RVL Spring 2013

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SPRING ISSUE

weddings A SPECIAL PUBL ICATION OF RVL MAGAZIN E

MARCH 2013

look w hat’s inside

celebrate !

ALIX ANN LAWS AND KIRSTEN COUTTS PREP FOR PROM | PAGE 10

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behind the lines S

pring. Bring it on! I’m a lover of all things outdoors, so it’s easy for me to say goodbye to winter. There’s no better place than the Arkansas River Valley to experience the magnificent show of the season, the one time of year that seems uniquely to revitalize us. We start entertaining, get out more often and become much more serious about fitness. Spring is also a time when we think about sprucing up our homes and wardrobes, and — of course — spring cleaning.

Those activities form the basis of our Spring Issue of RVL Magazine. On the cover, Alix Ann Laws and Kirsten Coutts headline the search for the perfect prom dress.

Speaking of formalwear, wedding season is nearly upon us, and you’ll find inside a special section dedicated to planning the perfect wedding. Our heartfelt thanks go out to recent bride Hannah Blaylock for sharing her wedding story and photographs.

In these pages, you’ll also meet a few of the faces behind the Arkansas River Valley Arts Center’s summer musicals, and meet some great kids — class presidents at our area high schools.

If you’re looking for some unique ideas, local retailers offer ideas for dress and decor. Hungry for a fresh dining experience? Oak Tree Bistro shares details of its move to East Parkway Drive, a new chef and an expanded menu in tow.

Finally, we take a look back with Marilyn Hill at 26 years in business in the Arkansas River Valley, and offer up some great recipes for light, festive favorites to wow the guests at your next spring brunch or lunch.

If you’re like me, you enjoy reading good news. These stories chronicle only a few of the positive aspects of our river valley. At RVL, it’s our objective to bring you news about the movers and shakers that make our cities special.

If you know of a great yarn, we’d love to hear from you. Please send me your suggestions, comments and questions. I’m always available at michelle@couriernews.com.

Happy reading!

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Welcome , spring! ......................... 6 With the advent of a new season comes a return to tradition.

All that shimmers ..................... 10 Rendezvous owner shares tips for formalwear fab.

Oak tree excitement .................. 14

Ask

to meet our talented new jewelry designer.

An new spin on an old favorite is underway at Oak Tree Bistro.

End of an era ................................. 16 Marilyn Hill reflects on 26 years in business in the River Valley.

Top of the class ............................. 20 High school class presidents sit down for an RVL Q&A.

A new look for spring ............... 26 Dianna Hill shares tips for easy decor updates, done on a dime.

Festive favorites ........................... 35 Recipes for your spring celebrations and more.

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Arts, centered ................................ 38 Four Arkansas River Valley Arts Center veterans are profiled.

Photo finish ................................... 42 Photos from the Junior Auxiliary Ball and Talk of the Town Tables.

Publisher David Meadows

Advertising Director Michelle Harris

Photography Joshua Mashon

Editor Mike Roark

Account Executives Jim Kelley Lauren Lampkin Judy Manning Marie Norris Meagan Wilson

Production Adam Franks

Circulation Mike Geiss Design Mary Kincy Cope

Imagine what your “stuff� can make.

Published quarterly by The Courier, Russellville, Ark.

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retail

welcome, spring !

SPRINGTIME IN THE ARKANSAS RIVER VALLEY PROMISES NO SHORTAGE OF DELIGHTS

By Heather Sprinkle Photos by Joshua Mashon ABOVE: Rose Drug stocks Easter and spring fashion, along with decor, treats and surprises for the little ones.

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t

he daffodils are blooming, birds are chirping and the sun is shining. Finally, springtime has arrived in the Arkansas River Valley.

The warm weather is a signal that the state parks will soon be buzzing with campers, hikers, canoers and kayakers.

Amid the bustle, for many, comes a visit to Rose Drug in Russellville to stock up on spring fashions for the little ones, along with home decor.

Jeannie Smith, who has worked at Rose Drug for 19 years, said people often stop to ask her about the latest children’s fashions in the store, especially come spring.

“We carry Mud Pie clothing for boys and girls,” Smith said. “The styles for both have coordinating accessories and range from casual to frilly for the little girls.”

What is one of the most popular children’s clothing items each spring? Smith said parents of young kids love seersucker outfits — and outfits with smocking.

Along with children’s clothing and home decor, Smith said the store carries linens for spring and Easter decorations for every room. Easter just wouldn’t be complete without candy, and Rose Drug has that covered, too.

“We carry the Russell Stover candy and it is a good, year-’round seller” Smith said. “Many like to browse in our frame section for the perfect home for their Easter and other spring pictures.”

It’s a way, perhaps, to carry the spirit of spring through the year.

Atalie Parker, daughter of Lindsey Parker, shows off some spring fashion accessorized by a pink bunny.

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al l t hat shimmers

By Heather Sprinkle Photos by Joshua Mashon

LEFT: Kirsten Coutts has fun trying on a Tony Bowls LeGala gown. The Art Deco-inspired dress includes a sheer overlay of fun and flirty purple.

ABOVE: Alix Ann Laws looks perfect in a pink ballerina-style dress with a fitted bodice bedecked with jewels and tulle rosettes on the skirt.

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and shines t

RENDEZVOUS OWNER OFFERS TIPS FOR FORMAL FASHION

he dress racks in Rendezvous, located in downtown Russellville, are alive with colors, textures and, of course, gowns, making it easy for girls and women to say “yes” to the dress.

Store owner Michelle Litterst said working at Rendezvous is a little bit like watching a game of “dress up,” but on a larger scale, each and every day.

Litterst purchased the store in August of last year and officially opened for business in September. In her first few months as proprietor, she’s learned more about the fashion world, and herself, than she thought possible.

