February 2024

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PUBLISHER/ ART DIRECTOR

Jeremy L. Higginbotham

EDITOR

Stefanie W. Brazile

FOUNDERS

Donna Spears, Sonja Keith and Tracy Ferrell

BRAND AMBASSADOR

Donald Brazile

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Paulette Higginbotham

ADVERTISING SALES

Donna Spears

DIGITAL DIRECTOR

Levi Gilbert

PHOTO DIRECTOR

Mike Kemp

COPY EDITORS

Andrea Lively and Andrea Miller

FINANCE DIRECTOR

Debbie Flowers

SOCIAL MEDIA

Morgan Zimmerman

The gifts of LIFE and LOVE I

am inspired by older adults who are active and enjoying life. As each year passes, I find myself studying those people who are typically happy and content, because I want to be like them at all stages of life—don’t you? Many older adults have figured out the secret to living well, which includes pursuing passions, cultivating friendships and doing the things they’ve always enjoyed.

In this issue, we focus on "Seniors Living Well" and have included helpful advice and opportunities for the golden years. We also honor several older adults by sharing their stories.

We've also tucked in an update from the Romance, Ark. post office, a sweet love story and a supper idea for Valentine's Day. Chef Don Bingham gives recipes for delicious food that can be nestled on a Valentine's Day charcuterie board. He also checks the chocolate box with a Chocolate Regal Heart Torte.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, I encourage readers to let the people around you know that they are appreciated and cared about. In my experience, even the smallest consideration is meaningful in this fast-paced life.

One thing I love about my job is that I meet two to three dozen people each month as I explore potential articles, and one gentleman in this issue was a delightful new acquaintance. Joe Rantisi of Maumelle is 76 and only started running marathons at age 59 after facing prostate cancer. He is still running and working full-time because he loves the challenge and the people he works with. His mantra is, "You're never too old to start."

We've also included our annual 501 Basketball Team, which consists of 44 outstanding teens from the Central Arkansas who are standouts because of on- and off-the-court achievements. Some of them have the mantra "You're never too young to start" and have been playing basketball since elementary school. For these elite players, being part of their high school team is deeply meaningful, and they are passionate about the game!

Levi Gilbert and Mark Oliver wrote the bios for each of these 45 student-athletes, and I was encouraged as I read them. Most of these students have maturity beyond their years, and they recognize their influence on younger students. Although most are seniors, many see the big picture: that their time in high school is fleeting, with more responsibility just around the corner, so they want to give their all at every game.

One day, the youth featured in this issue will be senior adults, looking back on their teen years and hopefully thinking with pride about the honor of being named to our exclusive 501 Basketball Team.

Today, we congratulate this year’s team as we also acknowledge the important role that senior adults play in our families and communities. It's important to "live well" and “love well” at all stages of life.

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CONTRIBUTORS Diane Barnes Don Bingham Jessica Duff Mary Eggart Levi Gilbert David Grimes Dwain Hebda Linda Henderson Vivian Lawson Hogue

Beth Jimmerson Mark Oliver Susan L. Peterson Dr. Robert Reising Judy Riley Carol Rolf Donna L. Stephens Rita Halter Thomas Morgan Zimmerman

FAULKNER CO. EDITORIAL BOARD Johnny Adams Jack Bell Don Bingham Jessica Brown RaeLynn Callaway Glenn Crockett Beth Franks Sylvia Gauvey Russ Hancock Mathilda Hatfield Spencer Hawks Roe Henderson Jerry Hiegel Antonio Jamison Mike Kemp

Julie LaRue Karl Lenser Monica Lieblong Lori Melton Deanna Ott Pat Otto Jon Patrom Amy Reed Lori Ross Margaret Smith Jan Spann Kim Tyler Stefanie Vann Jennifer Whitehead Kay Wood

CONWAY CO. 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 CO. EDITORIAL BOARD Betsy Bailey Amy Burton Tara Cathey Cassandra Feltrop Phil Hays Natalie Horton

Matt LaForce Mike Parsons Brooke Pryor Judy Riley Carol Spears Kristi Thurmon

501 LIFE is published by Make the Jump Media, LLC (920 Locust Ave. Ste. 104, Conway, AR 72034, 501.327.1501) and is owned by Jeremy Higginbotham and Stefanie Brazile.

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 specific advice, as individual circumstances vary.

Advertisements are not necessarily endorsed by 501 LIFE.

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February February

2024 Volume 16 Issue 10

On the cover: Members of the

elite 501 LIFE Basketball Team with Arkansas senior adult basketball players. Back row, from left: Tucker Cunningham and Luv Patel; front row: Thresa Turner Hunter, Conley Gibson, Marlee Raby and Rob Greene. Thresa and Rob compete in the national senior games.

Photo by Mike Kemp.

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Letter from the Editor Upcoming events UACCM adds nursing scholarship Loving LIFE photos American adventure for seniors Couple of the month: Joe & Brenda Waldrum Entertaining: For the love of cooking

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Sweetheart statues

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Romance rendezvous

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The shot of a lifetime

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501 LIFE Special Section Seniors Living Well Rob Greene and team win gold

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Thresa Hunter at Senior Olympics

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Arkansas Diamonds Senior Basketball Packaged with care - Sherlyn Henderson

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Cancer screenings: A senior’s guide Financial focus: Estate planning The importance of estate planning On his mark - Joe Rantisi

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Can-do - Dr. Carlene Canady

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Seniors again

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Author of the Month: Daniel A. Smith

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A return to his roots - Dan Smith

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501 LIFE Special Section 2023 501 LIFE Basketball Team

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Best buds of basketball

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Artist of the Month: Conway League of Artists

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The choice is yours at PCSSD

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Celebrating Athletic Excellence Cali Lankford of Perry County

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Hope at home: Conway Regional Home Health Pet of the Month: Andi the Border Collie

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Unity Health Interim President Taking his finale - Tilden Fulmer Conway Corp - clean water

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Daffodil Daze Art Contest Person of the Month: Rhonda Dixon of Conway

