2016 RVL Gift Guide

RVL

The Old Bank

Gifts

Recipes

Newtons invest in community

Top holiday ideas

Christmas deliciousness

HOLIDAY ISSUE

Magazine

NOVEMBER 2016

A Christmas Gift The women behind Mistletoe Market - Page7

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fsbmybank.com

DC

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Millyn’s

Your Christmas Store

Featuring the areas’ largest and most unique offering of Christmas decorations and gifts.

Competitive Pricing • Free Gift Wrap Impeccable Friendly Service

RVL Magazine Publisher/Editor David Meadows Production David Weaver

Open all Sundays 12 to 5 Open Thanksgiving 12 to 5 229-4144 • Millyn’s • Front Street, Dardanelle Call Millyn’s for Wedding Gifts

Design Marissa Ferreira

Account Executives Jim Kelley Ashlee Ennis Judy Manning Meagan Wilson

Advertising Director Michelle Harris

Photography Joshua Mashon

Published quarterly by The Courier, Russellville, Ark. November 20, 2016 ON THE COVER: 2016 Mistletoe Market committee members pictured are (front row, from left) Leigh Ann Veach, Jennifer Samuels, Terri Johnston, (middle) Peggy Stratton, Brooke Taylor, Angela Bonds, Sarah Neihouse, (back) Claudia Fellows, Ragena Moore, Chloe Lieblong, Kay Wray, Julia Davidson and Glenda Knost.

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EDUCATING with a wide variety of educational opportunities

A caring, nurturing environment with well-trained faculty and support staff Innovative science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs A well-rounded instructional program in all academic areas that includes GT, pre-AP, AP, and concurrent credit classes

EQUIPPING with tools and skills for life

1:1 Initiative program, which provides all RHS students with laptops for an interactive classroom environment Development of soft skills, such as leadership, the ability to collaborate with peers, and critical thinking A diverse extracurricular program

PREPARING

OUR STUDENTS

FOR THEIR

FUTURE At Russellville School District we are creating the best experiences that give our students an advantage in their world.

EMPOWERING with ways to prepare for their future

Exposure to college and career opportunities beginning in elementary schools College and Career Readiness Advisory classes Russellville Area Career and Technical Center, which offers in-depth training in various vocational, technical, and technology-based courses

220 West 10th Street Ŷ Russellville, AR. 72801 Ŷ 479.968.1306 Ŷ www.russellvilleschools.net

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Mistletoe Market. . . . . . . . . 7 See what it takes to make it possible

Kristin Foster. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 A heart that gives to those in need

Students help . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 during the holidays Students, staff at Atkins, Hector schools volunteer their time to help the needy

Top holiday gifts . . . . . . 16 Take the guessing out of Christmas shopping and take a sneak peek at what local retailers are featuring this holiday season

Annual a la Carte . . . . . . 20 Circle of Friends hosts annual fundraiser for Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Holiday Calendar. . . . . . 27 See what’s happening in the River Valley during the holidays Mon-Fri 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sat 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

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The Newtons

.............

With the opening of their new restaurant, Bill and Marlene Newton pause to reflect on their time in Russellville

Little Red Hen. . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 A new store in Downtown Russellville

DIY Holiday Crafts . . . . . 43 Easy glitter candle jars and count down to Santa’s arrival

Recipes

........................

The right taste for the Christmas season

Photo finish

... ............

Scenes from Mistletoe Market Russellville Downtown Fall Fest

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Mistletoe Market

IS ABOUT MORE THAN JUST SHOPPING

BY PATRICIA SPEARS

M

istletoe Market, a one-stop shopper’s dream, is in its ninth year of existence in the Arkansas River Valley.

Angela Bonds, one of two original committee members for the market, said 10 years ago the Boys and Girls Club of Russellville was in need of a fundraiser. The idea of hosting a holiday market, a collection of different vendors set up together in a festive manner to offer a variety of shopping, was “tossed around.”

“The holiday markets are a popular thing in communities like Little Rock and Conway.

We talked about the idea, could Russellville support and host one like that,” Bonds said. “We have a facility here at the club so we could host the event and not be out that expense. Could we do this at the club and keep our expenses at a minimum? We decided to try and see what happens.”

The result to date is an average of $25,000 raised each year, with an average of 140 shoppers on the preview night (always on a Thursday) and

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500-600 shoppers on the following two days. This year, they broke their record by raising over $31,000.

Preparation begins in the spring by mailing letters to merchants six to seven months before the market.

This year there were 48 merchants scheduled to attend, an increase of eight from the previous year. According to Bonds, the vendors are typically set up in the club’s gym, but with an increase in vendors they may have to start using part of the lobby as well.

Bonds said several local vendors attend, but some travel from as far away as Mississippi and Oklahoma.

She attributed part of the success of reaching a larger market and advertising to vendors to Facebook.

For a successful event, Bonds said it’s all about advertising and getting commitments early. She explained you have to first get the merchants to commit and then promote the event

six weeks out.

“You need the merchants, but you also need shoppers for the merchants to be happy so they come back the following year,” Bonds said. “We help the vendors and wear red aprons during the market. We’ve become known as the red apron committee.

Some of the feedback we get from merchants is how well we take care of them whether by filling in at a booth while they run an errand or the meals we provide them.”

Volunteers are also available to assist vendors with unpacking and packing their merchandise.