“I was really lucky to know previous store owner and manager, Carol Collins, and her daughter, Kelly Hughes, personally, so they really took me under their wings and guided me through my first market, and helped to show me what works and what doesn’t in Russellville,” Litterst said of her first business endeavor. “I grew up doing pageants and loving all things fashion, so buying the shop was really a dream come true. Carol and Kelly helped me to coordinate what I love about fashion and what works in the area, so that the store would be successful.”

Litterst said Rendezvous carries prom and pageant dresses in every size, shape and color, and also does special orders. Their bridal selection includes unique bridesmaid dresses and wedding gowns, and again, Litterst pointed out that wedding gowns may be custom-ordered.

Tuxedos are for rent, and the store sells a line of jewelry to compliment every special occasion.

What’s the current trend for prom?

“A little bit of everything,” Litterst said. “Some girls like the shorter styles and others prefer long. Most girls try to coordinate their gowns with the prom theme. We’ve seen so many girls from schools all around the River Valley this season. It’s fun to assist in picking out dresses and helping make each girl feel special, whether it’s bridal, pageant or prom shopping. I really think I have one of the best jobs around.”

Prior to owning the shop, Litterst taught high school math for two years at Western Yell County. She said working at the store allows her time to interact with youth of all ages and makes her feel connected to the community.

Aside from staying on top of trends, Litterst tries to stock dresses that accommodate every budget.

“Our prom and pageant dresses range from $50-700, and our wedding gowns range from $100-800,” Litterst said. “Everyone deserves to feel beautiful, and I always to try to reiterate to clients to set a budget and stick with it. We really do have that special dress for everyone in their price range.”

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LEFT: Kirsten Coutts channels her inner cowgirl in a Mac Duggal gown from the Couture line.

If you feel good in then you look good Russellville High School senior Alix Ann Laws said she loved shopping at Rendezvous for her prom. Shopping for the perfect dress was an opportunity to get outside her comfort zone and try new things, she said.

Pottsville High School senior Kirsten Coutts said one thing she leaned while dress shopping was the importance of trying dresses before forming opinions about fit and style.

“You really can’t tell if a dress will look good on you until you try it on,” Coutts said. “When my friends and I shop together, we like to pick out dresses for each other and really make the other person try them on, even if they think the style doesn’t match

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your dress choice, in your dress choice. their body type. I’ve been surprised by what I like and what looks good. The hanger just doesn’t tell the whole story.”

Litterst said she always has one special piece of advice for every customer.

“I always tell girls, no matter what age or shape, that confidence really is the best accessory,” Litterst said. “I encourage customers to buy what feels comfortable and makes them feel pretty. If strapless really isn’t your thing, then you might spend time tugging at the bodice of the dress and never really enjoy the event. If you feel good in your dress choice, then you look good in your dress choice.”

ON THE COVER: Alix Ann Laws (top left), a senior at Russellville High School, wears a black structured Mac Duggal gown from the Couture line.

Kirsten Coutts (top right), a senior at Pottsville High School, wears a purple animal print-inspired gown by Mary’s Kiss Kiss Formals.

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dining

oak tree

excitement RESTAURANT NOW OFFERING NEW DINNER MENU, TOP-SHELF BAR STORY BY JOHN POST • PHOTOS BY JOSHUA MASHON

Maritza Sanders (center) serves up lunch to a pair of patrons at Oak Tree Bistro.

W

hen Oak Tree Bistro moved to its new location on East Parkway Drive in late November, it changed more than just its Google Map coordinates.

The restaurant, in addition to sprawling across a more spacious building, implemented both a bar and a revamped dinner menu after bringing in a prominent chef to head its culinary efforts. With all the additions to what was once a modest coffeehouse, the new bistro is unlike any other establishment Russellville has to offer.

While the lunch menu has stayed nearly the same, the revamped dinner menu boasts entrees uncommon to the Russellville area, including duck and tuna. The menu items are united under one common theme, which the restaurant has adopted as a sort of motto: “Upscale comfort food.”

“Upscale, meaning we have the finest, freshest ingredients that you can possibly buy, and we’re kind of unique in Russellville for that alone, in that we use all fresh ingredients,” said owner Tommie Harms. “Our mussels are from

RVL Magazine

Prince Edward Island, and our salmon is coldwater salmon from the Atlantic. Everything’s done fresh.”

“We want it to be fancy enough that it’s definitely different enough from what everyone else is doing, but familiar and approachable enough,” Vincent Waide, the executive chef, said. “We have some familiar ingredients presented in a new way, and some new ingredients presented in a familiar way.”

The new menu came about after Harms brought in Waide, a chef with 20 years of experience. Waide made his name as the owner of Pompeii in Hot Springs, in addition to helping start Smoke and Barrel, a barbecue restaurant in Washington, D.C., which won a Washington Post readers poll for best barbecue in the city.

“He makes the magic happen,” Harms said. “A lot of this menu is Vincent and I discussing what our visions were, and what we wanted to bring to this area.”

In addition to expanding to include a dinner menu, the bistro has also added a top-shelf bar.

“It’s a top-shelf bar only, meaning we use only the top liquors,” Harms said. “When you come here and order a mar-

tini, you’re not going to get a martini made with a $7 bottle of vodka.

You’re going to get to choose between vodkas like Grey Goose, Absolut, Smirnoff and Ketel One.” Tommie Harms While the bistro has been completely overhauled, Harms says she plans to make even more changes in the coming months: A patio will open sometime in late March or early April, and Sunday brunch will be served beginning this month.

So far, the restaurant has already benefited from two things: A great staff and a great location.

“I’ve been very fortunate. We’ve got a great staff. I feel like we’ve pulled some of the cream of the crop here,” Waide said.

“It’s a great location,” Harms added. “We’re really excited to be a part of it. We wanted to be surrounded by good businesses, and that’s exactly what we have here.”