By Chef Don Bingham

By Stefanie Brazile

By Carol Rolf

By Linda Henderson

By David Grimes

By David Grimes

By Donna Lampkin Stephens

By Rita Halter Thomas

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By Diane Barnes

By Vivian Lawson Hogue

By Susan L. Peterson

By Judy Riley

By Levi Gilbert and Mark Oliver

By Mark Oliver

By Susan L. Peterson

By Jessica Duff

By Dr. Robert Reising

By Stefanie Brazile

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By Beth Jimmerson

501 LIFE would like to thank our advertising partners.

Arkansas Children’s, 71 _____________________________________ Barksdale Federal Credit Union, 8 Bears Den, 65 Bledsoe Chiropractic, 15 Body Wellness, 33 _____________________________________ CARTI, 53 Centennial Bank, 87 Committee to Elect Trey Geier , 9 Conway Corp, 77, 111 Conway Healthcare & Rehab, 59 Conway League of Artists, 95 Conway Public Schools, 64 Conway Regional Health System, 115 Conway Regional Rehab, 103 Conway Symphony Orchestra, 23 _____________________________________ David Hogue for Judge, 57 Des Arc School District, 89 Diamonds of Arkansas Girl Scouts, 23 Downtown Conway, 30-31 _____________________________________ First Community Bank, 19 First Security Bank, 69, 108, 116 Freyaldenhoven Heating and Cooling, 45, 89 _____________________________________ Greenbrier Schools, 72, 77 _____________________________________ Hartman Animal Hospital, 105 Harwood, Ott & Fisher, PA, 49 Heritage Living Center, 5 _____________________________________ Jacksonville Parks & Rec., 107 Judge Carlton Jones, 61 _____________________________________ Karen Ferguson Team, 17 Kilwins Little Rock, 33 _____________________________________ Malys, 62 Max Event Venue, 82 Methodist Health, 112 MSC Eye Associates, 35 _____________________________________ Ott Insurance, 47 _____________________________________ PCSSD, 96 Phil Murphy for Judge, 101 _____________________________________ Quitman Public Schools, 93 _____________________________________ Reynolds Performance Hall, 41 _____________________________________ Salem Place, 25 Sissy’s Log Cabin, 29 Shelter Insurance, 35 South Conway Schools, 92 StoneBridge Senior Living, 53 Superior Health & Rehab, 2 _____________________________________ The Spa’ah, 27 Tipton & Hurst, 13 _____________________________________ UACCM, 54, 89 UCA, 43 Unity Health, 3

Hey Central Arkansas...

Do we have a slamdunk offer for you!

Score the perfect Central Arkansas gift for yourself or for someone you love for only $20 a year!

Delivery ensures you are always on the home team with 501 LIFE! Visit 501LIFEmag.com or call 501.327.1501 to subscribe.

Catch 501 LIFE on KARK at Noon and Conway Corp each month.

welcome to the Writers’ Room

Levi Gilbert

lives in Greenbrier with his wife, Brittany, and their three children. He has been with 501 LIFE since it was founded. The UCA graduate helps coordinate both the 501 Football and Basketball Teams. He also serves as the play-by-play TV announcer for Wampus Cat athletics on Conway Corp and as a learning consultant for Acxiom.

Judy Riley

David Grimes is a native of Conway and a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas. He and his wife, Laura, both work in accounting and both love to stay active in their community. They are parents to three children. He also serves on the Conway City Council and is a big Wampus Cat fan.

lives in White County. She holds degrees from the University of Arkansas and Texas A&M UniversityCommerce. She retired as a full professor for the U of A Cooperative Extension Service. She currently helps her husband, Tom, with a hay production and beef cattle farm and is on several nonprofit community foundations.

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Little Women Feb. 16 • Conway

Based on Louisa May Alcott’s life, this Broadway musical follows the adventures of four sisters who are determined to live life on their terms. This complete theatrical experience will leave audiences filled with a sense of adventure, joy, heartache and a lifting of the spirit. Tickets begin at $31. Visit uca.edu/reynolds, the Reynolds Performance Hall Box Office or call 501.450.3265.

SoMardi Gras

Swan Lake by Ballet Arkansas Feb. 17-18 Little Rock

Feb. 10 • Little Rock’s South Main District

Get ready to dive into the watery wonders of “Soma Under the Sea” at the 14th annual parade, which starts at noon. The block party with live music is from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The 11th annual Little Rock Beard and Mustache Contest follows the parade. It will recognize the Best Natural Beard, Best Mustache, Best Groomed and Most Original Beard. The district is from 12th through 29th streets on South Main.

Cupid Shuffle 5K Walk/Run

Journey into an enchanting world of timeless romance at a 2:30 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. performance on the 17th or at 2:30 p.m. on the 18th. Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score sets the stage for a story of love, magic and tragedy as the swans dance their way into your heart. Tickets are available at the Robinson Center box office or call 501.244.8800.

Kevin Prater Band Feb. 25 • Conway

Feb. 10 • Jacksonville

This year, the 5K course will snake participants through the nature trail at Paradise Park on 1 Paradise Rd. Starts at 8 a.m. This will give walkers and runners the opportunity to experience one of Jacksonville's hidden gems while getting out and getting healthy!

Award categories include ages 14 and under and go to 50+. All participants will receive a shirt and medal. Visit runsignup.com.

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It’s Bluegrass at the Max! Get ready for incredible talent, energetic performances and soulful melodies from the mountains of Eastern Kentucky from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. An afternoon of toe-tapping music is planned as the Kevin Prater Band delivers unique “Coal-Fired Pure Kentucky Bluegrass.” They are often celebrated for their stellar harmonies and a cappella singing. $20 tickets are available on EventBrite.

Help for the healers Dr. Larry and Carlene Davis Nursing Scholarship established at UACCM UACCM Chancellor Lisa Willenberg (from left), Marketing and Public Relations Director Mary Clark, Registered Nursing Director Natalie Williams, Carlene Davis, Chancellor Assistant Mary Newsome, former Chancellor Dr. Larry Davis, Practical Nursing Director Angie MooreStrickland, Development Officer Taylor Holland and Nursing and Allied Health Dean Darrell Moore.

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he Dr. Larry and Carlene Davis Nursing Scholarship has been established as a new endowment at the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton (UACCM).

director of marketing and public relations. “This will be a profound gift for the nursing program and will change many lives.

The scholarship, created by UACCM Chancellor Emeritus Dr. Larry and Carlene Davis, is in honor of their daughter, Sara Woods, a nurse in Oklahoma who holds a Master of Science in Nursing. The couple is thrilled to support students who will attend classes in the college’s planned Nursing & Health Center set to open in late 2025 or early 2026.

“Scholarships often make the difference in our students’ ability to attend college and obtain a degree. Many of our students are nontraditional and balancing school, work and family life. With the shortage of nurses growing, this scholarship will provide much-needed healthcare providers in our region.”

The endowed scholarship will be awarded based on financial need for full-time students in the Practical Nursing (LPN) and Registered Nursing (RN) programs at UACCM. The recipients must be Arkansas residents. Applicants must have a gradepoint average of 2.50 or higher (first-time entering students will use high school GPA) and must submit an essay on the topic “Why I Want to Be a Nurse.” Multiple scholarships will be awarded in the amount of $250 per semester.

The Davises presented a check for more than $25,000 to the UACCM Foundation, which included an amount from a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) retirement plan account. The RMD is the minimum amount retirees must withdraw from their traditional IRA and other retirement plan accounts each year once they reach age 73, according to U.S. tax laws. Davis noted that while the RMD tax plan requires individuals to take money from their annuity each year, those funds awarded to nonprofit organizations are not taxed. He hopes his gift will encourage and inspire others to consider making similar contributions to nonprofit organizations.

“We are so grateful to Dr. Larry and Carlene Davis for their thoughtfulness and generosity,” said Mary Clark, UACCM

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No matter your age, everyone can appreciate snow days!

Cute kids from around the 501 hit the powder this January to sled, snowboard and have snowball fights!

Thad (from left), Mabel (holding her pet bunny Mango) Huck and Woods Miller were “Loving LIFE” in Pulaski County.

