February 2019 by 501 LIFE

2 | 501 LIFE February 2019

YOUR Hometown

Cardiologists

Bradley R. Hughes, M.D. | Eric J. Robinson, M.D. | Katherine J. Durham, M.D. Leon R. Blue, M.D. | David M. Evans, M.D.

Phone:

(501) 279-9393 After Hours: (501) 268-4161 Hours: Mon - Fri | 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

711 Santa Fe Dr. â&#x20AC;¢ Searcy

Unity-Health.org

501 LIFE

EDITOR'S NOTE

OWNERS Donna Spears, Sonja J. Keith EDITOR Sonja J. Keith

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Donna Spears

ART DIRECTORS Jennifer Godwin and Nick Walker ASSOCIATE EDITOR Levi Gilbert PHOTO DIRECTOR Mike Kemp

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Tom Keith CONTRIBUTORS Donna Benton Don Bingham Kellie Bishop Tanner Cangelosi Brittany Gilbert Laurie Green Linda Henderson Vivian Hogue Megan Ledbetter Karl Lenser Mark McDonald Mark Oliver

Todd Owens Bill Patterson John Patton Susan Peterson Dr. Robert Reising Robin Richards Jan Spann Donna Lampkin Stephens Callie Sterling Jaison Sterling Katelin Whiddon

FAULKNER COUNTY EDITORIAL BOARD

On Friday, March 15, UCA’s Main Stage will present “Pete the Cat” for school groups during the day and at a public performance at 6 p.m. The program is based on a popular book series by Kimberly and James Dean. For more information and to order tickets, visit uca.edu/Reynolds.

Art treasures in the 501 In this month’s edition of 501 LIFE, we are excited to be focusing on “A heart for the arts.” We are all about any opportunity to celebrate those “501 treasures” that add so much to the quality of life we enjoy in Central Arkansas. While there are other “art treasures,” we recognize two in particular in this issue – the Conway Symphony Orchestra (CSO) and the wonderful programs offered through the University of Central Arkansas Reynolds Performance Hall.

CONWAY SYMPHONY If you have not attended a CSO concert, you are really missing out! Led by music director and conductor Israel “Izzy” Getzov, the orchestra features a diverse group of talented musicians (Pages 42-43) who perform at wonderful concerts throughout the year. Few communities the size of Conway have such a vibrant and talented orchestra. In addition to its regular concert schedule, the orchestra’s outreach program, called CSO on the Go program (Pages 44-45), provides other opportunities in the community to enjoy beautiful music. 501 LIFE is proud to serve as a media sponsor with the CSO. The orchestra’s next concert is coming up at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, at UCA’s Reynolds Performance Hall. Be sure to check it out! (For more information, visit conwaysymphony.org.)

UCA’S MAIN STAGE In keeping with our theme and in celebration of UCA’s Reynolds, we selected director Amanda Horton as this month’s Person of the Month (Page 82). Amanda is a passionate and committed advocate 4 | 501 LIFE February 2019

for the arts who is lending her talent and skills to promote the arts through Reynolds and other community organizations. In 2015, Amanda started the Main Stage EdUCAtion Series at Reynolds as a way to provide access to performing arts to Central Arkansas schoolchildren. All shows are designed to ignite children’s imagination, enhance their learning experience and reinforce educational curriculum. They are performed by national and international touring, professional artists. Main Stage shows are scheduled during the school day to accommodate student field trips. What we find important and incredible is that for many of these students, Main Stage is their first experience with a live theatre production. In its first year, Main Stage served 5,000 students, and the program has continued to grow with 10,000 students and more than 40 schools attending performances last year. Many of the districts have a greater than 50 percent low income students. Amanda, her incredible team and the Reynolds Community Council work to raise money for Main Stage to keep ticket prices affordable. Free tickets are also available for those who can’t afford it. For more information on all of the performances at UCA’s Reynolds and the Main Stage program, visit uca. edu/Reynolds. Main Stage is an outstanding program, and 501 LIFE is proud to support it. Without a doubt, Amanda and our CSO friends have a big heart for the arts, and we are excited to celebrate them in this edition. Until next month, here’s to “Loving LIFE” and the arts in the 501!

Johnny Adams Jack Bell Don Bingham RaeLynn Callaway Glenn Crockett Kay Dalton Beth Franks Russ Hancock Spencer Hawks athilda at eld Roe Henderson Jerry Hiegel Mike Kemp Julie LaRue

Karl Lenser Monica Lieblong Lori Melton Kiera Oluokun Deanna Ott Pat Otto Jon Patrom Amy Reed Lori Ross Margaret Smith Jan Spann Kim Tyler Jennifer Whitehead

CONWAY COUNTY EDITORIAL BOARD Mary Clark Shelli Crowell Dr. Larry Davis Shawn Halbrook Alicia Hugen Alisha Koonce

Stephanie Lipsmeyer Stewart Nelson Kristi Strain Jim Taylor Morgan Zimmerman

WHITE COUNTY EDITORIAL BOARD Betsy Bailey Tara Cathey Cassandra Feltrop Phil Hays Natalie Horton Matt LaForce

Hannah Owens Mike Parsons Brooke Pryor Carol Spears Kristi Thurmon

To subscribe or order back issues, visit www.501lifemag.com. The subscription rate is $20 for one year (12 issues). 501 Advertising and Publishing 701 Chestnut St. Conway, Ark. 72032 501.327.1501 info@501lifemag.com

501 LIFE is published monthly by 501 Advertising and Publishing (701 Chestnut St., Conway, Ark. 72032, 501.327.1501). The contents of 501 LIFE are copyrighted and materials presented may not be copied or reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publishers. Articles should not be considered speci c advice, as individual circumstances vary. Products and services advertised are not necessarily endorsed by 501 LIFE. 501 LIFE is produced on recycled paper.

CONTENTS

February 2019

Volume 11 Issue 10

features&departments 32 Feature

Gene and Nicole Hatfield had a unique love story, which lives on through their children and all who knew them.

On the cover

In this month’s edition, 501 LIFE is celebrating “A heart for the arts” with a cover story featuring the Conway Symphony Orchestra (Pages 42-45), its diversity and how the musicians – like Selva Aliss of Bolivia – are sharing their talents “on the go.” (Mike Kemp photo)

46 Health

In many ways, 2018 was a good year for innovation in Conway Regional Medical Center’s cardiac services.

52 Home

Jim and Julie Martin are enjoying farm life near Wooster and their modern-day homestead.

neighbors 24 Couples

UACCM instructors Lyndsey Daniel and Bobby Keeton have a passion for teaching and enjoy traveling.

26 Youth

Greenbrier High School’s Justin Cupit has a dream of a singing career.

30 Morrilton

UACCM’s Dr. Larry Davis is retiring after a career in education that has spanned more than 40 years.

34 Maumelle

After 12 years in office, Mike Watson has turned over the reins to a new mayor.

36 Mayflower

Over the past 17 years, schoolteacher Tonya Hogue has inspired countless young minds.

82 Person of the month

As director of the UCA Reynolds Performance Hall, Amanda Horton is working to ensure young people have access to the arts.

regulars 4 8-9 10-17 50-57 82

'501 KIDS' 501 LIFE contributors Kellie Bishop and Brittany Gilbert have great tips in the 501 Kids section (Pages 62-64). Have a story idea or a young person you would like to see featured? Send suggestions to info@501lifemag. com.

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LIFE pics 18-22

Editor’s Note Calendar Loving LIFE Home Person of the month

501 LIFE would like to thank its advertising partners for their continued support and encourage our readers to support these businesses:

501 LIFE is you!

twitter.com /501lifemag

B Bledsoe Chiropractic, 47

C facebook.com /501lifemag

Central Arkansas Pediatrics, 63 Conway Corporation, 29 Conway Regional Health System, 83 Conway Regional Rehab, 58 Conway Symphony Orchestra, 44 Crain Automotive, 25

D DJM Orthodontics, 27 Daisy-A-Day Florist & Gifts, 55 Downtown Conway, 23

E Edward Jones, 21

F First Security Bank, 84 First Service Bank, 13 Freyaldenhoven Heating and Cooling Inc., 35

H Hartman Animal Hospital, 81 Harwood, Ott & Fisher, PA, 59 Heritage Living Center, 5 Hiegel Supply, 67

Get “LIFE” at home! For a limited time, 501 LIFE is offering a special subscription rate for new subscribers - have the magazine delivered to your home for only $20 for one year, $40 for two years. While the magazine is distributed through more than 700 locations in Central Arkansas, copies go fast. Home delivery ensures readers they won’t miss a single issue. Readers can visit 501lifemag.com or call 501.327.1501 to subscribe.

Tune in at 12:30 p.m. the last Tuesday of each month to KARK Channel 4 for a segment on the current issue of 501 LIFE.

Writers’ Room

J Julie’s Sweet Shoppe & Bakery, 37

L Luxury Pool & Spa, 53

M Magie Smith Charton Eye Clinic, 56

N Northwestern Mutual Insurance, 37

O Ott Insurance, 51

P Patterson Eye Care, 67

S Salem Place Nursing and Rehab, 2 Salter Properties, 57 Shelter Insurance, 33 St. Joseph Schools, 39

T The BridgeWay, 33

U Unity Health, 3, 31 University of Arkansas Community College Morrilton, 26 University of Central Arkansas, 45 UCA Reynolds Performance Hall, 73

W Wilkinson’s Mall, 33

5 501 LIFE, 79

Donna Benton has lived in Greenbrier for nearly 25 years. She enjoys most the small town culture and community in the 501. “But most of all, my friends and family are here and that is what makes it home!” Donna attended Louisiana State University in her home state and said most people probably don’t know that she was a rock climber, whitewater kayaker and a backpacking guide. “My husband, Joey Benton, is a lifetime Greenbrier guy, and our boys, Joseph and Ben, graduated from or currently attend Hendrix College.” Donna, who writes Home features for 501 LIFE, describes herself as a “maker.” “In my business, I design with vintage furniture, but I guess that is my hobby too! I love the whole process from discovering one-of-a kind pieces on adventurous buying trips to creating fabulous rooms where every element has a story.” To contact Donna, email donna@ waterhousemarket.com. Check out her blog on waterhousemarket. com and follow her on Instagram @ waterhousemarket and Facebook at WaterHouse Market.

Equal parts dreamer and doer, Jennifer Godwin has been with 501 LIFE since the beginning, helping with the visual look of the magazine, down to the logo. A former editor, digital strategist and communications manager, she now does public relations in Memphis. She can be reached at jennifercg@gmail.com.

Nick Walker has been designing 501 LIFE since the first issue. Longtime residents of the 501, Nick and his wife, Jennifer, moved to Memphis in 2017 where he works for the City of Memphis.

A North Little Rock resident since 2014, Callie Blair Sterling graduated in 2009 from North Little Rock High School and the University of Central Arkansas in 2013 with a degree in journalism. “Central Arkansas has so much to offer!” Callie loves to take road trips with her husband, Jaison, playing with their dogs (Marley, Myla and Happy), scrapbooking and CrossFit. Most people probably don’t know that Callie lived in Germany and also had a serious ATV accident in 2005. “It is a miracle that I am alive today. God truly saved my life and today I hope to be an advocate for others who are traumatic brain injury survivors and help raise awareness about the cause.” To contact Callie, email jc@ sterlingimageworks. Follow her on Instagram @sterlingimageworks and on Facebook at Sterling Imageworks.

February 2019 501lifemag.com | 7

NEWS/NOTES

February S 3

M 4

T 5

W 6

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10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Bethlehem House, a transition shelter and program helping the homeless, is hosting its annual Valentine’s Gala from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 1, at oneChurch, 1073 Front St. in Downtown Conway. Donations and sponsorships are being sought. For more information, call 501.329.4862 or email bhouse@ conwaycorp.net. The Faulkner County Circle of Friends chapter, a group supporting Arkansas Children’s Hospital, will host its Sixth Annual Freezin’ for a Reason 5K and 10K and Lap for Life on Saturday, Feb. 2, at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School. The race was initiated as a way to honor the memories of Charlotte and Stella Mulhearn, two Conway children who received treatment at Arkansas Children’s. To register for the race or for more information, visit freezin4areason.org. For sponsor information, contact Karil Greeson at freezin4areason@yahoo.com or 501.450.0512. Reynolds Performance Hall at the University of Central Arkansas has several events scheduled throughout February: Kinky Boots – Monday, Feb. 4. We Shall Overcome – Monday, Feb. 11. Travis Tritt – Thursday, Feb. 14. Steel Magnolias – Friday, Feb. 22. All performances are at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $30-$40 for adults and $10 for children and students and may be purchased at uca.edu/Reynolds, at the Reynolds Box Office from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday or by calling UCA Ticket Central at 501.450.3265 or 866.810.0012. The Conway Symphony Orchestra will present “From the New World” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, at Reynolds Performance Hall at the University of Central Arkansas. Those attending will discover Dvorak’s “New World Symphony.” For more information and to order tickets, visit conwaysymphony. org. The 2019 Polar Plunge benefitting Special Olympics will be held Saturday, Feb. 9, at Woolly Hollow State Park near Greenbrier. Registration is at 11 a.m., with a dessert auction at noon, awards/ parade at 12:30 and the plunge at 1 p.m. For more information, contact Brenda Dowdy at 501.450.0395 or holtb42@yahoo.com, or visit specialolympicsarkansas.org. The 17th Annual “Beast Feast” Sportsman’s Banquet, a fellowship for men and boys, is planned Saturday, Feb. 9, at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds. For more information, visit BeastFeastArkansas.com. 8 | 501 LIFE February 2019

Lou Holtz, a legendary football coach and ESPN analyst, will present a lecture at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 7, in Reynolds Performance Hall at the University of Central Arkansas. Holtz has established himself as one of the most successful college football coaches of all time. He also has authored three New York Times best-selling books and produced four highly acclaimed motivational videos. Visit uca.edu/Reynolds or call 501.450.3265 or 866.810.0012 for information and tickets. The presentation is sponsored by 501 LIFE. A Valentine’s Day Gala is planned Thursday, Feb. 14, at the Fairfield Bay Conference Center, with a social hour at 5:30 p.m. and plated dinner at 6 p.m. Entertainment will be provided by Sean Sikes Band. Tickets are $35 in advance and $45 at the door. For more information, visit FairfieldBayConferenceCenter.com or call 501.884.4202. The Cabot Chamber of Commerce will present its 2019 Bowling for Business at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 19, at Allfam Bowling. Entry for the five-person team is $200, which includes shoe rental, a lane for two games and prizes. For more information, call 501.843.2136. The Fourth Annual Walk for Wheezy will be held 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 24, at Cabot Panther Stadium. Walk for Wheezy is a non-profit organization created to raise funds and awareness for Arkansas Children’s Hospital during a community-wide event held in memory of Eloise Ann Owen. For more information, email walkforwheezy@gmail.com. The 17th Annual Maumelle Business Expo, featuring a State of the City Luncheon, is planned Thursday, Feb. 28, at Jess Odom Community Center, 1100 Edgewood Dr. The luncheon will be held at noon and include a presentation on the city’s accomplishments and future plans. Tickets are $15 each. The free expo is planned 2 to 6 p.m. and will feature more than 70 exhibitors and hundreds of door prizes. Those attending can register to win $500. For more information, call 501.851.9700 or visit maumellechamber.com.

Laurels and Stripes UCA to honor two on March 30 The biggest party of the year? It’s a distinct possibility. The University of Central Arkansas will host Laurels and Stripes, a scholarship fundraiser, at 7 p.m., Saturday, March 30, in the UCA HPER Center. Organizers promise it’s a Night of Distinction never seen before — celebrating distinguished alumni, supporting scholarships and changing lives, all while enjoying the Memphis Soul Revue. Tickets are on sale now at laurelsandstripes.com. The event will honor two exceptional individuals, the 2019 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients Elizabeth “Liz” Blankenship and Dr. Barbara Williams. Distinguished Alumni Award recipients are recognized for outstanding contribution to the university, community, state or society; outstanding achievement in a particular field of endeavor; possessing a reputation that enhances the reputation of the university and serves as an example to UCA students; and contributing to the goals or the welfare of the university. Contact Beth Adair at badair@uca.edu or 501.450.3378 for sponsorship information. 501 LIFE is a sponsor of the event.

ELIZABETH BLANKENSHIP She is an entrepreneur, innovator and caregiver. Elizabeth (Liz) Blankenship’s career spans more than 40 years with dedicated service to the creation and support of quality healthcare and assisted living facilities for seniors. Blankenship’s education at the University of Central Arkansas began Elizabeth “Liz” Blankenship in an unusual way. After her husband was transferred to the Little Rock Air Force Base from Wichita, Kan., Blankenship was fearful she would not be able to finish her nursing education. However, she was able to transfer into an innovative program offered at UCA to complete her initial nursing degree in 1975. Blankenship lives by the motto, “Never, never, never give up.” She continued her education at the University of Texas at Arlington while working full time in Muskogee, Okla., raising two teenagers, taking 30 hours a semester and making weekly trips to Texas to attend classes. She graduated from UTA with a BSN in 1988. During this time, she also co-authored “Patient Education in Home Care,”

published by Aspen Publishers Inc. in 1988. Upon her return to Arkansas in 1992, she purchased an 11-bed residential care facility in Heber Springs. This move further ignited her passion for a career providing care for seniors, especially those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. As a registered nurse, and owner and operator of assisted living communities, Blankenship focused on a commitment to quality. This commitment was first and foremost in designing and creating the programs at the four assisted living facilities she developed, owned and operated in Arkansas with her daughters, both of whom are UCA alumnae. She utilized the Four Quality Measures developed by the National Center of Assisted Living (NCAL), dedicated to the concept of person-centered care. She served on the NCAL Quality Committee for several years. Blankenship designed and built the first assisted living, home-style cottages in Arkansas to ensure each resident had a private apartment in a cozy homelike environment. The cottages enable the residents to remain as independent as possible while providing needed assistance. These cottages ensured person-centered living and allowed the facilities to meet customer satisfaction at 98 percent. Three of her four facilities received National Bronze Quality awards. The Heber Springs facility also won the Arkansas Governor’s Quality Award. Blankenship was one of the first NCAL state leaders representing Arkansas. NCAL’s leadership allowed her to mentor other state leaders. And as clinical advisor, she assisted the industry in adapting to the increasing acuity levels with policies, programs and education to meet NCAL’s Four Quality goals. She was a 2015 national convention participant in the Nursing Leaders Round Table: Tips From Dynamic Leaders. As an advocate for quality care for seniors, she has served on numerous boards and committees. In response to new licensure procedures for long-term care by the 2001 Arkansas Legislature, she served on the Arkansas Department of Health committee on Long Term Care to assist in writing the rules and regulations that govern assisted living programs today. Additionally, Blankenship was the first president of the Arkansas Assisted Living Board of Directors, serving for six years, while also serving on the Arkansas Health Care Association Board (AHCA) for 13 years. This year, she received the AHCA’s prestigious George O. Jernigan Award in recognition of her service and contributions to the long-term care industry. Blankenship has also served on the Community Advisory Committee for the Hartford Center of Geriatric Nursing Excellence at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and on the Governor’s Alzheimer’s Task Force under former Gov. Mike Beebe and Gov. Asa Hutchinson. Blankenship was named a Conway Business Woman of the Year in 2015. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Nursing

Honor Society and a certified gerontology nurse. She currently serves as a member on the UCA College of Health and Behavioral Sciences Advisory Board and is a continuous advocate for the School of Nursing. Through her generosity, UCA’s Nursing Simulation Lab was equipped with a high-fidelity manikin, as well as cameras, microphones, a control station and other equipment to record student performance. Blankenship retired this year, but she continues to give back. She encourages employees to return to college and continue their nursing education through the tuition reimbursement program she began in her business. She strives to inspire single mothers and encourages them by reiterating her own motto, “Never, never, never give up.” A pioneer for quality assisted living, Blankenship’s impact on the long-term care industry will be felt across the state and region for years to come.

