AUTUMN ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2013
endgame
after 24 years,
cathy andrasik prepares to pass the baton page 6
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behind the lines F
all has arrived! For me, Labor Day has always signaled the start of the new season, a time for transition. As a child, I looked forward to heading back to school. It meant spending time with my mother — buying new clothes, shoes and school supplies — and making new friends. After I became a parent, autumn’s arrival carried with it new adjustments; it signaled an abrupt change from the relaxed pace of summer to a busy schedule packed with homework, sports and other after-school activities. This summer, as fall approached and while many of my friends and coworkers were getting their children ready for school or college, I was adjusting to my youngest son, J.J., joining the U.S. Army and preparing to leave for basic training at Fort Jackson, S.C. I am extremely proud of him and his decision to serve his country. I hadn’t realized, though, how much for granted I had come to take his daily proximity — and text messaging. As many of you may know, there is little communication allowed soldiers in training. No more texting, “uok? what time ubn?” Now, I realize how much I miss the convenience of this technology and these quick conversations that keep you in touch. On the
other hand, I am receiving hand-written letters with real words, actually written in the English language. He does remember how to write! To me, this communication is priceless. Speaking of transitions, in this issue of RVL Magazine, we’re featuring the story of a big one as the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Arkansas River Valley prepare to carry on without their executive director, Cathy Andrasik. Her presence will be sorely missed. Our staff also tackled fashion must-haves for fall, tips for seasonal gardening and features spotlighting Catfish N and The Home Theater Store. I chime in with a handful of recipes perfect for game day. I hope you enjoy reading, but in the meantime don’t miss out on the many fun activities taking place in our community this fall. First up is the annual Downtown Fall Festival and Chili Cook-off in October, followed by Mistletoe Market in November. See you there!
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Endgame ..........................................
Ask
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After 24 years, club director Cathy Andrasik readies to retire.
Fall haul .......................................... 10 Local retailers name their picks for autumn’s top 10 must-haves.
All about Catfish N ................... 16
to meet our talented new jewelry designer.
A profile of the Arkansas River Valley seafood staple.
A homegrown success ................. 20 Tara Bates shares the story of The Home Theater Store.
Time to plant ................................... 22 Russellville Lawn and Landscaping chimes in with helpful tips.
Local gourmet .................................. 26 Kitchen Essentials is now open, and offering just that.
Hitting the high notes ................. 30 Area high-school drum majors sit down for a Q&A.
Fan fare .................................................. 36
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Photo finish ....................................... 40 Photos from Standing Ovations, the River Valley Business Expo and August’s Swon Brothers concert.
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 David Weaver
Circulation Mike Geiss Composing Katelynn McAlister
Imagine what your “stuff” can make. Published quarterly by The Courier, Russellville, Ark.
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profile By Jeanette Anderton Photos by Joshua Mashon
endgame Cathy Andrasik, executive director of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Arkansas River Valley, stands with Dardanelle Police Chief Montie Sims (left) and professional golfer and Dardanelle native John Daly at the annual John Daly Golf Classic, which benefits the clubs.
c
longtime Boys and Girls Clubs executive director prepares for retirement
athy Andrasik has been with the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Arkansas River Valley for 24 years, and has seen a lot of changes in that time. Now it’s time for a change of her own. Andrasik is stepping down from her position effective Dec. 31, retiring to spend more time with family. She leaves behind a legacy that won’t soon see her forgotten in the Arkansas River Valley. “As director, working alongside my staff, we have created many new programs for the kids,” she said. In 2006, the Boys and Girls Clubs opened a new facility in
Russellville on East 16th Street. It was an opportunity for Andrasik and her staff to start the USDA Summer Food Service program, which has since fed many a child. “We had so much success with the summer feeding, we were able to expand it to the At-Risk Afterschool program when it became available in our area,” she said. “This past year, we served over 42,000 meals.” Andrasik, who grew up in Ohio, moved to Russellville in 1987. The first Boys and Girls Club in Russellville opened in October 1989 on El Paso.
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COMMITTED TO THE RIVER VALLEY & TO YOU Arvest has a long-standing commitment to giving back to the community. By supporting local organizations in the River Valley, Arvest proudly invests in you, helping keep Russellville strong. Beginning September 4th, Arvest Bank will begin the third annual 1 Million Meals initiative, a two-month, bank-wide effort to provide one million meals or more to those in need. Arvest Bank branches in the River Valley will be accepting donations to benefit the Arkansas Rice Depot Food for Kids backpack program. The Arkansas Rice Depot provides new backpacks and “kid-friendly” ready-to-eat food to participating schools at no cost to the school. Through a principal-appointed program coordinator, the food is distributed to students who display educational, physical or emotional problems at school due to hunger at home. Donations can be dropped off at any Arvest Bank location through November 2nd. Arvest Bank’s 1 Million Meals campaign challenges bank associates, customers and communities alike to help fight hunger in the more than 120 communities the bank serves. Last year, Arvest associates, customers and their communities raised 1.38 million meals. This year’s effort benefits 53 different organizations in the four states Arvest serves – Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. Every dollar raised through 1 Million Meals provides the equivalent of five meals for local, hungry families.