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Jaden Nichols was “Loving LIFE” in Greenbrier.

Ben and River Oliver were “Loving LIFE” in Hot Springs.

Nyla Knapp was “Loving LIFE” and playing in the snow in Conway.

Bronley and Brooklyn Hubbard were “Loving LIFE” at Second Chance Youth Ranch in Benton.

Luke and Rylee Brown were “Loving LIFE” and snow sledding in Conway.

Dakota Knapp of Conway was “Loving LIFE” while sledding down his driveway.

K.J. (from left), Kaleb and Kylie Johnson were “Loving LIFE” in Conway.

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LOVING LIFE IN THE 501 Headed out on a special trip? Have a special occasion or get-together coming up? 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!

Photos can be submitted by email to stefanie@501lifemag.com

The Centennial Bank Diamond Club was “Loving LIFE” in Portland, Maine.

Back row: Connie Gaines (from left), Carl Gaines, Mallory Belew, Charles Montgomery, Carol Montgomery and Cathy Potter; front row: Doreen McMahan (from left), Jennie Webb, Peggy Sparks, Connie Reinhardt, Cora Cummins, Connie Simpson, Lupe Donalson, Carol Hutchins and Earl Donalson.

Jennifer Schecter (from left), Nelda Godwin, Melanie McMurry, Randy Gardner and Todd Godwin were “Loving LIFE” at their annual Christmas party in Conway.

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Chris Fulton (from left), Autumn Fulton, Holly Griffis and Chris Griffis were “Loving LIFE” and celebrating Christmas in New York City.

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An American Adventure First Service Travelers Club opens the world to seniors

By Stefanie Brazile

A

fter several decades of punching time clocks, raising children and working towards the reward of retirement, today’s senior adults want to see the world. A regional program offers people over 50 interesting trips that are pre-planned, which puts the joy back into vacations.

Couples and singles alike have joined the First Service Travelers Club, which is sponsored by First Service Bank.

“I love working with the club,” said Director Ina Standridge. “I make so many new friends, and it warms my heart to see them making lasting friendships on the trips.”

This year, she has a day trip planned to Dogwood Canyon on May 7 and a two-day getaway titled Journey to Pioneer Woman and United States Marshals Museum leaving on June 3.

Four multi-day vacations are also offered for First Service Travelers, including to Charleston, S.C., Yellowstone and The Wild West, a Hawaiian Adventure and a visit to the famed Biltmore Estate in North Carolina.

If any of these trips are of interest, get in touch with Standridge right away.

“All trips have a deadline, so the sooner you sign up, you can be sure of your reservation,” she said. “At the end of March, any open seats for the Hawaiian Adventure will be turned back in to the company for them to fill.”

Dealing with traffic and the hurried pace of large cities can be daunting at any age, even with GPS. Both singles and couples have chosen to travel with Standridge because she handles the planning, offers accommodations for people with mobility issues and does this for a fair price.

Karen Brunson moved to Conway about 18 months ago. She had previously

traveled with a friend, but was in charge of the planning, making all reservations, and getting admission to exhibits and performances. She joined the First Service Travelers Club more than a year ago and has been on short and long trips with them. Her favorite adventure was to the Canadian Rockies and Glacier National Park in Montana.

“Now I just have to show up at the right place at the right time,” she said. “I don’t want to get to the point in my life that I won’t be able to travel because of health or whatever and say, ‘Man, I wish I’d gone to the Canadian Rockies or other places. I encourage anyone who wants to travel to do so with Ina.” The First Service Travelers Club gives seniors the chance to see the world and develop new friendships. The trips are affordable and include some meals, admission to planned group activities and transportation.

“When I moved here, I didn’t know a soul,” Brunson said. “Then I went to Washington, D.C., with Ina. I’m a widow and I’m doing this alone, but I’m not really alone. I’m going places that I never thought I would be able to go, and I always feel very safe because you’re really not alone in a strange place. Even in your free time if you want to visit an attraction, you’ve made friends who will go with you.”

Brunson plans to go on several of the trips this year. She praises Standridge and First Service Bank for making the trips unique and worry-free. “I cannot say enough about Ina—she is funny, professional and takes care of everything.”

Learn more by calling Standridge at 501.514.2340 or inquire at any First Service Bank branch.

Top: Karen Brunson's favorite Travel Club vacation, Glacier National Park in Montana.

Center: Brunson in Canada.

Bottom: Brunson on Athabasca Glacier.

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HER STORY: HIS STORY: I am a people person. I enjoy helping people and working with people. My entire career has been helping people in Arkansas one way or another. I’m an eternal optimist, and I try to stay connected with God on a regular basis.

HOMETOWN: Little Rock CHILDREN: Benjamin and Elizabeth (twins).

EDUCATION: I graduated from Little Rock Central High

School in 1964, then graduated from Hendrix College with a B.A. in biology 1968. Then I earned a Master of Science in botany in 1971 from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and then attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and earned a PhD in botany (Plant Physiology) in 1976.

RETIRED FROM: University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service for 39 years (19762015). Positions held in order: Area Soybean Specialist, Pesticide Assessment Specialist, State Leader of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Economic Development, Director of Staff and Leadership Development, Professor of Leadership Development (LeadAR), Assistant Director of Community and Economic Development.

MILITARY: Army National Guard (Nebraska and Arkansas) from 1968-1990. The highest rank I achieved was First Sergeant.

HONORS: My proudest work: Director of the Lead Arkansas (LeadAR) program for 22 years. I’m also proud to have won the Outstanding Leadership Director Award from the International Association of Programs for Agricultural Leaders in 2007.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: I am currently the Chair of the Church Council, Asbury United Methodist Church, Vice President of the board of Cooperative Extension Service Federal Credit Union, Secretary of the Madison Valley Property Owners Association, Executive Secretary of the International Association of Programs for Agricultural Leaders, and a member of Lead Arkansas (LeadAR) Advisory Council (University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture).

SPECIAL INTERESTS: Genealogy, reading, walking,

cooking, traveling, church work.

THE SECRET TO A HAPPY MARRIAGE:

Listening to your spouse, resolving issues as they arise and not delaying the discussion, actively looking for ways to serve your spouse, and telling your spouse you love them every day.

I am inquisitive, compassionate, dependable, spiritual, a critical thinker and self-reliant.

HOMETOWN: I was born in Memphis, Tenn., but

as an Air Force “brat,” moved every two to three years, including to Japan and Ankara, Turkey, where I graduated from high school.

CHILDREN:

Throckmorton.

My daughter is Sarah Elizabeth

EDUCATION: I earned a Bachelor of Art in English from McMurry University in Abilene, Texas, in 1970. I earned a Master of Business Administration in finance from Pace University in New York City in 1979 while working full-time.

RETIRED FROM: After college, I moved to New York City and started my career on Wall Street as a bond analyst and underwriting manager. In 2000, I retired from Wall Street and moved to Arkansas to be close to my family. I was a financial advisor with Edward Jones and Merrill Lynch until 2002. In 2003, I was an adjunct professor at John Brown University for one semester.