2049 East Main, Russellville

479-967-9777

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a look back

era end of an

MARILYN HILL REFLECTS ON HER CAREER IN FASHION RETAIL

By John Post

I

n 1987, Marilyn Hill opened her clothing store, M. Hill’s, in Russellville with a simple desire: to bring high-quality clothing to the Arkansas River Valley. This year, Hill closed the store and retired, after living her wish come true for more than 26 years.

“I wanted to have a place where women in Russellville could buy better clothes, something they would find if they went to the city,” she said of the early days during a recent interview.

Hill’s store found success largely, in her opinion, due to its premier selection of clothes, combined with the personal customer service she and her employees offered.

“We carried better brands (than the department stores),” she said, citing a long list of examples, including Joseph Ribkoff, Louben and Dana Buchman. “All of those are better lines that don’t go into department stores.”

In Hill’s estimation, her store offered more than just variety, though.

“If you go into a department store, you’re kind of on your own finding things, but we would put clothes together for (customers) and tell them what was good for them and suited to their body type,” she explained.

Hill’s love of fashion led her to the clothing business. For the mother of three daughters, it was a convenient passion.

“I’ve always loved clothes, and I’ve always loved fashion.

I think it’s interesting, and the trends change,” Hill explained. “When you have three daughters, you do a lot of clothes-buying.”

It’s no surprise to those familiar with her family that Hill opened a store in Russellville.

Her grandfather, uncle and father founded Shinn Funeral Service, a community staple that kept her close to the area.

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Spring Home Decor has arrived!

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I wanted to have a place where women in Russellville could buy better clothes, something they would find if they went to the city.

MARILYN HILL

Having retired, Hill looks back on 26 years of operating a community staple in her own right, recalling fashions followed, memories made and patrons served.

“I have loved all my customers,” Hill said. “I’ve had all kinds of customers, and they’re my good friends. I will miss (M. Hill’s), but I’m really looking forward to retirement. I’m looking forward to being able to take off and play golf, and play

cards when I want to, sleep late and get up and read the paper without thinking I’ve got to hurry. I wanted to retire while I’m healthy, so I can still travel and do things.

“I know since the last month, since I’ve decided to retire, my customers have said, ‘Where am I going to get my clothes? Who will help me put it together?’ I will miss my customers, but I’m going to enjoy my retirement.”

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707 18th, Atkins - Luxurious home features 15’ ceilings in entry and living room and 9’ throughout. Has custom cabinets, hardwood floors, stainless appliances, butler pantry, indoor and outdoor F.P., 4BRs 3BAs, tile, formal dining, office, surround sound, vacuum system, granite, refrigerator conveys, 32’x18’ straight side kidney in ground pool, outside lighting, circle drive, privacy fence. Have to see! 12-1992 $349,000 Ladd Shannon • 886-1959

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BEAUTIFUL, 4BR, 3.5BA, 3500 sqft, 3 or 5 acres, in-ground swimming pool, indoor/outdoor fireplace, hardwood floors, formal dinning and eat in-kitchen, bonus room and a million dollar view. *text pro30 to 88000 for more photos and information. 13-244 Wes Freeman @ The Pro Team Realtors 479-264-7472 LAKEFRONT PROPERTY ON DUBLIN BAY! This 2600 SQ FT house includes guest quarters and sits on 1.4 gently, sloping acres to the water’s edge! Features a detached, triple garage, security system, 5BRs, 4BAs, hardwood floors, spiral staircase and basement storage! Master suite downstairs!

Private setting with a great view! Boat dock allowed! $295,000 (MLS 13-231) Ed Stingley • 479-886-1506 • ed@rivervalleyrealty.com This property has everything! Beautiful 2 story home sits on 40 acres, 4BRs 3BAs, remodeled kitchen w/custom cabinets. Hardwood floors, 2 F.P.s, 2 heat &air units only 2 years old. Covered Deck & wood multi-level deck around the pool with fabulous view of the mountains. Insulated shop 30X40 and 16X36 pole barn.

1468 River Mountain Road, Delaware, AR 72835 MLS#13-163. $278,000. Kathleen Freeman • 479-857-3500 Great location within Nation’s Best HS - Dardanelle Schools, only 2.5 miles from town. This 3 BD/2 BA home sits on 3+ beautiful acres surrounded by trees & year round creek. Enjoy the cozy FP; and the above ground pool. Enjoy the fully elec 25X25 shop! Motivated Seller will consider $1,500 flooring incentive.

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MLS 13-90 $146,900 Patti Melder • 479-477-1295 LAKE FRONT, Custom built home on 1.3 acre, bluff lot with a breathtaking view of Piney Bay! Features including 9 Ft, tray ceilings, F.P. insert, master suite on main floor, open kitchen, living and dining, walls of windows! A 1066 sq ft, walk out basement with den, study, bedroom and bath and patio! Wrap around deck, double garage, privacy fence, blacktop driveway, brick and vinyl exterior and so much more! First time offered $319,000. (MLS 13-403) Anna Myers • 479-970-1326 • www.goAnnaMyers.com

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top of the

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class LOCAL SCHOOLS’ CLASS PRESIDENTS SHARE ADVICE, ASPIRATIONS

A

tkins High School senior class president Mary Thompson has been a Red Devil since kindergarten, and while she is ready for the next step in her educational career, she admits she’ll miss the quaint atmosphere a smaller school affords its students. She is the daughter of Cindy and Brad Thompson.

RVL: What is one thing you love about your school and will miss after graduation?

Atkins High School’s Mary Thompson

MT: I love walking down the hallway knowing I can smile and talk to anyone. I’ll definitely miss that.