DR. BARBARA WILLIAMS Barbara (Garner) Williams is a retired chairperson of the University of Central Arkansas School of Nursing. Her legacy continues through her students’ impact on healthcare and her continued advocacy for the nursing profession across the state and region. A native of Searcy, Williams came to UCA on the advice of a high school counselor who encouraged her Dr. Barbara Williams to pursue a baccalaureate degree in nursing rather than a diploma from a hospital school. She is grateful for that advice to this day. Williams, a 1971 UCA graduate, received her master’s degree from Texas Woman’s University and her PhD from the University of North Texas. After several years of clinical practice and teaching at a community college, she was appointed to the nursing faculty at UCA in 1978. She assumed the position of chairperson in 1990 and held that position until her retirement in 2016. During her time as chairperson, Williams oversaw significant enrollment growth, several graduate specialty tracks and the development of a new degree program, the Doctor of Nursing Practice. She guided the department in new ways of delivering education, initially teaching graduate courses off-campus, then

UCA continued on Page 59 February 2019 501lifemag.com | 9

LOVING LIFE

Sharing the 501 LIFE spirit

501 readers are enjoying LIFE and sharing their trips and special occasions with others. An overwhelming number of readers are submitting â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loving LIFEâ&#x20AC;? photos for inclusion in the magazine, and every effort is being made to publish them as soon as possible. Headed out on a special trip? Pack a copy of 501 LIFE in your suitcase, snap a photo at your destination and send it to us for publication in a future issue. Have a special occasion or get-together coming up? Take 501 LIFE along, take a photo and send it to us. Photos can be submitted by email to info@501lifemag.com or by mail to Reader Photos, c/o 501 LIFE, 701 Chestnut St., Conway, Ark. 72032. Please include the names of those in the photograph and their hometowns along with contact information. (Sorry, photos will not be returned by mail but can be picked up at the 501 office.) Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loving LIFE.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sonja Keith

Barbara Kirkendoll Mathes of Mayflower (holding the magazine) and 39 of her former classmates were â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loving LIFEâ&#x20AC;? as they enjoyed the 50th year reunion of the Clinton High School Class of 1968, held at the Petit Jean Building in Clinton.

Carlene and Dr. Larry Davis were â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loving LIFEâ&#x20AC;? at Blanchard Springs Caverns over Labor Day weekend. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spending Labor Day weekend at a Mountain View bed and breakfast and listening to local musicians in the square is an annual tradition for us,â&#x20AC;? wrote Larry.

10 | 501 LIFE February 2019

WISH Circle Scholars (from left) Crystal Tucker (2019), Ashanti Wallace (2018/inaugural scholarship recipient) and JoAnne Ray (2019) were â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loving LIFEâ&#x20AC;? at the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s year-end event Dec. 4 at the home of Janette and George Covington. WISH (Women in Support of Hope at Central Baptist College) helps women seeking a college education. The group also honored Lori Melton, outgoing WISH Circle Steering Committee chair. Amy Reed is the incoming chair. For more information, visit cbc.edu/give_to_cbc/ wish_circle.

Blaine (from left), Mary Ann, Charles and Charlotte Freeman were “Loving LIFE” at a reception for Mary Ann as she retired after serving 28 years on the Greenbrier City Council. According to her family, “she took her service on the city council very seriously as she loves the City of Greenbrier and wants to see it move forward as a successful community and great place to live.” (Donna Spears photo)

Mary Salazar (from left), Kaquisha Hughes with baby Kaison and Amber Ledbetter, RN, supervisor of labor and delivery, were “Loving LIFE” and celebrating the first baby born in 2019 at the Conway Regional Women’s Center. Kaison, who was born at 2:33 a.m. Jan. 1, weighed 8 pounds and 5 ounces and was 20 1/2 inches in length at birth. Keitha Holland, a Conway obstetrician/gynecologist, was the delivering physician. There were 1,724 babies born at Conway Regional in 2018, including 132 in December, according to Salazar, RN, director of women’s and infants’ services.

Sacred Heart Catholic School cheerleaders were “Loving LIFE” prior to kicking off the Morrilton Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet: Avery Stobaugh (front, from left), Gabbi Moore, Sydney Koonce, Alex Guinn; Isabella Moore (back), Monica Koch, Lucy Strahin-Moore and Savannah Koonce.

Conway Mayor Bart Castleberry and representatives of the Conway Lions Club and Conway Regional Health System were “Loving LIFE” after the mayor presented a proclamation declaring November as National Diabetes Month and Nov. 14 as World Diabetes Day in the City of Conway. Castleberry hopes to spread citywide awareness of diabetes and its risk factors. He also recognized local efforts to improve the care of people with diabetes. Participating in the presentation were: Conway Regional’s Anni Fuenmayor (from left), Ashley Cornett, Marcus Elliott, the mayor, Rhonda Tosh, Brenda Turner and Kelly Cavanaugh.

Compass Academy Director Courtney Williams recently spoke to the Education as a Profession class at Conway Christian School about working with special needs students. The class is a concurrent credit course offered through the University of Central Arkansas. “Loving LIFE” at the presentation were Jesse Dather (from left), Russell Jackson, Williams, Katie Hall, Maddie Allison and Abby Austin.

Perryville High School teachers Camille Holt, Paula Trafford, Cindy Ault, Donna Price, Donna Cossey, Jamie McEwen and Cheyenne Jordan were “Loving LIFE” as they participated in Red Nose Day to help to raise awareness to end child poverty.

February 2019 501lifemag.com | 11

LOVING LIFE

Employees of Ashley HomeStore, who worked and organized the event, were â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loving LIFEâ&#x20AC;?: Drew Kellums (from left), Beth Jaynes, Adam Peek, Allyson Ellenson, Rochelle Palmer and Doug Duvall.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Loving LIFEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and Hope to Dream Ashley HomeStore in Searcy hosted a free community event in November to raise funds and awareness for the charity Hope to Dream. It is based on the belief that every child should have a good nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep and a bed to call their own. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We believe by helping a child sleep well, they are poised to lead a healthier and more productive life,â&#x20AC;? said Linda Ballard. Ashley HomeStore locations donate a portion of mattress sales to Hope to Dream. Since 2010, the foundation has gifted more than 60,000 children in North America with twin beds for a better nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep. They provide a twin mattress, bed frame, bedding and pillow to a deserving child, who might otherwise suffer the negative physical and emotional effects of sleep deprivation. Twenty children received beds through the Searcy event, which was also sponsored by Orr Nissan and Dalrymple Commercial. The event included a raffle with donated prizes and a free concert by the Central Arkansas band DiamondBack.

12 | 501 LIFE February 2019

Members of the DiamondBack Band were â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loving LIFEâ&#x20AC;? at an event in Searcy: Drew McFarland (from left), Louis Ballard, Tony Garrett, Dustin King and Ernest Skinner.

WELCOME

TO THE FAMILY,

WHITNEY LONG!

We are excited to have Whitney join our team as a Mortgage Loan Officer. Her office is in our Conway South location.

LOVING LIFE

A South Side Baptist Church Mission Team from Damascus took 501 LIFE along as they traveled to Lincoln, Mont.

Corvin Booth of Vilonia, Hannah Scherer of Greenbrier and Elijah Felling of Greenbrier took 501 LIFE along as they competed in the Teen Masters Bowling Championship in Las Vegas.

14 | 501 LIFE February 2019

Somer Robertson took 501 LIFE along to visit the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Live with Kelly and Ryanâ&#x20AC;? set in New York City.

Kiera Oluokun took 501 LIFE along on a trip to Buen Retiro Park in Madrid, Spain.

Marsha McVay (front, from left) and Tina Boyles, both of Lonoke; Sue Slaughter of Lonoke (back) and Sandra Hooper of Conway took 501 LIFE along to Baton Rouge and New Orleans (NOLA) to celebrate NOLA’s tricentennial.

Nicole J took 501 LIFE along as she enjoyed her first WNBA game in Arlington, Texas. She hopes she’s good enough to join the league when she’s older.

Dark 30 Runners from Cabot/Jacksonville took 501 LIFE along to the 2018 Grand Country 5K and Half Marathon at Branson, Mo., in October: Cathy Jarrett (from left), Jessica Evener, Holly Kerr, Terri Rutherford, Rebecca Schiermeyer, Kristy Goossen, Jenny Hicks, Aimee Stepp, Tricia Oxford and Aracely Kattner.

John Fultz of Perryville (from left), Gordon Parham of Perryville, Neil Ford of Overcup and Don Watts of Perryville were “Loving LIFE” at Grand Isle, La.

A Destination Imagination team from Greenbrier took 501 LIFE along for a global competition in Knoxville, Tenn.

Brandon and Pierce Moix were “Loving LIFE” and enjoying sun and surf at Perdido Key, Fla., with grandparents Ray and Nancy Moix.

February 2019 501lifemag.com | 15

LOVING LIFE

Members of the Conway Regional Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Council Steering Committee and Dazzle Daze Committee were â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loving LIFEâ&#x20AC;? while celebrating at an annual Christmas luncheon, held at the Conway Country Club.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loving LIFEâ&#x20AC;? at the inaugural ugly sweater party at Bledsoe Chiropractic in Conway: Jami Witting (from left), Amanda Bledsoe and Susan Skinner.

Students and staff at Anne Watson Elementary School at Bigelow were â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loving LIFEâ&#x20AC;? at the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Second Annual Christmas Run. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We decided to go with a Grinch theme this year,â&#x20AC;? said Principal Amy Jones. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We had over 50 participants and an actual Grinch was there cheering on our kids. We enjoyed bringing the community onto our campus to cheer for and run with our students.â&#x20AC;?

16 | 501 LIFE February 2019

The Newcomersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Club of Conway was â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loving LIFEâ&#x20AC;? at the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s holiday party at the home of Janet Sanders. More than 60 of the 142 members attended. The club is open to any Conway resident who is interested in making new friends and finding new things to do. For more information, call Donna Etchieson at 501.472.8447.

Sixth grade Greenbrier Middle School GLOW girls were “Loving LIFE” as they helped serve the community by donating and filling Christmas food boxes with cake supplies.

Members of the Greenbrier Senior Citizens Center were “Loving LIFE” at a Christmas party at the home of Rhonda and Randy Garrett.

Grayson Gunther was “Loving LIFE” with a copy of the December issue of 501 LIFE, which featured his brother, Hayden, as the Kid of the Month and included a photo of the two.

February 2019 501lifemag.com | 17

Lori Ross (from left), Angie Longing, Abigail Bowden, Susan Gatto and Dot Welch.

Akin Family: Kelli Kersey (front from left), William “Buddy” Akin, Angie Longing, Shannon Todd; Cate Longing (back), Claire Longing, Abigail Bowden and Chase Longing.

Conway Regional hosts Tribute Tree lighting Sonja J. Keith photos

Choir music, selfies with Santa, a gingerbread house decorating contest, hot chocolate and special treats for kids were part of the Conway Regional Tribute Tree lighting event in November. “Often, people come here under more serious circumstances, so we really appreciate the opportunity to invite the community to our campus for some holiday fun,” said Matt Troup, Conway Regional’s president and CEO. “The Tribute Tree lighting has grown to become a community-wide tradition, and we are very appreciative of the support.” The Tribute Tree is presented by the Conway Regional Health Foundation, which has awarded since 1996 more than $300,000 to area students who dream of working in the healthcare field. The foundation relies on funds from the Tribute Tree, physicians, nurses, Dazzle Daze and other private individuals. Three endowed lights were added in 2018 and recognized at the lighting ceremony: In memory of Bob Tyler by Charles Nabholz and Greg Williams. In memory of Loretta Akin by the friends and colleagues of Angie Longing. In honor of Rosanne Johnson by Carolyn De Boer. In honor of the 20th anniversary of the Tribute Tree, children under the age of 12 who donated a book for the “Bookcase for Every Child” Project were entered into a drawing to join Santa as an honorary tree lighter. Emmett Jade Lloyd’s name was drawn. For more information, call 501.513.5778 or visit conwayregional.org/TributeTree. 18 | 501 LIFE February 2019

Greg Williams (left) and Charles Nabholz (right) with the Tyler Family: Richard Tyler (from left), Bobbie Ann Merkel, Theresa Tyler, Jackie Harrell and Janet Steele.

Alan Finley (left) and Matt Troup.

Dexter and Courtney Lloyd with their daughter, Emmett Jade, who was the honorary tree lighter.

Lori Ross (from left), Susan Gatto and Angie Longing. Richard Tyler (left) and Charles Nabholz.

Women in Business award honorees: Andrea Woods (from left), Mona Dixon, Donna Blecher, Laine Berry, Donna Townsell, Sarah Murphy, Vickey Kirkemier, Amy Denton and Kristy Carter.

Conway Corp hosted a breakfast with Sue Kelly and local women: Sancy Faulk (from left), Lori Ross, Andrea Woods, Courtney Corwin, LaTisha Sanders-Jones, Sue Kelly, Crystal Kemp, Shelia Isby, K.K. Bradshaw and Jenny Davis.

Seventh Annual Women in Business Luncheon Nine women were recognized in December by the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce during the Seventh Annual Women in Business Awards Luncheon. Those honored were: Diamond Achievement Award Donna Townsell, Centennial Bank Outstanding Woman in Business Laine Berry, Laine Berry Inc. Donna Blecher, Hilton Garden Inn Amy Denton, Pediatrics Plus Vickey Kirkemier, Salem Place Nursing and Rehab Center Andrea Woods, Nabholz Construction Corporation Outstanding Woman in Nonprofit Kristy Carter, University of Central Arkansas Outreach and Community Engagement Mona Dixon, AETN Sarah Murphy, Conway Human Development Center Sue Kelly, president and chief executive officer of the American Public Power Association and the first woman to hold the position in the Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 76-year history, was the featured speaker. The event was presented by H+N Architects, Conway OBGYN Clinic and Conway Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health Center.

Barbara (from left) and Bruce Sossamon, Donna Townsell, Riley Townsell and Jennifer and Johnny Allison.

Bret Carroll and Sue Kelly.

Dr. Lynne Rich (from left), Angi McDaniel, Jennifer Morehead, Carole Adornetto, Henrietta Vanaman, Mona Dixon, Sara Willis and Karen Cooper.

Mallory Kirkemier (from left), Mallory Kirkemier, Chad Curtis, Dawna Gunther, Vickey Kirkemier, Bonnie Malone, Tina Too, Karen Wardlow, Kevin Reynolds and Sylvier Roddy.

Suzann Floyd (from left), Sabra Porter, Lisa Hegeman, Stefanie Vann and Jennifer Harrison.

John Nahbolz (left), Andrea Woods and Brad Hegeman.

Alan Finley (from left), Richard Tyler, Matt Troup and Bryan Gibbs. February 2019 501lifemag.com | 19

“Loving LIFE” with First Service Bank associates in Greenbrier.

“Loving LIFE” at Edward Jones in West Conway.

“Loving LIFE” at Freyaldenhoven Heating and Cooling Inc.

“Loving LIFE” at Heritage Living Center.

“Loving LIFE” at Conway Corp.

501 LIFE Christmas Surprise 501 LIFE publishers Donna Spears and Sonja Keith enlisted the help of men from the Renewal Ranch ministry in Perry County to spread Christmas cheer among magazine advertisers. Central Baptist College’s Brooks Walthall directed the men in singing Christmas songs, ending with “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” During a stop at the Conway Regional Marketing and Foundation offices, the group was asked to visit the main lobby of the hospital and sing for visitors and staff. Two of the stops were made at local nursing homes, where the group performed for residents as well as staff. “We really appreciate Renewal Ranch’s James Loy, Bryce McGhee and Scott Taylor and everyone who participated for making this possible,” said Sonja. “I think the businesses as well as the men from Renewal Ranch really enjoyed the day. Donna and I did! “I wish we could have visited all of our advertising partners as we greatly appreciate their support throughout the year.” (Visit the 501 LIFE Facebook page to see videos taken during the day.) 20 | 501 LIFE February 2019

“Loving LIFE” at the Conway Regional Marketing and Foundation offices.

“Loving LIFE” at Salem Place Nursing and Rehab.

“Loving LIFE” at First Security Bank in Downtown Conway.

“Loving LIFE” at Bledsoe Chiropractic.

“Loving LIFE” at First Security Bank in North Conway.

Renewal Ranch representatives were “Loving LIFE” at the 501 office.

February 2019 501lifemag.com | 21

LIFE PICS

Wal-Mart Endowed Scholar Mary Corbitt (left) and Debbie Elgen.

Scholarship Fund hosts reception for students and donors The White County Single Parent Scholarship Fund Inc. recently held its 2018 Fall Scholar/Donor Reception in Cone Chapel at Harding University. Dr. Mike Justus gave the keynote address. Thirtysix scholarships were awarded with a combined value of $24,875. In 2018, 52 scholarships were awarded with a combined value of $38,375. Since the organization began awarding scholarships in 1999, 634 scholarships have been awarded with a combined value of $373,824. For more information, contact executive director Dan Newsom at 501.230.2414 or wcspsf.inc@ gmail.com.

Anne Eldridge (left) and United Way of White County Scholar Abby Myers. 22 | 501 LIFE February 2019

Bald Knob Rotary Club Scholar Melissa Meyer (left) and Myrtle Hughes.

Betty T. “Nanga” Martin Scholar Margaret Armentrout and Tom Martin.

Circle J Ranch Scholar Sha’Kyra Hall (from left) with Elaine and Dr. Mike Justus.

Janice Collins (left) and First Security Bank Scholar Tiffany String.

Molly and Larry Kircher with Larry and Molly Kircher Endowed Scholar Demeshia Lockhart (center).

Searcy Civitan Club Scholar Nicole Reed (left) and Janice Collins.

Searcy Rotary Club Scholar Sarah Siler (left) and Irene Gray.

Billy Wayne and Wanda Emde Endowed Scholar Tanya Higgs (from left), Wanda Emde and Kathy Lawson.