Because I thought it was important to give back to the community, I took an executive director position with Women and Children First and volunteered with the United Way’s 2007 fundraising campaign. In 2009, I took a program associate position with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service to work on a grant-funded initiative.

When the grant funds ran out, I took a position at DHS in the Medicaid Department. In 2011, I returned to the Extension Service in a grants management position. I retired from the Extension Service in 2017.

HONORS: Being executive director of Women and Children First to bring awareness to domestic violence in Arkansas.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Serving on the Finance Committee, the Stewardship Committee and being involved in several missions of Asbury United Methodist Church, including the food and diaper pantries.

SPECIAL INTERESTS: Reading, walking, watercolor painting, gardening, traveling, church missions, puzzles and crosswords.

YOUR ADVICE FOR NEWLYWEDS:

Be friends and like each other before getting married. It also helps to make a marriage stronger when you have similar religious and political beliefs.

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Joe and Brenda Waldrum married May 2, 2015, and celebrate their engagement on Valentine’s Day each year with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries.

T

THEIR

STORY:

hey were introduced by mutual friends in 2008.

Joe recommended Brenda for the program associate position in the same department of the Cooperative Extension Service where he worked. When the grant funds ran out for Brenda’s position, Joe recommended some outdoor therapy by suggesting a canoe trip on the Buffalo River. After they floated the Buffalo River, Joe started going to Brenda’s home almost every day for four years. On Valentine’s Day 2014, Joe proposed after making a special dinner ending with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries.

When he proposed, Brenda felt it was natural to say “yes!” When they picked up her engagement ring at the jeweler’s, they were surprised with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries, which the couple saw as a good omen. They were married on May 2, 2015, and celebrate their engagement on Valentines’ Day every year with Joe cooking Brenda’s favorite meals followed by champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries.

The Waldrums like to walk together, read and spend the evening watching movies. They also like to travel and spend time with friends and family. “Our marriage has been strengthened by attending our church and Sunday school class and serving our community,” said Brenda. “It has been a very blessed marriage, and we hope we’ll have many more years together!”

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By Chef Don Bingham

There are many ways of showing love and encouraging each other, and one of our favorites has always been through cooking.

Since time began, the physical and emotional delight that is experienced around food has survived through the generations and is, today, a vibrant way to say "I love you!"

Continued on page 23

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the PaSSIoNatelY PÂtÉ ChaRCUteRIe BoaRD Are you tired of fighting restaurant crowds on Valentine’s Day? Are you searching for a romantic meal that assures your sweetie that you put some planning and effort into the evening? We suggest that you create The Passionately Pâté Charcuterie Board. If pâté is too daunting, replace it with another item that is yummy on crackers or crostini.

This lovely board includes shrimp and liver pâté (recipe on p. 24) and cocktail shrimp arranged on a bed of lettuce and parsley; multi-grain rice crackers and fig and olive crisps; 3-inch deli pepperoni and 1- to 2-inch salami rolled into the shape of roses; blackberries, raspberries and strawberries sliced in half with a notch cut at the top to make them heartshaped; and French macarons, chocolate truffles, heart-shaped chocolate mints and M&M’s.

Learn how to make salami roses at 501lifemag.com/passionatelypate 501LIFEMAG.COM

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Chocolate Regal Heart Torte

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Who doesn't enjoy getting that package delivered

to the front door from a friend who has prepared a special treat for us, or that covered dish during a difficult time? Many of us are currently in the process of shedding the extra weight gain "delight" from candy and cookie gifts during the holidays!

After a short rest, Valentine’s Day brings with it another season to give of oneself to lift the hearts and spirits of those around us. Admittedly, it takes time, energy, and a slight nod to a temporary increase in budget, but the rewards far outweigh the investment! With creations like the Valentine Charcuterie Board or the Chocolate Regal Heart Torte, the results will show the depth of one’s love and appreciation to the recipient. But it's also rewarding to stop by the donut shop and purchase a dozen assorted delicacies to hand off to the bank teller, the podiatrist, the barber, the pastor, the widow or the best friend.

One of my favorite quick gifts to give is a fresh loaf of sourdough bread from the local bakery, with an added small jar of jam and a stick of butter! Whether we create an enormous, decadent charcuterie board, or offer one simple cinnamon roll in a pastry bag, the joy is in the giving! It is equally rewarding to write a short card of admiration and thanksgiving to that special someone or group.

For those who enjoy the world of the culinary arts, try your creative hand at the Charcuterie Board or the Chocolate Torte; it's our pleasure to provide the recipes! May your Valentines be full of love–given and received!

Create the irresistible Chocolate Regal Torte for Valentine’s Day. The presentation is awe-inspiring both before and after it is sliced.

See recipes on page 24

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ShRIMP PÂtÉ 1 envelope unflavored gelatin 1 cup cold water 12 ounces of Braunschweiger (processed in blender) or 12 ounces cooked shrimp 1⁄2 cup mayonnaise 1⁄2 cup sour cream 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 2 Tbsp. chopped onions

Sprinkle gelatin over cold water; place over low heat and stir well until gelatin dissolves. Remove; stir all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Pour into a 4-cup loaf pan. Serves 4-6.

Braunschweiger meat; boiled, peeled shrimp; cooked ham or a combination of all three may be used. The pâté mixture may be poured into a mold or loaf pan or divided into smaller units.

Serve with baguettes, saltines or your bread or cracker of choice.

ChoColate Regal heaRt toRte 2 heart-shaped pans 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 cups granulated sugar 1⁄2 tsp. salt 1 stick butter 1/2 cup shortening 3 Tbsp. cocoa 2 eggs, beaten 1 tsp. soda 1⁄2 cup buttermilk 1 tsp. vanilla

Sift together flour, sugar and salt. Put butter, water, shortening and cocoa in a saucepan and bring to a boil, then pour over the flour mixture. Mix well. In another bowl, beat eggs. Add soda, buttermilk and vanilla. Stir well and add to the first mixture. Mix well. Bake in a greased and floured cookie sheet pan, round pans or a heart-shaped pan. The batter will fill one cookie-sheet-sized baking pan or two smaller round or heart-shaped pans. Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes. Cool before frosting.

ChoColate ICINg 1 stick butter 3 Tbsp. cocoa 6 Tbsp. milk 1⁄2 tsp. vanilla 1 box (16 oz.) powdered sugar, plus a few more Tbsp.

1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Melt butter, then add cocoa, milk and vanilla. Bring to a boil, then add box of powdered sugar and nuts. Stir until smooth, then pour over the cake. Spread icing using additional powdered sugar to control consistency.

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Photo by Mike Kemp

Sweetheart statues

Toads and bunny decorated for Valentine’s Day as a gift to communities

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Photo by Allison Mitchell

T

ipton & Hurst, Inc., a popular florist in the region, gives back to communities in fun ways as each season changes.

They have been decorating bronze statues in Conway and Little Rock for several years.

“Holiday seasonal decorating is what we do,” said Interim Marketing Director Andrea Bailey-Fournier. “We have decorated the bunny and toads to spread cheer and beautification to the communities that support Tipton & Hurst. These are the communities where our staff live, so it feels good to give back in a fun and beautiful way.”