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DARDANELLE HIGH SCHOOL BEST IN ACADEMICS GREAT IN EXTRA-CURRICULAR LIZARD STUDENTS ARE AT THE TOP OF IT ALL!

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RVL: Tell us about your post-graduation plans.

MT: I plan on attending a university in the fall and majoring in speech pathology.

Makayla Crow-Moore

RVL: What is your advice to incoming freshmen?

MT: Be careful what you wish for — high school is over before you know it. Now we have to pay taxes, or some might have to take care of a family. There are days I feel like saying, “Take me back to nap time, please.”

RVL: My life philosophy is …

MT: Make the decision to be happy. Things aren’t always what we want them to be. The only thing that separates one kind of person from another is that there are some who stay angry, and then there are some who accept what comes their way.

D

ardanelle High School seniors Dakota Hicks and Makayla CrowMoore are Sand Lizards through and through. But after graduation, the two friends are trading their red and white colors for Dakota Hicks those of Arkansas Tech University and the University of Central Arkansas. Dakota Hicks is the daughter of Sherry and Haskel Hicks. Makayla Crow-Moore is RVL: What is the best advice a teacher has given you? the daughter of Barger and Angela Crow.

DH: The best advice I’ve gotten is from Mrs. Gray, my accounting RVL: If you were giving a speech to the graduating class of 2013, what would you want to say?

teacher. She tells us to set realistic goals and work hard to achieve them.

MCM: Our class has been through so much. I want to tell them, “Don’t let anything stop you, and remember to live out loud and color outside the lines.”

RVL: What is your advice to incoming freshmen?

efore Dover High School class president Roger Marlow trades his Pirate colors for the gold and green of Arkansas Tech University in the fall, he hopes to spend his summer studying and traveling. He is the son of Greta and Jeff Marlow.

DH: Keep up your grades, but remember to have fun, because it goes by fast.

RVL: What would you like to tell your fellow seniors before graduation?

RVL: My life philosophy …

RM: I would like them all to know they have a purpose, and say that every one of you has hope.

MCM: Is always stand for what’s right and always give 110 percent in everything you do.

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REDISCOVER YOUR HEARING

Rachel Horne Doctor of Audiology

890-HEAR (4327) 2210 W. Main St., Russellville, AR

s 0ROFESSIONAL (EARING 4ESTING %VALUATIONS s 4OP (EARING !ID "RANDS !CCESSORIES s DAY .O #OST .O $EPOSIT .O /BLIGATION “Try Before You Buy - Satisfaction Is Our Promise to You” s !FFORDABLE (EARING !ID 0RICING 4ECHNOLOGY FOR !LL ,IFESTYLES

RVL: What is your advice to incoming freshmen?

RVL: I would like to thank my parents for …

RM: The best thing you can do is smile and talk to everyone! The best way to make friends is meeting people.

JS: Growing me up to be a responsible, smart and well-mannered young man.

RVL: What is the best advice a teacher has given you?

RVL: What is the best advice a teacher has given you?

RM: A wise teacher once posed this question to the class: “What would you do if money, other people and social standing didn’t matter? You have 50-60 years at the most. So don’t waste your time. Do that thing that makes you happy.”

JS: I was trying to decide what class and to take, a fun one or an AP class. My guidance counselor asked me what would help me in the long run. Now I’m in AP Lit and it’s my favorite class.

H

ottsville High School senior class president Micah Prock said he worked hard to survive high school, focusing on having fun with his friends while working to be the best he could be on and off campus. That philosophy should serve him well when he moves to Jonesboro next fall to attend college. He is the son of Cheryl and Michael Prock.

ector High School senior class president Jonathan Stroud takes his academics seriously and hopes he helped instill that dedication in other students at Hector during his 13 years in the district.

He is the son of Kari and Dale Stroud.

RVL: What is one thing you love about your school and will miss after graduation?

JS: I love how everyone knows everyone. It’s like one big family. I’m going to miss seeing all of my friends.

RVL: What are your plans for after graduation?

JS: I plan to attend the University of Arkansas and major in electrical engineering.

RVL: What is your advice to incoming freshmen?

JS: I would encourage incoming freshmen to work hard. Ninth grade is where your grades start to really count.

P

RVL: What is one thing you love about your school and will miss after graduation?

MP: I love Pottsville’s competitiveness in not only sports, but academics. I’m going to miss everyone I’ve met at school and all the friendships I’ve made.

RVL: What would you like to tell your fellow seniors before graduation?

MP: I would like to thank everyone for their friendship and all of the lessons they’ve taught me. Then, I’d tell them to go do the same thing for the world.

RVL: What is your advice to incoming freshmen?

RVL: My life philosophy is …

MP: If you have gum, everyone becomes your friend!

JS: Seize the day. Live each day like it was your last.

RVL: My life philosophy is …

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RVL Magazine

23

Jonathan Stroud of Hector

Roger Marlow of Dover MP: Laughter is the best medicine, besides aspirin. I hear that does a great job for headaches.

RVL: I would like to thank my parents for …

Micah Prock of Pottsville RVL: What is the best advice a teacher has given you?

MP: I won’t say which teacher, but hearing “Micah, that homework needs to be turned in NOW!” really motivated me.

MP: My sense of humor and ability to communicate.

See CLASS on page 37

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24

RVL Magazine

RVL Magazine

25

26

RVL Magazine

decor

a new look for spring

LOCAL DECORATOR OFFERS FOUR TIPS TO BRIGHTEN A ROOM FOR CHEAP

t

he past winter in the Arkansas River Valley has been cold and gloomy, but spring always brings a new beginning — and a new attitude.

With the change comes the opportunity for local residents to brighten rooms around their home to match the new, colorful season.

Local interior consultant Dianna Hill of Dianna’s Custom Interiors offered RVL Magazine readers four tips to brighten rooms — tips that don’t require remodeling or spending a lot of money.

