Latest episodesRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.russellvilleliving.com/blog/Copyright RussellvilleLiving.com2022-05-10T14:59:39-07:00tag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:989Take a bow, River Valley<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/813/image/217826973_10102204913488222_3701528651905986128_n.jpeg" width="720" height="960" /><br />No matter what business you’re in, at times it can feel like you’re going through the motions. Even when I was working in television, it was easy to get lost in the technical and miss the personal experiences of the business. <br />I’ve been lucky however to not experience that feeling here at Alethes, and while there are several reasons, one stands out more than the rest.<br /><br />You. The people of this area are simply amazing. <br /><br />Back in March 2021, I was trying to figure out how I was going to accomplish my task here. I was back into the marketing game for the first time in a few years, completely new to the world of real estate. I wanted to bring the message to the entire community: Alethes Realty is truly the best.<br /><br />But how? My brain was scrambled, until I stumbled onto gold. I began interviewing people from across the River Valley about their experiences here, about their lives here. And suddenly, we had lift off.<br /><br />“The Spotlight” morphed into a community events program that I’m very proud of, but even moreso, I’m honored. The people I have gotten to visit with to promote our brand and our community have been incredible: in nearly 200 episodes I’ve never had one negative experience.
That’s the testament of this area, and for anyone looking to move to this area, the people are our greatest asset. I know, forgive me for the worn out cliche. Everyone says that. But here it is 100% true. I can’t count how many times I’ve heard transplants into this area who say two consistent things: “The people are wonderful and the food is amazing!”<br /><br />We can talk about the craziness of the market, we can talk about how fast things are moving, all of that. But let’s not get so wrapped up in that we forget we live in a special area that people desperately want to get to. Even more than that, they want to stay here. Why wouldn’t they? We are surrounded by Mount Nebo, Lake Dardanelle, Bona Dea, incredible food and a wonderful culture. This place is borderline heavenly, and shining a spotlight (pardon the pun) on that is a perk of this job I certainly don’t take for granted. <br /><br />We have featured guests from Arkansas Tech University, the Russellville School District, various public officials, local artists and business owners, and just generally interesting people. I’m genuinely taken aback by the people of this area: their generosity and their love of the area is easily demonstrated through their actions and community commitment. <br /><br />So here’s to you, River Valley. Take your bow in the spotlight, you all deserve it.
2022-05-10T12:59:00-07:002022-05-10T14:59:39-07:00Drew Brenttag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:961The Spotlight: Melanie PaterakMelanie Paterak is known throughout the community for her photography skills, but its her mentorship and the other aspects of her life that leave a footprint for the people around her. Hear her story today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T15:58:00-07:002022-03-07T15:58:49-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:960The Spotlight: Adam McCampbellThe new campus pastor of the Baptist College Ministry at Arkansas Tech University Adam McCampbell stops by to discuss his vision for the ministry here.2022-03-07T15:56:00-07:002022-03-07T15:57:11-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:959The Spotlight: Nathan GeorgeNathan George is a downtown jewelry savant at Joshua's Fine Jewelry. But he's also a dad, rockstar and avid Star Wars fan. He and Drew talk about all of these things today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T15:55:00-07:002022-03-07T15:55:34-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:958The Spotlight: Jennifer HaleyTax collector can be two scary words, but Pope County Tax Collector Jennifer Haley is here to help ease your mind, give great information, dispel some rumors and give some helpful tips on paying and finding resources.2022-03-07T15:53:00-07:002022-03-07T15:54:03-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:957The Spotlight: Daniel and Kori FreemanDaniel and Korri Freeman decided to go all in on their dream, an art based entrepreneurial endeavor, Kaleidoclasm, in downtown Russellville. But the road wasn't easy and their story is fascinating. Hear it today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T15:52:00-07:002022-03-07T15:52:36-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:956The Spotlight: Ryan Harmon ReturnsFormer American Idol contestant Ryan Harmon stops by The Spotlight to talk about his music, and the man who changed both his and Drew Brent's life: Anthony Caton.2022-03-07T15:50:00-07:002022-03-07T15:50:57-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:955The Spotlight: Caitlin PyleCaitlin Pyle stops by The Spotlight