Find out more and help raise 1 Million Meals at arvest.com/millionmeals
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Boys and Girls Clubs of the Arkansas River Valley, billed as the “positive place for kids,” offer children meals, opportunities for social interaction and more.
In April 1990, Andrasik was approached by her neighbor, Tim White, who was on the Boys and Girls Clubs board of directors. He asked her to be the part-time athletic director at the club. “My love for sports and kids led me into that position,” Andrasik said. After working in that capacity for three years, Andrasik told the board the position of athletic director should be full-time. The board listened, and hired a full-time person, but asked Andrasik to stay on the floor as a program specialist. She did. Then, in April 1999, White suggested Andrasik apply for the position of interim executive director of the Boys and Girls Clubs, with locations in Russellville and Dardanelle. White’s was one voice among many. “I had several people in the community tell me and my husband that I should take the position,” Andrasik said. Marty, Andrasik’s husband of 36 years, agreed, and she accepted the job. Eventually, the interim position turned into a permanent one — and Andrasik’s role at the clubs to one of
great influence, one whose accomplishments she can list from memory. “I believe my greatest achievement has to be our recent facilities at both club locations,” she said. “This was definitely a group effort in a big way, with support from our board of directors, staff members, fundraising consultants, community support, foundations and two pro athletes that give back — Corliss Williamson and John Daly. These two facilities have provided a safe haven for all who attend and will continue to be a positive place for kids.” The Boys and Girls Clubs have partnered with the Russellville
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ON THE COVER Andrasik strikes a pose amid the foosball tables at the Russellville club.
Kiwanis Club for the past four years to offer a community-wide Easter egg hunt at Old Post Park. And Andrasik and Russellville businessman Terry Davis started a wrestling program through the Boys and Girls Clubs. “Shortly after I became director, Terry approached me with the desire to start a ... program,” she said. “We began the program that year, and the only other wrestling program in the state was (at) the Arkansas School of the Blind. Currently, this sport is sanctioned at our local high school and throughout the state.” Andrasik has always been actively involved in sports. She played point guard on her high school and college basketball teams. While attending Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio, she coached junior high girls basketball. She said her greatest challenge as a coach usually involved trying to keep the girls focused on the game. “One game, at halftime, we were down,” Andrasik recalled. “As I was walking down the hall to give the girls my halftime
speech, I was hit with this overwhelming smell of hairspray. Their main concern was fixing their hair for the fans. “We did end up winning the game, though.” Andrasik, whose last day coincides with the end of the year, said retirement will be bittersweet. “Although the club has become a second home to me and the ones I work with a second family, I feel now is the time to turn more of my attention to my first family,” she said. “My aging parents who live in Florida need more living assistance. The family home is in Ohio, along with my only brother, my daughter and my new grandson. “My retirement will allow my husband and I to both be an active part of our families’ lives, as well as give us a chance to spend more time together traveling.”
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fall haul area retailers list their top 10 ‘must-haves’ for AUTUMN
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No. 1 Miss Me Jeans Available at Wilkins Brothers Outdoors New this season at Wilkins Brothers Outdoors’ are embellished Miss Me Jeans — the same jeans everyone loves, but in bold new colors.
new season means new trends in fashion and home decor. Thankfully, the Arkansas River Valley has a multitude of shopping options that offer all of the season’s must-have items for fall. Sarah Alpe at Wilkins Brothers Outdoors said embellished Miss Me jeans remain a popular item. “Color is the trend this year,” Alpe said. “The Miss Me jeans we’ve ordered for the fall season come in a variety of bright, bold colors. I can’t wait for our customers to come in the store.” Some of this year’s must-haves, such as boots, are always on trend, but Breanna Brown at Belk said there are several new styles popular this year, including those incorporating Southwestern themes. She suggested every woman’s wardrobe include an equestrian-style boot because of its versatility. To add an edgier look, she suggested trying a pair of mid-calf boots with a utilitarian vibe. Every new season also brings new trends in hair care and styles. Joy Baumgardner at Hot Heads Salon said one of the newest products she is most excited to share with her customers is “Crack,” a product that helps with humidity and gives intense treatment all day long. “It sounds kind of funny,” Baumgardner said. “The product actually says it is ‘habit-forming.’ Smooth hair, whether worn straight or curly, is always popular. This new product is all about taming the flyaways without weighing hair down, and nourishing it in the process.” Baumgardner added that the newest trend in color is the ombre look — hair that fades from one color to another, usually from a darker color to a lighter shade. On the accompanying pages, check out our Arkansas River Valley top 10 musthaves for fall.
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No. 2 Edgy Apparel Available at Serendipity Apparel with a Southwestern vibe, like this sweater, is all the rage. Accent with an edgy statement necklace.