Some examples of products from vendors that can be

CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

Your Neighborhood Drug Store Since 1970

5 Friendly Pharmacists to Serve You! • Drive Thru Window • Front Door Parking • Free Delivery • Old Time Soda Fountain

NEWTON’S PHARMACY I 715 West Main, Russellville 479-968-1157

NOW OPEN

!

N O E GAM You name it, it’s on one of our 77 TVs or 200” projection!

Sun.–Thurs. 10:30-11 • Fri. & Sat. 10:30-Midnight 220 W. Main • Russellville • 219-5181

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Merry

Christmas

Featuring: Coach, Candies, Costa del Mar, Ray-Ban, Michael Kors, Banana Republic

204 N. Front St. Dardanelle

479-229-1467

317 E. Parkway Russellville

479-967-6113

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KRISTIN FOSTER

Making a difference

BY TRAVIS SIMPSON

K

ristin Foster wants to help.

Through several nonprofits, including Junior Auxiliary, River Valley Food 4 Kids and River Valley Food Alliance, Foster hopes her presence in the Arkansas River Valley means tomorrow is brighter for the area’s disadvantaged families.

“I got involved with nonprofits because I saw a lot of stigma attached to poverty,” Foster said. “So often I hear statements that lump people into stereotypes of being lazy or not trying hard enough, and that’s not really reflective of my experience.”

Foster said she was born to young parents who taught her how to work extremely hard to escape poverty.

For foster, many of today’s disadvantaged don’t need sympathy or scorn — they just need a helping hand.

“I see that happening with people all over our community,” she said.

“We see people who are working really hard to give their kids a better life and just need a little extra help.

We see a huge number of grandparents who already put in their years raising kids and are now raising grand kids and doing the best they can to get by.

“Seeing how hard these people are trying pushes me to do something.

To me, action is a central part of faith, so if I am fortunate enough to be able to give a little bit of my

time and energy to be able to make a positive impact, then I think my faith calls me to do that.”

Foster’s “baby,” a nonprofit called River Valley Food 4 Kids, stuffs backpacks with food for children to take home over the summer. What started as an idea to help a few kids over the summer turned into a program that serves over 1,000 children every week of the year.

“Every year we have seen it grow more and more,” she said. “In our first year, 2014, we provided around 50,000 meals. In 2015, it was 100,000 meals. In 2016, it will be well over 200,000 meals here in Pope County.

“It continually amazes me how

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God blesses this program through the support of the community. We are blessed to have some truly amazing people and businesses in the river valley who want to care for our children.”

Foster, who has lived in the area for most of her life, reflected on the Christmas season and the different ways the nonprofits she is involved in help under-privileged children, including simple things from Junior Auxiliary like having milk and cookies at the

Pope County Library with Santa.

Junior Auxiliary also partners with CASA of the 5th Judicial District to provide gifts for children in the foster care system.

“The kids are so excited to see Santa at the library,” Foster said. “Their faces just light up.”

Junior Auxiliary does not attend the CASA Christmas Party, but Foster said an effort is made to provide the children with a gift they actually want.

“We get them something special,” she

4 Large Showrooms of Jewelry and Antiques!

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said. “The kids sign up for what they want, and if it’s something expensive, like a tablet, several of us will go in together to get that for them.”

“Christmas can be a really difficult time for the children we serve. Parents are not only struggling to put food on the table but also trying to provide gifts for the kids. That can be devastating for a family already having a hard time getting by.”

Last year, River Valley Food 4 Kids had a special event at the fairgrounds, which provided food for 994 kids in six hours. •

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A

Helping out for the holidays

BY SEAN INGRAM

rkansas River Valley high school students take time from their regular class time and extracurricular responsibilities to help others in need during the holidays.

During the month of December, the Senior Beta Club at Atkins High School (AHS) conducts a food and toy drive. They get the AHS student body to donate toys and food, and each Beta member buys a toy to donate for the cause.

The food collected is taken to the Atkins Riding Club arena, where Senior Beta club members help fill the food baskets with members of People for a Better Atkins (PBA) on Thursday and Friday. They distribute the baskets to those in need on Saturday morning.

AHS Librarian Michelle Ward said Senior Beta Club students have participated in this project for over 25 years.

“Whoever gets the most food collected gets a pizza party,” senior Alex Bewley explained. “We then take it to the rodeo arena and pack it into boxes. It’s fun. I like to do it. We have great interaction with other students while we do this.

“It’s a great opportunity for us to get volunteers, also to help other people in need

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for the holidays. We can actually help with their holiday dinner and make sure they have a great Christmas.”

“It always feels good to work like that together,” senior Wade Stinson said.

“You actually get to see the people you are helping and that’s good, too. It’s a really good experience. It makes you more

appreciative of what you have. You can actually help the people who do need it.”

“I like getting to help people in our community, giving them toys and food,” senior Joely Ennis pointed out. “It’s a great experience being able to be helpful to people.

There’s a lot of people in our community who need help. It’s really good to help

them. I was very appreciative.”

“It’s nice to be able to help the people of Atkins,” senior Sarah Isom added.

“You don’t realize how many people are actually in need. Everyone should come help where ever they can because there are a lot of people that need help. It surprised me that there are that many.” •

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A gallery of unique, local and handcrafted An Arkansas Original Since 1980 Experience Local Flavor Conway • Russellville

Local, State and National Recognition Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Pottery Studio Open to Public

Conway Russellville 405 W. Parkway Dr. 805 Donaghey Ave. Hours: 6am-11pm Hours: 6am - 9pm Mon – Sat Mon – Sat. 501-327-5447 479-968-3816 Visit us online at www.stobys.com

Family-owned and operated, specializing in quality & service for over 75 years.