February 2019 501lifemag.com | 23

NEIGHBORS couples

HER

Lyndsey Daniel

UACCM instructors Lyndsey Daniel and Bobby Keeton both have a passion for teaching and enjoy traveling. They were married at dawn (facing page) overlooking the historical site of Machu Picchu in Peru in May 2017. (Mike Kemp photo)

HIM

Robert (Bobby) Keeton

NATIVE OF: Fox (Stone County).

NATIVE OF: Morrilton.

WHERE DID YOU GROW UP: Frisco, Texas.

EDUCATION: Bachelor of science and master

EDUCATION: Bachelor of arts and master of arts degrees in English literature,

of science degrees, University of Central Arkansas.

JOB: English instructor at the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton.

JOB: Division chair for technical studies,

University of Arkansas at Fayetteville.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR VOCATION: I’ve always loved reading, so major-

ing in English literature was a joy for me. I had to become a teacher because I majored in English…but luckily I discovered I loved teaching as a graduate assistant at U of A.

PARENTS: Nora Everett of Wooster, and Doug and Kadra Daniel of Fox. COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Century League of Morrilton, Humane Society of

University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR VOCATION: My plan was medical school, but as a graduate assistant I discovered I had a passion for education.

Faulkner Co., Arkansas Community College Conference Board and KC Pet Rescue.

PARENTS: Cindy Kelley of Morrilton, and

HOBBIES/SPECIAL INTERESTS: Reading, traveling, animals (especially dogs)

Randy and Mater Keeton of Morrilton.

and trying not to fall down.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF: I just try to balance hard work and social responsibility with lots of fun. I love to see, do and learn new things.

WHAT IS ONE THING PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU: I have visited

about the same number of countries in the world as I have states in the U.S.

MOST ENJOYED WEEKEND ACTIVITY: I love exploring a new place with my husband and dogs and enjoying time with friends.

WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO: “Outside of a dog, a book is man’s best friend. Inside of a dog, it’s too dark to read.” – Groucho Marx WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT LIVING IN THE 501: I really appreciate

the accessibility to both beautiful scenery and cultural activities. I also love that the climate includes a bit of all four seasons. And cheese dip.

24 | 501 LIFE February 2019

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Fayetteville Shale Scholarship Committee.

HOBBIES/SPECIAL INTERESTS: Remodeling projects, cooking, craft beer and helping Lyndsey when she falls down.

WHAT IS ONE THING PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU: It’s probably best we keep it that way.

MOST ENJOYED WEEKEND ACTIVITY: I like exploring new places with my wife and spending time with friends.

THEM

CITY: Morrilton.

HOW WE MET: We were both instructors at UACCM together for years. Mutual respect turned into a solid friendship, which turned into a romance. THE PROPOSAL: Bobby proposed at the

Arlington Hotel in Hot Springs. The proposal was simple and private. Bobby put his grandmother’s ring, which his mother gave him for yndsey, on her nger. e was nervous, said a lot and forgot to actually ask. She said yes anyway.

WEDDING BELLS: The couple married

at dawn overlooking the historical site of Machu Picchu in Peru in May 2017. Lyndsey and a colleague have led overseas trips for students and community members for nearly 10 years. That year, Bobby decided to join Lyndsey on one of these trips to the Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu. The couple were engaged at this time and had planned on a private ceremony on Petit Jean Mountain. One day, prior to leaving for Machu Picchu, Lyndsey said to Bobby, “Hey. If you want to get married on a mountain, we are visiting an awesome one….” Lyndsey’s colleague happened to be ordained, and the spontaneity and low fuss of a uick ceremony at achu icchu t both their sensibilities. The couple exchanged rings they purchased in a street market in Peru, the bride and groom both wore hiking shoes, and the bride’s owers were generously provided by her travel mates and their hotel lobby.

PETS: Ren, 6-year-old half terrier and half

we will have to let you know when the DNA test comes back; and Rey, 1-year-old half Beagle and half nose. Both are from rescue organizations.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES ENJOYED TOGETHER: We love to travel. One of our

favorite adventures, besides our wedding trip to The Galapagos and Peru, of course, was a recent trip to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, the Black Hills, and the Badlands national parks. We also enjoy hosting our friends for food and fun on the weekends. We own a small business, LK Remodeling and Construction. We remodel local homes and are currently building our own.

February 2019 501lifemag.com | 25

NEIGHBORS greenbrier

Chasing a dream Greenbrier teen pursues music career by Dwain Hebda

At an age when many of his classmates are thinking about who they want to ask to homecoming or the senior prom, Justin Cupit dreams about his peers dancing to his music at those functions. Cupit, a 17-year-old senior at Greenbrier High School, has been singing since middle school, and his combination of simple, down-home lyrics and catchy melodies has caught the attention of music producers from LA to Nashville. “I got started singing at our old church,” he said. “We had a children’s program there, and we did a bunch of singing in it. I guess that’s where my interest kind of started. My sister sang a lot around the house, and over time I just got hooked into it.” In December 2015, Cupit found himself in LA where his sister Brittni was recording a song of her own. Justin amused himself by singing and humming off to the side, which caught the ear of the producer who asked him to get behind the mic. He wound up recording a cover tune, and he was on his way. In the time since, Cupit has written and recorded a number of songs, signed on with a vocal coach and is working on a country music album. “I usually have a big range of music genres that I listen to,” he said. “I sing country music so mainly my influences come from country. Luke Combs, he’s been on the scene for a little bit, he makes the type of music I want to make. I’ve always listened to George Strait and Hank Jr., kind of the older country, too.” Cupit writes most of his own music, although

Seventeen-year-old Justin Cupit, a senior at Greenbrier High School, has been singing since middle school and is pursuing a music career. he’s also very receptive to taking direction, such as when he was in Nashville recording his latest single, “Papa Drivin’ Home.” There, he worked with seasoned session musicians who were a big help refining

the final product. “I do write most of mine, but it’s not just me. I do have a team effort,” he said. “My dad will help a lot, and we’ve had several other people help us write

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Justin submitted online for The Voice on NBC and was picked to try out Jan. 15, 2017, at Music City Center in Nashville. He auditioned as a country singer, but unfortunately wasn’t picked.

the music. “Some of my songs are not really about me. It’s like a story. It’s not technically about my life. Like, I have a song ‘My Truck’; it was just kind of a goofy song. It wasn’t really about anything.” Having a music video on YouTube and a single on iTunes is great, but it doesn’t totally insulate Cupit from the everyday pressures and problems of any other teenager, he said. “There’s the kids that are kind of ‘Oh, hey, this is cool. He’s living out what he wants to do,’” Cupit says of his peers. “And then there are the kids that are going to make fun of you for what you do. They bring it up just to mess with you. There’s a fine line at school between those that actually want to root

you on and the others that just want to drag you down.” Whether he’s up or down, Cupit looks to his family and his faith to keep him grounded and happy. “I’ve got the best parents I can honestly ask for,” he said. “They let me be who I want to be, but they don’t want me to go down the wrong path. When it comes down to being a parent and letting me do music, they’re going to watch out for what’s best for me and not let me do something that’s going to ruin my future. “We all go to Bee Branch Baptist Church and we’re very involved there as well. I get most of my roots from church life.” Cupit, a son of Chris and Roseann Cupit, is a multi-talented performer. Before getting into music, he landed several modeling and acting gigs. And, he’s

as driven in the classroom as he is to make it in the entertainment business. This spring, he’ll graduate high school having simultaneously earned an associate’s degree from UA Little Rock. In the fall, he plans to attend the University of Central Arkansas to finish his bachelor’s degree in a discipline other than music, giving him a fallback if singing doesn’t pan out. But don’t look for him to hang up his mic anytime soon. He said between his parents’ support and help from people in the industry, such as recording artist Neal McCoy who’s helping him refine his next project, there’s a lot of music left in him. And wherever this road takes him, it’s been a journey that’s taught him an important life lesson. “Never give up,” he said. “There’ll be plenty of ‘no’s’ in life, but that one ‘yes’ can be the one that changes everything.”

February 2019 501lifemag.com | 27

NEIGHBORS conway

A love of music

UCA student finds success with trombone by Sonja J. Keith

Paden Sharp is a senior at the University of Central Arkansas, majoring in trombone performance. (Mike Kemp photo)

University of Central Arkansas senior Paden Sharp didn’t let a bad note in the sixth grade steer him away from a promising career in music. Paden, 22, is a son of Carey and Gail Sharp. A 2015 graduate of Conway High School, he grew up around music, in his family and at church. “My grandmother was this great church pianist. I remember going to church (in Plumerville) with my grandad and seeing her play there,” he said. “Curiously, my mother, who has no formal training, has a lot of innate ability. I remember growing up around the house, she would just whistle tunes. Over time, I noticed she would never change the key.” It was later in life that he appreciated how much music he grew up around and that it could lead to a career. When the time came around for Conway fifth-graders to try out band and orchestra instruments, Paden was certain he was destined to be a saxophone player. “I just thought it was really cool. I had sort of gotten interested in jazz at that point, so the saxophone seemed like the way to go,” he said. “I made one sound on the instrument, and it was

time went on, my “Asthoughts were more

that maybe I could do something with this. It was during my sophomore or junior year that I thought about doing this for the rest of my life.

”

awful and I put that away. It was like ‘I don’t want anything to do with it.’” Next, his mind settled on the cello, but band director Krista Spainhour suggested he consider a brass instrument. “She said, ‘Come here, you have long arms. Pick up a trombone.’ That’s really the only standard at that age,” Paden said with a laugh. “I picked it up and blew in to it, and she said, ‘Oh, you’ll be an All Stater.’ I told her I didn’t know about that.” Paden said it wasn’t a moment where he considered that he would be playing the trombone the rest of his life but was willing to see how it 28 | 501 LIFE February 2019

would go. During the second semester of sixth grade, Paden was making good progress with the trombone when he began taking lessons with band director Todd Johnson. “It was a gradual process. I had success pretty early on, but I really didn’t know what to do with it, to be quite frank,” he said. “As time went on, my thoughts were more that maybe I could do something with this. It was during my sophomore or junior year that I thought about doing this for the rest of my life.” During All Region band competitions, Paden scored near the top, but he didn’t recognize his potential. “I didn’t realize where I was musically.” He said Dixie Band Camp at UCA during the summer played an important role. In the high school band, he was named All State and played in the honor band. He also had success playing in the school orchestra. Early on, playing the trombone came naturally for Paden and he didn’t practice much. “At that point, it really wasn’t something I was taking that seriously,” he said. “Once I hit high school, it was the big leagues. Especially my sophomore year, I was thinking I have to practice so much because I just want to be successful in this.” At UCA, he studies trombone with Dr. Justin Cook. On a normal school day, he will practice three to four hours in addition to rehearsals. Paden originally thought he might want to be a high school band director. “I didn’t really know what that meant,” he said, adding that when he started school at UCA he considered that he might want

to teach on the college level. “As time went on, I decided I didn’t really want to teach, but I liked to play in an orchestra.” Paden said he thinks some students go to college thinking they want to be a band director and nothing else. “They come to college and realize there are so many other things you can do with music.” As an example, Paden has a friend who is majoring in music at UCA and is planning to go to graduate school to pursue a career in recording technology. “There are so many different facets you can pursue in music, and I don’t think that’s fully realized until you’re in that environment.” Paden’s success on the trombone has continued through college. He plays the tenor, alto and bass trombones. “I’m also taking euphonium lessons to be able to play anything I may need in the orchestral world.” Paden said he likes most the versatility of the trombone. “I feel like the trombone is capable of a lot more than what composers in the 18th century thought we were, especially in early Romantic works,” he said. “Trombones were more or less used for effect and filling out the texture in the more intense and loud moments. As time has progressed, there are a lot more instances where trombones are capable of a lot of resonance and very intimate moments in the orchestra.” In the fall of 2017, Paden began playing with the Conway Symphony Orchestra, an experience he has enjoyed. In May, Paden will receive his bachelor’s degree in music in trombone performance. He feels that UCA has prepared him for the next chapter in his

life and considers the experience “unmatched.” “Within the last five years, UCA has become a very formidable music school and from the looks of it, that’s only going to continue in the coming years.” Paden said he has enjoyed the support, interaction and camaraderie among his fellow musicians at UCA. “Especially in the Trombone Studio, everyone understands that everyone is there to learn and to get better. No one has anything over anybody,” he said. “There are very few places in the nation that you can find that kind of culture. I feel like that speaks to the level of success the Trombone Studio has.” Next, he plans to attend graduate school and is considering programs at the University of the Arts Bern in Switzerland, the Amsterdam Conservatory, Northwestern University in Illinois, Juilliard School in New York City and Columbus State University in Georgia. Auditions are this spring. Ultimately, Paden would like to earn his doctorate. Switzerland is at the top of the list for graduate school. “It’s an amazing countryside, and it’s such a thriving arts country. There is so much to do musically.” Paden sometimes thinks back to that 11-yearold who considered the saxophone and cello before trying out the trombone. “It is a good thing that the saxophone didn’t work out when he was younger. I don’t think I would’ve been nearly as successful on saxophone….I don’t think I would have been led to do music if I had picked the cello or the saxophone. “It was a very gradual thing but over time, I just sort of fell in love with it….I just want to keep getting better at it.”

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February 2019 501lifemag.com | 29

NEIGHBORS morrilton

UACCM Chancellor Dr. Larry Davis and his wife, Carlene, on the college campus. (Mike Kemp photo)

Career of service

UACCM chancellor plans to retire by Sonja J. Keith

Dr. Larry Davis, chancellor at the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton, will retire the end of January, completing a career in education that has spanned more than 40 years. “I have seen too many people wait too late and their retirement years were not what they hoped,” Davis said. “I truly believe God brought me to UACCM to build the Workforce Training Center, and it was finished this past spring. A new Allied Health Building was up next, but that will take a few more years and I would rather be having fun, doing things with my wife, Carlene. We met after I moved to Morrilton, so that was also part of God’s plan for me. She has been retired for several years and that played into my decision as well.” Davis spent the last 45 years in higher education in Oklahoma and Arkansas. He worked at three colleges in two states in three different systems while also being able to evaluate other colleges in other states as a 26year member of the Peer Evaluator Corps. He became the UACCM chancellor in 2010. “I think I saved the best for last. Working at 30 | 501 LIFE February 2019

UACCM in the UA System for the last eight-plus years has been a great opportunity and one of my most satisfying professional experiences.” When he looks back on his time as chancellor, Davis credits UACCM employees for the school’s achievements. “Anything that was accomplished was a ‘we’ thing, never a ‘me’ thing. I was blessed with great people here and a community, a county and a service area full of incredibly supportive people for me and the college. “I tried to be active and visible and make the college a strong partner with the community. The relationships I have with the county superintendents of school are super positive and strong. We genuinely support each other, and there is great unity there. The relationships we have (and I have) with city and county officials are very strong, and we have some awesome industry partners who support us with scholarships and equipment we could not have afforded otherwise. “I hope and believe that the college is viewed as one of the great assets and partners for this area.” Davis said one of his proudest accomplishments was the UACCM Workforce Training Center. The 53,000-square-foot center is home to several of the

college’s high-wage, high-demand programs with new equipment and new program designs to meet current industry standards and needs. “Carlene’s dad was an electrical cooperative lineman and supervisor, and my dad was an auto mechanic, so honoring all the hard-working people who have been a part of our lives and providing future training opportunities for others is particularly personal and very meaningful to us.” Davis said he hopes his successor will love UACCM and the people in the area as he has. “I hope they choose to live here and be active in the community and county. I also hope they keep the momentum going we have with our technical programs and workforce training as well as continue to strengthen the transfer relationships we have with our four-year partners. “Thanks to the leadership of my boss, Dr. Donald R. Bobbitt, the UA system has never been stronger as a system, and I see more benefits for UACCM as that continues. The next chancellor will have the good fortune to have a great boss in Dr. Bobbitt. He has been a great mentor, encourager and friend. I could not have asked for a better boss.”

Gov. Asa Hutchinson cuts the ribbon to officially mark completion of the Workforce Training Center. Davis addresses those attending an open house for the new Workforce Training Center.

Dr. Diana Arn, currently vice chancellor of academic services, has been named interim chancellor, and a search committee of campus faculty/staff and community and business/industry people will be created to interview and recommend possible candidates for the permanent position. Davis will spend his last two days as chancellor attending the UA System Board meetings at UAMS. He and Carlene have several things in mind for retirement. “We plan on getting things around the house ‘decluttered’ and simplified and then do a fun trip every month if we can. We also have a condo at Fairfield Bay and will spend a lot of the summers there, enjoying the pools, the lake and friends with boats.” Davis is appreciative of the support he has received while serving as chancellor. “I just want to say thanks to everyone who has supported and encouraged me the past several years, including the 501 magazine staff. I have been truly blessed with a beautiful wife to enjoy retirement with and feel like I am leaving the campus in very good shape, financially, physically and personnel-wise. “The relationships between the college and all our constituent groups are strong. Someone is stepping into a great situation and I will be praying for them to have great success.” In his resignation to Bobbitt, Davis wrote, “Thank you and the UA Board for the opportunity to serve the last eight years as chancellor at UACCM. I doubt anyone will remember that I was here. However, I will never forget this place and the opportunity the UA system gave a math-geek, auto mechanic’s son, to fulfill his dream of leading a college and helping other people try to fulfill their dreams as well.”

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February 2019 501lifemag.com | 31

FEATURE

Art of living Couple shared a unique love story by Mathilda Hatfield

“Photoparlante” Hatfield Family friend Jess Setzler happened upon what was thought to be a damaged black and white photograph. Instead, with help from Fletcher Smith, it was discovered to be a “Talking photo,” a recording of Nicole sharing a loving message to Gene before he arrived in France for their wedding. (Mike Kemp photos) 32 | 501 LIFE February 2019

“Be patient, and be good; same as I am… I am longing for you…” These endearing words, spoken with a charming French accent, were recorded to a picture disc, in 1957, then sent from Paris, France, to Conway. This record and numerous handwritten letters shared between my parents during their courtship are the tangible evidence of their unique love story. The abstract lives on through me, my brothers and all who knew Gene and Nicole Hatfield. My parents grew up in different worlds, yet they shared common principles: commitment to family, education, appreciation for the arts and a keen sense of humor. They also shared a unique love story. Yet, the story of how my parents met, and their courtship is not really a story at all. At least not one that has ever been told. Anytime my brothers and I would ask how they met, my parents would reply, “That’s our romantic secret.” My father’s first trip to France was in 1944. He was a U.S. Army infantryman, responsible for carrying the BAR. Gene, already a professed artist, described in letters he sent to his family the French countryside, and how, if able, he would like to return someday to paint the scenery. He did not meet Nicole then. In April 1945, Gene was wounded while in Germany. He recovered in England; and returned to Conway to finish his education on the GI Bill at Arkansas State Teachers College (now the University of Central Arkansas). In 1948, after earning his master’s degree, Gene began teaching Art, Theater and Stagecraft at ASTC. My mother, Nicole Wable, grew up in Montreuil-sur-mer, a small town in northern France. Her first trip to Arkansas was in August 1953, but she did not meet my father then. She was a Fulbright Scholar, studying English literature, and was placed at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. She returned to France in May 1954, having accepted a position with Greyhound Travel in Paris. Mother’s second trip to Arkansas was in October 1956. After leading a tour group around the United States for Greyhound Travel, she took a few days to visit friends in Fayetteville. This is where the details get sketchy (pardon the pun). Supposedly, Gene and ASTC Art Department Chairman Marie Schichtl were in Fayetteville at that same time for an art educators’ workshop. That October weekend, a mutual friend, Eugene Eddleman, introduced Gene and Nicole to each other. We think that it was at a party or group dinner. We don’t know how long they visited during their first encounter, if they saw each other several

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Artistic talent runs deep in the Hatfield genes. Nicole was a talented artist of her own right. One example of her creativity is found in the stationery that she made. Nicole learned the paper making process from one of her Foreign Language students. Gene and Nicole’s son, Marc, is a painter residing in Colorado; granddaughter, Caroline Hatfield is a painter and muralist in Detroit: and grandson Loïc Hatfield draws elaborate pen and ink action figures and characters. times over the course of the weekend, or what was said upon departing. We do know that each made such an impression upon the other that, after each returned to their respective homes (Conway and Paris), their subsequent courtship developed through the art of letter-writing and a life-changing phone call. Or, so the story goes...