By Heather Sprinkle Photos by Joshua Mashon
No. 3 Large, Embellished Handbags Available at The Other Foot “Animal print and anything that has studs or zippers on it is popular, and also the quilted-leather looks are a must-have,” Erin Glover of The Other Foot said. “Plus, metallics are still very popular.”
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No. 4 Boots, boots and more boots Available at Belk Try timeless equestrian styles, or spice it up with a mid-calf option. Breanna Brown of Belk said the country music industry has influenced the fashion world.
No. 5 Embellished Accessories Available at Lavish “A good statement necklace is in,” Bethany Swindell of Lavish said. “Hats and gloves are really trendy now and scarves are always a good, timeless piece to have in your wardrobe.” Not to mention bracelets!
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No. 6 Noteworthy neckwear Available at Flowers, Etc. Jewelry, ranging from traditional to layered, is on trend this fall.
No. 7 Fun fragrances Available at Goody’s Subtle citrus perfumes for women are the trend for fall. Calvin Klein’s “Downtown” is a new twist on an old favorite, said Deborah Hill of Goody’s.
No. 8 Crack Available at Hot Heads Salon “Crack,” a is a new product that tames flyaways, explained Joy Baumgardner of Hot Heads Salon.
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No. 9 Hot hues Available at Belk This season, try Clinique “Happy” perfume, “High Impact” mascara, “All Heart” lipstick, and the “On Safari” eyeshadow palette, Heather Ivens, store visual associate, suggested. The brand also offers a 3-Step Skin Care system.
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dining
all about
Catfish N
dardanelle restaurant offers good eats, down-home quality story By Mike roark • Photos by Joshua Mashon
Tim and Carole Tackett are the proprietors of Catfish N in Dardanelle.
D
own toward the end of Front Street in Dardanelle sits the Catfish N, a friendly place where you can sit on the deck and enjoy a catfish dinner with all the trimmings. Of course, if you’re not in the mood for outside dining, there is plenty of room in the dining room, so come on in, relax a while and enjoy the good food and company. At the Catfish N, there is plenty to eat on the buffet — fried catfish fillets, boiled and fried shrimp, Southern-fried
chicken and all the trimmings. And after you’ve finished the meal, top it off with a bowl of homemade cobbler. For Tim and Carole Tackett, it isn’t a matter of being the biggest catfish buffet in the land, just the best. “Our philosophy is that we only do a few things, and we do those things really good,” Tim said. Tim has worked at the restaurant almost all of his adult life. He started as a dishwasher in 1977, then bought the place in 1981.
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Tim and Carole Tackett have been at the helm of Catfish N, an Arkansas River Valley staple, since the 1980s.
“I liked cooking and I liked the food,” he said. “I was always in the back of the house. I came around, and I like customers now. I love to cook; I love to cook at home.” Carole joined the team in 1988, and they were married in 1996. She called herself “the cook, accountant and plumber.” “I took the office in 1990. In 1995, when Tim went back to school, I took over the operations,” she said. Tim calls theirs a good working balance — Carole is a fiscal conservative who makes sure the place makes a profit, and Tim does whatever it takes. These days, it is Carole who is responsible for the dayto-day operation of the Catfish N as Tim is busy with his job with the Federal Emergency Medical Response Agency (FEMRA) that takes him wherever there is a crisis in America. Carole likes her staff and is glad they don’t have much turnover. “She’s like a mother to the staff,” Tim said. “We are family, and we treat them like family. A lot of them stay through college.” Tim told the tale of an Arkansas State Police trooper who worked in the restaurant back in his high-school days.
“He told me working here was the best time of his life,” Tim said. The couple also pay attention to the product they serve, and only serve fresh and good-tasting food. “We do everything from scratch,” Carole said. “We have healthier food; we do pay attention to the quality.” Tim has a rule that he stresses with his employees — “Taste some of it before it goes out the door. Let’s be consistent. Doing it right is our motto.” Sitting outside is a huge tractor-trailer that is really just a kitchen on wheels. This is part of the couple’s catering business. “It is a separate business,” Tim said of catering. “People who’ve eaten here wanted fish. We can cook more than in the restaurant.” While catering is mostly done within a 100-mile radius of Dardanelle, the couple has sent the truck to such faraway places as Baltimore, Palm Beach, Chattanooga and New Orleans. “It isn’t cheap, but we’re doing it right,” Tim said. And that seems to be the theme of what Tim and Carole are doing these days, just serving really good food at a good price.
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DOWNTOWN CALENDAR OF EVENTS • • • • • • •
Downtown Art Walks 1st Friday in March, June, September & December Taste of the Valley, last Thursday each April Tri-Peaks Community Market April thru October Rummage ‘Round the Rails, last weekend each May Downtown Fall Festival & Chili Cookoff, last Saturday each October Collectibles on Commerce, 2nd Saturdays May through August, 8am - 4pm Music Downtown at Sundown, 4th Saturdays June, July & August - 7pm
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feature
Tara Bates, owner of The Home Theater Store, has grown her Arkansas River Valley business during the course of the last 20 years. She started out as “Tara’s Communications” in a small storefront on Arkansas Avenue.