Two toads in front of the Conway Area Chamber on Oak Street and “Whimsical Toad” at the corner of Oak and Front Streets (in Toad Suck Square) have recently had Christmas décor replaced by Valentine’s Day decorations. Additionally, the bronze Little Toad statues that were installed around downtown Conway last year to mark historical buildings were dressed in miniature hearts and flowers for passersby to enjoy. They were decorated by Tipton & Hurst’s Conway Store Manager Jamie Breeding and the design team.

“We love that these installments have become iconic destinations for local families and tourists to take photos as their ‘outfit’ changes for the season.”

Andrea Bailey-Fournier, Tipton & Hurst In the area of Little Rock known as the Heights, the Little Rock Garden Club bunny welcomes guests in front of Mugs Café at the corner of Kavanaugh Boulevard and North Pierce Street. The 4-foot bronze also had a recent costume update

by Chris Norwood, a decorator from Tipton & Hurst’s Heights store location.

Tipton & Hurst invites the public to pose for photos at each location, share them on social media and tag them. “We especially enjoy when people tag us in their photos so we can see which looks are a crowd favorite," Bailey-Fournier said.

“We enjoy being able to give back to our communities in a fun way,” she said. “It is a feel-good moment for everyone involved, from the designers to community members and the sculptures themselves. We hope everyone enjoys these installations for a long time.”

The bunny and toad decorations will change again when spring arrives.

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Romance Rendezvous

Community draws stamp enthusiasts from all over

By Carol Rolf

Bob (from left) and Sue Bliven unveiled the 2024 Love Stamp. Chuck Hamilton, senior manager of post office operations over Area L, was at the podium, and John Parham, postmaster of Romance, Rose Bud, Enola and Mount Vernon, looked on.

Romance, Ark., is once again in the news. The U.S. Post

Office in Romance was the site Jan. 12 of the unveiling and release of the U.S. Postal System’s Love 2024 Stamp, just in time for Valentine’s Day. This year’s unveiling also featured a First Day of Issue (FDOI) stamp.

Romance is a small unincorporated community in White County with a population of 1,762 as reported in the 2010 census.

“This is really a big deal,” said John Parham, postmaster at Romance as well as Rose Bud, Mount Vernon and Enola.

“This is the second time the Romance post office has been selected for the FDOI stamp; the first was in 1990.

“The U.S. Postal Service selects a different site each year for the unveiling and release of the Love Stamp,” he said. “We didn’t ask for it or make any kind of request. This is really special for us.”

“The AR-OK District loved that Romance was chosen as the office to celebrate the First Day of Issue for the Love 2024 Stamp,” said Chuck Hamilton, post office operations senior manager of Area L, which includes Central Arkansas.

Parham said visitors from several states, as well as the local area, made the recent trip to Romance for the Jan. 12 event.

“Bob and Sue Bliven of Somerset, Ky., were here,” he said.

“They are both retired rural mail carriers and have been to more than 100 of these ceremonies. My boss, Chuck Hamilton, thought it would be a good idea to ask them to unveil the stamp, which they did. That was really cool.

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“Everything went really well,” Parham said, adding that an area was also set up in the fellowship hall of the Romance Church of Christ across the street from the post office. “They offered to do that since we were expecting lots of rain and high winds that day; they have a big parking lot as well. We did not know what kind of crowd we might have. The post office is a small building and people might have had to wait outside in the weather. We really appreciate the church for doing that.”

Parham said the new stamp can be purchased as a single or a book of 20. Postal rates increased Jan. 21, making one stamp 68 cents and a book $13.60. The Love 2024 Stamp is a Forever stamp and will always be equal in value to the current firstclass mail 1-ounce price.

Patrons can get the FDOI stamp until May 12. There is no charge for that imprint, but if the envelope is to be mailed, it will require a first-class mail stamp on it.

He said if patrons have a quantity of envelopes, like wedding invitations, that already have first-class stamps on them and they want them stamped with the FDOI stamp, they can bring them to the post office or mail them in a large envelope or box.

They can also include postage for the Love 2024 stamps and have those put on the envelopes along with the FDOI imprints.

Mail to Romance Post Office, 292 Highway 31, Romance, AR 72136 or call 501.556.5911 for more information.

The USPS began the Love series of stamps in 1973.

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A message from

Kim Williams

Executive Director, Conway Downtown Partnership Join us in downtown Conway this February for a month filled with exciting events and celebrations.

From Valentine's Day to Presidents Day, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. With more than 18 restaurants, 30 shops and stores and a vibrant atmosphere, downtown Conway is the place to be.

Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner, shopping for unique gifts or simply soaking in the lively ambiance, we've got you covered. Don't miss out on all the happenings this February.

We can't wait to see you downtown!

Your place is here.

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GETTING THE

OF A LIFETIME Professional photographer Linda Henderson shares tips on how to capture this spring’s total solar eclipse.

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In case you never look at social media, television news or read a newspaper, you might not be aware of the upcoming solar event that will happen April 8.

T

here will be a total solar eclipse that will pass directly over the 501. The extraordinary thing about this event is the amount of time that our area will be in total darkness. The entire 501 area code will experience three to four minutes of total darkness in the middle of the day. This event will attract thousands of people to our state. A wide range of individuals are interested in recording this total solar eclipse—amateur photographers, professional photographers, eclipse chasers and scientific observers.

totality. The only time it is safe to view the sky with a naked eye is during the period of total darkness. Cameras also require protection from the light of the sun during an eclipse.

Solar filters are needed to protect the optics and the internal electronics of a camera. Also, viewing the eclipse through the viewfinder of an unfiltered SLR camera (older model camera) magnifies the intensity and brightness of the sun and can damage eyesight.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes directly between Earth and the sun. Arkansans will see one of nature’s greatest displays. The good news for those of us living in Central Arkansas is we will not have to go anywhere, rent a hotel room or drive great distances. All we will have to do is look up.

The upcoming event will be my fourth eclipse to photograph.

The first one I attempted to capture was in 2012. It was a partial eclipse, and it was the start of a fascination I have for solar events. In 2017, I was able to travel to Kentucky to photograph the “Great American Total Eclipse.” In October of 2023, we headed to New Mexico, and I was able to take pictures of the annular or ring of fire eclipse.

Due to the rarity of the event, most who observe it will want to photograph it. Capturing the eclipse will require only a few special pieces of equipment. The few moments of darkness (totality) will require a tripod or a way to stabilize a camera. Eye protection is the most important consideration of photographing a total solar eclipse. Permanent damage to your eyesight and even blindness can occur if you look directly at the sun with your naked eyes. Always wear certified solar viewing glasses when viewing the sun before and after

In case you are interested in learning more about the technical aspects of photographing the total eclipse in April, I will be teaching a class at Bedford Photography in Little Rock. The class will be Feb. 8 from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm.

More information about the class and cost can be found at bedfords.com.

Continued on page 34

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Join Linda Henderson for a class on Feb. 8. about the technical aspects of photographing a total eclipse.