Nicole was with her family in Montreuil-sur-mer for the holidays of December 1956. In those days, she had to let her father know that she was expecting a phone call from the United States. Following just two months of exchanging letters across the Atlantic Ocean, Gene did

Letters continued on Page 58

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February 2019 501lifemag.com | 33

NEIGHBORS maumelle

Making a difference

Outgoing mayor reflects on 12 years at the helm

After serving 12 years as the mayor of Maumelle, Mike Watson decided he would not seek re-election. Story and photos by Dwain Hebda

Like any chief executive public servant, Mike Watson captured his share of headlines during 12 years as mayor of Maumelle. But it doesn’t take long to understand just how grounded the Little Rock native is or how pedestrian the issues sometimes are that define a good mayor. “One of the platforms I ran on was, ‘Make a difference in the community,’” he said. “You want to do something every day that makes a difference in somebody’s life or an improvement in our community. You don’t succeed in that every day. Some days you take a step backwards. “I do feel like we’ve made a difference. We’ve improved the public safety for our citizens. We’ve added amenities.” Watson’s tenure came to a self-directed close Dec. 31. By any measure, his time at city hall was a successful one. Under his watch, the city added services 34 | 501 LIFE February 2019

from athletic fields and a senior center to building a police building and two fire stations. Watson credits the citizenry for its willingness to pay for such additions, but his plainspoken, pragmatic approach had something to do with that, too. It’s noteworthy that nearly every city building received improvements over his term except city hall, which would have benefited him directly as the place he reported to work every day. “We’ve got some funds to (improve city hall), so I’ll give that to the next mayor and let him remodel the building,” Watson said. “That’s going to be a challenge because you’re going to have to work in here as you remodel. But we’ve got some money set aside in a bond project to do that, so they should be selecting the architect and moving forward.” Even in his administration’s closing days, Watson’s modest office told the tale of his time at the city’s helm. Over there, a gleaming ceremonial shovel from a groundbreaking hangs on the wall while a companion stack of plans, reports and maps crowd

a tabletop. These highlight arguably his greatest accomplishment, creation of a third Maumelle exit off Interstate 40. The project, which had been sought for more than two decades, finally broke ground in December. No matter how he views it – as a public servant, as the professional land surveyor he is by trade and training or as a resident of this planned community – the accomplishment stands out as the defining one of his tenure. “The first feasibility study was done in 1996 for that interchange,” Watson recalled. “Mayor (Burch) Johnson got some money from the Federal Highway Administration in 2005 … to do the design work. I took that project over, but it took 10 years to get through the environmental process, all the red tape. “One of the things was, we couldn’t put in an interchange because I-40 was already at capacity so we had to wait until they widened I-40 from Conway to 430 right there in order to be able to put the interchange there.”

Given the fact the project dominated his time as the city’s chief executive, one might think Watson would be leaving with a bad taste over the glacial pace of knitting together consensus with state and federal transportation departments, to say nothing of having to sell the citizenry on footing the lion’s share of the bill. Such is not the case. “I’ve enjoyed working with the (state) highway department, and they did well. I really enjoyed working with the Federal Highway Administration on that project,” he said. “We were trying to do a city project, but it was on an interstate highway system. Our citizens approved a half-cent sales tax to pay for that interchange, so I was able to deliver checks totaling $14 million in November to pay for 75 percent of what’s being built.” Watson grew up across the river in Little Rock, graduating from McClellan High School. He and his wife, Debbie, moved to Maumelle in 1996, and his public service career began shortly thereafter. He joined the volunteer fire department in 1997 and the city’s planning commission in 1998, serving as the department’s captain for nearly a decade and the commission’s chairman for six of his nine years. “I don’t think there is any job that’ll prepare you for mayor, but I touched almost everything that a mayor touches by doing that process,” he said. “Being a volunteer firefighter, being on the planning commission and then knowing roadway drainage, water and everything, I think all helped me when I stepped into this role 12 years ago.” Watson’s post-political career will include joining the Little Rock office of Halff Associates, an engineering firm. Absent the endless barrage of

Watson’s office included several items that marked the completion of major projects during his tenure as the mayor of Maumelle. mayoral meetings, he’ll also get to spend more time with his wife and growing family that now includes four grandchildren. He’s even looking forward to something as simple as going to church or the grocery store without someone asking for a moment of his time, the general prelude to a much longer conversation. Mostly, he looks forward to the future of the

community he loves, having now written his chapter of the history of this place he calls home. “We’re here. We’re not going anywhere,” he said. “Maumelle is still a place where you know your neighbors and there’s a volunteer spirit here. Living in Little Rock, I never found a place to plug in necessarily. But out here I got plugged in in several ways. I just enjoy the community.”

February 2019 501lifemag.com | 35

NEIGHBORS mayflower

Excellence Longtime Mayflower teacher among award finalists

Mayflower Elementary School teacher Tonya Hogue was recently named one of six state finalists for the 2018 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. (Mike Kemp photo)

36 | 501 LIFE February 2019

by Dwain Hebda

Over the past 17 years, Tonya Hogue has inspired countless young minds at Mayflower Elementary School. Most of that time has been spent in the fourth-grade classroom teaching science and unlocking the mysteries of the natural, physical and engineering universe. You read that right – engineering, in fourth grade. Seems times have really changed in elementary school, and Hogue has been on the leading edge of it. “I’m working on building foundations that they’re going to definitely use later on in their science classes in the future,” she said. “We do a lot of hands-on experiments. We may build toilet paper tube roller coasters for forces in motion. We do coding; this year, we just started a tinkering in STEP. It’s kind of a mixture between tinkering and a maker space, so the kids get to code using Code.org, and they’re going to start using Scratch very soon to practice coding skills. “We also have a school garden (where) we measure our plants. We talk about how the plants grow and how they differ from a garden in the fall versus a garden in the spring. We graph all of our data and then analyze our data and how that fits into what we can do to make the garden better the next year.” Hogue’s creativity and effectiveness in the classroom once earned her an all-school Teacher of the Year Award, but lately the stage has become

much larger. She was recently named one of six state finalists for the 2018 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, topping a field of 51 Arkansas educators. “When I first found out that I was nominated I was kind of surprised. I was like, ‘Oh, thank you.’ Then I was like, ‘Oh, wait a minute. What have you done?’” said Hogue, who was nominated in the science category. “I got a little nervous then, like oh I’m going to have to really step it up. I’m always looking for what can I do better, how can I grow, what do the students need? “I wasn’t expecting it to go any farther. Then when I found out I was a finalist, I couldn’t believe it. I was surprised and shocked. It’s been exciting. I’m very honored.” Hogue grew up in Conway and attended Conway Public Schools throughout. After high school, she earned her bachelor’s degree in early childhood from the University of Central Arkansas and spent the first five years of her educational career as a paraprofessional while earning her master’s degree in special education. Over the course of her career, she’s always looked for new ways to challenge students, something that’s more difficult than it sounds with today’s youngsters, even in the lower grades. “The typical fourth-grader today is exposed to more technology, so they are fearless when it comes to technology,” she said. “It’s easy for them to pick up on it. They’re willing to take the risk to do it and they’re willing to stick with it and problem solve.

“I’m constantly learning, always going out and looking to see what I can do differently, what can I do better. It’s always going to relate back to the student. What do the students need?” Responding to students’ needs recently led her to take over the fledgling high school robotics program in addition to her elementary school responsibilities. That program, which reunited her with several former students, was a natural fit. “I have always been good at building,” she said. “Growing up I would always work with my dad, so I knew quite a bit about building things and how things go together and electrical. We teach electrical circuits in fourth grade, so that just kind of went right along with what I was already doing. “A lot of the kids that are in robotics, I remember them when they were in fourth grade. I had several of them on the quiz bowl team as they went through. It was a pretty easy transition.” A lifetime educator, Hogue said she’s been awarded many times over with the joy of watching her students learn and grow. “Research says that they learn better by doing,” she said. “(Teaching is) giving them that confidence to take a risk and problem solve on their own and you be the support person to guide them to make sure they’re doing the right thing or headed in the right direction. “It’s about not being scared to step out of your comfort zone to learn new things and to try new things.”

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February 2019 501lifemag.com | 37

COLUMNIST

Vivian Hogue’s mother’s tatting shuttle and lace, the results of her labor.

Cleaning out clutter ... or not Does anyone else ever start cleaning, discarding and donating household contents that they will never again use or need the rest of their lifetime? As I have become more “mature,” and that would be in age only, I have realized a few things. With those realizations, an old adage has finally Vivian Lawson sunk in. That would be, “You can’t pull a U-Haul Hogue behind your hearse.” I think most of us A native of Conway, Vivian Lawson Hogue graduated pare down possessions from the University of Central as we go along, or flea Arkansas with a degree in art education. A retired teacher, she markets and yard sales worked in the Conway School wouldn’t exist. This has District for 23 years. She can be reached at vhogue@conwaycorp. to be done periodically net. to navigate one’s house, and especially his garage. A “garage” is for “parking or storing motor vehicles.” However, for many it is not for that purpose at all, but is simply an attic brought downstairs. For some it is for hoarding, and for others it is precious space for the now-silent 8-track player with the Donna Summer tape still gnarled inside. Its value is not in its functionality, but its importance to the owner’s more youthful past. One should study the outcome of “over-storage.” On occasion, I have been asked to adopt or sort 38 | 501 LIFE February 2019

through possessions of those who have “passed on,” as we say in the South. It brings to mind that I do not wish that duty upon my children, as they do not have space for what is mine, and they probably wouldn’t know what to do with a scythe or a tatting shuttle. Thus I began and completed a 2018 New Year’s resolution to spend the year cleaning up and cleaning out. It was fascinating to see what was important or needful to me, my parents and grandparents. Some are also important to me, as small and insignificant to others as they might be. Our children will have to assess the value of some things kept, but they will not see many of the associated recollections that go with them. What they cannot grasp is the regard for the people, things, eras and events represented. These would include those recollections that I and others have of a bygone-never-to-return era of Old Conway. People use the word “love” when they describe what they experienced before our town’s “persona” was changed in the 1980s. They’ll say, “I loved the many small cafes we had. They weren’t elegantly furnished and the plates were different styles, but the food and conversation was good.” Overalls and Sunday suits were a good mix and ... oh, my – here’s an original menu. I must keep that! Look at this old 1953 city map. I’ll certainly never need that again. The city looks the size of a postage stamp! But it is a reference, and as I mentally “stroll” along the downtown streets today, I can tour Clarence Day’s Feed Store with farmers standing hands-in-pockets discussing the drought, and the butcher wrapping meat in white paper. We relished

entering the drug stores with soda fountains and booths or wrought iron seating, and the five & dime stores with toys. “Do NOT touch!” said lots of mommas. “And don’t run in the store! If you do, you will not come next time!” And they would keep their word because they loved you. You behaved yourself because you loved the mostly-family-business world that was Downtown Conway. Several years ago, when our street was replaced, I lost my plea for the city to leave the concrete steps at our corner and simply place a ramp around them. They were historic, and as a small child I loved sitting on them in all seasons and waving to the nowand-then cars that passed. With today’s careless driving habits, no one could wave back or they would drop their cell phone. When we natives and long-timers hear the sentimental sound of the Union Pacific 844 steam locomotive coming through for a visit, we are immediately aware of various reveries. I’ve never known anyone who didn’t delight in our train depot, but some in the business district wanted Main Street instead. There was a valiant attempt to save it from destruction. It was yet another unheeded plea to save our local history, as we now envy all surrounding counties whose depots are on the National Register of Historic Places. As much as we wish, we cannot keep everything. The Gospel of Matthew tells us not to store our treasures for moths and rats to ruin and for thieves to break in and steal. But I do love the treasure of my mother’s beautiful 1920s calling cards. So back in the box they go until another day – to be loved again.

An artist viewpoint Beauty is often seen through the eyes of the beholder. I say this because I grew up in a household with a mom and sisters who are artists. With that being said, I mean no disrespect when I say that most artists march to a different tune than the general public. My mom teases that it’s all the paint fumes and paint thinner in a confined space. Perhaps, but we can never know for sure. What I do know is that growing up, my mother had the uncanny ability to look at anything that was considered “trash” and find beauty in it. Her favorite days were spring cleanups when people would set old Laurie Green tables, dressers, broken furniture and other unwanted junk along the roadside to be picked up. She would A Greenbrier native, Laurie is the load us up in the truck and cruise ever so slowly until wife of Will Green. The two share seven children, five grandchildren that one ugly, broken “thing” would catch her eye. and a golden retriever named I was usually slumped down as far as I could go in Marlo. They own and operate a lawn care business and are that front seat, hoping that no one I knew saw us getting members of New Life Church in “trash” off the curb. However it NEVER failed that a few Greenbrier. Laurie can be reached at thegreens@ymail.com. days under the skilled hands of my mother that piece of junk was transformed into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. As I’ve gotten older and somewhat wiser, I have certainly learned to appreciate that eye for beauty in the unwanted things that my mom has. I think that is what drew me in to a relationship with Jesus. He has the ability to look at anything considered unwanted, unworthy and broken and see exactly the way He can transform it into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. I say this with an authentic heart, because that is exactly what God did in me. He pieced together every little broken detail to create something new. I personally like to think all those cracks in me allow the light of Jesus to shine a little brighter through me. I remember very well how unsettled I felt when we started attending New Life Church years ago. No one made me feel that way, in fact, it was the complete opposite. Everyone was accepting and friendly, and all I could think was if they knew how messed up and broken my life was at the time, they wouldn’t want anything to do with me. That was a lie I told myself and in my head, it had become a truth. I have a feeling a lot of people feel that way to begin with. I appreciate people who took the time to show me the real truth. I certainly had to grow in my faith to learn the difference between condemnation and conviction. As I’ve continued to grow in my faith, I’ve learned to appreciate how God is

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www.stjosephconway.org

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A Greenbrier sunrise. (Mike Jones photo) the ultimate artist of all creation. Seriously, have you ever stopped and gazed at a morning sunrise or an evening sunset. A tapestry of colors and textures spread out across the sky on a daily basis, simply for our viewing pleasure. Have you ever stared up into the vast night sky and watched millions of stars twinkling, dancing and sometimes shooting across the darkness? It’s breathtaking and awe inspiring and yet it’s still not God’s greatest masterpiece. You are! Yes friend, you are God’s greatest work of art! That very face that glares back at you from the mirror each morning is His handiwork. No matter how broken down or unwanted you may feel, when He gazes upon you, He sees what you are in him … beautiful. Psalms 149:14 says, “… I am fearfully and wonderfully made …” To God, the artist of creation, every detail of your workmanship stands out. In Ephesians 2:10 it says, “For we are God’s masterpiece…” You are much more valuable than you realize. Yes, you were created in the hands of the ultimate artist. You are a one-of-akind, a godly original.

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WE DO! February 2019 501lifemag.com | 39

COLUMNIST

A farmer and artist

I don’t recall exactly what age I was or even what the play/opera/ musical was, but I recall it was somewhere during my middle school days. We set off on an old school bus in LaGrange, Ohio, to a land far, far away. Our school was taking us to the big town of Elyria to attend a production at Lorain Adam County Community Bledsoe College (LCCC). You see, I grew up Originally from Northeast Ohio, Adam Bledsoe moved to Arkansas in a rural community in 2000 to attend Harding and spent my evenings University after active duty service in the U.S. Air Force. He is working on a dairy farm, married to Dr. Amanda Bledsoe, milking 120-plus head of and they have two children, Audrey (10) and Hunter (6), who Holsteins (the picturattend Wooster Elementary. esque dairy breed, no Adam is newly employed by THV11 as a feature reporter, offense to the other dairy focusing on a variety of feel-good breeds). This was a stinky community related stories. job. It’s hard to be a young lad who just wants the girls to think you’re a good-looking stud when you smell like a dairy hand. I don’t care how many 40 | 501 LIFE February 2019

showers you take and what you use for soap, you’re going to smell like a dairy farmer, even clean. What business does a young country boy have going to a musical? I LOVED IT! Now look here… I’ve had some of the “manliest jobs” out there (yes, I know this reeks of stereotypes and all that. Look, no offense intended! My wife is an amazing business woman. I KNOW women are MORE than capable to do anything a man can do…). Now that I got that out of the way, here are some of my “manly” jobs – farmer, warehouse worker, military, armored car driver, law enforcement, lawn service provider, etc. I can beat my chest with the best of them. Guess what? It’s GREAT to enjoy the arts while being a “man’s man.” I love to hunt and fish. I love riding my four-wheeler and taking my Jeep off-roading. I enjoy getting on my tractor and bush-hogging (or is it brush-hogging?). I also enjoy going to a production at the University of Central Arkansas. Furthermore, I love taking my kids to these events – concerts, plays, musicals – and actually making pieces of art at places like Board and Brush. Back at Keystone High School, I enjoyed FFA, welding class, woodshop, etc. But my favorite time of day was choir. Jennifer Trakas was so influential in my life as a youngin. I was voted president of our choir. I know that sounds weird, but we were a big deal. We were invited to sing for the opening of the

Navy Memorial in Washington D.C., so, our choir needed a president, and I WAS THAT GUY, all while smelling like a dairy farm. Look outside the box. Don’t be afraid to attend a play or go up to Eureka Springs and hang out on a Saturday evening while everyone beats on their drums at Basin Springs Park. By the way, that is such a fun place/event to people watch. I will go back. Take your kids to see an orchestra. Take them to the Orpheum in Memphis. UCA always provides an opportunity to attend the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre. I invite you to do a Google search for the UCA Reynolds Performance Hall. Check out all the amazing shows coming to the 501. I have learned of so many amazing events in the 501 through my exposure at THV11. We live in a wonderful area of Arkansas. Get out of your comfort zone and try something new. So, the young man trying to find his way in Northern Ohio eventually found his way in the business of providing entertainment, education, information and inspiration through the stages provided him by God. I understand God has been molding me from even before the play at LCCC. I wouldn’t change a thing. Now GO. Discover yourself while you discover Arkansas, and have the best day of your life! I love you!