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By Jeanette Anderton Photos by Joshua Mashon
Tara Bates, owner and operator of The Home Theater Store, sees her success as the culmination of a plan.
russellville native daughter builds business from the ground up
T
ara Bates, owner of The Home Theater Store and Car Stereo Express in Russellville, used her business-savvy attitude to translate advances in technology to growth in her business. “When we first started, we were little,” she said. “We started doing satellite, and people wanted TVs to go with their satellites, so we became a Sony dealership. Sony’s been great to us.” Bates started her business as Tara’s Communications in a small building on Arkansas Avenue nearly 20 years ago. She began offering surround-sound equipment in addition to her other products, and business began to boom. In 1999, she built a 4,500-square-foot building on Parkway Drive. In 2008, she added another 4,500 square feet and home-security products. “It was desperately needed,” she said of the expansion. Bates grew up in Russellville and graduated from Russellville High School in 1993. She attended the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and obtained a marketing and accounting degree in 1996. “I was crazy for rushing it and finishing in three years,” she joked. “My parents paid for
things while I was in college — I should’ve taken my time.” Bates said education and having a good support system are keys to success. “It’s important to have people believe in you,” she said. “When I was a sophomore in college, a professor told me I should open my own business. Back then, I didn’t really think I could do it. It’s amazing what you can do.” She said she would tell aspiring entrepreneurs to “dream big” and never give up. “I never dreamed this big,” she said. “I started with a five-year plan. It took me almost 10 years to complete my five-year plan, but I did it.” Bates said she owes her success to her employees and her customers. “We’re like a big family,” she said. “I’m very blessed. I have loyal customers and good employees. I couldn’t have done it without my employees. I have the vision, but they get it done.” Bates said she stays in tune with all the new technologies available. “Technology changes so fast, “ she said. “I love seeing it. I’m a nerd. I enjoy all the gadgets.”
She said she has been especially impressed with the advances in home security being linked to your personal devices, such as cell phones. “It’s an all-in-one system,” she said. “From locking and unlocking doors, to opening your blinds or adjusting the thermostat, you can do it all from your phone. It makes life a lot easier.” She said home security is all about peace of mind. “Recently, the alarm company called about an alarm going off at the store,” she said. “It’s nerve-wracking, but with the new system, I was able to see on my phone that there was nobody trying to break in. It’s a relief.” Mother of two boys — Turner, 16, and Garrett, 14 — Bates doesn’t have a lot of free time, but when she does she said she spends it competing in barrel races. Bates said owning her own business in the town she grew up in is a dream come true. “I’ve always loved Russellville,” she said. “It’s a great place to have a business. People here buy from you because they know and trust you. I’m honored that people of this town respect me.”
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outdoors
time to plant Local businessman offers fall planting tips
Kyle Lamberson, owner of Russellville Lawn and Landscaping, helps a customer at his store at 2909 S. Arkansas Ave.
I
t’s beginning to look a lot like fall, and with it comes shorter days, cooler temperatures and brilliant colors as the leaves on the trees begin to turn. It’s a time of relief after enduring a long, hot Arkansas summer. What most
people don’t know and some would be surprised to hear: Fall is also one of the best times for planting. “Most people think about planting in the spring,” Kyle Lamberson, owner of Russellville Lawn and Landscaping, said. “They
get spring fever. It’s our busiest time of year. But the fall is the best time for planting trees and shrubs.” Lamberson, 39, has been in the landscaping business for more than a decade. He said he loves his work.
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By Jeanette Anderton Photos by Joshua Mashon
“I’ve always enjoyed being outside and playing in the dirt,” he said. “I enjoy working with the public and making things look better. With landscaping, you can see the progress and improvements that you’ve made immediately. It’s very gratifying.” Planting trees in the fall allows the roots to have plenty of time to grow and set a good foundation for the tree. “The best time to plant trees is when they go dormant,” Lamberson said. “That way, they’ve got all winter to take root. People
don’t realize it, but the roots continue to grow in the winter.” Lamberson recommended using a root stimulator, but said to stay away from fertilizers with a lot of nitrogen. He said oxygen is very important for growth. “When planting a tree, the most common mistake is digging the hole too deep,” he said. “The root ball needs to be flush with the ground or even a little higher. The thing to keep in mind is that oxygen is just as important as the dirt.” Fall is the time to plant tulips, bulbs, kale and pansies. They should be planted in mid-October and will last until next summer. “They’re about the only thing in the winter that gives you color,” Lamberson said. “You want to wait until Oct. 15 to make sure the extreme heat is over. In Arkansas, it’s hard to predict what the weather will do.” He said fall planting is economical. “You find a lot of good deals in the fall,” he said. “Stores are trying to get rid of their inventory before winter and will mark stuff way down.” Lamberson also owns Green Lawn of Arkansas, which he said stays busy in the fall. “We’ll be busy putting lime on the yards and
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treating them for funguses,” he said. A lot of Lamberson’s customers want to purchase the same products he used on their property, so he said he sells them all at Russellville Lawn and Landscaping. “Anything I use, I try to sell it,” he said. “I keep the store stocked with supplies: pottery, Razorback ornaments, stone pallets, boulders, four colors of bulk mulch, top soil, river rock, landscape fabric, irrigation supplies, landscape lighting — if has to do with landscaping, you name it, and I’ve got it.” Lamberson has owned Russellville Lawn and Landscaping for more than 10 years. “I bought it in 2002, and it’s been around since 1994,” he said. “I’ve grown and expanded it. We’ve been in this new store two years in December.” He said one of his fastest-growing services is also one of the more unexpected services for a landscaping business to offer: a Christmas light service. “We do Christmas lights for residential and commercial customers,” he said. “They buy the lights from us and we come put them out. We check on them a couple of times throughout the season, replacing any burned-out bulbs, and then we come and take them down at the end of the season.” Green Lawn of Arkansas is located inside Russellville Lawn and Landscape at 2909 S. Arkansas Ave.