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SHOP • DINE • UNWIND

art

“A Symbol of Trust since 1944�

downtown

Come see us this holiday season!

479.890.7766

208 West Main Russellville, AR 72801 www.rendezvousformalwear.com

Your Holiday Gift Headquarters

Courtesy & Service since 1958

CandDdrugstore.com Call 479.968.2456 Downtown Russellville

walk

Fine ART FOR SALE, Refreshments, AND‌‌‌ LIVE MUSIC!

1ST FRIDAYS Historic Downtown Russellville

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Downtown Fall Festival & Chili Cookoff

December 1:

Winter Wonderland Lights On

December 1:

Russellville

December 2:

Award Winning Italian Cuisine Prime Steaks Authentic Italian Pastas Salmon • Shrimp • Scallops Calamari • Crab • Crawfish Homemade Soups & Desserts Savory Cheesecakes & Quiche Sandwiches • Salads Flatbreads • Prime Rib

Community Christmas Tree Lighting, 6pm & Russellville Christmas Parade, 6:30 pm Downtown Art Walk & Holiday Open House, 6-9 pm

January 6:

Winter Wonderland Lights Off

Historic Russellville Depot 320 W. “C� Street Still Booking Holiday Events 479-967-1437 www.mainstreetrussellville.com

319 W. Main Russellville 479-967-1707

915 Front St Conway 501-205-8751

pastagrillrussellville.com pastagrillconway.com

December 1st thru January 5th

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Top holiday items from local retailers

BY SIERRA MURPHY PHOTOS BY JOSHUA MASHON

A CONVERSATION PIECE MILLYN’S

Mark Roberts’ Santas, Elves and Fairies are available at Millyn’s this holiday season.

Their elegant detail, gorgeous fabrics and imaginative designs ensure that each will be come a family heirloom.

Locals are free to use the pottery studio, located in the back of A Conversation Piece. Monthly fees apply to those looking to spin, fire and paint their personal masterpieces.

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THE OTHER FOOT

The Other Foot’s Christmas list is full of real leather booties by Diba True and suede booties from Matisse, that won’t go out of style next year. It wouldn’t be Christmas without asking for a pair of Uggs, but this year they’re changing the style from boot to sneaker.

FELTNER’S ATHLETE’S CORNER

This year’s feature item is a synch snap, fleece pull over from Patagonia. Men, women and children can all stay warm in style, as the pull over comes in various colors and prints.

MERLE NORMAN

The holiday makeup collection makes an appearance once a year and showcases one of Merle Norman’s favorite quad eyeshadow collections. In bronze or plum, pick up the couturelike pallet, this holiday season only.

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FAT DADDY’S

Gift cards make great gifts, as they can be loaded for any amount. They can be used at either Fat Daddy’s location in Russellville and are great to use on daily specials, like the Barbeque Burrito on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

LEONARD’S HARDWARE

Get a gift for the little loved one in your life. The “get around gator” is a battery-powered, miniature car and can be outfitted with squirt guns and other accessories.

There is also a non-electric version available.

MAUS IMPLEMENT

For the kids who still enjoy playing in the dirt, be sure you’ve got a John Deere skidsteer complete with a truck a trailer to haul it around.

MAUS IMPLEMENT

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CARR’S CHAIN REACTION

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Outfit your outsider with a mountain or hybrid bike from Carr’s. Their selection has something for every member of your family, including children’s bikes.

KITCHEN ESSENTIALS This year’s feature item is a Wusthof, seven piece knife set. The Classic version comes complete with a block and makes a perfect gift for your Christmas-time chef.

PRICE MILLING

The Pierce cooler is fresh from market and perfect for Christmas gifting. The cooler comes complete with a cutting board and cupholder, as well as an etchedin measuring tape for fish. It comes in a variety of colors and three different sizes – 20 quart, 45 quart and 75 quart.

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7th Annual a la Carte A

hayride transported the approximately 250 attendees of the 7th Annual a la Carte event from the event parking lots to the Massey residence up the road on the night of October 11.

The setting was discernibly Fall and the cause noble: raising money for the Arkansas Children’s Hospital, through way of the Circle of Friends, an auxiliary fundraising arm of the hospital.

The Massey Barn, on the residence of Dolph & Lorraine Massey, is the site of the yearly event. Silent auction tables sat in the middle of the barn, surrounded by local food vendors.

The party spilled out into the grounds, where attendees, many of them dress in plaid, mixed and mingled, dining on a selection of food donated by the vendors. Covers of favorite country and rock songs were played by Highway 124, a local band, while a large bonfire roared.

Before the night was over, around $23,000 would be raised by Circle of Friends.

Joan Caughman and Ann Barnett, found sitting at a table together underneath a tent outside, have been attending the annual event for years.

“The setting, the Massey home, is wonderful,” Caughman said. “It welcomes fall and it’s a great cause.”

“I love seeing the vendors and getting to taste a little bit of everything,” Barnett said. Also particularly enjoyed

by Barnett was the hayride — “It’s unique!” she said.

Food vendors for this year’s event included Brick Oven Pizza, Brown’s Catfish, The Cake Place, Custom Cakes

by Michelle Mayer, Fat Daddy’s BBQ, McAlister’s Deli, Quiznos, Stoby’s, Steak N Shake and Pasta Grill Restaurant.