• Replace old mini blinds with a more modern alternative: Just exchanging those old one-inch blinds for new twoinch wood or faux-wood versions will let in more light and provide an upgraded look.

• Incorporate throw pillows: Adding some fun, colorful throw pillows to your existing bedding or furniture will add a cheerful feel to any room.

• Declutter: It’s amazing how much clutter we allow to collect without realizing it. Take

BY JOHN POST

a fresh look around and send some of that stuff out the door.

• Update drapery: Replace some of those heavy top treatments with drapery panels (linen is especially popular). When you install a good-looking rod with rings high above the window and add floor-length draperies, it is amazing how tall even an eight-foot ceiling can look, and how much more light is allowed to enter your room.

Dianna’s Custom Interiors is located at 521 E. J St. in Russellville.

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RVL Magazine

27

BUSINESS PROFILE:

Gifts on Parkway

By Heather Sprinkle

H

TOP LEFT: Dianna Hill (left) and Taylor Payne put the final touches on a set of tall draperies they installed at the home of Terry and Teresa Freeman.

Thanks To Our Customers!

WE APPRECIATE YOUR BUSINESS!

usband and wife John and Cheryl Pledger consider “service, selection and smiles of satisfaction” the four touchstones of owning and operating a successful retail operation.

The Pledgers opened a gift shop in Clarksville 14 years ago, and followed up with Gifts on Parkway in Russellville nine years ago. The store recently added a new location, Gifts on Parkway at Saint Mary’s, located in Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center.

See PROFILE on page 28

SHOP FOR

SPRING Men’s, Women’s & Youth

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We stand by our motto:

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We also provide service contracts and many finance sources for all different kinds of credit situations. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find what you need and get it at an affordable price.

The next time that you are in the market for a vehicle, come to Nebo 2 and experience the low pressure, family atmosphere and a comfortable new way to buy a pre-owned vehicle and save thousands.

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28

RVL Magazine

Cheryl Pledger (right) shows customer Leah Runner of Russellville “Ribbons,” the newest pattern in the Vera Bradley collection.

- PROFILE continued from page 27 “We really feel like we make new friends each day and enjoy adding something extra special to so many special occasions in and around the River Valley,” Cheryl Pledger said of why she and her husband love their store and what they do.

‘Where we come in’ The Pledgers agreed customers who have visited the store multiple times often know exactly what they want when they enter the store. Other times, customers come in knowing for whom they need a gift, but aren’t so sure about what to get.

“That’s where we come in,” Cheryl Pledger said. “We ask who the gift is for and begin to ferret out more information until we can lead them in the right direction. Sometimes we help them create a nice gift basket, or even on occasion we’ve had customers come in and go straight to an item we carry and then bring in some additional item to add to the basket, and that’s great too.”

‘People really are unique’ The Pledgers carry unique decor items — candles, wind chimes, music boxes, gourmet food and gadgets, accessories ...

and even something for chocolate lovers.

“People really are unique and we strive to carry unique gift items to match every personality and budget,” Cheryl Pledger said. “Many of our items can be personalized, and if we carry a brand, but not a specific item, we will special-order it. We like being a one-stop gift shop for every occasion. We also offer free gift wrapping year-’round.”

Just what are some of the unique gift items available?

For babies and toddlers, Cheryl Pledger said two of their bestsellers are Wubbanub pacifiers and Tervis Tumblers. She added the unique wall art and frames are also popular.

For Mother’s Day, which is fast approaching, Vera Bradley items and some of the store’s unique jewelry lines are always a hit.

“You just really can’t go wrong with a piece from the Vera Bradley line,” Cheryl Pledger said. “We have customers that keep up with the most current patterns, and I even have customers that come from miles away to shop our Vera Bradley selections because we carry such a wide variety of her line. We also keep the catalogs in stock and can special order any piece.”

Gifts on Parkway also carries Willow Tree figurines and keepsake boxes, as well as nativity sets. Its collegiate collections of Tervis Tumblers and Bentley plastic remain popular graduation gifts.

“We have great gifts for grads that can be personalized and our selection of Razorback merchandise is huge,” Cheryl Pledger said. “We have some fans that try to stop at the store at least once a year as they travel to the games in Fayetteville.”

Satisfaction with a smile is how the Pledgers hope everyone leaves their store, whether they purchase gifts or just browse.

“We really have been blessed by our store here in Russellville,” Cheryl Pledger said. “We want to thank all of our existing customers, especially the ones that have become friends, and welcome anyone who hasn’t visited our little store with lots of charm to stop by.”

Gifts on Parkway is located at 2149 E. Parkway Drive in Russellville.

TRUCK • RV • AUTO

RVL Magazine

weddings A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF RVL MAGAZINE

Bridal photos courtesy of Jill Hughes Bombs Over Betty, Nashville, Tenn.

29

30

RVL Weddings

Blaylock-Wakefield wedding a family affair

BY HEATHER SPRINKLE Hannah Blaylock, formerly the lead singer for the band Edens Edge, tied the knot with Justin Wakefield in a quiet, intimate ceremony attended by family and close friends in September at The Pratt Barn in Fayetteville.

The couple exchanged handwritten vows beneath the branches of an old white oak tree decorated with Mason jars and glass fishing balls from Alaska, where Blaylock spent the early years of her childhood.

The entire wedding, from venue and decorations to guests, was a reflection of the bride and groom’s style and values.

Family and friends, along with the family horses, which joined the wedding party near the tree, watched as the bride walked down the aisle to “Falling Over You,” a song Blaylock’s brother, Wes Blaylock, wrote for his wife.

Hannah Blaylock and Justin Wakefield were married in September.

See WEDDING on page 34

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RVL Weddings

31

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RVL Weddings

Bridal Registry & One-Of-A-Kind Gifts Furnish your first home with gifts from Rose Drug.