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Colorful plates, bowls and cups are everywhere at Kitchen Essentials.
By Whitney Snipes Photos by Joshua Mashon
local gourmet Arkansas River valley goes kitchen upscale
LEFT: Shoppers browse through kitchen accessories available at Kitchen Essentials.
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rkansas River Valley foodies can spend more time cooking and less time driving now that a local option for gourmet kitchen supplies is available. Kitchen Essentials owner Becki Bryson said she made the decision to open the store when she realized there was a need in the community. Bryson said her oldest son is an aspiring chef and for several years she has given him kitchen supplies for gifts. Most of the time, she had to travel to Little Rock to find the items on his wish-list. She recalled this past Christmas, when she went to four different stores trying to locate a specific item. That is when she and her husband really started thinking about opening a store locally. “We just started doing research and one thing led to another,” Bryson said. “It all really came together pretty easily, easier than I thought it was going to be.” The store opened July 20 in Russellville City Mall and since that time, Bryson said the community has been very supportive.
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Kitchen Essentials offerings include, as Bryon said, “everything that you need for a kitchen.” In addition to kitchenware and small appliances from brand names like Breville and La Creuset that can’t be found elsewhere in the Arkansas River Valley, the store has food, gadgets and more. Kitchen gadgets take up the store’s entire back wall and then some. From squeezers and scrapers to measurers and pourers, there are tools to meet any need. “People can come and spend an hour in here just looking at things,” Bryson said. “And all these fun little gadgets, they blow people’s minds.” The store also carries a variety
of dip mixes, sauces, fresh-roasted coffee beans and other food items. Bryson carries the River Valley’s first olive-oil station. The station allows customers to save money on high-quality olive oil by reusing their bottles. “You fill a bottle, then you can bring it back and refill it for a lesser price,” Bryson explained. Customers will find classic kitchen essentials, such as grilling supplies and pizza stones, as well as items they may not have heard of before, such as stovetop smokers. The stovetop smoker comes in two different sizes and provides the ability to smoke a variety of foods from the comfort of the kitchen. Operating the store is a family
effort. Bryson’s sister, Kim Smith, and longtime family friend, Carol Crowell, help keep things running smoothly Bryson is a Russellville High School graduate and lives in Dardanelle with her husband, Clayton. They have two sons. Their oldest son is the general manager at Oak Tree Bistro, and their younger son is a sophomore mechanical engineering major at Arkansas Tech University. Before opening Kitchen Essentials, Bryson worked for more than 10 years in the advertising industry before moving to a community relations role for Emeritus at Wildflower assisted living facility. She left that position to open the store.
Find everything from spices to accessories at Kitchen Essentials, a new business in the Arkansas River Valley.
Fabulous RVL Magazine
FINDS !!
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1. Feltner’s
Athlete’s Corner 2320 West Main Russellville 479-968-6464
2. Valley Piano Co. 813 E. Main, Russellville 479-968-5200 www.valleypiano.com
1. Kavu Rope Sling New Patterns & Colors for Fall!
2. From traditional acoustic pianos to modern digital pianos, Valley Piano has been providing our friends in the River Valley with fine quality instruments for over 35 years 3. Porcelain Accent Tiles
Perfect for bathrooms. Unique designs including black and white crocodile pattern, metallic natural pattern, and textured bark pattern
3. Woodard Carpet 514 W. Cherry Clarksville 479-754-2011
5. Wilkins Brothers Outdoors 815 N. Arkansas Russellville 479-968-4322 4. Feltner’s Athlete’s Corner 2320 West Main Russellville 479-968-6464
6. Family Shoe Store 302 W Main St, Clarksville 479-754-3781
4. Men’s Short Sleeve Polos by Patagonia
5. Yeti Coolers - in stock. Perfect for on the lake or tailgating. 6. New shipment in! Lots of brightly colored running shoes for fall!