Thrivent Financial, Griffin Oil Company, Simmons Bank, Keener Con-

STORY AND PHOTOS

BY SAM HOISINGTON

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“

Whenever we first started it up, we didn’t know if it was going to be something our community liked, but I’m finding out they’re asking me ‘when is it going to be?’ way before the date. struction and Highway 124 also contributed significant sponsorships in money, resources or time.

Beverly Keener has been a volunteer for Circle of Friends for around two decades, and was involved in starting the a la Carte tradition. Seven years ago, it was hard to imagine what a success it would be.

“Whenever we first started it up, we didn’t know if it was going to be something our community liked, but I’m finding out they’re asking me ‘when is it going to be?’ way before the date,” Keener said.

There are several Circle of Friends chapters across the state, all raising money for the Arkansas Children’s

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Hospital. Although comprised exclusively of volunteers, the chapters have contributed to multiple large projects over the years. Among those projects were significant contributions to the hospital’s hematology/oncology clinic and funding for the after-hours medical information line and nursing excellence programs.

The Arkansas River Valley chapter of Circle of Friends raised $124,000 for the hospital last year. This year, they hope to raise $126,000.

That support is much appreciated by the full-time fundraisers at the hospital.

“Circle of Friends is a network of passionate, dedicated volunteers providing care, love and hope for the children and families served

by Arkansas Children’s Hospital,” CONTINUED ON PAGE 51

Feltner's Athlete's Corner

9:30-6:00 Mon.-Sat. • (479) 968-6464 • 2320 W. MAIN, Russellville

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Holiday Gifts for Him Men’s Dark Brown Mottle Bent Rail® B oots Boots

Canyonland 1/2 Zip by The North Face

Woody’s Boot & Repair

Bestt Littl Little B Boott Warehouse W h in the River Valley!

Feltner’s Athlete’s Corner 2320 W. Main St. Russellville • 479-968-6464

509 & 511 E 4th • 968-8980 • woodysboots.com

Skyline Time introduces the Skyline watch, featuring the visage of Mount Nebo. These watches have the durability and beauty of the mountain they display.

Several styles available for men & women.

Skyline Time

1200 W. Main Street, Russellville 479-280-1581

REGISTER TO WIN A

250

$

Shopping Spree Stop by Participating Merchants to Register.

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Holiday Gifts for Her Traditional Acoustic Pianos to Modern Digital Pianos Valley Piano Co. 813 E. Main • Russellville, AR 72801 479-968-5200 www.valleypiano.com

GAME DAY APPAREL ARKANSAS TECH & RAZORBACK APPAREL AVAILABLE

The Blue Hoot Boutique 2300 W. Main, Suite 5 • Russellville 479-890-HOOT (4668)

Plushee Bear Outfits by The North Face Feltner’s Athlete’s Corner 2320 W. Main St. Russellville • 479-968-6464

Compression Stockings with a Fashion Flair Other Styles available!

Rose Drug 3103 West Main Place Russellville, AR www.rosedrug.com

If we were Santa,

we would be carrying a Rock Paper Scissors leather backpack full of Seychelles, Chinese Laundry, and Diba True.

That kind of style is worth a few extra cookies.

The Other Foot and More

2725 East Parkway Dr, Ste 1 Russellville, AR 72802 • 479-968-4900

Leonard’s Hardware 1319 S. Arkansas, Russellville (479) 968-2142

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Holiday Gifts for Her Women’s Oak Brown Fashion Boots Woody’s Boot & Repair Best Little Boot Warehouse in the River Valley!

509 & 511 E 4th • 968-8980 • woodysboots.com

GIRLS CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES 0-6 Years Available Ask About Personalized Monogramming!

The Blue Hoot Boutique 2300 W. Main, Suite 5 • Russellville 479-890-HOOT (4668)

Nano-Puff

by Patagonia

The gift that gives all year.

Now available: 3, 6, and 12-month gift subscriptions • Call 968-5252

Feltner’s Athlete’s te’s Corner 2320 W. Main St. Russellville • 479-968-6464

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250

$

REGISTER TO WIN A

250

$

Shopping Spree YOU COULD WIN BY REGISTERING AT ANY OF THE FOLLOWING PARTICIPATING MERCHANTS! Winner to be announced on Sunday, December 11, 2016

Look for The Courier red stocking and enter to win!

A Conversation Piece Advance Collision Solutions Alpha Counter Tops Ammo Can Man The Blue Hoot Boutique The Bookwheel C & D Drug Store Cobb’s Pharmacy Colonial Flowers The Courier Daiber Eye Care Fat Daddy’s First State Bank Feltner’s Athlete’s Corner Freddo’s French Noodles Boutique Goldmaster’s Jewelry Griffin Electric Happy Jumpers

Heart & Soul Joshua’s Fine Jewelry K & M Auto Detailing Kitchen Essentials Kob Jai Lefler’s Legacy Heights Leonard’s Hardware Maus Implement Merle Norman Millyn’s Newton’s Pharmacy Nothing Fancy Cafe Old Bank Sports Grill The Other Foot & More Paint With Lane Pasta Grill Peters Family Living Phil Wright Autoplex

To be eligible, shoppers will register at one of the participating merchants. Winner will choose (five) $50 gift Certifcates at 5 different participating stores of their choice. Courier employees, participating merchants and their immediate families are not eligible for drawing. No purchase necessary. Drawing to be held at the Courier offce 4 p.m. Tuesday, December 6, 2016. Winner to be announced Sunday, December 11, 2016. only one winner. the Courier is not responsible for lost entries or entries not turned in by the drawing time. For complete rules and details see the daily and Sunday Courier. Prize must be claimed within 2 business days. The $250 shop local promotion is limited to the Courier’s market area; Pope, Johnson and Yell Counties.