Learn more at bedfords.com.

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Tips for a successful and fun day capturing the total solar eclipse.

• Check the focus on your camera before the eclipse begins; even a cellphone lens can be focused by simply touching the screen.

• Check your batteries as this is a long event, and you don’t want to miss it because the battery died.

• Remove the solar filter during totality but replace it after the end of totality.

• Don’t make fixed plans as you might want to change locations. Arkansas weather can be a bit unpredictable in April.

• Don’t get so involved in taking the picture that you forget to enjoy the eclipse.

• Get pictures and videos of the people around you who are enjoying seeing the moon’s shadow covering the sun.

• Make a memory. This is an event of a lifetime.

Insurance Solved.

When it comes to insurance solutions Roe Henderson can help you put the pieces together. He has the experience and knowledge to help you make informed decisions. Call or email Roe to discuss your individual needs.

Roe Henderson

1416 Prince St. Conway, AR 72034 501-327-3888 (Call or Text)

RHenderson@ShelterInsurance.com

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“Mostly, what I have learned so far about aging, despite the creakiness of one’s bones and cragginess of one’s once-silken skin, is this: Do it. By all means, do it.”

- Maya Angelou 501 LIFE is proud to tell the story of senior adults in Central Arkansas who are doing just that—experiencing what makes them happy! Thresa Hunter and Rob Greene are both passionate about playing basketball, representing The Natural State in national-level competitions.

A Malvern native, Hunter always lived an active lifestyle but found herself an empty-nester when her kids graduated. She went back to her roots, rediscovering her love of basketball and experiencing the game again with the Arkansas Diamonds. Hunter’s passion led her to find more than teammates and more than friends–she found sisters while enjoying a sport she loved. Hunter encourages anyone, “If you love something, never give up on it! Get up and just move, one step at a time.”

Rob Greene finds the same passion for basketball with the Arkansas Big Dogs. The team that consists of all Central Arkansas players is now the two-time defending national champions at the Senior Olympics. “It was a great feeling to win at our age,” Greene said. But he is not stopping there. Greene and his teammates plan to make it a three-peat at the National Games in July 2025.

While not all seniors are competing on the national level like Hunter and Greene, they are making a point to remain active and vibrant. They are proactive about their health and fitness. They are pursuing hobbies that they are passionate about, becoming involved in their communities, enjoying travel and spending valuable time with friends and family. In other words, seniors today are, by all means, making an effort to “just do it.”

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ROB GREENE Central Arkansas team wins Gold at National Senior Games two years in a row

By David Grimes

Rob Greene’s basketball career began in the first

grade and continues today, almost half a century later. Born and raised in Detroit, Mich., he was also an outstanding baseball player. Greene now lives and works in Conway, where he and his wife of 25 years, Margaret, are parents to three sons.

In 1987, Greene enrolled at North Texas State University (now the University of North Texas) to play basketball. He transferred to Coffeyville Community College in Kansas before ending up at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

He played two years at UALR and was the Trojans’ third leading scorer as a senior, with 12.6 points per game during the 1991-92 season.

After college, Greene continued his basketball career, playing professionally in the United States and in Mexico for several years.

Today, at age 54, he continues to compete in leagues around Central Arkansas when he can. When asked why he still plays, Greene replied, “Basketball is the best way for me to stay active and hang out with friends. It’s my stress relief, and I get competition daily.”

Greene plays for the Arkansas Big Dogs, who practice and play for enjoyment and exercise, but their hard work and dedication have led them to tremendous success on the national level. In fact, the Big Dogs are two-time defending national champions at the Senior Olympics.

Officially known as the National Senior Games, athletes from all over the country gather every other year to compete in a variety of individual and team sports. COVID-19 delayed the 2021 Games by a year, but Greene and the Big Dogs won the gold medal in the 50-54 age group in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., in 2022.

Games are half-court, 3-on-3, consisting of two 15-minute halves with a running clock. In one game, the Big Dogs scored an astonishing 107 points.

“It was a great feeling to win at our age,” Greene said. “Especially after the dust settled and we were eating pizza together as a team and it hit us that we won a Gold Medal and National Championship and were the best in the U.S.” In July of 2023, they defended their national championship at the Senior Games in Pittsburgh, Penn. Greene’s teammates are all from Central Arkansas and include Paris Simmons, Bob Sahr, Steven Green, James Scogins and Greg “Tulu” Vaughn.

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Greene and his Big Dog brothers hope to make it a three-peat at the next National Games in July of 2025 in Des Moines, Iowa.

THRESA HUNTER 50 Plus Women Green Diamonds bring Arkansas national representation in Senior Olympics

By David Grimes

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hresa Turner Hunter is proof that it is never too late to get back into the gym. In the course of a few short years, she went from starting an early morning workout routine to representing Arkansas in the Senior Olympics.

Hunter graduated from Malvern High School in 1982, where she played basketball. She continued her playing career at Henderson State University. She now lives in Glen Rose.

She remained active, but when she became a mother, Hunter spent most of her time following her two sons’ athletic pursuits. Once her boys graduated high school, Hunter found herself with a lot of free time and feeling a little lost. Compelled to stay active, in 2018 she contacted her college coach and mentor Dr. Alvin Futrell.

Hunter began a regular workout regimen with her former coach, traveling from Malvern to the Little Rock Dunbar Community Center at 6 a.m. to lift weights and shoot basketball. She would then drive back to Malvern for work at 8:30.

Hunter later also became active in a boot camp fitness class. One day, she came across a Facebook post about a basketball team for women over 50. At the age of 58, Hunter inquired about playing. She became a part of the team and was blessed to find the sisters she never had with the Arkansas Diamonds 50 Plus Women Green Diamonds.

She also found success on the court, as the Diamonds brought home medals from tournaments in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas and Louisiana. In July 2023, they placed seventh in the National Senior Games in Pittsburgh, Penn. Hunter’s teammates include Mary Beth Kelloms, Mary Stevens, Tammy Green, Sherry Barker, Karen Redden Glenn, Jill Sanders, Myka Bono Sample and Rebecca Sorrell Danner. They are coached by Curtis Stevens.

Hunter said of her Diamond sisters, “They are inspiring and incredible women. I am honored to be a part of the legacy they started.”

She and her teammates do everything together: eat, pray, laugh, cry, encourage and carry each other.

They have experienced heartbreak, death, knee replacements, pacemakers, concussions and other health issues.

Now a grandmother, Hunter summed up her journey, “I would encourage anyone, if you loved something, never give up on it. It is not a sprint, it is a marathon.

If you cannot hit the goal or take five steps without passing out, get up and just move, one step at a time.”

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3.

4.

2.

6.

1.

5.

1. The 70+ Team 2. The 50-54 Blue Diamonds Team 3. The 2023 75+ team won a silver medal at the championship game in July 2023 in Pittsburgh.

They played seven games in five days to work their way to the championship round.