Staying well-tuned FEATURE

Toadsuck Dulcimer Club enjoying music

Members of the Toadsuck Dulcimer Club: Diane Johnson (front, from left), Kay Millan, Larry Rains, Bob Banuken, Andrew Gillespie; Peggy Pillow (middle), Karen Clay, Sandra Barnett, Beverly Sperry, Ann Owens, Morris Troglin; Bill Day (back), Don Johnson, Bruce Dacus, Bill Smith and JR Barnett. by Larry Rains

In the summer of 2011, I found myself in Clemmer Dulcimer Shop in Tennessee, where the store owner talked me into purchasing a dulcimer by saying, “Learning to play a dulcimer is as easy as counting to 10.” I already had numerous failed attempts with other musical instruments. But, after a few minutes with the dulcimer, I found myself able to play a few simple tunes. And that is where my journey began. I traveled back to Arkansas, where I taught myself to play some actual songs. I was intrigued to discover a dulcimer club in Little Rock. I soon realized that learning to play an instrument with other people is not only easier, but a lot more fun. I could hardly wait for the second Saturday of every month,

the only time the Little Rock club met. That’s when I decided to find a place for local dulcimer players to meet more often. I asked my pastor, Neal Winstead of Family Life Bible Church, if I could use the church as a meeting location for those interested in joining a local dulcimer club. I was thrilled when he gave me permission and even offered to let me advertise it in the church bulletin. In February 2015, the Toadsuck Dulcimer Club began with only three church members. Since then, the group has grown into a group of about 18 members, with some church members. As the Toadsuck Dulcimer Club, we’re not only a group that meets every Monday night for the sole purpose of furthering our passion of the dulcimer, we are also friends. We are very accepting of each other and encourage one another through all that we do.

At 6 o’clock on Monday nights, we gather at Family Life Bible Church and typically play old-time tunes and hymns, but we are also open to other types of modern music. We don’t have a formal setting, but instead prefer the feel of an old front porch “jam session,” like something out of a scene from “Mayberry.” Participation in the club is completely free and open to the public. The club is not limited to just dulcimers. We accept all sorts of stringed instruments to play alongside us. We currently have guitar, mandolin, accordion, hammered dulcimer and mountain lap dulcimer players. The ages of our players range from 12 to 80. For anyone interested in joining the Toadsuck Dulcimer Club, contact Peggy Pillow at peggypillow@hotmail.com. February 2019 501lifemag.com | 41

COVER STORY

Members of the Conway Symphony Orchestra representing different countries: Flavio Unzueta of Bolivia (seated); Qiuyun Tian of China (standing, from left), Lidiana Vendrame of Brazil, Nelio Zamorano of Bolivia and Oksana Pavilionis (Russia). (Mike Kemp photo)

Artists at heart Conway symphony boasts diverse group by Donna Lampkin Stephens

In myriad ways, diversity marks the Conway Symphony Orchestra — and that is good for patrons in the 501. “We have such a diverse mix of nationalities within the musicians,” said Vicki Crockett, general manager of the CSO. “The relationship with the pre-professionals playing alongside the professional musicians is another strength. Both of those make us a unique organization and make a difference, I think, in the quality of the performances we present.” Israel Getzov, music director and conductor of the CSO, agreed. “Especially when we’re dealing with art music from different countries, it gives us a different perspective and allows us to really understand, to live the differences in culture that we try to emulate in the art,” he said. “Part of our mission is training the next generation of artistic knowledge, and our younger musicians bring life, joy and enthusiasm to the table that really influences our more experienced musicians. “I think that the understanding — having people from different cultures and understanding different ways of looking at life, and knowing that there is not just one way to do things, to live, to play — allows us to really understand the essence of the art we’re performing and to really bring out what is special and unique 42 | 501 LIFE February 2019

about each work.” According to conwaysymphony.org, the mission of the CSO is to “provide inspired classical music experiences for the people of Central Arkansas through performances and education.” Among the CSO’s approximately 70 musicians, Getzov said about 15 are international. The roster includes musicians from Taiwan, China, Bolivia, Greece, Poland, Ukraine, Mexico and Brazil. While country of origin is one measure of diversity, two-thirds of the CSO is classified as pre-professional, typically University of Central Arkansas music students. They play alongside professional musicians from across the region— many of them faculty from the University of Central Arkansas Department of Music. That mixture also adds to the richness of the CSO. “We have professionals who have played a piece thousands of times, and they bring that expertise,” Crockett said. “But they are also sitting on the stand next to someone who is fresh and maybe playing the piece for the first time who brings new energy to it. They feed off each other. “Students are learning right next to their mentors and teachers, and because of them, the mentors are able to experience the piece in a new way.” The CSO and UCA are marking their 10th year of a relationship with East China Normal University in Shanghai that has paid dividends for all involved.

For more information on the Conway Symphony Orchestra: conwaysymphony.org 501.269.1066 symphony@conwaycorp.net “They’re sending us exchange students to play in the Conway Symphony, but once they come here as an undergraduate for a semester, many return to be full-fledged graduate students at UCA and earn their master’s degree,” Getzov said. “It’s a strong statement about our program that they want to come back here and learn more. “We have very strong connections in China and Taiwan. They are our legacy countries. Not to say we’re not doing others, but there are a lot of resources there. But over the last three years, we’ve really increased our connection to Central and South America. Mexico and Bolivia are the new frontier for us.” To that end, 14 Bolivian music students are studying at UCA — orchestra members as well as five pianists, a singer, an oboe player, four cellists and three violinists. “We also have two young Bolivian musicians who are assistant conductors,” Getzov said. First-semester graduate student conductor Isaac Terceros is director of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Santa Cruz, Bolivia. Getzov said a good number of the students, especially the new ones, are in their mid-to-upper 20s, a bit older than the traditional. “That has led to a different culture as well,” he said. Getzov said China had more university programs that the CSO and UCA can recruit from. It’s a bit different in Bolivia. “There are more professional orchestras there,” he said. “They don’t have an undergraduate degree in music, and that benefits us. But we’re also working with their musicians to potentially help them establish undergraduate programs there.” He travels about once a year to China and to South America. “It’s all about building these relationships,” he said. “I go back to these countries and see the people who have studied here as well as their students. It really becomes self-perpetuating.” In his 14th year with the CSO, Getzov continues to relish the experience. “It never gets old because the people change and the music changes,” he said. “Our goal is to continue to grow the program and move forward and become better all the time.”

Selva Aliss of Bolivia is a UCA student and member of the Conway Symphony Orchestra. (Mike Kemp photo)

February 2019 501lifemag.com | 43

Orchestra offers outreach program by Donna Lampkin Stephens

For some time now, the Conway Symphony Orchestra’s footprint has gone well beyond the concert hall. Besides a season of full concerts at its home at Reynolds Performance Hall at the University of Central Arkansas, the CSO’s outreach program features CSO in Your Classroom and Community Music Programs (CSO on the Go) that include everything from children’s concerts to performances at healthcare facilities, chamber luncheons and events such as Illuminate, Conway’s Christmas tree lighting. “One of the things we really pride ourselves on is being accessible, and that doesn’t just mean in concert halls,” said Vicki Crockett, general manager of the CSO. “Part of that is making discounted ticket prices available for students and children, but also recognizing that sometimes there may be people who, for one reason or another, can’t come to us. “We try to fill that gap by bringing music to them.” While the musicians are paid, all the outreach is free to the public thanks to the support of entities such as the Arkansas Community Foundation Giving Tree Grant and Toad Suck Daze as well as individual donors. Crockett said the CSO — now in its 34th season — had always had board members who were interested in outreach activities. “But it didn’t really become a more doable or formalized program until maybe six or seven years ago,” she said. “We had to figure out how to do it.” In the absence of, for example, a salaried quartet that is always ready for an outreach performance, the CSO had to organize musicians who were interested in such opportunities into groups. One of Music Director Israel Getzov’s graduate assistants serves as the liaison for the musicians; Crockett works on the other end, organizing performance details with the entities inviting the outreach opportunities, such as city, chamber, civic or healthcare facilities.

A student brass group (above) and a group of trombone players (facing page) perform in Downtown Conway. “We needed someone on both sides,” she said. “On the musician side, we needed to be able to find available musicians, and we also needed someone on the organizational side to make arrangements with the groups.” According to conwaysymphony.org, CSO in Your Classroom features professional musicians bringing “their unique, interactive educational program” to various schools in Conway and beyond. Crockett said originally, the program featured an annual children’s concert for fifth-graders in the Conway School District to expose them to orchestra prior to the students choosing an instrument in sixth grade.

e h T m Fro d l r o W New

RY 16 A U R B E AY, F SATURD 7:30 PM

“We wanted the kids to know by the time they get to sixth grade that orchestra is an option,” she said. But once fifth-graders moved to the middle schools from intermediate schools a few years ago, logistics made the previous arrangement of an annual concert impossible. “So Izzy said, ‘Let’s try something different, on the model of if they can’t come to us, we’ll go to them,’” Crockett said. “It was a pilot program, and we had one school where we sent musicians in to the classes. It wasn’t a full orchestra, but it was interactive so the students could really ask questions, see the instruments up close and talk to the musicians.

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44 | 501 LIFE February 2019

“The first year we did it at one school with two or four visits. It worked, so the next year we did eight visits, then more the next year, and it grew from there.” She sends invitations to the schools with the musicians’ available dates, mainly in April and May following standardized testing. “We learned pretty quickly schools don’t have a lot of flexibility with their times until after the testing,” she said. The Community Music Program, according to the website, sends “small ensembles out to share the excitement of live, symphony music with our whole community.” Musicians have performed at nursing homes, Conway Regional Rehab, College Square, ArtsFest, Arbor Day and the Conway Human Development Center’s Polar Express, among other places. “It’s bringing music to people who literally can’t come to us, maybe because of physical mobility problems,” Crockett said, mentioning Mother’s Day activities at Southridge Village retirement community in Conway and monthly performances at College Square, the retirement home on the UCA campus. A February Saturday children’s concert at the Faulkner County Library, which includes an “instrument petting zoo” afterward, is another popular draw. “It’s just a chance for children to check out the instruments,” Crockett said. “They have a chance to try out a cello, blow on a trombone and try (other) instruments they haven’t had a chance to try.” She said attendees range from toddlers with their mothers on the floor with them through teenagers. “Their parents might not feel comfortable bringing

them to a concert at bedtime, but Saturday morning at the library is different,” she said. CSO on the Go activities happen four to five times a month, she said, adding that December is busier than usual because of the holidays. It’s a win-win for everyone. For those on the receiving end: “They love it, really enjoy it,” Crockett said. “We get a lot of positive reactions, appreciation, thanks so much for being here.” For the musicians: “I ran into one of our trumpet players who’d played in a quintet at the Conway

Human Development Center, and she said, ‘I loved that; it was so fun.’ They’re students, so they’re busy anyway, but music majors practice all the time, and it was nice to hear that was something she thought was important to spend her time on.” Longer term, the outreach is paying dividends. “We are seeing more anecdotally,” Crockett said. “When we are at children’s concerts and in the classrooms, more students know what the instruments are. Years ago, they’d call something a big violin, and now they know it’s a cello. At least they are recognizing the instruments.”

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February 2019 501lifemag.com | 45

1 HEALTH

Cardiac care

2018 a year for innovation at Conway Regional by John Patton

Fifty-eight-year-old Anna Nappi was having trouble breathing and couldn’t walk when she was taken to Ozark Health Medical Center and later flown via helicopter to Conway Regional Medical Center. Two blood clots were blocking the major blood supply to her lungs. Thanks to the new EKOS device, acquired by Conway Regional in 2018, she returned home in only five days. The full name of the device is EKOS Acoustic Pulse Thrombolysis. During catheter-assisted thrombolysis treatment, a catheter is guided through blood vessels to the location of the blood clot. The catheter delivers medicine called thrombolytics to help dissolve the clot. The EKOS also delivers simultaneously ultrasound energy to mechanically dislodge and loosen up the clot to enable lower and safer doses of the thrombolytic drugs to be used. Dr. Deepali Tukaye, an interventional cardiologist at Conway Regional, used the newly-acquired EKOS system to dissolve the clots using medicine that entered Nappi’s lungs through a small catheter inserted into her groin. She spent only five days in the Critical Care Unit before going home. “They took care of the blood clots in my lungs, and I have been doing well,” said Nappi. Her hospital stay would have been extended without the treatment. Dr. Tyrone Lee, a Conway pulmonologist, said “The new procedure reduces an ICU stay by at least one day and the total hospital stay by at least two days.” Patients who are very short of breath with activity and requiring oxygen tend to benefit most from EKOS. The procedure decreases a patient’s chances of needing oxygen equipment at home. A team of physicians, including a cardiologist, pulmonologist, ER physician and a hospitalist, decide whether the patient will benefit from EKOS.” In many ways, 2018 was a good year for innovation in Conway Regional’s cardiac services. Tukaye has been using the EKOS device since April 2018, affecting the lives of six patients. Dr. Lensey Scott, another interventional cardiologist with Conway Regional, is also using the EKOS system. “We want to make the community aware that in many instances there is no reason to go to Little Rock for life-saving technology,” said Tukaye.

Balloon procedure clearing blockage Another example of new technology being used by cardiologists at Conway Regional is balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV). Tukaye led the Conway Regional heart team in successfully performing Conway’s first balloon aortic valvuloplasty procedure in December 2017. The procedure consists of the use of a tiny balloon catheter to widen an abnormal narrowing (stenosis) of the heart valve that has become stiff due to calcium buildup. 46 | 501 LIFE February 2019

The procedure is used during emergencies for patients whose medical condition prevents treatment of blocked arteries using traditional, more invasive heart catheters. “This procedure is designed to give patients a window of opportunity for a valve replacement, without which aortic stenosis is a fatal condition,” said Tukaye. “BAV buys the patient time to get well and get treatment.” The procedure improved the blood flow to the heart of the patient, Charlie Andrew, 91, of Conway, by 50 percent to aid his recovery so that he became healthy enough to tolerate a successful valve replacement. The procedure also enabled Andrew to remain in Conway for his health care where it is carefully monitored by Scott. Andrew’s wife, Kathleen, was so concerned for her husband’s health that she had family flying in to see him. Andrew, who leads a very active lifestyle, had begun falling. His third fall led to an injury and a trip to the Conway Regional Rehabilitation Hospital where a fourth fall occurred. The falls were the result of blood pressure and fainting episodes that were, in turn, caused by calcium build up in his aortic heart valve.

Tukaye spent about three hours with Andrew and his family, describing the procedure and addressing the risks. “She is very disciplined and talented,” said Andrew. “I’m not sure what we would have done if it hadn’t been for Dr. Tukaye and the staff here.” Kathleen was so impressed that she switched her heart care from Little Rock to Tukaye. “I think this was another great step for Conway Regional’s heart care team,” said Tukaye, “and one more procedure that we are now offering exclusively to the community.” Since Andrew’s procedure, additional patients have been helped by the BAV device. In the past, these patients would have been transferred to Little Rock.

Mini pacemaker Another 2018 addition to the cardiovascular technology is the Micra® Transcatheter Pacing System (TPS), which is a new type of heart device that provides patients with the most advanced pacing technology at one-tenth the size of a traditional pacemaker. The system is manufactured by Medtronic. The device offers multiple patient benefits in that

it does not require cardiac wires (leads) or a surgical “pocket” under the skin to deliver a pacing therapy. Comparable in size to a large vitamin, it is small enough to be delivered through a catheter and implanted directly into the heart with small tines, providing a safe alternative to conventional pacemakers without the complications associated with leads. The Micra TPS is also designed to automatically adjust pacing therapy based on a patient’s activity levels. Mae Stephens, 87, of Conway became the first person in Faulkner County to receive the miniature pacemaker on June 12, 2018. The pacemaker was implanted by Don Steely, MD, an interventional cardiologist with the Conway Regional Cardiovascular Clinic. “I couldn’t imagine it being that small,” said Stephens, recalling her reaction when Steely showed her a display model of the pacemaker. Sixteen Conway Regional patients had received the Micra pacemakers by the end of 2018. Tukaye has also begun training and expects to be implanting the pacemakers in 2019. “We are blessed to have three interventional cardiologists who utilize new and innovative procedures,” said Paula Weatherley, director of cardiovascular services at Conway Regional Medical Center. “EKOS, balloon aortic valvuloplasty and micropacemakers are just the beginning for this group.”

Patient-friendly heart monitors The latest innovation involves the monitoring of the heart itself. The Conway Regional Cardiology Department has begun an innovative, patient-friendly ambulatory cardiac monitoring service that identifies arrhythmia (an irregular heart rate) sooner. Traditional cardiac monitoring involves the use of uncomfortable electrodes, wires and a cumbersome monitor device. Patients must return their monitor to the noninvasive cardiology area for reading. Those days are over. The new system is much smaller without the wires and electrodes. Patients simply drop a postage-paid box in the mail. The new system, manufactured by Zio, is much smaller and does not require wires and electrodes. Patients simply remove the device when the monitoring period is over and drop it in a postage-paid box for mailing to be read by the physician. This enables patients to avoid the trip to deliver the device to the hospital. “This patient-friendly monitoring device is increasing patient compliance and will increase the amount of data that our cardiologists have to analyze,” said Weatherley.

60 minutes or less Conway Regional also received the Mission: Lifeline® Silver Plus Receiving Quality Achievement Award in 2018 for implementing specific quality improvement measures outlined by the American Heart Association for the treatment of patients who suffer severe heart attacks. One of the major criteria in achieving the award is consistently averaging a door to treatment time that is less than 90 minutes. This rating refers to the time between contact with medical personnel (including the ambulance staff) and treating the patient for a heart attack. Conway Regional averaged a door-to treatment time of 52 minutes in 2017, which was the best in Arkansas. February 2019 501lifemag.com | 47

LIFE PICS

CARTI grand opening Sonja J. Keith photos

The CARTI Cancer Center Conway hosted a ribbon-cutting in November. The event showcased the renovated and combined facility at the grand opening celebration. The newly renovated 13,400-square-foot center fully integrates clinical services for medical and radiation oncology, as well as diagnostic imaging. The center is located at 2605 College Ave. Those attending included Adam Head, president and chief executive officer of CARTI Cancer Center, and U. S. Congressman French Hill. Special guests included Conway Mayor Bart Castleberry, Conway Chamber of Commerce President Brad Lacy and state Sen. Jason Rapert. Radiation therapy and medical oncology were previously provided at two separate Conway locations. The renovated facility provides a new chemotherapy infusion center with 15 heated chairs, with extra room for family members and the space to grow at a later date. Public areas in the renovated clinic include a lobby with areas to sit, converse or rest; atrium; coffee/refreshment bar; Wi-Fi; digital patient education; and resource library.

