tag between $392,000 and $402,000. “It is one of the legs of our reconfiguration of grades next year,” Superintendent John Thompson said. “It’s a relatively small project — one wing of the intermediate school.” The district is composed of four schools — the new primary school houses kindergarten through second grade; the elementary school houses third through

reconfiguration of grades next year. It’s a relatively small project — one wing of the intermediate school.” Superintendent John Thompson sixth grades; the middle school houses seventh and eighth grades; and the high school houses ninth through 12th grades. The district was able

to build a new primary school using funds from a 6.5-mill increase voters approved in 2011. The primary school construction was completed on schedule, in

time for the 2013-14 school year. The district plans to have the remodel of the intermediate school complete in time for the 2014-15 school year. The remodel will include replacing the windows in the school. “We’ve got to replace the 1960s windows and put in double-pane windows,” Thompson said. One of the goals of the remodel is to make the building energy-efficient.

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Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014

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Rockline buys Goody’s facility

BY COURIER STAFF A nearly 240,000 square foot facility on a 30-acre site was acquired by Rockline Industries this summer in Russellville. The expansion aligns with the growth strategy to meet the growing needs of contract manufacturing and for the consumer demand of private label products, a news release stated. “Rockline’s purchase of the Russellville site will help our company better serve the needs of our customers and accommodate our company’s rapid growth in contract manufacturing and private label products,� said Nick Santoleri, vice president of operations, Rockline Industries. Rockline currently operates four US manufactur-

ing plants in Arkansas, New Jersey and Wisconsin. Rockline Industries was founded in 1976 and is headquartered in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. It is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of coffee filters and consumer, healthcare, industrial and institutional wet wipes. A family-owned company, Rockline has repeatedly created first-to-market product design solutions for the wet wipe consumer, and continues to provide innovative products to the non-wovens industry. Rockline employs approximately 2,000 people worldwide and has manufacturing facilities in Wisconsin, Arkansas, New Jersey, England and South China.

was Arkansas' first State Morrilton and it's nearby Park and offers many areas contain a wealth opportunities for fishing, of opportunities for our hiking, camping, and many residents.  The Morrilton other activities.  Directly to Parks and Recreation the north is Lake Overcup, Department provides known throughout the state activities for children and for it's fine fishing and adults. If you're interested boating opportunitifes. in shopping, Downtown Morrilton offers many Morrilton currently has opportunities.  The Rialto four hotels, along with the Community Arts Center on Broadway Street houses nearby facilities on Petit Jean Mountain.  A variety many events including concerts, plays, community of food also awaits you in meetings, and private events.  Morrilton.  Whether it be something for on the go or To the south is Petit Jean you have time to sit and enjoy your meal, Morrilton can State Park.  The park

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provide you with something that will help your hunger. Other sites of interest include the Museum of Automobiles on Petit Jean Mountain, Bargains Galore on 64 which occurs in Downtown Morrilton every August, and the Morrilton Depot Museum.

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The Courier

Celebrating 30 years of serving the River Valley

Residential • Commercial “Specialist” • Termites • Roaches • Ants • Rats • Fire Ants • Mice • Spiders • Bed Bugs • Fleas • Wasps • Ticks Competitive Pricing • Licensed Bonded and Insured • Free Estimates &

Russellville Dardanelle Clarksville 479-968-3441 479-229-3609 479-705-2847 www.georgetermite.com

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