4. The 50+ Green Diamonds Team 5. The 60+ Arkansas Diamonds Team 6. The 75+ Arkansas Diamonds Team won the gold medal at the 2023 National Championship

Many adults continue playing competitive sports as

Diamonds are a girl’s best team

Central Arkansas senior women still dominating in their favorite sport

they age. Senior Olympic Basketball is an international organization, with teams from all 50 states and almost every country. Central Arkansas is home to men's and women's basketball teams that are some of the best in the nation.

At the Senior Olympic games, men and women 50 years old and older compete in several sports, from power walking to pickleball to half-court basketball. Curtis Stevens coaches two women's basketball teams: the 55to 59-year-olds and the 60- to 64-year-olds. He loves seeing his players improve and achieve goals.

“I have the pleasure of coaching a group of women who play basketball. Nothing out of the ordinary, except my youngest participant is 53 and my oldest is 63,” Stevens said. “We competed this past year in the nationals in Pittsburgh and came home with seventh in the nation in the 50-54 age group.”

Stevens invites women who will be 49 this year and are interested in the league to call him. Currently, he is seeking 50- to 54-year-old players to help round out a third team. The first Arkansas state qualifying tournament will be on June 1 at the Benton River Center.

“We are looking for more like-minded ladies who want to be part of the family,” Stevens said. “We are a team second, and a family first. We would love for you to come and practice with us.

My contact number is 501.304.6822.”

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Photos by Mike Kemp

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Packaged with care

Arkansas Box co-owner Sherlyn Henderson is the glue that holds it all together

By Donna Lampkin Stephens

W

ith her family business marking its 25th anniversary in 2024, Sherlyn Henderson of Conway is celebrating a dream come true.

Henderson, 58, and her husband, David, own Arkansas Box, LLC. The business, family and travel have her living her best life.

“We feel blessed beyond measure,” she said. “But it’s been challenging. It’s been hard. We’ve done things we’d never done before to make this happen, but it’s very rewarding, for sure.”

A 1987 graduate of the University of Central Arkansas with a business degree, Sherlyn and her mother-in-law, Mary Henderson, opened a specialty toy store in Conway, The Treasure Chest, in 1997. David had worked in sales for corrugated companies for several years.

“He was always the idea man, and he encouraged me to open my own business,” Sherlyn said. “Later, although

the toy store was a lot of fun, it was not our main source of income, and he came to me wanting to open a business of his own. With my father’s encouragement, he began talking to me about his dream of owning a corrugated box company.

I knew he would be a success because he would work hard to make it a success.”

David took the leap and started Arkansas Box in 1999.

But his mentor, Sherlyn’s father, Jerry Hoover, who had also worked in the corrugated business, died five months later.

“That was a big heartbreak for us in a lot of ways,” she said.

“We had wanted him to be along for this journey, and we feel he has been, for sure.”

She said at first, David just needed her support and agreement, but as time passed, he needed more.

“Arkansas Box was a way for our then-young family to make a living, and his vision was that after college, it would be a place for our sons to be able to work,” she said.

Continued on page 38

TENTH ANNUAL U C A D AY OF GIVING When you give, we grow!

On UCA Day of Giving, you get to choose how your gift impacts our campus – from colleges, facilities and student organizations to athletic programs, scholarships and much more. UCA is growing, and your gift makes it all possible.

On March 7, let’s grow together.

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Sherlyn Henderson stands next to a computer-aided design table at Arkansas Box, which is owned and operated by the Henderson family. The machine cuts prototypes of customized boxes before large production runs.

Still owning The Treasure Chest, she added bookkeeping and other business duties for Arkansas Box. “In 2000, I was stretched very thin, a mother of two energetic boys, a wife, a business owner times two,” she remembered. “I had more than a full plate. We had the opportunity to sell The Treasure Chest that year, and that gave me a lot of relief of my time and energy.”

Today she is treasurer and controller of Arkansas Box, and she also handles human resources. The company employs 70.

David is now semi-retired, but their two sons have joined their parents in the business.

“My husband’s dream came to fruition,” Sherlyn said.

David’s sister, Paige Boren, joined the company three years ago and has taken on some accounting and HR duties, allowing Sherlyn greater flexibility.

“I don’t know when I might retire,” she said. “I still enjoy the work. I have the ability to be off when I want to, which was not the case in the first 20-plus years. It was all hands on deck then, and we weren’t able to take a lot of vacations. But David and I are really enjoying taking some trips and dreaming about where we want to go next.”

They enjoy entertaining at their Beaverfork Lake home and lake house on Greers Ferry.

“We love everything family,” she said. “David started this business with our family in mind, and everything we do is family-oriented. We have a home that affords us the opportunity to have lots of people and celebrate all the best moments in life with our family and friends, so we take full advantage of that.”

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That family includes their sons, Tyler and his wife, Whitney; and Hunter and his wife, Kaylee; grandsons, Carter, 8, and Blake, 4; Sherlyn’s mother, Susie Hoover; and David’s parents, Harold and Mary Henderson and Mildred Trafford. Hunter and Kaylee are expecting the first Henderson granddaughter, Harper Ann, in May. “David and I have always parented as a team and worked as a team, and our lives have always been family-oriented,” Sherlyn said. “We supported our children’s dreams in high school and college. Our son Tyler played college baseball (at Central Baptist College), and our lives have revolved around children and grandchildren and their team sports.”

Hunter Henderson agreed his mother was the epitome of a family person.

“That’s part of the reason they built Arkansas Box, so we could work together as a family,” he said. “It’s hard work, but her attitude is: It doesn’t matter what it is; whatever we have to do, we have to do. That’s a lot of the reason we’ve grown to where we are.

“She’s the thing that holds it all together. She’s the glue to the puzzle.”

In recent years, the couple has traveled to Maine, Colorado and Mexico, in addition to weekend trips around the state. For 2024, Belize is on the itinerary. Sherlyn is also starting to plan a trip to Alaska with her mother and David.

She said she has to look no further than her mother and inlaws for inspiration on living well.

“They are poster children for aging, for sure.”

‘She’s the thing that holds it all together. She’s the glue to the puzzle.’

Sherlyn Henderson's son, Hunter

Sherlyn stands next to her father, Jerry Hoover, who always encouraged her to take a leap of faith and start a business.

David and Sherlyn Henderson have always considered themselves a team. Even in owning a business, the two remain focused on family.

Celebrating its 25th year, Arkansas Box is a family-owned and operated business. Sherlyn Henderson poses with her sons, Hunter (from left) and Tyler, and her husband, David.

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Stacy Smith-Foley, MD, interacts with a patient. Photo courtesy of CARTI

Cancer Screenings: A senior’s guide for informed decision-making S

tarting with our first pediatrician visit, seeing a doctor for periodic check-ins becomes routine. From eye exams to blood draws and urine samples, receiving screenings allows us to catch potentially life-altering diseases sooner when treatment is known to be more effective. Early detection enables us to make proactive decisions to protect our health and quality of life.

But does the need for screenings evolve as we age, especially for serious diseases like cancer that may end up requiring more invasive procedures or management? For seniors accustomed to undergoing regular testing, it begs the question, “How can we determine what cancer screenings we may—or may not—need to receive?”