Adam Head, president and chief executive officer of CARTI Cancer Center, cuts the ribbon at the renovated Conway center.

Charles Nabholz (from left), Dr. Lawrence Mendelsohn and Adam Head.

Conway Mayor Bart and Melissa Castleberry.

Dr. Peter Lindley (from left), Dr. Christopher Pope and Dr. Matthew Hardee.

Jennifer Selig (from left), Amy Dana, Jim Mitchell, Jennifer Carlisle and Kathy Friend.

Thomas Fowlkes (from left), Drs. Joyce and Terry Fiddler, and Peggy and Mike Mason.

Peggy (from left) and Bill Phillips with Laurie and Ted Smith.

Rob Bell (from left), Sheliah Garner and Eric Lancaster.

Brian Williams (left) and M.J. Perry.

Dr. Jamie Burton (from left), Dr. Ryan Hall and Dr. Balan Nair.

Larry Charles (from left), Katrina Adams and Annette Noble.

48 | 501 LIFE February 2019

Winter months

After the holiday decorations come down, January is a perfect time to mix things up with new table scapes. (Mike Kemp photos) February 2019 501lifemag.com | 49

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ENTERTAINING

A perfect time for tabletop features With the indoor season here, it becomes the perfect time to freshen up those tabletops for entertaining, new decorating and just having dining fun while creating a new atmosphere. There is no need to spend money – just use what you have! Go shopping in your own Don Bingham areas. You’d be surprised how simple cleaning and Recognized throughout the a change of surfaces can state as an accomplished chef, Don Bingham has authored encourage you through cookbooks, presented television these cold days. programs and planned elaborate events. At our home, we begin restoring all table tops by going “shopping” in the pantries, closets, garage, attic – anywhere we can locate some forgotten treasures or memorabilia to replace on the tired bookshelves, end tables, buffets and dining spaces. It really doesn’t take that long to refresh these areas with the “everything old is new again” attitude. We start in one room – finish that one before destroying another one – and change whatever we wish. During the winter months, we enjoy seeing wood finishes and cleaned off surfaces – dark baskets and wooden pieces, pottery and china. We’ve been known to change around lamps, giving a different aura to a certain location. “Someone’s trash is someone’s treasure” as the old saying goes. Pull out those trays, change photographs and liven up things with bowls of fresh fruit. Your imagination is the only limit to what you can do! We have come from the holidays where many of us tend to over decorate. It’s nice just to see the pieces of furniture again. Change the accent pillow, or leave them stored until spring. Fold away those “throws” or lap blankets except for that one special afghan or lap blanket that is as much of a friend as that old pair of jeans. All of these will be there when it’s time to change again. Be brave. Be empowered. Embrace change. Shown are some fun ways to change things along with some recipes for your enjoyment during February and March. When you have given everything a new “perk” for the winter, send me an email. I’ll stop over and admire.

POPPY SEED MUFFINS (Melva Webb)

2 1/4 cups sugar 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons oil 3 eggs 3 cups flour 1 1/2 cups milk 1 1/2 tablespoons poppy seeds 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

50 | 501 LIFE February 2019

1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract 1 1/2 teaspoons butter extract Sliced almonds Mix all ingredients together. Put in greased and floured loaf or muffin pans. Sprinkle with sliced almonds. For two loaves, bake 40 to 45 minutes at 350 degrees. For 24 muffins, bake for 24 minutes. Glaze: 1/4 cup orange juice 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 1/2 teaspoon butter extract Mix all ingredients. Pour over loaf or muffins and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

SAUTĂ&#x2030;ED LENTILS 2 cups lentils Onion Bay leaf 1/2 pound cubed bacon 1 cup chopped onion 2 garlic cloves, chopped Salt and pepper, to taste Parsley Bring lentils to a boil in 1 1/2 quarts of salted water, to which onion and bay leaf have been added. Simmer until just tender. Drain. Remove bay leaf and onion. Fry bacon until crisp. Drain off excess fat. SautĂŠ onions and garlic cloves in remaining fat. Add drained lentils. Toss and season with salt, pepper and parsley.

TROPICAL CARAMEL CORN 4 quarts (15 cups) popped corn 2 cups whole macadamia nuts 1 1/3 cups flaked coconut 1 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup butter or margarine 1/2 cup light corn syrup 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon baking soda In a greased jelly roll pan, combine popcorn, nuts and coconut. Set aside. In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter and corn syrup. Cook and stir over medium heat to boiling. Boil 5 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat; add vanilla and baking soda, stirring constantly. Pour over popcorn mixture; stir well. Bake at 250 degrees for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. Remove from the oven. Place on waxed paper to cool. Break apart; store in airtight containers or plastic bags.

HOT MOCHA BRANDY 1 cup milk 2 teaspoons instant espresso power 2 tablespoons sweet ground chocolate 2 tablespoons cocoa mix 1 1/2 tablespoons brandy 1 1/2 teaspoons coffee-flavored liqueur Whipped cream In a 2-cup glass measure, heat milk and espresso powder in a microwave oven on high for 2 to 2 1/2 minutes, or until boiling. Whisk in chocolate, cocoa mix, brandy and liqueur until well mixed. Pour into a mug or stemmed glass. Garnish with whipped cream and serve immediately.

February 2019 501lifemag.com | 51

HOME

Farm life

Creating a modern-day homestead Makenzie Evans photos

Jim and Julie Martin along with their trusty gray Missouri fox trotter named Bob take a walk around their new farmhouse.

52 | 501 LIFE February 2019

Gravel crunches in the one-lane drive that runs along the fencerow and past the pond. Bob, the gray Missouri fox trotter, raises his head to see who is coming down the drive, then quietly goes back to his grass-munching. At the Donna Benton back of the field sits a crisp white farmhouse Donna Benton is a maker of with its silver metal roof custom home furnishings and specializes in classic painted gleaming in the winter finishes for antique and vintage sunlight. Chickens furniture. You can see her work at WaterHouseMarket.com. and guineas scatter but hang close just in case there are treats to be had. Jim and Julie Martin are on the front porch, Julie in her calico print apron and Jim in his overalls and dress coat, pitchfork in hand. OK, they aren’t really dressed that way, but everything else in this picture-perfect farm-scape is as real as it gets. Jim and Julie have taken up homestead on a little parcel of pasture and woods in the Shady Grove community near Wooster in Faulkner County. Jim’s father was born and raised just a mile down the road, so when a “for sale” sign went up on the property a couple years ago, the Martins snatched it down quickly and negotiated a purchase. At first, they weren’t sure if they would build a home on the property. They spent some time roaming around, getting to know the land, fishing on the pond and discovering the plants and animals who had already made this place their home. Eventually, they decided to put their home of 11 years on the market just to see what might happen. “We really didn’t have a well thought-out plan when we listed our home,” Julie recalled. “I remember praying and simply asking God to ‘make it doable,’ and He answered our prayers.” In just a few days the house was sold, and the Martins were moving to the farm. They were ready to get their feet in the dirt so they bought a camper, put their stuff in storage, rounded up the animals and headed to the land. The barn went up quickly — you know, priorities and all — and they commenced to imagining and planning their new home. The Martins had raised their kids and they were looking forward to a smaller, simpler home. “Down-

When the Martins downsized, they made sure to use their space wisely and they didn’t scrimp on kitchen space. Bold and colorful art gets a museum quality display over the freestanding tub. sizing has never felt like a negative to us,” Julie said. “Since our kids left home, we only used a small portion of the house and the upkeep on the rest started to seem like a chore.” The Martins maximized their space by cutting out rooms that they wouldn’t use very much like entryways, halls and a formal dining room. Using good design, thoughtful color selection, tall ceilings and lots of natural light, they were able to create a comfortable and seemingly spacious home that would accommodate them and their visiting family, in only 1,600 square feet. Downsizing is not just about space, it’s about stuff too! “Some things were passed on to our children and some things were given away,” Julie said. “Purging was a lot of work, but it was absolutely freeing! Living in a camper for a while helps you realize just how little you need in order to be comfortable.”

The Martins’ new home reminds me of the work of the sculptor who proclaimed that he simply removed every bit of stone that didn’t look like his beautiful subject. This impeccable little farmhouse has all the elements of home, and none of the other stuff that competes with that perfect feeling of homey-ness. The only things left are the things that matter. Each piece is functional or beautiful in its own right, or it has a story. “We have purchased very few new things throughout our marriage,” Julie said. “Most things have been handed down to us or were flea market finds. The things I love all have a story and come from the people that I love.” She points out a 100-year-old quilt made by her Aunt Mable when she was 16 that she still uses on one of the guest beds. “Special pieces have a way of telling you about the history and lives of those who owned them before you.” An antique bedroom suite was purchased by Julie’s great-great-grandfather. “He must have been

a man of means because he had it shipped up the Arkansas River to his home at the foot of Petit Jean Mountain. His second wife had the headboard cut down because she thought it was too tall. That tells me a little something about her, too!” Julie said with a grin. One of Julie’s prize possessions is a set of handpainted china given to her as a wedding gift from her grandmother. Julie remembers her grandmother with adoration, describing her with words like “snuggley.” “She began painting china about 1958 and became quite accomplished at it. Each piece was carefully painted in layers and fired in the kiln between each layer,” Julie said as she imagined her grandmother toiling over every precious piece. “Surprisingly, she didn’t have a hutch full of painted china. She shared these pieces with her friends and family. She made them for others and not for herself.”

Home continued on Page 55 OVER

YEARS IN BUSINESS

2665 Donaghey Ave, Ste 103 Conway AR • (501) 327-1772 www.luxurypoolarkansas.com February 2019 501lifemag.com | 53

Board and bat siding and a big front porch give this new farmhouse a timeless look.

Looking out the kitchen window over chicken art and watching chickens pecking in the yard.

Colorful art and vibrant rugs add warmth and striking visual interest with white walls and furniture.

A hand-me-down bedroom suite hints about the lives of the people who used it in the past.

An antique rocker is simple but perfect in this all-white bedroom.

When the grandkids visit, they sleep under century-old, handmade heirloom quilts in antique iron beds.

Doing the dishes is not so bad looking out over grassy meadows. 54 | 501 LIFE February 2019

Home continued from Page 53 The walls are filled with portraits and colorful paintings from local artists that illuminate in contrast with the white walls, much like pieces in a museum. Some of the paintings are Julie’s own work, though she is quick to downplay her talent. “I never thought I was all that good as an artist, but I enjoyed the process, the outlet it provides, and sometimes the final product,” she said. “Mostly, I’m self-taught through trial and error. Some things have been created simply for the process, and some out of necessity. I would see something I loved but could never afford and I would try to replicate it; not in a copying type of fashion, but just trying to capture the essence of a piece that I loved.” Julie’s eye for good design is apparent in the detail of this timeless little farmhouse. The form and function would have been exactly the same a century ago, designed to complement and enhance the beauty and life of the country and built to withstand the rigors of farm living. “With animals inside and out, a farmhouse has to be durable,” she said. “You never know when you might need to bring in a chicken for medical treatment or entertainment purposes!” We share stories of our favorite hens of days past and their endearing personalities, with names like Helen Melon and Cornbread. We swap tales about chickens living in our homes, but Julie takes the cake when she tells of the time that her family hatched and raised 99 quail chicks in the closet! We agree that it’s easy to fall in love with chickens, but it’s best to try not to get too attached because they are fragile and will often break your heart. Loving animals and letting them go is all part of life on the farm. Today, the Martin farm is alive and well with chickens pecking in the yard, prancing horses, proud bird dogs and pups begging for petting. “Now that we are here,” Julie said, “most of all we are just grateful for this place. A place that is simple and financially responsible, where we can relax and enjoy our kids and ‘the grands’. We didn’t really start with a plan, but we prayed over each decision, then stepped aside and God has blessed us abundantly.”

This bedroom furniture belonged to Julie’s greatgrandfather who had it shipped up the Arkansas River to his home at the foot of Petit Jean Mountain.

February 2019 501lifemag.com | 55

ENERGY SMART

Exploring Energy Smart myths We all think about saving energy every day. We turn off lights when we leave a room, close the refrigerator door after getting a snack and don’t leave the water running while brushing our teeth. Some energy rules are easy to follow, but others can be confusing and can actually be harmful. Beth Common misconceptions about energy Jimmerson efficiency and conserA long-time Conway resident, Beth McCullough Jimmerson vation can not only is the marketing coordinator increase energy use, but for Conway Corp. She has a bachelor’s degree from the actually end up costing University of Central Arkansas residential consumers and a master’s degree from the University of Arkansas. She can and businesses money. be reached at beth.jimmerson@ Whether they’re based on conwaycorp.com. misinformation, flawed intuition or simply old technology, common fallacies about saving power can make you think you’re being green when in reality you’re only wasting it. Take a look at these prevalent energy myths and discover how to turn money-wasting fiction into energy-saving fact.

MYTH: Ceiling fans cool rooms. FACT: Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms. Unlike air conditioning units, ceiling fans don’t cool the air but move the air around. Fans simply recirculate air and create a slight breeze that cools us down by increasing the rate of evaporation of sweat and removing heat from our skin. To save energy, it’s beneficial to run the fan only when people are in the room to feel the breeze.

MYTH: Energy conservation and energy efficiency are the same thing. FACT: Energy conservation is using less energy or choosing not to use energy at all. Turning off the lights when you leave a room and opening the windows for a cool breeze instead of turning on the air conditioner are good conservation habits. Energy efficiency is using less energy to provide the same service. Compact fluorescent light bulbs provide the same light output as standard incandescent bulbs but use just one-quarter of the energy and last eight to 12 times longer. Low-e windows help block sunlight out, keeping your home cool in the summer and preventing your air conditioner from working harder to cool and maintain your comfort indoors.

MYTH: Closing vents in unoccupied rooms saves energy. FACT: Although closing vents in unused rooms seems like it is conserving energy, the 56 | 501 LIFE February 2019

energy consumed by the HVAC system is at the unit itself. Restricting conditioned air at a vent register redirects it to other locations in the house or through leaks in the duct system. Closing vents also puts backpressure on the fan that pushes the air through the system, causing it to work harder and use more energy, even wearing out more quickly.

MYTH: When appliances and devices are turned off, they don’t use power. FACT: In the past this was probably true, but thanks to standby power settings and power converters, most devices consume energy even when they are turned off. Some of these even use almost as much energy when they are turned off as they do when they are turned on. Using a power strip to turn off devices and desk electronics not in use cuts standby power, which can help you save energy and money. Plus, ENERGY STAR® certified models consume far less energy in standby and other inactive modes.

MYTH: Keeping your thermostat at the same temperature overnight uses less energy than turning it down and reheating your home in the morning. FACT: You don’t want to turn your thermostat off or let your house get really cold, because you will have to invest a lot of energy in a short period of time to get back to a comfortable level. However, it takes less energy to warm up a cold room in the morning than it does to maintain a constant temperature throughout the night and even setting the temperature just a few degrees lower can significantly reduce heating costs. Also, close the blinds and drapes at night in the winter to keep the cold out and give your heating system a break.

MYTH: Hot tap water boils using less energy. FACT: It uses the same amount of energy to boil water regardless of where the energy is from. If the water heater preheats it, you pay for that energy as well as any losses in the pipes and heater itself. Try

boiling water in a covered pot – it boils faster and uses less energy – and use the least amount of water you can get away with because it takes less time to boil. Once the water is boiling, remember to turn the heat down and use the lowest possible setting to keep the water boiling, steaming, simmering or whatever the recipe calls for.

MYTH: It’s more energy efficient to leave your computer running when not in use. FACT: Any time you can turn off your computer, it will save energy. In the past, desktop computers needed to be left on because turning them on and off caused additional wear on the hard disk and other components. However, today’s computers can tolerate several on-off cycles each day. In fact, one leading manufacturer of computers tells their employees to turn off desktop computers at the close of business, over lunch breaks and during long meetings, saving the company more than $1 million in energy costs each year. For shorter time periods, configure the system so the monitor will go into power saving or sleep mode instead of flashing a fancy screen saver. To debunk more energy myths or to learn more energy efficiency tips, consider a home energy audit. Conway Corp’s Energy Smart program offers free residential energy audits to help customers identify how much energy a home consumes and what measures may be taken to make that home more energy efficient. To schedule your free audit or to learn more, call 501.450.6000 or visit conwaycorp. com/energysmart.

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Letters continued from Page 33 call – to ask for her hand in marriage. Nicole accepted. Gene loved to tell that he sewed her engagement ring to the inside of a hat that he then mailed to her. Several years ago, after my mother’s passing, I found, and carefully preserved the letters Nicole had written to Gene following their engagement. These beautifully written letters shared events of her work day, time spent with friends and family, and captured her thoughts regarding the art exhibits she saw, her appreciation for music, and the latest movies. While Nicole was planning their wedding, Gene was also planning and creating. My father and his father, Lester Hatfield, an architect and general contractor, designed and built a small house on family land in Mount Vernon. Gene hand-selected the stones for the fireplace, mantel and rock wall lining the drive. Gene named it Nicfield, in honor of his fiancée. Gene and Nicole married Aug. 17, 1957, in her hometown of Montreuil-sur-mer only 10 months after meeting. Following their honeymoon, they made their home in Central Arkansas, dividing their time between Conway and Mount Vernon. Gene’s artistic creativity soared. He painted, sculpted, made wood and stone carvings and wrote poetry and novels. His teaching was enhanced by each trip he and mother took, each summer workshop, and every museum visit. Mother put her heart in all her endeavors, sewing, cooking, baking, nurturing others and teaching French at ASTC. Together they created a French/ American home, filled with art, music, books and lessons. As a family, we spent four to six weeks in France each summer, reconnecting with our French family, soaking up the history and culture, and traipsing through the country discovering beauty in the mundane and in the museums. Back in Arkansas, Gene also made sure we appreciated Shakespeare as much as Lil’ Abner, Picasso as much as Thomas Hart Benton, and the old – far and above the brand new. Through education, travel, reading, language, music and art, Gene and Nicole diligently molded our values. Mother passed away in August 2004, just two days after celebrating their 47th wedding anniversary. She asked to be buried in her wedding dress.

58 | 501 LIFE February 2019

Stationery created by Nicole Hatfield. Gene passed away February 2017. He rests again by her side in Mount Vernon. While we never did learn the details of their love story, what we did experience taught us that there is an art to loving someone so completely that it colors an entire lifetime. Similar to one of my father’s paintings, their love was a collection of individual brush

strokes, that, when viewed as a whole, reveals itself as an image of romance, shared passions and inspiration. My parents’ story moves others to dream, and still inspires the hearts of future generations. “Be patient, and be good, same as I am… I am longing for you…” One enchanted October evening, Gene found his muse, Nicole found her rock.