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33

34

RVL Weddings

- WEDDING continued from page 30 The ceremony was led by longtime family friend and original Edens Edge member Steve Smith, who wrote the band’s captivating song “Christ Alone.”

The wedding rings were tied with baling twine around Blaylock’s father’s childhood Bible, and Wes Blaylock read from the Bible of their grandfather, Len E. Blaylock.

During the ceremony, everyone in attendance sang a capella a hymn Blaylock’s grandmother chose that Blaylock grew up singing as a child in the little Baptist church at Nimrod.

The reception took place in a rustic barn decorated with pictures of Blaylock and Wakefield mounted on old window frames and screen doors, which hung from the barn rafters. Vintage chandeliers floated above a dance floor lined with hay bales covered with heirloom quilts.

The couple’s love of nature and simple, elegant style led to the inclusion of traditional Southern games, like horseshoes, corn hole and bocce.

Summerfield Reunion, a classic rock-and-roll cover band that Blaylock’s dad, Mel, has been in since college, played the reception — just as they’ve played all the weddings of Blaylock’s family and friends.

The reception tables were labeled borrowing names from Arkansas trees written on burlap signs, and guests were treated to cobbler and apple pie made by family and friends.

The sign-in book was a painting by Blaylock’s uncle, Barry Todd, created to commemorate the special day. The painting depicted a tree to which guests added their fingerprints to make leaves.

A Memorable Location For Your Next

Blaylock and Wakefield said the event was more than just the wedding of their dreams: It was a magical night filled with the joy of being surrounded by dear ones who came to celebrate their love and their lives together.

“Everything had meaning and sentiment,” Blaylock said. “There was a huge crew of family and friends that were on site beginning at 8 o’clock that morning to help set up every last detail. Our family and friends were literally the most special part of the whole thing.

We both feel so loved.”

The couple honeymooned in Bora Bora.

Planner.

Your Wedding is an Your wedding day lasting event that leaves e memories for everyon the newly involved, from to the married couple in friends and family attendance. are Courier The at We you an proud to bring hensive exclusive, compre wedding! guide to all things the cake to From the dress place - you and the perfect ses will find local busines at what who are the best they do!

Planner, In the Wedding and you will find tips will make checklists that run this planning process smoothly! n is Personal attentio these the mainstay of would you businesses. Why nt trust such an importa else? day to anyone

Wedding Planner

Special Occasion

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ing Our 44th Year of Offer Brides & Grooms ...

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RVL Magazine

35

recipes

festive favorites SERVE YOUR GUESTS FROM THESE FRESH DELIGHTS THIS SPRING

1. cheesecake-stuffed strawberries You will need: • 1 quart strawberries • 24.2 oz. container Philadelphia Ready-to-Eat Cheesecake Filling • 12 oz. bag chocolate chips Directions: Slice bottoms of strawberries to create a flat surface, then using a small knife core each berry, leaving plenty of space for filling.

Line a cookie sheet with waxed paper. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30 second increments. Dip the bottom of each strawberry into the chocolate and place on waxed paper. After all strawberries are dipped, place cookie sheet in the refrigerator for 5 minutes or until chocolate is set.

Spoon cheesecake filling into piping bag with a star tip or a large plastic storage bag with a snipped corner. Remove strawberries from refrigerator and top each with filling. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

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2. fritatta con chorizo You will need: • 3 teaspoons olive oil, divided • 6 oz. cooked chorizo sausages, halved and sliced • 2 medium red bell peppers • 1 medium onion • 1 garlic clove • 1 tsp. coarse salt, divided • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper • 12 eggs • 4 oz. Manchego cheese, shredded • Chopped fresh cilantro, sour cream and salsa Directions: Preheat oven to 400. Heat 1 tsp. oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chorizo. Sauté until lightly browned and beginning to crisp.

Add remaining oil to pan. Heat over medium. Add sliced pepper, onion, garlic and ¼ tsp. salt; sauté 6-8 minutes.

See page 36

Spring Time

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36

RVL Magazine

3. yogurt biscuits

1

“Yogurt makes a very tight, tangy biscuit. With self-rising flour, it is a simple matter. Yogurt varies in consistency, from the thick cream-topped to the thinner generic brands, so it is always a judgment call as to how much to use to make a wet dough.� — ND Self-rising flour, plain Greek yogurt, salt and a little bit of love are the only ingredients needed for these low-fat biscuits. Once baked, split and stuff with eggs and cheese, breakfast meats, fruity jams or herby Boursin cheese and roasted peppers and butter for something really special.

You will need: • 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour (plus more for flouring surface) • 1 tsp. salt • 1 1/4 c. plain Greek yogurt

2

- FRITATTA CON CHORIZO, CONT. Whisk together eggs, remaining salt and pepper in a large bowl.

Stir in about two-thirds of the shredded cheese. Pour egg mixture into skillet. Reduce heat to low.

Arrange chorizo over top of eggs; cook, undisturbed, 5 minutes.

Sprinkle remaining cheese over top. Transfer to oven and bake 20 minutes, or until eggs are set and top is puffed and golden.

Let rest 5 minutes and serve with sour cream and salsa. — Laraine Perri for Relish

Over O ver 35 3 35 5 Years Y Years ears Over 40 of Auto A uto Body B o dy of Auto Body of Excellence Excellence Excellence

Directions: Preheat oven to 450. Whisk flour and salt together in a large bowl. Make a hollow in the center. Pour yogurt into hollow, and stir with a fork or spoon, pulling flour into yogurt. Mix until dry ingredients are moistened and the dough forms.

Sprinkle a clean surface with flour. Turn dough out, sprinkle with flour and fold in half. Pat dough until 1/2-inch thick. Flour again if necessary and fold dough in half a second time. Pat dough into a 1/2 inch-thick round.