to discuss her upcoming album, her recent engagement, and bouncing back from a turbulent time in her life.2022-03-07T15:49:00-07:002022-03-07T15:49:16-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:954The Spotlight: Robb McCormickRobb McCormick stops by to talk about his latest album "The Adventures of Indie Boy," while he and Drew Brent talk about what is good music. It's a great conversation today on The Spotlight2022-03-07T15:47:00-07:002022-03-07T15:47:50-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:953The Spotlight: Christie Graham ReturnsThe tourism director for the city of Russellville, Christie Graham stops by to tell us all about things coming up in the area, and the story behind a group who is making things happen in the area: the calendar girls.2022-03-07T14:48:00-07:002022-03-07T14:53:06-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:952The Spotlight: Danielle Housenick Knows Jiu-JitsuDanielle Housenick makes her first appearance on the show for 2022 talking all things Main Street Russellville, and talking smack to Josh Dunbar.2022-03-07T14:46:00-07:002022-03-07T14:47:20-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:951The Spotlight: Josh Dunbar ReturnsRVF4K's Josh Dunbar returns to The Spotlight to challenge Danielle Housenick to an American Gladiators' match, the move to a new location, and his love of Whitney Houston.2022-03-07T14:36:00-07:002022-03-07T14:44:39-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:950The Spotlight: Jeff PikerJeff Piker stops by to discuss the new "100 Families" initiative in Pope County, and the good they are doing for those in need in the community today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T14:35:00-07:002022-03-07T14:35:49-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:949The Spotlight: Dr. Mark GotcherToday on The Spotlight, new Dardanelle School District Superintendent Dr. Mark Gotcher discusses COVID response, his new role with the Dardanelle School District, his call to the Arkansas River Valley, and more.2022-03-07T14:33:00-07:002022-03-07T14:34:15-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:948The Spotlight: Shane Jones ReturnsPope County Sheriff Shane Jones returns to The Spotlight to discuss the need for a new detention center, law enforcement in the area, and clarifying statistics about law enforcement in Pope County.2022-03-07T14:32:00-07:002022-03-07T14:32:29-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:947The Spotlight: Nolan EdwardsBrad and Brent sit down with Nolan Edwards to discuss Main Street, life after ANO and more.2022-03-07T14:30:00-07:002022-03-07T14:30:51-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:946The Spotlight: Mayor Richard Harris, Back AgainMayor Richard Harris discusses his decision not to run for mayor for a second term, and what he is hoping to see in the next mayor today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T14:28:00-07:002022-03-07T14:29:08-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:945The Spotlight: Brent PreddyOn today's Spotlight, Alethes Realty's principal broker Brent Preddy shares his thoughts on business, the market, and how "The Spotlight" came to be.2022-03-07T14:26:00-07:002022-03-07T14:27:05-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:944The Spotlight: Kylie Burge and Eddie ShafferThe Department of Children and Family Services in Yell County is constantly working to bring broken families back together. In their mission, they have required resources that, at times, have been difficult to locate. Then, a partnership with Home Church in Dardanelle helped elevate the mission from both organizations. Hear their story today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T12:51:00-07:002022-03-07T14:25:30-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:943The Spotlight: John DinelliIn this episode of The Spotlight, John Dinelli, Site Vice President of Arkansas Nuclear One (ANO), joins Drew to discuss the current outage, and addresses the rumors of ANO leaving the River Valley.2022-03-07T12:45:00-07:002022-03-07T12:45:42-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:942The Spotlight: Mayor Jimmy Witt ReturnsIn his second appearance on The Spotlight, Dardanelle Mayor, Jimmy Witt, talks about the city's dreaded roundabouts.2022-03-07T12:43:00-07:002022-03-07T12:44:20-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:941The Spotlight: ATU Week - Pete KellyIn the final episode of our special Spotlight series covering Arkansas Tech Week 2021, Drew interviews a man who embodies ATU itself, Pete Kelly. Hear his thoughts on the university, his upbringing and an upcoming recognition!2022-03-07T12:41:00-07:002022-03-07T12:42:11-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:940The Spotlight: ATU Week - Sam StrasnerThe "Voice of Arkansas Tech" shares stories from his time in green and gold country, it's a fascinating interview from a river valley legend!2022-03-07T12:39:00-07:002022-03-07T12:40:43-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:939The Spotlight: ATU Week - Carrie Harris PhillipsIt's day three of ATU Week on "The Spotlight!" Today, Drew is joined by Carrie Harris Phillips, Director