Pope County Library System Quiznos Rackley Furniture Rendezvous Rose Drug, Inc. Russellville Depot Skyline Time Stoby’s Restaurant Sorrells Body Shop Tangles Salon Tarasco Mexican Restaurant Valley Piano Woody’s Boots Clarksville Merchants Artrac Ammo Can Man Family Shoe Store Woodard Carpet

Sponsored by

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Holiday

CALENDAR

November Tuesday Nov. 29 The Jazz Band will perform its Christmas concert at 7 p.m., at The Center for the Arts.

Dardanelle will have a Santa Claus at 6 p.m. in the Front Street gazebo. Santa will be available for photographs, meet and greets and selfies.

Dardanelle will also have a lighting ceremony at 6:30 p.m. at the Front Street gazebo

December Saturday, Dec. 1 The Russellville Christmas Parade will be from 3-8 p.m.

Clarksville Christmas Parade will be at 7 p.m.

Tis the Season will be be presented and performed by The Dance Foundation at The Center for the Arts at 7 p.m. and 2 p.m. on Dec. 3 and Dec. 4.

Friday, Dec 2 Russellville will have The Downtown Art Walk and Holiday Open house from 6-9 p.m.

Dardanelle will have its Christmas Parade, which is free to the public, call the Dardanelle Chamber of Commerce, for more information.

Clarksville will host its Christmas Arts and Crafts Show Dec. 2-3 at the Marvin Vinson multi purpose building on 1611 Oakland St. Monday, Dec. 5 Dardanelle Bands Christmas concert will be performed at 7 p.m. at The Center for the Arts.

Tuesday, Dec. 6 Russellville School Distric all choirs Christmas concert will be performed at 7 p.m. at The Center for the Arts.

Thursday, Dec 8 Russellville Middle School band will perform its Christmas concert at 7 p.m. at The Center for the Arts.

Dardanelle will have a movie night at 6 p.m. featuring How the Grinch stole Christmas, free event plus snack and drink. Pictures with Santa and the Grinch.

Friday Dec 9 and Saturday Dec. 10 Russellville High School Choir Feast of the Carols will be performed at 7 p.m. at The Center for the Arts.

Sunday, Dec 11 Russellville High School Choir Dessert Carols will be performed at 2 p.m. at The Center for the Arts.

Monday, Dec 12 The Russellville High School band will perform Christmas concert at 7 p.m. at The Center for the Arts.

Tuesday, Dec. 13 The Russellville Junior High School band will perform its Christmas concert at 7 p.m. at The Center for the Arts.

Friday, Dec 16 Arkansas Tech University has its graduate programs graduation ceremony at 7 p.m. at Tucker Coliseum Saturday, Dec 17 Arkansas Tech University has its undergraduate programs graduation ceremony at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The 10 a.m. ceremony is for the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, the College of Etech, and the College of Natural and Health Sciences. The 2 p.m. ceremony is for the College of Arts and Humanities, the College of Business, the College of Education and Associate degrees, both ceremonies will take place at Tucker Coliseum

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Dining Out For The Holidays!

Enjoy the holiday season with family & friends at one of these local restaurants

Tar ascos

Mexican Restaurant

“A Real Mexican Taste.”

Breakfast • Lunch Specials • Dinner Combo DIPS • Appetizers • Soups & MORE

217 North Front Dardanelle 479•477•3108

Russellville • Dardanelle Atkins • Clarksville • Paris

114 Scenic 7 Ola 479•489•3335

WE MAKE ENTERTAINING EASY!

OFFICE PARTIES

FAMILY GATHERINGS

HOLIDAY GATHERINGS

((after work or shopping)

Classic Combo

Fresh Fit

Dessert

Sides & Drinks

South Arkansas 968-4820

West Main 967-5266

Lake Front Dr. 967-9814

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RVL Magazine 31

B

Newtons contribute to Russellville

growth

STORY BY SIERRA MURPHY PHOTOS BY JOSHUA MASHON

illy Newton used to wander the streets of Downtown Russellville when theaters, restaurants, soda fountains and the like filled the now vacant spaces. Dubbing himself as the “town rugrat,” he remembers fondly the days of Oklahoma Tire and Supplies and his father’s business, a sporting good’s store on Boulder.

“Through the years I’ve seen it slowly go down hill.”

Billy and others have launched a type of campaign to revitalize down town, and it’s produced noticeable life to the heart of Russellville. Business has grown, boosting the economy. The presence of business has brought attention, increasing the traffic downtown receives.

Billy and his wife, Marlene, are the owners and operators of Old Bank Sports Grill. Old Bank opened on Oct. 24 and the Newtons said they aim to provide a night life for Tech students and a place for people to just come in and watch the game.

“If there’s a seat and you just want to sit here and watch TV, that’s okay,” Billy said. “It just gives people another reason to be downtown.”

For the community, it may be a welcome in to downtown, but for the Newtons it’s a welcome home; the couple has owned the building off North Commerce Avenue since the late 1990s.