Dip a 2-inch biscuit cutter into flour and cut biscuits without twisting. Place close together on a baking sheet. Bake 10 to 14 minutes, until light golden brown. Serve hot. — Adapted for Relish from Nathalie Dupree and Cynthia Graubart’s “Southern Biscuits�

A half day of fun for the family!

The River Valley Prevention Coalition is hosting a 5K Run/Walk with a kid’s fun run on May 4 at Bona Dea. Starts at 8 am and ends at Noon • Entertainment • Health & Wellness Booths • Zumba Demonstrations • Fun Games For the Kids • Register for Door Prizes For more information contact Heather Sprinkle at 967-3370 or visit the Coalition’s Facebook page.

5K Run/Walk

37

Olivia Taylor

Spring

- CLASS continued from page 23

Fashion

R

ussellville High School senior class president Olivia Taylor has a love for the Cyclones that has been brewing since her first days of kindergarten.

Taylor is the daughter of Carol and Andrew Taylor.

Fling!

RVL: What are your plans for after graduation?

OT: I’m considering attending either the University of Oklahoma in Norman or Arkansas State University in Jonesboro. My sister is at OU right now. I want to either run cross country or do track my first year.

If I don’t make that, then I’ll participate in intramurals. I’m not sure exactly what I’ll major in, but right now, I’m leaning toward either public relations or graphic design, or both.

RVL: What is your advice to incoming freshmen?

OT: That’s my brother’s class. I would tell them to strive to do their best, but don’t take anything too seriously because you’re still finding out what you’re doing in life. They need to remember to have fun, but work hard.

RVL: I would like to thank my parents …

OT: For pushing me to be creative, and not allowing me to settle for anything less than my best.

RVL: What is the best advice a teacher has given you?

OT: Coach Jerry Thompson, who got me running in the seventh grade, used to tell us all the time that “We hear, but we don’t really listen.” He would yell it at everybody, and at first it was kind of intimidating, but then you got to know him better and really understood what he was saying. You began to realize it was really a philosophical thing. We hear, but we don’t listen; we don’t always realize the bigger picture. He tried to teach us that all the time.

Your Library Needs You To Volunteer!

Application: www.popelibrary.org Russellville Public Library 116 E Third Street 968-4368

479-567-5523 479-5 479 479-567 4 9 56 56 67 7-5 7 -5 552 23 3 2725 E. Parkway Dr., Suite 8 • 567-5523

RVL Magazine

38

arts,

centered STORIES BY HEATHER SPRINKLE • PHOTOS BY JOSHUA MASHON

AREA RESIDENTS VOLUNTEER TIME, EFFORTS AT ARKANSAS RIVER VALLEY ARTS CENTER

Ardith Morris

Loretta Page

F

or 20 years, Loretta Page of Russellville has shared her love of theater with the residents of the Arkansas River Valley by performing in the Arkansas River Valley Arts Center’s summer musicals.

By day, and most of the year, Page is a server at Cracker Barrel and a teacher at the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton, but for several glorious months each year, she sheds what she considers her “mundane” life to live in a variety of fantasy worlds.

“I just love it,” Page said of performing. “It is a fun outlet for me. It gives me the opportunity to get outside of who I am. Sometimes I feel like I have a boring, albeit busy, life, and theater allows me the chance to escape reality and transform into different characters.”

Despite a childhood spent appearing in church productions and one play her junior year in high school, it wasn’t until college that Page got what she refers to as the “acting bug.”

RVL Magazine

During her senior year at Arkansas Tech University, Page took an introductory-level theater class that required each student to either perform in a play or assist backstage.

“My first play with Ardith (Morris) was ‘The Rimers of Eldritch,’ which was one of the most difficult plays I’ve ever been in,” Page recalled of that initial production more than 20 years ago. “It was an extremely emotional play, but I was hooked after that. I’m so grateful I was introduced to the theater, and I love working with Ardith, Ken (Futterer), Janet (Cook) and the other regulars that help with the summer productions. They’ve really become my family, and I look forward to the productions all year long.”

When Cook’s son was younger, he occasionally joined his mother in the summer productions. Now, at 25, he prefers to sit in the audience.

“I like to think he is my biggest fan,” Page said with a grin. “I like to think he’s proud of me and it’s nice to know he still looks forward to attending each play. Maybe one day, it will be my grandkids on stage carrying on the family tradition, and I’ll be in the audience cheering them on.”

T

heater students who know Ardith Morris as both a professor and director at Arkansas Tech University — and as director of the Arkansas River Valley Arts Center summer musicals — often refer to her summertime persona as “Ardith Light.”

She’s earned the moniker through the course of more than 20 years of directorial involvement with the shows. Her participation dates to 1982 — and that’s just with the area Arts Center.

“I’ve been a theater professor at Tech for more than 30 years, and involved in theater for more than 40 years,” Morris said of her vocation. “It’s a love and passion that is a part of me. I enjoy teaching and directing at Tech, and my involvement in the summer musicals —they are completely different experiences.”

Morris said that as a professor, it’s her job to ensure each student hones his or her craft and leaves the university with the skills necessary to succeed in a theater career. Her role in the summer musicals is more lighthearted, if no less important.

“Sometimes when you do theater all that time for a living, you forget that you’re making magic,” Morris said.

“When I see, especially, children in my shows discover the magic and feel the magic, it’s an entirely different experience. I like the fact that I see kids over and over again and watch them grow up in their art.”

She enjoys the occasional hug offered up by a pair of tiny arms, and never tires of hearing the words “Miss Ardith” — rewards of a different sort than those she earns on campus.

39

profile Those, and the feeling of family she shares with the other Arts C enter members who work hard each year to stage the summer musicals, keep her coming back for more.