of University Marketing and Communications. Join them as they reminisce on days in college together, television, and the role of the community and university. It's another fun interview for Alethes and ATU today!2022-03-07T12:38:00-07:002022-03-07T12:38:47-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:938The Spotlight: ATU Week - Dr. Daniel Belongia and Cass Capan-HouselyIn the second interview of The Spotlight's ATU Week 2021, Drew sits down with Cass-Capan Housely and Arkansas Tech Director of Bands, Dr. Dan Belongia.2022-03-07T12:35:00-07:002022-03-07T12:37:05-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:937The Spotlight: Eli CranorEli Cranor has found success in nearly aspect of his life; fatherhood, football and writing. But the success didn't come easy, and he draws on that for inspiration. Hear him discuss his upcoming book "Don't Know Tough" and more today on "The Spotlight."2022-03-07T12:33:00-07:002022-03-07T12:34:21-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:936The Spotlight: Bethany BrattonThis week Alethes Realty is putting an emphasis on CASA, (Court Appointed Special Advocates). Coming up later this week is Genney Baker, and today we feature Bethany Bratton, representing the 5th Judicial District. Their job is to be the voice of children in less than desirable situations, and Bratton explains, the role can be challenging. That's today on "The Spotlight."2022-03-07T12:31:00-07:002022-03-07T12:31:34-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:935The Spotlight: Shane HillisThe host of KWKK 100.9's morning show, Shane Hillis is a relative newcomer to the broadcasting scene. His poise, natural talent and charisma has made him a local favorite in short order. But this wasn't the plan he started with. Hear how he fell into broadcasting and listen as he and Drew discuss the mentorship of Johnny Story today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T12:29:00-07:002022-03-07T12:29:48-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:934The Spotlight: Mayor Richard Harris ReturnsIn his second appearance on The Spotlight, Mayor Harris discusses new reports of Russellville growth, the Arkansas Bike Festival and the upcoming commemoration of September 11th.2022-03-07T12:26:00-07:002022-03-07T12:28:07-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:933The Spotlight: Sam Allbright and Josh Cannon - Allnight Music FestSam Allbright returns to The Spotlight along side Josh Cannon to discuss Saturday's "Sam Allnight Music Festival" and the all new "American Cowboy" album set to release Monday.2022-03-07T12:24:00-07:002022-03-07T12:25:20-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:932The Spotlight: Brian WilsonBrian Wilson is Russellville's "Renaissance Man," from teaching martial arts to history and delving into the world of podcasting, Wilson has helped create an eclectic community within Russellville. Hear his story today on "The Spotlight."2022-03-07T12:22:00-07:002022-03-07T12:22:58-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:931The Spotlight: Richard SetianRichard Setian has worn many hats over the last few years, among them the hat of Fire Marshal for the city of Russellville. He spoke with The Spotlight today to discuss new building codes, the streamlined process, and why he loves this city.2022-03-07T12:12:00-07:002022-03-07T12:21:36-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:930The Spotlight: Nik and SamNik and Sam have made their names known in the Nashville scene, but before dreams of the bright lights of Music City came the grind of making it. Hear their story about going from Dover to Nashville plus, a special performance in studio! It's a fun episode of The Spotlight!2022-03-07T12:10:00-07:002022-03-07T12:11:31-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:929The Spotlight: Ryan HarmonAhead of his appearance at "Downtown at Sundown," former American Idol contestant Ryan Harmon sits down with Alethes to discuss coming up in the area and making it out in Nashville.2022-03-07T09:49:00-07:002022-03-07T09:50:20-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:928The Spotlight: Breanne DavisState Senator Breanne Davis stops by The Spotlight to discuss life in Russellville, and the pressures of balancing mom-life with political life.2022-03-07T09:44:00-07:002022-03-07T09:45:06-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:927The Spotlight: Harry Komprood and Rex SurretteHarry Komprood and Rex Surrette join Alethes Realty's The Spotlight to discuss the upcoming fishing tournament at Lake Dardanelle, and also the functions of the DAV, and how veterans can receive benefits they may not know about. All this and more today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T09:42:00-07:002022-03-07T09:43:19-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:926The Spotlight: Kristin PearsonMain Street Russellville has a myriad of volunteers and two staff members that work tirelessly to create an amazing downtown atmosphere in Russellville. One such staff member is Kristin Pearson, the engine behind MSR. Hear her story today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T09:40:00-07:002022-03-07T09:41:12-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:925The