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interview LEFT: Russellville High School’s Gloria Yang, Elizabeth Kennard and Mallory Harrison.
Dardanelle’s Jonathan Ortiz and Hugh Benfer.
area drum majors march to the beat of their own drummers
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RVL Magazine
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Audrey Markle of Atkins
R
VL recently visited with the drum majors from Russellville, Dardanelle, Dover, Atkins and Pottsville high schools. They are Gloria Yang, Elizabeth Kennard and Mallory Harrison from Russellville; Hugh Benfer and Jonathan Ortiz from Dardanelle; Carey Brent James from Dover; Audrey Markle from Atkins; and Jerett Duvall from Pottsville. See what they had to say. RVL: How long have you been in band and what instrument do you play? Gloria Yang: I have played the flute in the band for seven years. Audrey Markle: I have been in band for five years and I play clarinet. Jerett Duvall: I have been in band since sixth grade beginning band. I play the baritone, treble clef. Sorry, bass-clef fans, but I’ve got to go my own way. Hugh Benfer and Jonathan Ortiz: We have been in band for six years and both play the glorious trumpet. RVL: How did you become a drum major? ... CONTINUED ON PAGE 32
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is a very important job because they help hold the band together and represent the band. Drum majors act as a median between the students and the directors. If other students have a problem or need help, they can tell the drum majors and we can let the directors know about it. Carey Brent James: I became the drum major by simply practicing conducting and marching fundamentals, and surviving a tedious audition. Being a drum major means being a leader and role model. If I’m late for rehearsal, I am setting a bad example for the rest of the band. I also represent my band to the community, so if I make a mistake, whether musically or personally, the band suffers.
Carey Brent James of Dover GY: I was selected to be a drum major through the tryout process in the spring. A drum major is more than a status symbol; we are leaders that aid the band in whatever way we can, from teaching marching fundamentals to guiding the members by show of example. Elizabeth Kennard: I became a drum major by preparing for the tryouts as much as two months early. I practiced every day and took tips and pointers from previous drum majors. Being a drum major means you’re a leader and a role model. Everybody can depend on you to help them, and they can come to you at any time knowing you will do everything you can to fulfill whatever it is that they need. You hold a great deal of responsibility on your shoulders while you teach and make decisions regarding the band. Mallory Harrison: I became a drum major because I like the leadership position it holds and always thought it would be cool. A drum major
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HB & JO: We became drum majors after Mr. Hooten’s grueling Drum Major School and many weeks of practicing marching, conducting and leadership skills. It means a chance to be in control of a powerful force called the Dardanelle Scarlet Regiment and lead our band to excellence. RVL: What is the most important aspect of your job? EK: Being friendly and willing to help out with whatever’s needed. No one is going to want to listen to, watch or ask for help from their leader who may not be so friendly. Being social and taking the time to know your band is one of the most important aspects to me. CBJ: The most important aspect of my job is knowing the music and the show; being able to see the score in my head; conducting steady and accurate tempos, cuing different sections and solos; and directing decrescendos and crescendos. JD: I would say the most important aspect would be to know the music. I mean, a drum major who doesn’t know the music won’t be very successful. It would be like a doctor who didn’t go to medical school. Well, maybe not to that extreme, but you know what I mean. It wouldn’t be a good situation.
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‘(it) means assuming a leadership role.’ Gloria yang of russellville, on being a drum major RVL: How does being the drum major differ from playing an instrument in the marching band?
HB & JO: Sadly, we don’t get to march, but as drum majors, our job is to keep the band together and playing at the right tempo.
GY: Being a drum major means assuming a leadership role. Instead of only needing to memorize my flute music, I have to know all the parts of the band.
RVL: What three words best describe the requirements for being a successful drum major?
MH: You have more responsibilities. You teach and correct marching, set up things for rehearsals everyday, run “errands” for the directors, copy music and make sure you know the music and how you are going to direct it. AM: You have more of a responsibility. Instead of just concentrating on your instrument and marching, you have to concentrate on everyone else. There is a lot more pressure.
EK: Focused, dignified, prideful. CBJ: Punctuality, communication and initiative. If one is on time, gives clear instructions and takes charge, he or she is on the path to being a successful drum major. RVL: How do you balance band, school, friends and other activities? GY: I made friends through band, so band is not an obligation. ... CONTINUED ON PAGE 34
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‘marching band pumps the crowd up.’ elizabeth kennard of russellville
I love being a part of it. Schoolwork is time-consuming, but there is always time for music if you work hard.
RVL: What do the marching band and the drum major add to sporting and community events?
MH: Having all these things going on gets very tiring! But they are all important to me and somehow I make it work! A lot of my friends are in band, so you get a two-for-one sort of deal. Most of the time I hang out with friends after a football game on Friday night, and then spend time on Saturday doing homework.
EK: Marching band pumps the crowd up. People love to dance and sing along to well-known songs. Drum majors will be the first ones to welcome guests and visitors to sporting and community events.