UCA continued from Page 9 teaching via compressed video, to teaching several degrees and tracks online. Additionally, she recruited top nursing professionals from across the region and had a significant impact on raising awareness of the state’s nursing shortage with the Arkansas Legislature. She has also served in leadership roles in various local, regional and national nursing organizations and was named Nurse of the Year by the Arkansas Nurses Association in 1999. Williams has served on numerous boards including the Conway Regional Health System Board of Directors. Her initial six-year term began in 2010, and she was elected as board chairperson in 2014 for a two-year term. Of significant accomplishment during her time as chairperson was leading the organization through the process of finding an affiliation partner and evolving that process into a five-year management agreement with CHI St. Vincent of Little Rock. This partnership was the first of its kind in Arkansas and resulted in significant improvements in efficiencies through improved contracting and collaboration. She also served on the board of the Arkansas Association of Hospital Trustees for eight years and was appointed president for 2013-14. As president, Williams served on the board of the Arkansas Hospital Association. She was appointed to a regional policy board of the American Hospital Association in 2013 and served for six years. She now serves on the Trustee Leadership Council of the American Hospital Association. Williams was presented with the prestigious Arkansas Hospital Association Chairman’s Award in 2014. The award is only given at the discretion of the AHA chairman and is not presented every year. At the presentation of the award, the AHA chairman stated that Williams had been a mentor for hospital trustees in the state and has represented trustees both in Arkansas and nationally at regional policy board meetings of the American Hospital Association in discussions about important health care issues and the value of governance education. In 2016, Williams was asked to serve on the CHI St. Vincent Board of Directors in addition to her role on the Conway Regional board. “It has been a privilege, these past years, to work with hospital leaders and trustees across the state as we all strive to provide quality care to our communities” Williams said. In addition to her other roles, she also supported the move to create the Nursing Alumni Chapter as part of the UCA Alumni Association. She has helped sustain and grow the chapter and annual membership continues to grow. Her vision and leadership positioned the UCA School of Nursing as one of the top programs in the region and created a foundation for its expanding impact on healthcare in the state. “We have alumni who have been in nursing throughout their entire careers. That tells me that UCA is preparing students who are ready for the field, who are not going into career shock, and who are able to adapt. The feedback we get from employers about the quality of our former students is very positive and reinforcing. They speak very highly of their ability to think critically and their ability to work well with others.” Williams said. Williams continues her support of the School of Nursing through advocating for important healthcare initiatives, mentoring university faculty, students and alumni, and through her continued sponsorship of student scholarships and faculty development.

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February 2019 501lifemag.com | 59

Century Farms Fifteen in the 501 recognized

Kaufman Farms (Est. 1918).

The Flying C Ranch (Est. 1906).

The Money-Sanson-Harrod Family Farm (Est. 1899).

The E.C Blair-Dennis and Gladys Tyler Farm (Est. 1918).

Gov. Asa Hutchinson and Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward inducted 42 Arkansas farms into the Arkansas Century Farm Program at the State Capitol on Dec. 19. Arkansas Century Farm recognizes Arkansas farms of 10 acres or more owned by the same family for at least 100 years. Arkansas Agriculture Department began the Century Farm program in 2012 as a way to highlight the contributions of these families to the agriculture industry as well as their overall contributions to the state. Agriculture is Arkansas’s largest industry, contributing more than $20 billion to the state’s economy annually and providing one in every six jobs in the state. Arkansas consistently ranks in the top 25 nationally in the production of 23 agricultural commodities. “The value of farm families is more than their crops and livestock. Through generations, their commitment to family and hard work has proven to be the combination of values that enriches our communities, and makes our state and nation great,” said Hutchinson to the Century Farm Families. Including the 2018 inductees, 418 farms are currently recognized as Arkansas Century Farms. The 42 newly inducted Century Farms are located in the following 25 counties: Arkansas, Boone, Columbia, Conway, Crittenden, Cross,

The Austin Acre Farm (Est. 1913) and the Justin Acre Farm (Est. 1913) were among those recognized as an Arkansas Century Farm.

60 | 501 LIFE February 2019

The Slaten Farm (Est. 1888).

The Harrod/Sanson/White Farm (Est. 1889).

Ben-Lyn Hicks Farm (Est. 1900).

Bryant Family Farm (Est. 1890).

The Rowlett Homestead Farm (Est. 1887).

Duncan Farm (Est. 1904) and Holland Farm (Est. 1860).

Desha, Faulkner, Franklin, Fulton, Garland, Grant, Jefferson, Lawrence, Lee, Lincoln, Lonoke, Marion, Ouachita, Poinsett, Sebastian, Union, Van Buren, Washington and Woodruff. Applications for the 2019 Century Farm Inductees will open in February. For questions about the Arkansas Century Farm program, contact Mary Elizabeth Lea at maryelizabeth.lea@agriculture. arkansas.gov. Arkansas Century Farms in the 501 that were recognized include:

Conway County Kaufman Farms (Est. 1918) Faulkner County Austin Acre Farm (Est. 1913) Justin Acre Farm (Est. 1913) Harrod/Sanson/White Farm (Est. 1889) Flying C Ranch (Est. 1906) Money-Sanson-Harrod Family Farm (Est. 1899) Rowlett Homestead Farm (Est. 1887) E.C Blair-Dennis and Gladys Tyler Farm (Est. 1918)

Cecil Acre-Kelso Family Farm (Est. 1915) Garland County The Slaten Farm (Est. 1888) Lonoke County Ben-Lyn Hicks Farm (Est. 1900) Bryant Family Farm (Est. 1890) Underwood Cattle Company (Est. 1909) Van Buren County Holland Farm (Est. 1860) Duncan Farm (Est. 1904) February 2019 501lifemag.com | 61

501 kids

A heart for the arts Children love to live in the moment and feel in control of their surroundings. They do not feel the need to strive for perfection, and they love to express their creativity without the self-conscious thoughts that adults often fear. It is easy to get frustrated when children want to make a mess Kellie with paint, they do not Bishop stay in the lines coloring Kellie Bishop is a pediatric nurse or they make a purple practitioner at Central Arkansas sun and blue tiger instead Pediatrics in Conway. She lives of adhering to the neat in Plumerville with her husband, Greg, and two dogs. She obtained and organized mindset her bachelor’s degree in nursing that we have as adults. at the University of Central Arkansas and her master’s and However, there are many doctorate degrees in pediatric benefits to encouraging primary care at UAMS. your child to engage in art, and there are countless different ways to foster the love of art and creativity. The benefits of art in child development are often overlooked. Engaging in artistic activities develops creativity, but it also helps children develop in many other ways. They develop and refine their fine motor skills as they learn to manipulate paintbrushes, crayons, markers or molding clay. They learn about science as they experiment with different materials and colors. There are forms of art, such as sculpting objects out of clay, that require children to problem-solve, which aids in developing their critical thinking skills. One of the most beneficial effects of art is the self-confidence that children gain from creating their own masterpieces while feeling free to make mistakes and make new creations on their own. This is an invaluable concept for children to learn and the impact of it stretches far beyond the arts and crafts table. There are many different ways to encourage art and creativity in children. The first thing that we have to accept as adults is that it is ok for them to make a mess. The benefits of allowing your child to engage in art and creativity far outweigh the need to keep everything clean and orderly so, even though it is difficult, allow them to make a mess! It is also important to avoid giving them direction or suggestions. Allow them to use their own imagination and creativity to create whatever they want without feeling like they will disappoint you if they do not make their artwork exactly how they think you want it to be. You can ask questions or 62 | 501 LIFE February 2019

make comments about their own creative thoughts. “It looks like you made the elephant orange, why did you choose that color?” You are acknowledging that you notice what the child did and engaging in conversation about it without criticizing. Another conversation starter could be, “Tell me about what you made and did you have fun making it?” This allows the child to lead the conversation and explain their creation in their own words. Finally, allow what they did to be enough. Often children will scribble a few different colored lines and dots on a sheet of paper and say they are done drawing. Simply comment on how colorful their picture is and allow that to be enough, which will allow the child to feel that what they created is enough. Art can be fun for both children and the adults in their lives. Instead of always sticking to crayons, markers and watercolor paints, experiment with different objects and materials. Allow the child to pick out different objects from nature such as pinecones,

leaves, rocks or acorns to paint, glue onto paper or use however they want to. You can also show them how to use things like apple halves, bottle caps, sponges and corks to dip in paint and make interesting pictures with the prints from the objects on paper. Children are spontaneous and love to live in the moment so allow them to think of new ways to be creative. Most parents would admit that one of their primary goals in raising children is to encourage independence, creativity and self-confidence. Encouraging art and creativity in children is a great way to help your child develop all of those skills, as well as further develop other crucial proficiencies, such as fine motor and critical thinking skills. Art activities can be inexpensive but will make your child happy and make a huge impact on their development, so pull up your sleeves, throw a floor covering down, gather your supplies and encourage their unique creativity!

Autumn Cleaves AGE: 8. CITY: Conway. SCHOOL: Homeschooled, second grade. FAVORITE SUBJECT: Math. FAMILY: Parents, Adam and Brittany; siblings Logan (6), Jordan (2) and Ollie (3 months). FAVORITE MEAL: Pizza. MOST CHERISHED POSSESSION: L.O.L. toys.

Autumn Cleaves

MORE INFORMATION: “My favorite thing about art is making pictures look colorful. I love taking art class and learning new ways to draw and color.”

February 2019 501lifemag.com | 63

501 kids

Understanding the power of music

Brittany Gilbert Brittany Gilbert is a former FACS teacher at Maumelle High School. She and her husband, Levi, have three children and live in Conway. Brittany can be reached at b.gilbert37@gmail.com.

The benefits of teaching our children about music appreciation are numerous. Music represents all things good and beautiful in the world. Music can connect us to other people. Music is universal and crosses both generational and language barriers. Children enjoying music can bring so much happiness to older generations because of the way kids have fun with music. It can bring joy and comfort to those who are hurting and can help us to express emotions when we don’t know how otherwise. Music gives kids brain power. When you pair learning facts like multiplication tables, history paragraphs, scriptures, etc., to music, you enhance a child’s ability to retain the information. Music can greatly increase spatial awareness and mathematical and scientific reasoning. Also, playing classical music while studying or learning can increase retention and concentration. Learning to play a musical instrument is hard. It takes a lot of work, and while it requires a lot of focus, it also builds focus. Learning a musical instrument builds discipline as well as patience. Listening to music and sitting to play require one to sit for an extended amount of time. This is not a practice that many are accustomed to today while so many things demand our attention and are constantly distracting us.

64 | 501 LIFE February 2019

Music allows children to express themselves. Famous writer Hans Christian Anderson once said, “Where words fail, music speaks.” I think everyone can relate to hearing a song that perfectly says what you’re feeling. Children can experience this as well. Music can help with emotions if you need to calm a child, help them focus or help create energy. Music can be both calming and playful. Give a kid a set of drums and watch how they express themselves in emotional highs and lows. I took piano classes briefly as a child. I was intimidated by the teacher and basically didn’t want to work hard to learn something new and challenging. I was used to things coming easily, and learning how to read music and play an instrument is definitely not easy. As unfortunate as my experience was, it taught me an important lesson when it comes to my own kids. I want my kids to experience all of the amazing benefits of music, so we start lessons young and we encourage them to take part in musical activities just like we do with sports. Don’t worry if your child doesn’t become the next Mozart. The benefits of focused attention, strengthened brain power, creativity, confidence boosting, discipline and an effective form of expression are all worth the process.

AUTHORS IN THE 501

Hendricks uses research, writing skills Dr. Nancy Hendricks is an award-wining author, historian and dramatist. She holds a doctorate in education, a master’s degree in English and a bachelor’s degree in English and theatre. She taught English at Arkansas State University and served as director of ASU alumni communications until moving to Hot Springs. In 2013, she combined her talents of research and writing to publish “Senator Hattie Caraway: An Arkansas Legacy” (The History Press), with an introduction by former U.S. Sen. Blanche Lincoln. Many Arkansans are not familiar with Caraway’s story. In 1931, U.S. Sen. Thaddeus Caraway died, and Susan his wife, Hattie, “filled in” for him during the remainPeterson der of his term, as was often the case at the time. But Hattie did something unusual – she chose to run for Susan Peterson holds a PhD in education and taught office in a special election the following year, and she at the University of Central won, thereby making her the first woman ever elected Arkansas and Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania. She to the United retired in 2004 and now spends States Senate. her time doing artwork (painting and pottery). She is the executive The book secretary of the Arkansas Reading emphasizes the Association, a professional organization for educators trials and tributhat has about 800 members lations of this statewide. groundbreaking two-term senator, such as the fact that there were no nearby restroom facilities for a woman. Using her gift of drama (Hendricks is a member of the Dramatists Guild of America), she loves to take her portrayal of Hattie Caraway “on the road.” She wrote a one-woman show titled “Hattie to Hillary: Women in Politics,” which she performs in character and dressed in Dr. Nancy Hendricks has written several books, including “Senator period costume as Caraway. Hattie Caraway: An Arkansas Contrary to the opinion of some, Caraway’s accomplishments were many, Legacy.” and she had a true desire to help people. During the process of researching the book at the archives at the University of Arkansas and Arkansas State University at Jonesboro, she connected with Caraway’s granddaughter, who shared rare family photos with her. Many of the previouslyunseen pictures appear in the book. In addition to her plays “Second to None” and “Boy Hero: The Story of David O. Dodd,” Hendricks wrote the play “Miz Caraway and the Kingfish,” which portrays the colorful story of Hattie Caraway’s 1932 campaign with Huey Long. Its New Orleans production was held over for an extended run and nominated by the American Critics Association for “Best Hendricks dressed as Sen. Hattie Play Produced Outside New York.” She also Carraway from Arkansas, the first wrote the play “Dear Mrs. Caraway, Dear woman elected to U.S. Senate. Mr. Kays,” and is author of the book of the same name (Kendall Bostwick Publishers). Hendricks’s historical novel, “Terrible Swift Sword: Long Road to the Sultana” (Amazon Digital Services) tells little-known stories of the Civil War. The prestigious Kirkus Reviews called it “riveting,” adding that her “solid research

enables her to evoke the atmosphere of the times.” Her book “America’s First Ladies: The Remarkable Women of the White House” was published in 2015 by ABC-Clio, and 2016’s “Notable Women of Arkansas: 100 Names to Know” (Butler Center Press) was named an “Arkansas Gem” by the Arkansas State Library. Her most recent project, “Fads and Crazes in American History” (Greenwood), is a two-volume history of the United States as told through the amusements enjoyed by average Americans of each decade. Scheduled for publication by Greenwood in 2019 is “Daily Life in 1950s America.” Hendricks’ hard work and attention to detail have certainly paid off. She is the recipient of a Pryor Award for Arkansas Women’s History, the Arkansas Governor’s Arts Award and the White House Millennium Award, to name a few. The Hattie Caraway book was so well received that Cosmopolitan named it to the list of Twenty Political Books Every Woman Should Read. Hendricks is “both excited and scared” to be working on two books at once, both of which will be published in 2020. One is about postwar American women and the other is a more light-hearted adventure with the working title America’s Haunted History: True Stories of the Country’s Spookiest Places. To find out more about Hendricks or to purchase her books, search for Nancy Hendricks or her book titles on Amazon where her Author Page also can be found. February 2019 501lifemag.com | 65

NEIGHBORS malvern

Buddy Benches Ten-year-old leads fundraising efforts

Ten-year-old Jayden Rice spearheaded an effort to raise money to purchase a Buddy Bench for his school in Malvern. by Deb Rice

When kids change our entire perspective, the world looks very different. That is exactly what my child, Jayden Rice, has been doing for a whole lot of people. Jayden is no ordinary 10-year-old. He has had a rough few years between a big move to Malvern, a high-functioning Autism diagnosis, some learning disabilities and most recently, a PANS/PANDAS diagnosis, which led to a quick spiral downward. Through it all, Jayden has always had a huge heart for people. This remained true even after 66 | 501 LIFE February 2019

being bullied so many times for not fitting into “the norm.” The past couple of years have been especially tough. By the end of the 2017 school year, he developed a real fear of children and recess. He had been bullied so many times and was so broken down that panic attacks became a regular occurrence at the age of 8. He did not want to step foot in a school or be anywhere near a playground. Throughout the summer, we chased down help for him and finally found a medical professional able to help us put the pieces of the puzzle together and found his PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neu-

ropsychiatric Disorder associated with Streptococcus infections) diagnosis. PANS stands for Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome. So often, a child presents in severe psychiatric ways, such as anxiety, eating disorders, tics, OCD and behavioral regression caused by inflammation of their brain. These autoimmune diseases literally attack the brain and wreak havoc on families. Jayden’s personality, no matter the diagnosis, tends to win the hearts of adults everywhere he goes, but kids his age tend to be a different story. But, where this boy’s beautiful story begins is no diagnosis

Jayden with Lions Club President Lance Howell after making a presentation on Buddy Benches. or opposition stops him from stepping out and making a difference in the world. He has risen to take his brokenness, his weakness, and has turned it into opportunities everywhere he goes. This past spring, in his third grade class at Malvern Elementary School, they were discussing ways to be kind and how to further share kindness. Jayden ran with this opportunity to share his heart and his own personal struggles with his class. He recalled back to a Vacation Bible School lesson about a child who helped bring Buddy Benches to the school’s playground. These benches were meant for those kids that felt left out and really wanted to be included in play at recess. Jayden shared that so often this was his own story, feeling excluded. After sharing his vision with the class, they were onboard in joining him to make this dream a reality. Jayden’s mission manifested in not just a Buddy Bench Project that brought his class together, but an all-out movement of more kindness. This bold boy spoke at different civic organizations, including Kiwanis, Lions Club and Rotary, and even the School Council, to share his heart for this project and gain some financial support. His classmates sold “stock options” for the bench and “Kindness Always Matters” and “You Matter” rubber bracelets in their school colors of black and orange. In less than two weeks, these kids managed to raise almost their entire goal of $2,000. The bracelets were such a hit, we had to order more, and people have been asking for them in various parts of the country. (Follow Jayden’s Journey on Facebook @JaydenRicesJourney.) So here is a boy with the deck stacked up against him, and yet that hasn’t stopped him one bit. He has taken his weaknesses, shared his vulnerability and turned all his pains into opportunities to help others. I often imagine what the world looks like if we were all able to do that. To lay our struggles and brokenness aside and continue fighting to make the world a kinder and more loving place. So often, when we are in the depths of our own broken stories we forget to

Buddy Bench background The buddy bench is a simple idea to eliminate loneliness and foster friendship on school playgrounds. The idea originated in 2013 with a first-grader named Christian who learned about a special bench on a school playground in Germany. He knew that there were some kids who felt lonely at recess at his school and he shared the idea with his teacher and school principal. A bench was purchased and the idea caught on. Christian was asked to make presentations about it, which attracted the attention of local and national media outlets. For more information, visit buddybench.org. look up and see how much of a difference we can make. We feel like we are not adequate to make a difference, but then there is Jayden, showing us all we can do all things and be just the light the rest of the world needs to see no matter the struggles we carry.