Spotlight: Kristy WilliamsThe River Valley United Way is a driving force behind much of the non-profit work in the area. The person behind that driving force is Kristy Williams, and she shared her vision with Drew today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T09:39:00-07:002022-03-07T09:39:35-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:924The Spotlight: Christie GrahamChristie Graham loves Russellville, and as the director of the Russellville Tourism and Visitor's Center, she wanted to find a way to convey it. Not only did she accomplish that, but the community bought in. Hear the conversation about love of community between Christie and Drew today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T09:36:00-07:002022-03-07T09:37:55-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:923The Spotlight: Jenny RileyAn often overlook conversation in the river valley is the plight of some senior citizens. Jenny Riley from the Area Agency on Aging discusses some of those issues that sometimes get overlooked, and what her organization is doing to help.2022-03-07T09:34:00-07:002022-03-07T09:35:20-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:922The Spotlight: Will PrewittWill Prewitt's fascinating take on sports goes far beyond his experience as GAC Commissioner. He's also a high school football official and Dardanelle basketball public address announcer. Listen to his take on the state of high school and college sports today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T09:32:00-07:002022-03-07T09:33:13-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:921The Spotlight: Rick SmithRick Smith's professional gospel singing debut occurred with one of the most prominent singers of the era in front of 9,000 people. His journey would lead him into the gospel music world, a pastorate and even the theatre. Hear his remarkable story today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T09:30:00-07:002022-03-07T09:31:02-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:920The Spotlight: Shane JonesLaw enforcement wasn't on the mind of Shane Jones when he was growing up in Yell County. In fact, he wanted to be a music star. But an encounter with the late Jay Winters changed all of that. Hear his story today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T09:28:00-07:002022-03-07T09:29:13-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:919The Spotlight: Emily YoungFrom surviving cancer to delivering pizzas, Emily Young has seen a wide spectrum of events in her life. The owner of three local businesses downtown shares her story of entrepreneurial ambition, to becoming a newlywed on today's edition of The Spotlight.2022-03-07T09:26:00-07:002022-03-07T09:27:20-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:918The Spotlight: Justin and Amberlee WesselhoftAfter Justin and Amberlee Wesselhoft decided to purchase the former Maxx Nutrition, they knew their lives would change. But their story of changing careers, moving back to the area and making a difference in Russellville is much more than the gym. Hear from the owners of the new Hoft's Maxx Nutrition today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T09:23:00-07:002022-03-07T09:24:49-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:917The Spotlight: Lucas SkaggsNew Dardanelle Athletic Director Lucas Skaggs discusses taking over the prestigious Dardanelle athletic department, his background and more in today's edition of The Spotlight.2022-03-07T09:21:00-07:002022-03-07T09:22:33-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:916The Spotlight: Eddie MeadorAfter graduating from Russellville High School in 1955, Eddie Meador was certain a life in the military was for him. But after getting drafted to the Los Angeles Rams in 1959, his life took an unexpected turn. The Rams all-time interceptions leader joins today for a look at life, football and Russellville on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T09:19:00-07:002022-03-07T09:20:31-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:915The Spotlight: Mayor Randy TankerslyMayor Randy Tankersly is optimistic about Pottsville's growth potential, and all of the things happening within the ctiy. He sat down with Drew Brent today on The Spotlight.2022-03-07T09:17:00-07:002022-03-07T09:18:34-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:914The Spotlight: Keith StokesKeith Stokes and his family are firmly rooted in Yell County, known for their farming heritage and community involvement. But their statewide recognition comes from taking care of the state's most beloved mascot, Tusk. Hear the story of how it all happened and what Razorback gameday looks like for the Stokes' on today's edition of The Spotlight.2022-03-07T09:15:00-07:002022-03-07T09:16:47-07:00Sara Alvistag:russellvilleliving.com,2012-09-20:913The Spotlight: Marshunda JonesWith record high temperatures forecasted for the next few days, Entergy's Marshunda Jones joins us to give us tips on how we can be more energy efficient in the hottest part of the year.2022-03-07T09:14:00-07:002022-03-07T09:14:29-07:00Sara Alvis