JD: It’s pretty hard at times. There are some nights where my friends will call me up and ask me to go somewhere with them and I’ll have to turn them down because I have something I have to do. So the week is mostly for school and church and that sort of stuff. I maybe have one night a week where I’m not doing anything, if I’m lucky. So, on the weekends, I just go crazy. HB & JO: It takes a lot of scheduling and planning to find time for friends and fun outside of school!
AM: Marching band and the drum major add to football games and pep rallies by pumping up the crowd and encouraging the team with our school-spirit songs.
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RVL: What is your advice for other students interested in marching band and becoming a drum major? GY: It’s worth it! The tryout process for drum major is difficult, but if you like responsibility and helping others — and you have a passion for band — keep trying! JD: Give it a shot! You may really like it or you may really hate it, but you will never know if you don’t try. I’m not one to go shouting out clichés, but the saying is right, the only failure is not trying. RVL: Describe a particular performance that sticks out in your mind. EK: The halftime show we did my first year at the high school (“I Heart Radio”) was something I’ll never forget. I learned so many new marching techniques and fundamentals. The practices were so different and the way the high school marching band did things was foreign to me. The drill was more complicated, the music was fun to play and my fellow bandmates were very helpful whenever I had questions. Jerett Duvall of Pottsville
MH: Last year at senior night, we did our halftime show and it was so much fun! Everything was crazy. We did this dance thing in one of our songs that was kind of cheesy, but my friends and I thought it was hilarious and loads of fun.
pleasant experience! Although learning to laugh at yourself is absolutely necessary if you are going to be performing.
CBJ: I once lost the sole of my shoe as I was mounting the podium at a football game. Falling in front of a thousand people is not a
AM: Our halftime show performance last year. We had worked so hard and I’m very proud of how it turned out.
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fan fare
combine chips, dips and more to create the perfect GAME-DAY SPREAD
football cheese ball Want to submit a recipe for publication consideration? Email michelle@couriernews.com.
NOW OPEN 407 N. Arkansas Ave, Suite 10 ~ City Mall RUSSELLVILLE 479-280-1933
RVL Magazine
RVL Magazine
football cheese ball You will need: • 2 8 oz. blocks of cream cheese • 2 bunches of green onion, chopped • 1-2 tsp. of minced celery • 2 jars of Armour Dried Beef, chopped • 1/2 to 3/4 lbs. sliced deli corned beef, chopped • 1 1/2 tbsp. Accent • 1 1/2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce • 1/4 tsp. garlic powder Directions: Reserve some (about half ) of the chopped meat to garnish cheese ball. Let cream cheese soften. Mix all ingredients together and shape into a football. Cover with Saran Wrap and refrigerate overnight. I like to add about 5-6 jalapeno slices to cheese ball mixture. You can also garnish the top with a few slices. According to taste, you might also add a little more Accent or Worcestershire sauce, depending on how salty the corned beef is. (You can also use some extra corned beef or ham in place of one jar of the dried beef.) Use sour cream for football lace. Serve with vegetables, chips and your favorite crackers. Michelle Harris
guacamole dip You will need: • 2-3 ripe avocados • 3-4 tbsp. minced red onion • 1 fresh lemon • 1-2 tsp. mayonnaise • 1 small garlic clove, pressed • 1 tomato, peeled and diced • 1-2 tsp. diced celery • Salt and pepper to taste Directions: Using a fork, mash the avocado. Add onion, garlic, celery and tomato. Stir well. Squeeze lemon juice, adding a little at a time so mixture can easily be dipped with chips or crackers. Add mayo, then salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with lime, cilantro and jalapenos.
Pico de gallo You will need: • 3 large tomatoes, chopped • 1/4 c. cilantro, freshly chopped • 1/2 c. sweet onion, chopped • 3 tbsp. lime juice • 1 or 2 chopped jalapenos • 1 tsp. salt/pepper Directions: Stir together all ingredients; serve with tortilla chips.
Mexican roll-ups You will need: • 2 8 oz. blocks of cream cheese • 1 small can green chilies, diced • 3-4 green onions, diced • 2 tsp. minced celery • 1 can chopped black olives, drained • 1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese • 1 tsp. powered ranch dressing • 1/2 tsp. garlic salt Directions: Let cream cheese warm to room temperature. Blend until smooth. Add green chilies, garlic salt and ranch. Spread mixture on tortillas. Sprinkle with onions, cheese, olives and celery. Roll the tortillas. Place rolls in the freezer for an hour, then slice in one-inch sections and place in refrigerator for eight hours or overnight. Serve with your favorite picante sauce. Michelle Harris
Sweet chicken bacon wraps You will need: • 1 1/4 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken • 2 tbsp. chili powder • 2/3 c. firmly packed brown sugar • 1 lb. sliced bacon Directions: Preheat oven to 350. Cut chicken breasts into one-inch cubes. Wrap each chicken cube with bacon and secure with a wooden pick. Stir together brown sugar and chili powder. Dredge wrapped chicken in mixture. Place chicken on rack in broiler pan. Bake 30-35 minutes. May also be cooked outside on the grill.