“We kept the building from when we moved from

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downtown to where we are now,�

Marlene said. “Kept the building, rented it for many years, then all of a sudden we didn’t have a renter. So we thought we’ll redo that little building and we’ll do a candy store, or a fudge shop.�

They continued to go back and forth about what to do with the space until their brainstorming session included keeping the namesake “Old Bank,� in reference to the business that was erected in 1876. For both Marlene and Billy, it was important to keep the spirit of old downtown alive and pour into that revitalization effort. The fruits of their labor was for their own hometown. “It’s (Russellville) where we were married, where all four of our kids were born and grew up and graduated from Russellville High School,�

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The Newtons are most known for Newton’s Pharmacy, just five blocks down West Main Street from Old Bank. After Billy completed pharmacy school, the two returned to Russellville, where Marlene finished her degree, Billy taught in the Russellville school district and they had their four children, two boys and two girls. At Newton’s, they kept a baseball card shop for the boys and a soda fountain for the girls, working all four children at each station respectively.

This was a continuation of the family tradition of sorts, until the card shop closed.

Now, Marlene and Billy have stepped into manager-type positions, and volunteer where they can.

Marlene helps raise money for scholarships that go toward funding single mothers’ educations.

The Newton’s have invested their lives in Russellville, and have an interest in giving back to the town that has given them so many memories, through philanthropy work and revitalization efforts. •

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Little Red Hen added to Downtown Russellville Little Red Hen, a new store located at 203 N. Commerce Avenue in downtown Russellville, first opened its doors on Aug. 1 but had been a work in progress since March of last year.

Shelley Willis, store owner, said she has worked in retail before and always enjoyed it — one of the things that prompted her to open her first business, Little Red Hen. Willis, along with her son, work in the store.

The name of the store came from the book “The Little Red Hen,” a favorite story of Willis.

STORY BY PATRICIA SPEARS PHOTOS BY JOSHUA MASHON

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In the store, patrons will find items ranging from gifts to seasonal to fun things for the home as well as gift wrapping. According to Willis, the store carries items that can’t be found anywhere else. Some pieces are purchased but Willis also features local artists’ work in the store.

Socks with different phrases on them are one item that can be found.

“We have a lot of fun socks which are my favorite items in the store,” she said. “They are also the most popular item.”

For the approaching Christmas season, Willis is beginning to put out holiday decorations.

“We are going to have all types of ornaments and any kind of Christmas decor you can think of,” she said.

Other items currently in the store include pillows, picture frames, candles, pieces made from barbed wire, furniture and wall art.

“I just hope to offer a store with unique

RVL Magazine 39

items to keep customers coming back. I want to keep them happy,â&#x20AC;? Willis said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I also love being downtown.â&#x20AC;?

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

found at the Mistletoe Market include clothing, jewelry, gift items, food, crafts and vinyl lettering.

The committee responsible for making the market possible this year was comprised of Lyle Manning, executive director for the Boys and Girls Club and 11 women — Ragena Moore, Bonds, Chloe Lieblong, Glenda Knost, Peggy Stratton, Julia Davidson, Leigh Ann Veach, Sarah Neihouse, Jennifer Samuels, Terri Johnson and Kay Wray.

Though most of the committee members have changed throughout the years, Bonds expressed the

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RVL Magazine 41

members are people who care about the youth in the community, the future of the children and the mission of the Boys and Girls Club.

The club hosts numerous children daily after school and not only provides them with a safe environment but also a hot meal.

“Our major theme for Mistletoe Market is ‘Shop for a Cause.’ We’re extremely grateful for the committee members who work so hard for our cause and our kids. They believe in our club,” said Manning.

“We serve upwards of 300 kids a day at our three sites and impact over 3,000 youth during the year through our programs and events. Our big goal is to provide a safe haven for kids ages 6-18 to learn, grow, be mentored and fed through our food program every day. We can’t do that without the support of the community and without fundraisers such as Mistletoe Market.”

One thing that has changed over the years is that members of the

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Boys and Girls Club get involved with the market by creating pieces of art. Their artwork is then copied and made into gift tags that are given to shoppers at the end of the preview party.

“We didn’t do that in the very beginning,” Bonds said. “But we felt we needed to get the kids involved.”

She added that one of her favorite things of the event is seeing everything come together.

“The decorations, merchant booths, festive music we play and all of the people who come together is my favorite part,” Bonds said.

“Seeing the culmination of all of that and knowing at the end of the day we’re making a difference and helping our community.”

Funds raised come from vendor booth rental fees, ticket sales at the door, a silent auction, raffle tickets and sponsorships. All money raised, minus expenses, goes straight to the Boys and Girls Club of Russellville for programming and operating expenses. •

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RVL Magazine

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RVL Magazine 43

DIY Festive Glitter Candle Jars

BY PATRICIA SPEARS

Items you will need: • Mason jars (choose the number and sizes you prefer) • Craft double sided tape • Craft Dodz • Large piece of paper • Glitter (colors of your choice) • Loose bristle paintbrush • Tealight candles

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Step 1 Start by wiping off the outside of a mason jar with a dry cloth. Carefully begin rolling the tape onto the jar in the pattern of your choice. Double-sided craft tape that has a protective backing, so it is preferred, but regular double sided tape will work too. If you choose to use the Dodz, carefully peel the backing off and position the Dodz in the desired location. Firmly press the tape and Dodz down in place.