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February 2019 501lifemag.com | 67

SPORTS

‘Basketball is my everything’ by Levi Gilbert

Piper Mullaney and the St. Joseph Bulldogs have big goals entering 2019, and they know those goals have to go through Quitman and Pangburn to be accomplished. “My team actually has a list of our goals for this season hanging up in our locker room,” Mullaney said. “We are fighting for the first or second seed heading into districts. From there, we want to go all the way. For our conference, we will be seeing Quitman and Pangburn again, who we are continually preparing for during practice because those will be two big games for us. They are both the two toughest teams that we need to be ready for.” The Bulldogs (11-4, 4-2 as of press time) dropped the first two matchups with Quitman and Pangburn, but get a second chance against them. As the 2A 5 North conference plays out over the next two months, the Bulldogs are scrapping to edge into one of the top two spots. “I really want to make it to state — not just for myself, but for my team and my coaches,” Mullaney said. “Every single one of the girls on my team has pushed themselves and have worked so hard to make our team as good as it is. And our coaches are the people we have to thank for conditioning us to be the best. I really want to go to state because it will be a reward for my team and a gift to my coaches.” Mullaney, a senior post/center for the Bulldogs, was selected to this year’s 501 Basketball Team — 34 players representing the best the 501 has to offer both on and off the court. The team is sponsored by Conway Ortho and Sports Medicine Center, Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. Mullaney was nominated by her head coach, Kay Lynn Hill. “Piper has great passion and determination,” Hill wrote in her nomination. “She loves the game of basketball, and it shows. She is willing to put in the hard work it takes to be successful. Piper displays leadership and a work ethic that all coaches hope to have in their players. She is the first one to practice every day. Literally, she beats Coach Wilhite and me to the gym every morning. “Piper is very coachable and willing to do what it takes for success. One of our focuses this year is on conditioning and being able to finish a game like we started it, and Piper committed herself to run cross country for the school to help with her endurance for this season.” Mullaney is averaging a double-double so far this season for the Bulldogs with 15.3 points and 10.7 rebounds per game. She’s also averaging three blocks 68 | 501 LIFE February 2019

St. Joseph High School’s Piper Mullaney is a member of this year’s 501 Basketball Team, sponsored by Conway Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Center, Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo) and assists per game. “Basketball is my everything,” Mullaney said. “It is my passion, and it is what drives me every day. I couldn’t be where I am today without it or the people who support me to be the best I can be. I want to thank my family for always having my back and supporting me on and off the court. I want to thank all my coaches from Upward to AAU to high school. I could not be where I am physically, emotionally and mentally without every single one of you. I want to thank all of the teammates that I’ve

ever had. Every team is like a new family to me, and because of this sport, I have made friends that will last a lifetime. “And I want to thank all those Bulldog fans out there. I’m being sincere when I say that you guys are the reason for my success and the team’s success. You guys come to every game, home or away, and you cheer so loud for us. You guys also donate money to our basketball program to keep it up and running, and I cannot thank you enough. “I will always be proud to be a Bulldog.”

Briggler ‘solid’ for Bulldogs by Mark Oliver

It’s been a season of peaks and valleys for St. Joseph, but senior shooting guard Jack Briggler is enjoying his final ride with the Bulldogs. “I’ve enjoyed this season a lot,” Briggler said. “I feel like we’ve had lapses at times, but the positives have outweighed the negatives. Whenever we make mistakes, I feel like we learn from them. Things we used to mess up in the preseason aren’t happening anymore. You can see everyone improving, and we’re coming together as a team.” Briggler was selected to this year’s 501 Basketball Team — 34 players representing the best the 501 has to offer both on and off the court. The team is sponsored by Conway Ortho and Sports Medicine Center, Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. The senior was nominated by his coach, Brent Bruich. “Jack is a solid, all-around player,” Bruich wrote in his nomination. “His best qualities on the court are his shooting, ball-handling, passing and defense. Off the court, he is a great teammate, a great student, is very caring and has great character.” For as long as he can remember, Briggler has had a basketball in his hands. After all, the senior comes from a long line of basketball success. “I come from a big basketball family,” Briggler said. “Both my mom and dad came from big basketball families, too, and they helped me get my start at a young age. My dad and my uncles all won state championships with St. Joseph. They gave me a foundation and are always giving me tips and helping me improve my game.” Through the years, the senior has made many great memories on the court, but all of his favorite moments have one thing in common — winning. “I love winning,” Briggler said. “I love when everyone is on the court and we’re all clicking. We won our homecoming game last year when we weren’t expected to win. This season, we came out firing on all cylinders to beat a good Shirley team. For us, it showed us that we can play with good teams, and it showed us our true potential.” As one of three seniors for the Bulldogs this season, Briggler’s focus is on leadership. “This season, my goal has been to become a more vocal team leader,” Briggler said. “When I’m on the court, I try to be positive and give high-fives, but I want to be more than that. I want to be the one that my team trusts at the end of the game, and I want to be the kind of leader that helps our younger players get better. With the experience that I have, I want to pass the tips and tricks I have to them.” Off the court, Briggler is a member of National Honor Society and Interact Club at St. Joseph High School and plays catcher and shortstop for Bulldogs baseball. In his free time, the senior enjoys playing video games and spending time with family and friends. “Jack participates in lots of service projects we

St. Joseph High School’s Jack Briggler is a member of this year’s 501 Basketball Team, sponsored by Conway Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Center, Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo) have at our school for the community,” Bruich wrote. “He cares about everyone. He has their back and helps them when they need something.” After high school, the senior plans on attending the University of Central Arkansas to pursue a career in pharmacy in hopes of giving back to the community he calls home. “It’s a family thing,” Briggler said. “I have an

aunt and a cousin who are pharmacists and another cousin who is in pharmacy school. I enjoy the idea of spending time with patients, understanding their needs and providing a service to them. I know that there are others who don’t have the same opportunities that I have. When I remember that, it gives me extra motivation to take advantage of my opportunities.” February 2019 501lifemag.com | 69

SPORTS

Pulaski County: Sidney Moncrief

Sidney Moncrief, clad in a yellow shirt, stands with members of the Little Rock Gibbs Elementary School leader group, participants in his entrepreneur leadership learning session. Between 1975 and 1979, he was the charismatic hero of every Arkansas adolescent with designs on basketball stardom. No part of the sport escaped the mastery of Sidney Moncrief, whose play at the University of Arkansas was not merely spectacular but inspiring as well. Nor have 11 seasons in the National Basketball Dr. Robert Association (NBA) or Reising almost three decades of Dr. Robert Reising retired retirement proven him from the University of Central anything but one of the Arkansas in 2013 after holding a variety of teaching, coaching and most extraordinary sports administrative posts during more figures “The Natural than a half-century in education. His doctoral dissertation at Duke State” has ever produced. treated literature and sports. His single mother was key initially in developing his personality and prowess. A motel maid residing with seven children, she insisted on acceptable school work, chores at home and discipline. 70 | 501 LIFE February 2019

Constructively guided and focused, in the ninth grade, Sidney began to display the court skills that were to mushroom into All-American excellence as a high school senior and an intercollegiate performer. Educated earlier in segregated schools, in the 1970s Sidney moved to integrated Hall High School, where he fell under the influence of racial pioneer Oliver Elders, the first head basketball coach hired by an integrated Little Rock school. From 1973 through 1975, Sidney played for the National High School Sports Hall of Fame mentor, and he emerged from the experience not simply one of the nation’s top basketball prospects but also, he believed, a more enlightened and effective human. “With Coach Elders,” he later wrote, “it was about being a better person, a better man. Beyond basketball, the principles were sustainable outside the basketball court.” Welcoming Oliver Elders’ protégé to Fayetteville in the fall of 1975 was Coach Eddie Sutton, whose fresh approach to a flagging Razorback basketball program, Sidney thought promising. He proved a good prophet. With fellow Arkansans Ron Brewer and Marvin Delph, he formed the much hyped, even more idolized “Triplets,” who in 1978 led their team to the national tournament “Elite 8” and, 12

501 LIFE is once again profiling noteworthy athletes from Central Arkansas, one from each of the 11 counties in the 501, in a special series titled “Celebrating athletic excellence.” The 11 are representatives of the quality of athletes found throughout Central Arkansas and are not meant to be the best or the most noteworthy. This is the eighth installment in the second series. months later, to its “Final 4” and an impressive 32 and 4 season record. During his four Fayetteville campaigns, he tallied 16.9 points per game, his scoring average soaring each

Sidney Moncrief (back,right) with his sons – Brett, Jon, Jeffrey and Jason – at a restaurant in New York City.

Sidney Moncrief when he played for the Arkansas Razorbacks. (Photos furnished by UofA Athletics.)

Sidney Moncrief credits Coach Oliver Elders (pictured with his wife, former U.S. Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders), with teaching him life principles.

season from 12.6 in his first to 22 in his last. The same seasons, too, saw his assists-per game improve from 2.1 to 2.7. During the quartet, he also snared a school record 588 rebounds while averaging 8.3 per game, uncanny marks for a performer just 6-foot-3. Nor was Sidney a liability on defense. As one observer notes, “His defensive play for Coach Sutton won accolades nationwide.” Thus, as Sidney enjoyed All-American honors and advanced to completing the B.S. in the spring of 1979, the Milwaukee Bucks of the NBA surprised no one by selecting him first in the annual draft. During his 11 seasons as a professional, he again proved to be “the whole basketball package,” the ultimate all-around player, capable of meeting the sport’s every challenge. In the words of one pundit, “He was truly a team player.”

By 1981-82, while not missing a contest, he averaged 19.8 points, a career-high 6.7 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game, marks earning him a spot on both the All-Star and the All-Defensive Teams as well as selection to the All-NBA Second Team. The four subsequent campaigns saw him continuing at his stellar best, averaging more than 20 points and, each year, tallying at least 330 rebounds and 300 assists. His defense remained spectacular, twice gaining him the Defensive Player of the Year Award. Simultaneously, Bucks’ Coach Don Nelson publicly voiced what many a player and fan had long sensed: Sidney possessed incomparable mental toughness. Nor did he fail, off the field as well as on, to garner increasing respect during the entirety of his statistically rich playing career, which included a spot on the coveted All-NBA First Team in 1982-83.

That respect has accompanied the East Little Rock product into retirement. But it has not traveled alone, as Coach Elders clarified in an interview last November by contending that ‘’Sidney has enjoyed success at virtually everything he has put his hand to.” And he has “put his hand to” a host of ventures — some entrepreneurial, more community — since playing his last game in 1991. At age 61, Sidney enjoys “virtual godlike status…in Arkansas,” opines another observer. Pulaski County and the 501 are more than proud that his roots lie in their soil. February 2019 501lifemag.com | 71

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SPORTS

New complex ‘Tennis is a sport for every age’

The City of Conway completed construction of the Conway Tennis Center in the spring of 2018. The center has a 1,400-square-foot pro shop with reception area, two 1,200-square-foot pavilions with indoor viewing areas and outdoor seating for spectators. (Kevin Thomas photos) by Mark Oliver

Those who enjoy tennis in the Conway area have a new venue. Last spring, the City of Conway completed construction on the Conway Tennis Center, an eight-court outdoor complex at Laurel Park. The center, accessed from Prince Street, features a 1,400-square-foot pro shop building with reception area, two 1,200-squarefoot pavilions with heated and cooled indoor viewing areas and outdoor seating for spectators. “A few years ago, we started working with the city to let them know how many tennis players there were in Conway and that there was a need for something like this,” said Conway Area Tennis Association Vice President Christian Lenderman. Prior to construction on the $2.5 million-dollar project that began in August 2017, the city debated on various locations in Conway but landed on a brand new facility at Laurel Park. Old tennis courts were removed to make way for the new center. “The unique design incorporates traditional elements with a modern sculptural form,” said Emily Ferris, project architect representing Sowell Architects. “We used the same traditional red brick that is used on Conway High School to help unify the streetscape along Prince Street.” Corco Construction was the general contractor. 72 | 501 LIFE February 2019

“Laurel Park is so central to Conway that it just made it a great location,” Lenderman said. “The existing few courts weren’t enough for even the high school to all practice on together after school. With this location, the high school and public have access to high quality courts.” To ease accessibility and increase participation for nearby Conway High School, a crosswalk has been installed across Prince Street. “Since the completion of our tennis facility, (Conway High) Coach Jeff Gifford had more than 40 kids try out for the tennis team. It has exploded tennis for the high school.” Completed in April, the complex held its first tournament, the Conway Regional Tennis Classic, just two weeks after its opening. “Conway Regional really stepped up to the plate to be our major sponsor for our first tournament,” Lenderman said. “Combined with a grant from the Conway Convention and Visitors Bureau, we were able to put on an outstanding tournament. With around 200 participants, we held one of Arkansas’ largest tennis tournaments for our first one. “With the success of the tournament, it will be an annual event.” Recently, the United States Tennis Association named the event as Southern Tournament of the Year. Besides the Conway Regional Tennis Classic, the

CTC has held various events, including a sanctioned Junior Tournament, the Young Life Way to Serve fundraiser and the Ladies Santa Claus Mixer. The next event will be the SEC Challenge Calcutta scheduled Friday, March 1, through Sunday, March 3. With a successful first tournament in the books and increased interest in the sport, the Conway Area Tennis Association continues to imagine possibilities for the growth of tennis throughout Conway with more events and school outreach efforts. “In the future, I think that we’ll see indoor tennis courts one day. They may be at a different location in the city,” said Lenderman. “Once we get a set of indoor courts, they’ll build outdoor courts with them, too. If we can double our total courts, we would be fully set up to take on some of the larger tournaments, like a high school state tournament or a USTA Sectional.” The Conway Tennis Center is open to the public. Courts are available for reservation by calling 501.499.8555. For more information about the Conway Area Tennis Association, visit conwaytennis.net. “Tennis is a sport for every age, and I’m happy to be able to assist in the programs that allow others to enjoy it in Conway,” Lenderman said. “Being able to play locally without having to drive to Little Rock is nice. In 2019, we will have at least 10 team tennis teams playing locally.”

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501 IN PICS

Honoring veterans Sonja J. Keith photos

Hundreds of volunteers recently remembered men and women who served in the U.S. military and are buried at the Little Rock National Cemetery. Remembrance wreaths adorned with a red ribbon, were placed on the graves of the fallen heroes, with their name said aloud by the volunteer or family members who placed it. The event was among those coordinated by Wreaths Across America, which is involved in wreath-laying ceremonies at more than 1,400 locations across the United States, at sea and abroad. The wreaths are provided through donations from businesses and individuals. This year, wreaths will be placed at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Little Rock cemetery. For more information, visit arkansasrunforthefallen.org.

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TRAVELING THE 501

I am a very simple gal. I would rather be in the woods than in a shopping center. I would rather wear hiking boots than high heels. Linda My taste Henderson in art runs Jim and Linda Henderson on the are lifelong residents of the folksy and 501. During the week, Jim has a construction business and homey side. Linda is a registered nurse at the So, when Conway Human Development I started Center. On the weekends, they travel the 501 and other areas noticing of Arkansas. Jim drives and painted hauls equipment. Linda takes photographs of Arkansas. During quilt their travels, they have gained squares on appreciation and love for The Natural State. They have found buildings the 501 has so much to offer throughout for weekend fun and beauty to the 501, I photograph. was in love! I was so pleased to find that Arkansas, including two counties in the 501, now have quilt trails. A quilt trail is made up of painted quilt squares that are found at various locations along a designated route. They may be painted on wood or metal and hung on a building. Many of these lovely examples of art are inspired by early settler quilt patterns when quilts were a necessary household item. Others are inspired by the painterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family history, occupation, interest and even hobbies. They are found on homes, stores, barns, marinas, historical building and out buildings. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a little bit about the history of painted quilt squares. Barn quilt squares came from the colonists in New England. The tradition has continued with the Pennsylvania Dutch Community as a way to celebrate their heritage. Originally, barn squares were designed to beautify barn exteriors. In the past, popular barn quilt squares were based on traditional quilt blocks such as log cabin blocks, bear paw or the wedding ring pattern. In 2001, a quilter in Ohio wanted to honor her mother with a painted quilt square on the familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s barn. The idea caught on and painted quilt squares begin to appear all over Middle America. These oversize roadside quilt squares combine symbols of rural America, barns, quilts and artwork. Rapidly, trails were developed to promote tourism in rural areas and on scenic routes. The quilt barn movement has now spread to 44 states and 76 | 501 LIFE February 2019

Heritage art in the 501 Painted quilt squares in Van Buren County, at Fairfield Bay (top left and bottom) and on Highway 16 east of Fairfield Bay (top right).

Quilt squares in Perry County, at Houston (top left), Perryville (top right), throughout Perry County (middle) and at the Double D Lazy T Ranch west of Perryville (bottom). February 2019 501lifemag.com | 77

Canada. Many communities are involving many different groups from the elderly to children to create and paint the squares. Reproductions of squares are being made into cards and canvas to be sold at local gift shops to raise money for historical museums and commissions. Rural entrepreneurs have used them to launch farm-based businesses, like corn mazes, pumpkin patches and roadside fruit stands. Many trails now include art galleries, gift shops, wineries and other explorer points of interest. Currently, there are at least 11 painted quilt blocks throughout Van Buren County and 13 in Perry County. Each of the blocks, along with its story and address, is featured on the Arkansas Quilt Trails website (ArkansasQuiltTrails.com). Blocks vary in size but most are 4 feet by 4 feet. Their designs range from traditional to bright colors with bold contrasting patterns. The majority of Van Buren County squares are found in Downtown Clinton and between Shirley and Fairfield Bay. One of my favorites is on Highway 16 in Fairfield Bay. It was painted by Anna Massey. Her inspiration for the square was a wedding ring quilt her grandmother gave here as a wedding gift. The square is attached to an old barn in a beautiful country setting. Perry County squares are concentrated in the Perryville area. My favorites were found on the Double D Lazy T Ranch west of Perryville. The squares found in this location have a patriotic theme or traditional quilt patterns. The squares are not only increasing tourism to areas of the 501 that will benefit from travelers but they are also preserving history. These squares help to maintain the history of the area or the life story of a 501 family. Nowadays, very few people create fabric quilts. I am so happy that it is being revived in Central Arkansas with paint and being displayed on buildings with significant history or to decorate a modern building in a traditional way. So, take a day long journey, eat at a Mom and Pop diner, buy gas from a local station and celebrate our Arkansas history by following the Arkansas Quilt Trail. The colorful patterns make a delightful backdrop to a scenic country drive or a visit to one of the 501â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s small towns. I hope more families within the 501 will become interested in telling their stories on quilt squares and as we travel the 501, we see more painted quilt squares popping up on barns and other buildings. I am even toying with the idea of designing my own quilt square and displaying it on our familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s barn or schoolhouse in rural Van Buren County. If you are interested in more information about the Arkansas Quilt Trail, visit ArkansasQuiltTrails.com. There is also an Arkansas Quilt Trail brochure at Arkansas Welcome Centers and chambers of Commence. 78 | 501 LIFE February 2019

Painted quilt squares in Van Buren County, at the Wade Lucas Farm near Shirley (top), Shirley Centennial Museum (middle,left), in Clinton (middle/right) and on Highway 16 east of Fairfield Bay.