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crab cakes
You will need: • 1 lb. lump crab meat • 1 c. crushed saltine crackers • 1/2 c. mayonnaise • 1 large egg • 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard • 1 tbsp. yellow mustard • 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce • 1 tsp. Old Bay seasoning • Dash of Tabasco sauce Directions: Spread crab meat on a flat pan and sprinkle crushed saltines over the top. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, egg, mustards, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning and Tabasco sauce. Pour mayonnaise mixture over crab. Using your hands, gently toss, taking care not to break up the lumps of crab. Let mixture stand five minutes. Form mixture into six mounded rounds about three inches in diameter and one-inch thick. Do not pack too firmly. This is very important. The cakes should be as loose as possible, yet still hold their shape. Pour oil into a deep skillet and heat. Deep fry crab cakes a few at a time until golden brown, about three minutes per side. Joan Nathan for Relish
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shrimp dip You will need: • 1 can mushroom soup • 1/2 c. water chestnuts, chopped • 1 8 oz. block of cream cheese • 2 cans tiny shrimp, drained • 1/2 c. celery, chopped • 1/4 c. mayonnaise • 1/2 c. green onions, chopped • 1 tsp. dill weed Directions: Heat mushroom soup and cream cheese in pan on low until cheese is melted. Add celery, green onions, water chestnuts, shrimp, mayonnaise and dill weed. Cook on low until well heated. Refrigerate overnight or at least 2-3 hours before serving. Can be served in a bread bowl or as a side dip with crackers and vegetables.
hot corn dip You will need: • 1 15 oz. can white corn, drained • 1/2 tsp. chili powder • 1 15 oz. can yellow corn, drained
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• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder • 1 10 oz. can Rotel, drained • Cilantro to taste • 1 8 oz. block of cream cheese, diced and softened • 1 pkg. Doritos chips Directions: Preheat oven to 350. In large bowl, mix white corn, yellow corn, Rotel, cream cheese, chili powder, garlic powder and cilantro. Pour in medium baking dish. Bake 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Serve with chips.
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swon bros. concert
C
ountry-music duo the Swon Brothers performed a back-to-school concert at the Center for the Arts on Russellville High School’s campus in late August. The Swon Brothers, from Muskogee, Okla., are brothers Zach, 28, and Colton, 25. The band gained popularity when it became a topthree finalist on the fourth season of NBC’s “The Voice.” The brothers were the first duo to make it from the Top 12 live shows to the season finale.
photos by joshua mashon
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river valley business expo t
he 10th annual River Valley Business Expo, sponsored by the Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce, took place Aug. 7 at Tucker Coliseum on the Arkansas Tech University campus. The expo, one of the largest in Arkansas, offers businesses the opportunity to showcase and sell their products and services to a captive audience. A wide variety of businesses participate each year, including those offering home improvement, lawn and garden, cellular, real estate, financial, health care and educational services.
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photos by joshua mashon
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business expo
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T R E A T M E N T
C E N T E R
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standing ovations
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olan Richardson, former University of Arkansas head basketball coach, was the keynote speaker at the second annual Standing Ovations in August. The event was created to showcase the impact the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Arkansas River Valley have on local youth. Catered by Opal Mae’s, the event featured a silent auction, salute to local supporters, Richardson’s speech and other special guests.
photos by joshua mashon
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A HEALTHIER FUTURE FOR OUR COMMUNIT Y
STARTS WITH A STRONGER HEALTH SYSTEM
Cristina M. Clark, M.D. OB/GYN
William Sosebee, M.D. OB/GYN
Fauzia Qadir, M.D. Family Practice
Shuja Rasool, M.D. Cardiologist
Michael Hromanik, M.D. Ahmed Athar, M.D. Orthopaedic Surgeon Interventional Cardiologist
Eric Graham, M.D. General Surgeon
As a regional health system, our commitment to your health goes beyond caring for you at our hospital. This requires bringing the communities we serve the highest quality and most comprehensive care possible. To achieve this, we are aggressively recruiting highly skilled specialists, investing in the most advanced treatments and technology, and building new medical facilities. We’re creating a stronger regional heath system today so that the River Valley can enjoy a
Nathan Nielson, M.D. Family Practice
Heath Stacey, M.D. Plastic Surgeon
Matthew Patoka, M.D. Family Practice
Call to set up an appointment today with one of our new doctors. Dr. Clark: Dr. Sosebee: Dr. Hromanik: Dr. Athar: Dr. Stacey: Dr. Qadir: Dr. Rasool: Dr. Graham: Dr. Nielson: Dr. Patoka:
479.890.2426 479.890.2426 479.890.7141 479.968.4311 479.968.2345 479.968.2345 479.968.4311 479.890.2433 479.968.2345 479.331.3880
much healthier tomorrow.
1808 West Main | Russellville, AR 479.968.2841 | saintmarysregional.com
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