Step 2 If you use the double-sided craft tape

with a backing, begin removing the backing from the tape and Dodz exposing the tape. Note, if you want to use more than one color of glitter on the same jar, only remove the backing in the places you want each color at a time.

Step 3 Hold your jar over a piece of paper.

With a sweeping motion, begin pouring your first color glitter over the exposed tape. Gently press the glitter into the tape until all exposed tape is covered. If you see any bare spots, go back and add more glitter until covered.

Step 4 Continue to hold the jar over the paper and tap the sides of the jar to knock

off any loose glitter. Use a clean, dry paintbrush to remove stubborn excess glitter from between the tape.

Step 5 Save the excess glitter by carefully lifting the paper to fold it in half. Use the paper as a funnel and pour the glitter back into your glitter container.

Step 6 If using multiple colors on the same jar, repeat steps 2-4 for each color until finished.

Step 7 Add a tealight candle to each jar.

Last, choose a special place in your home or office for your newly decorated jar.

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RVL Magazine 45

DIY

Countdown to Christmas Plate

BY PATRICIA SPEARS

Items you will need: • Decorative plate • Painter’s tape or masking tape • Sandpaper (optional) • Chalkboard paint • Hot glue gun • Ribbon or pre-made bow • White paint pen • Chalk • Plate easel (optional) Step 1 Ensure the surface of the plate if clean by wiping it with a dry, clean cloth.

Step 2 Tear off small portions of painters tape and begin applying the edge of the strips along the edge where you want the outside of the chalkboard to be. Masking tape can be used too but painters tape is easier to remove. Continue placing small strips of tape making a smooth-edged circle. Cover the remaining exposed rim of the plate with tape where you don’t want the chalkboard paint.

Step 3 Firmly press down the inside edge of the tape to prevent the paint from leaking under the tape. Lay the plate on paper or a surface that you don’t mind paint getting on.

Step 4 (optional) Use the sandpaper to scratch the middle surface of the plate where the chalkboard will be. By roughing the surface, the paint will adhere better.

Step 5 After shaking the chalkboard paint, with a sweeping motion from side-to-side, begin spraying a thin, even coat. Allow the paint

to thoroughly dry and repeat this step two more times.

Step 6 Once the plate is completely dry (recommended 24-hour drying time), carefully remove the tape. If the chalkboard paint leaked under any of the tape or the lines aren’t smooth you can use a black sharpie to correct the outer edge of the paint.

Step 7 Allow the hot glue gun to heat up. While waiting on the hot glue gun, create a bow with the ribbon. You can also choose to buy a pre-made bow. Apply a small amount of hot glue to the back of the middle of the bow and press firmly to the top of the plate.

Hold the bow in place for a few minutes while the glue dries.

Step 8 Use the white paint pen to write “days until Christmas” at the bottom of the plate.

Step 9 Choose a visible place in your home for the countdown plate to keep track of the number of days until Christmas. The plate can be placed in a decorative plate easel or hung on the wall by attaching a hook to the back.

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The following recipes were provided by chef Sean Edward Applewhite with Chartwells.

holiday recipes to getyou feeling festive Garlic Mashed Potatoes Ingredients 10 pounds Potatoes, Peeled, Fresh, Quartered 1 gallon Water, Boiling 2 tsp salt, bulk 1 quart milk, skim 2 ounces garlic cloves, peeled, fresh, chopped Method

Cook potatoes, covered, in a small amount of salted, boiling water for 20-25 minutes or until tender. Hold warm.

In a saucepan over low heat, cook garlic in milk until garlic is soft, about 30 minutes.

Add milk/garlic mixture to potatoes. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until smooth.

Heat until internal temperature reaches 140F.

Baked Ham with Orange Glaze Ingredients 15 pound ham, boneless,

black forest 2-1/2 tbsp spice, cloves, whole 1 cup marmalade, orange 1/4 cup juice, orange, 100% Preparation

1. Thaw ham overnight under refrigeration if necessary.

2. Trim excess fat from ham.

Place ham, fat side up, in roasting pan and bake. Regular oven: 300F for 15 minutes per pound. Remove from oven.

3. Combine orange juice and marmalade to make glaze.

Drain dripping from ham. Cut thin layer of fat from ham.

Score top of ham in a diagonal direction. Creating a diamond pattern. Stud with whole cloves. Pour glaze over ham.

4. Bake until internal temperature reaches 155F. Regular oven: 400F for 30 minutes; Convection oven: 350F for 20 minutes.

5. Remove cloves prior to service.

6. Ham may be wrapped in foil in and held in the oven at the lowest heat setting.

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Corn Pudding Ingredients 3/4 cup cereal, grits, dry 1 1- /2 cup cream, whipping, heavy 1-1/2 cup milk, whole 12 ounce corn, kernels, fresh 4 ounce butter, unsalted 8 eggs, fresh, beaten 4 cup milk, whole 2 cup cornmeal, plain, yellow 1 tsp salt, Kosher 1/4 tsp spice, pepper, black, ground 4 spray (1 sec/spray) oil, cooking spray Preparation

1. In a heavy gauge saucepot heat the milk and heavy cream, add the grits and simmer, stirring for 15-20 minutes.

Meanwhile, cut kernels from corn cob, roast in 375°F oven for 10 minutes until slightly browned.

