Photo by Liz Chrisman
Even though she was born in California, and spent several years growing up in Atlanta, Arkansas State Senator Breanne Davis considers Russellville her hometown after 30 years.
She and husband John-Paul Davis will soon celebrate their 18th year anniversary. They have four children: Riley (14), Darby (11), Blaze (10) and Everly (4).
1. What is your favorite book and why?
It is hard to pick just one favorite but I can pick a few favorites that I’ve read this year. The Woman They Could Not Silence by Kate Moore, Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl, anything by Kelly Rimmer, and The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson.
2. What do you think is the most positive aspect of living in the River Valley?
The small town feel. People are still connected in a way that we are starting to see less of in our world. Someone is always willing to help or give of themselves and it usually takes just one phone call.
3. What’s something no one would ever guess about you?
I played alto saxophone for almost 20 years and loved it. Playing saxophone was something I wanted to do from the time I was in first grade and living in Atlanta. A lady in my church played and I thought it was the most beautiful instrument.
4. What’s your favorite music genre and artist? Why?
I grew up in the 80’s and 90’s so it’s hard not to love that music considering it’s the best of all time. I love music based on mood or task at hand so my choices are usually changing. I love 90’s hip hop and Eminem to get pumped up or focused. I also love the band Joseph and their song White Flag.
5. If you could change one thing about the River Valley, what would it be?
I wish we would fight less. It overshadows all the amazing things we are doing.
6. Where is the one location in the River Valley you would tell a first-time visitor that they must go?
Definitely Mt. Nebo! You can’t beat the sunset or the calming beauty on Mt. Nebo.
7. Pizza, tacos, cheeseburger, or fried chicken? Any particular reason why?
Well, considering pizza, tacos, and cheeseburgers are three of my top food groups, this is a hard question. I’d have to say tacos because that always includes cheese dip and salsa and I NEVER say no to cheese dip and salsa.
8. What is your favorite quote?
I collect quotes and have so many I love. A standing favorite is a quote by Martin Niemoller:
“First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.”
That quote is a powerful reminder to fight for people, even when it’s hard or scary.
9. If you could choose to be anything, what would that be and why?
This is an impossible question. I like to say if I had nine lives, then I could fill them each with something entirely different. I love my life and what I’m doing but there are so many things that are interesting to me, and in another life, I’d love to do.
10. What is your five-year goal from today?
I’ve never been a five-year goal or even a two or three-year goal kind of person. I think that lends itself to missing opportunities for things I would have never considered had I been focused on a multi-year plan. My motto is to do the best I can with what’s in front of me today so when an opportunity arises-regardless of how far- fetched it might be-I’ll be ready for it.