“We’re kind of like the dream team — we’ve worked together for so long,” Morris said affectionately of the other regulars. “Loretta (Page) is a delightful, inventive performer. She knows how to work an audience.”

Along with actress Page, Morris has close working relationships with Ken Futterer and Janet Cook, both of whom she holds in high regard.

“Ken is phenomenal and Janet works tediously to costume each cast member perfectly,” Morris said of the dream team. “In fact, there was one costume, a beautiful period-piece dress, that actually received an audible reaction from the audience when the actress walked on stage.”

Morris said each musical is akin to a child, so she has no favorites, just favorite memories from each.

“Peter Pan was a show I’ve wanted to do forever,” Morris said of last year’s production. “You can try to do it without flying, but it’s kind of pointless. So we flew!

It was the first time in my career I’d worked with a show in which a cast member flew. It was remarkable and I look forward to this year’s production” — that is, of “The Wizard of Oz,” when the Arts Center, and Morris, will do it all over again.

I

f you need a button replaced — a sock darned — don’t call Russellville resident Janet Cook.

Janet Cook But if you need costumes for a complete cast designed and sewed, she’s the woman for the job.

Cook began designing and sewing costumes for the Arkansas River Valley Arts Center’s summer musicals in 2000. Every summer since, she’s entered the magical world of costume design and production, living a frazzled few months, just hanging on by a thread.

See page 40

Ken Futterer (right) plays the keyboard while Isabelle and Madeline Clements warm up in preparation for auditions.

“I had worked on costumes for a Christmas production that Ardith (Morris) was a part of, and she inquired if I would be interested in helping costume the summer musical,” Cook said of how she became acquainted with the behind-the-scenes aspects of the summer musicals. “It was a cast of more than 100, and I sewed at least 75 of the costumes in two months. It was the first show I ever did, and I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into.”

Cook worked on costumes until an hour before the curtain rose. She said seeing her work on stage for the production felt like the equivalent of an artist seeing her paintings hung in art gallery for the first time.

“I was hooked from then on,” Cook said with a smile. “It is always challenging, and I learn so much about my craft and myself with each production. ‘The Wizard of Oz’” — a prior subject of Cook’s creations — “was fun and such a

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We’re kind of like the dream team — we’ve worked together for so long.

Ardith Morris

challenge for me — to create costumes that visually captured the essence of the characters. There are so many more characters in the play that aren’t in the movie.”

For the play, Cook created poppies, snowflakes and “jitterbugs,” among other costumes. All told, she estimates she spends at least 180 hours working on the costuming for each show. She often takes vacation from her day job to complete the work, but even still there are late nights.

It takes a toll, and after Cook learned she had metastatic breast cancer in January 2012, she met with Arts Center director Betty LaGrone to discuss ceding her role.

She couldn’t do it.

“I decided I’m just not ready to quit,” Cook said. “I told (Betty) I need several assistants and help for the production this summer, but I can’t imagine not being a part of it.”

And a part of it she will be — a major part — when a revival of “The Wizard of Oz” takes the stage in June.

M

usic is more than poetry strung together with melodies for Ken Futterer of Russellville. It’s a way of life. Futterer has been a professor of music at Arkansas Tech University for 32 years and the director of music for the Arkansas River Valley Arts Center summer musicals for 22 years.

During his years in the world of music, Futterer has

taught — and performed in — jazz bands and orchestras, but it’s conducting the summer musicals that allows him to utilize his entire musical background.

“We rehearse for six weeks and then do the show,” Futterer said. “I relate it to baking and decorating a cake, and then getting to sit back and enjoy eating the cake with everyone else. There’s really nothing else like it.”

It’s not uncommon for Futterer to audition more than a hundred kids for each production. He methodically replays and sings the lines for each child, sometimes more than once.

“I really like working with the little kids,” Futterer said. “For a community show like this, everybody needs to have a fair chance at getting cast, so I try to sit on a lower chair and really take time with the younger kids who audition. I try to help them relax and try not to be intimidating. The first time at auditions, many freeze up. I want everyone to have the opportunity to do their best.”

Futterer has been working with Ardith Morris, Janet Cook and choreographers and actors like Loretta Page for years. He said the team is like a family that gets together once a year to take an intense vacation.

And like a family, the team grows, year by year.

“I’ve had the privilege of meeting new faces with each show and Ardith and I are now seeing children of past child performers in the shows,” Futterer said. “It’s almost like watching our own grandchildren perform.”

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RVL Magazine

Photos by Joshua Mashon

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RVL Magazine

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jr. auxiliary CHARITY BALL

T

he Junior Auxiliary of Russellville’s annual charity ball took place March 2, 2013, at the L.V. Williamson Boys and Girls Club. The theme was “Southern Hospitality.”

Proceeds from the event go to support the charitable efforts of the club, which encourages members to render services beneficial to the general public, with particular emphasis on children.

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4

RVL Magazine

talk of the town

TABLES

T

he Talk of the Town Tables fund-raiser took place Feb. 9, 2013, on behalf of the Russellville Symphony Guild. The annual event, at the Lake Point Conference Center, featured heavy hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and live music, followed by a steak dinner.

Proceeds will go to bring the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra to Russellville for a concert April 6 and for scholarships for local high school music students.

RIGHT: Mary Barham, vice chair; Aldona Standridge, president; and Ann Squyres, chair, of the Russellville Symphony Guild

Photos by Cindi Nobles

RIGHT: Jim Stamps, Robert Taylor, Dr. Mark Myers and Mayor Bill Eaton

BELOW: Kathy Smith, Paula Stamps, Susie Kroencke and Peggy Talkington

Betty Snellings and Catherine Marhenke

45

RIGHT: Phyllis Carruth, June Rood, Freddie Rood and Doris Lawrence BELOW: Annette and Bert Mullens

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