2. Add butter to hot grits and mix. Stir in cornmeal. Mix egg and milk together and slowly mix into grit mixture; add the roasted corn. Coat roasting pan(s) with cooking spray and pour in the batter. Place in a water bath and bake in a 375F oven until the top begins to brown and is a custard consistency, about 25-35 minutes.

Smashed Spiced Sweet Potatoes

Bruschetta with Basil and Tomato

Ingredients 1-1/2 tbsp. spice, cumin seed 8 pound sweet potatoes, 120-count, fresh 1/4 cup butter, unsalted 1/4 cup syrup, maple, 100% pure 2 tbsp. spice, chili powder 2 tsp spice, ginger, ground 2 tsp salt, kosher 1 tsp spice, pepper, black, ground

Ingredients 3 pound flatbread, whole grain,

12” X 12”, frozen 8 tbsp oil, Olive/Canola Oil 90/10 blend

3 cup basil, fresh 6 pound tomatoes, fresh, diced, 1/4” 2 tbsp garlic cloves, peeled, fresh, crushed

Preparation

Preparation

1.Toast the cumin seeds in a skillet over a medium heat, stirring occasionally, until fragrant for 2 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool.

Grind in a spice meal or blender into a fine powder. Set aside.

2. Preheat oven to 350F. Pierce each sweet potato in several places with a fork. Place directly on the oven rack and roast until soft for 45 minutes to an hour. Transfer to a cutting board; let stand until cool enough to handle for about 10 minutes. Slip off the skins and cut the potatoes into 1 inch slices; transfer to a large bowl.

Add butter. Smash the sweet potatoes with a potato masher or fork until fluffy but some lumps remain.

Add the maple syrup, chili powder, ginger, salt, pepper and the reserved ground cumin. Stir to combine.

1. Pre-heat oven to 350F. Cut the flatbread into 3 x 3 squares then into triangles. On a lined baking sheet, place the flatbread, drizzle with the oil. Bake for about 5 minutes until toasted.

2. In a bowl, combine the tomato, garlic and basil together. Spoon 1 oz tomato mixture on each triangle of flatbread.

3. Pair with tub of hummus and now you have an appetizer station.

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Hot Cocoa Mix Ingredients 2 cups powdered sugar 1 cup cocoa (Dutch-process preferred) 21/2 cups powdered milk 1 teaspoon sugar 2 teaspoons cornstarch Directions

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and incorporate evenly. In a small pot, heat 4 to 6 cups of water.

Fill your mug half full with the mixture and pour in hot water. Stir to combine. Seal the rest in an airtight container, keeps indefinitely in the pantry. This also works great with warm milk.

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Mini Red Velvet Cupcakes with Almond Cream Cheese Frosting Preparation time: 15 mins Cooking time: 40 mins Ingredients 7 ounce water, tap 12 ounce mix, cake, white 3 tbsp cocoa, baking 1 tbsp food color, red 2 tsp vinegar, rice wine, unseasoned 2-1/2 cup sugar, powdered 4 ounce cream cheese, bulk 1/4 tsp flavoring, extract, almond, imitation 1 tbsp milk, whole

Preparation

1. Preheat conventional oven to 350F. Line mini muffin pans with paper cups. Combine cake mix and cocoa in a bowl. Mix water, food coloring and vinegar and incorporate per manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s instructions. Pour batter into cups 1/8â&#x20AC;? from top, 0.8 ounce. Bake for 15 minutes total, rotating the pan half-way through cooking. Cake is done when the batter bounces back when gently pressed in the center. Remove cups from pan and allow to cool on wire racks.

2. Cream cheese should be room temperature. Combine sugar and cream cheese and beat at moderate speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat in the extract and milk to mix. Spread 1 tablespoon of frosting on each mini cupcake using a spatula, spoon or piping bag. Optional: garnish with sprinkles for a festive look.

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Maple Pecan Bread Pudding Ingredients 1/2 cup sugar, granulated 1 tsp spice, cinnamon, ground 18 each bread, white, slice, 1.08 oz 1 1- /2 cup nuts, pecan pieces, chopped, coarse 10 ounce egg, whole, w/citric acid, fresh 1/2 cup sugar, granulated 1/2 cup syrup, pancake & waffle 2 quart milk, whole 2 tbsp. sugar, granulated 1/8 tsp spice, cinnamon, ground Preparation

1. Combine first listed sugar and cinnamon. Mix well.

2. Alternate layers of bread and pecans, sprinkled with cinnamon sugar, in each well-greased large glass casserole until filled to within 1 to 1/2 inch from top.

3. Beat eggs with 2nd sugar and maple syrup.

4. Beat in milk and pour egg mixture over the bread and pecans.

5. Combine 3rd listed sugar and 2nd listed cinnamon and sprinkle over top.

6. Cover with plastic wrap and tin foil to freeze and pull out the day before serving.

7. Bake in preheated Oven at: 300F for 1-1/2 hours and internal temperature reaches 145F.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

said Megan Brick, Arkansas Children’s Foundation staff member. “We are grateful to The Arkansas River Valley Chapter for their support.

Their fundraising continues to support the mission of Arkansas Children’s by making them better today and

healthier tomorrow.”

If you weren’t one of the lucky guests to attend this year, then be on the lookout for tickets next Fall. Those looking to volunteer with Circle of Friends are encouraged to email CaraJean Loyd at carajeanwilson@hotmail.com •

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Mistletoe Market

PHOTOS BY SAM HOISINGTON

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2016 Downtown Fall Fest PHOTOS BY JOSHUA MASHON

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