Health experts overwhelmingly agree that the early detection of cancer is critical. The American Cancer Society (ACS), our nation’s leading “cancer-fighting organization,” states that “regular screenings give the best chance of finding cancer early when it’s small and before it’s spread.” Likewise, Harvard Medical School (HMS) confirms that “early detection and treatment can be lifesaving,” including for more curable diseases like early-stage breast cancer. However, HMS

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cautions that these benefits do not necessarily apply to every health issue or every age group.

CARTI, a not-for-profit cancer care provider with 18 locations across the state and Arkansas’s first cancerdedicated surgery center, echoes this sentiment. It says the first step for seniors is to discuss their need for screening with their health care providers. CARTI is a firm believer in early detection and treatment. And it’s understandable why—they witness the lifesaving benefits for their patients every day.

Equally important, CARTI’s team is focused on ensuring all patients feel equipped, empowered and supported in making informed health care decisions.

If seniors are uncertain whether they may be eligible for cancer screenings, they can visit screening. CARTI.com or call 501.906.4470. CARTI’s team of experts is available to help seniors weigh the potential considerations, including their overall health, pre-existing comorbidities or other risk factors, such as a previous cancer diagnosis, abnormal screening result or a known genetic predisposition. For more information about CARTI and its cancer screenings, please visit CARTI.com.

For screenings, CARTI says seniors’ conversations with their physicians should center on the potential benefits, limitations or downsides of testing.

CARTI points to the American Cancer Society’s recommendations for breast, lung and prostate cancer as an affirmation of the need for ongoing effective patient-physician communication.

BREAST CANCER:

Women 55 and older of average risk should get mammograms at least every two years, continuing the practice as long as they are in good health and expected to live 10 or more years.

LUNG CANCER:

Individuals 50-80 who are current or former smokers and have at least a 20-pack-year history of smoking should receive yearly low-dose CT scans.

Patients should not be screened if they have serious health issues or would not receive treatment.

PROSTATE CANCER:

Men 50 and older at average risk should make an individual decision about screening after thoroughly discussing the pros and cons with their doctors.

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Financial Focus Consider a family meeting to discuss estate plans A

t some point, you’ll want to share your estate plans with your loved ones — and the first step in this process may be to hold a family meeting.

The best time to hold this meeting is when you’re still in good mental and physical shape, and the enactment of your estate plans may well be years away. But what topics should you cover?

Consider these main areas: Your wishes - and those of your family. Use this meeting to introduce your estate plans and, in a basic sense, what you hope to accomplish with them — leave money to your family, support charitable groups and so on. You’ll want to emphasize that you want to be equitable in what you leave behind, but there may be issues that affect this decision, such as disparities in income between grown children or an allowance for a special-needs child. But you’ll also want to listen to what your family members want — and you might be surprised at what they tell you. Consider this: More than 80 percent of the millennial generation would rather know their parents are financially secure throughout their retirement, even if this means that their parents will pass on less money to them, according to an Edward Jones/Age Wave study.

Estate planning documents - At the time of your family meeting, you may or may not have already created your estate planning documents, but in either case, this would be a good time to discuss them. These documents may include a will, a living trust, financial power of attorney, health care power of attorney and possibly other arrangements. At a minimum, you’d like to give a general overview of what these documents

mean, but at an initial family meeting, you don’t necessarily have to get too detailed. For example, you might not want to talk about specific inheritances. This is also an opportunity to inform your loved ones of the professionals involved in your estate plans, such as your attorney and your tax advisor.

Roles of everyone involved – Not only does a comprehensive estate plan involve moving parts, such as the necessary documents, but it also includes actual human beings who may need to take on different roles. You will need an executor for your will and, if you have a living trust, you’ll need a trustee.

Even if you choose to serve as the initial trustee, you’ll still need to identify one or more successor trustees to take your place if you become incapacitated or upon your death. Plus, you’ll need to name people to act as your power of attorney for health care and finances. Choosing the right people for these roles involves thought and sensitivity. Obviously, you want individuals who are competent and reliable, but you also need to be aware that some family members could feel slighted if others are assigned roles they feel they could do.

By being aware of these possible conflicts, you can be better prepared to address them.

Here's one more suggestion: Let your family know that this initial meeting doesn’t mean the end of communications about your estate plans. Encourage your loved ones to contact you with questions whenever they want. You may need to hold additional family meetings in the future, but by laying the initial groundwork, you will have taken a big first step in establishing the legacy you’d like to leave. Contact your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Edward Jones, Member SIPC. Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

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The importance of estate planning Estate Planning Attorney Jennifer O’Kelley of the O’Kelley Law Firm, PLLC, in Little Rock encourages adults to complete estate planning with a qualified professional. She offers responses to common questions below: At what age should a person begin estate planning?

It is wise for a person to begin thinking about estate planning and, if possible, to have at least some basic planning in place, soon after they become a legal adult.

What are the benefits of estate planning?

When you have an estate plan, you control which persons or charities receive assets upon your death, and you give legal effect to your wishes about who can manage financial and medical affairs upon incapacity.

There are many additional benefits. Depending on the type of planning, additional benefits may include probate and estate tax avoidance, to name a couple.

Your estate plan should be tailored to your particular situation, concerns and goals.

Do you need to have a large amount of assets for estate planning to be beneficial?

No. The benefits of estate planning apply regardless of the size of an estate.

Some people say that planning ahead gives them peace of mind. Have you found this to be true with your clients?

Yes. When we finish signing paperwork to create or update their estate plan, clients commonly say how relieved they are to have their affairs in order.

What are the benefits of working with an attorney who specializes in estate planning?

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They focus their time, attention and experience in this area of law, and that should be reflected in the advice, service and work product they are able to deliver.

How often should a will be updated?

Whenever specific changes are desired, a person should update their estate plan. I recommend reviewing your estate plan at a minimum of every three to five years, whether specific changes are desired or not.

Any other information that would help a reader?

There are a lot of common misconceptions about estate planning. Failing to plan can have expensive, time-consuming and undesired consequences. It’s never too early for an adult to complete or update their estate plan–but, unfortunately, it can be too late.

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On his mark In his sixties, Joe Rantisi didn't let prostate cancer slow him down when he was set to go.

By Rita Halter Thomas

J

oe Rantisi of Maumelle, a 76-year-old marathon runner, found inspiration in the words, “You’re never too old to start.” When others tell him he’s too old for something, like running marathons, he asks a question in response. “What is old supposed to look like?”

Rantisi, who still works full-time as Vice President of Stephens Real Estate Investments, LLC, said he always enjoyed walking, but two of his co-workers, both marathon runners, encouraged him to run, challenging him to train for a half-marathon. “They told me if I could walk that much, I could also run.” Rantisi started thinking about it, but shortly thereafter discovered he had prostate cancer.

He chose surgery to address it.

“I remember the night of the surgery. I said if God was going to let me out of here, I’m not only going to run a half-marathon, I’m going to run a full marathon.” Rantisi was determined to do it for himself but also to show his friends he could. On Aug. 28, 2006, his physician released and cleared him “to do whatever you want as long as you can handle it.” It was then Rantisi began running regularly.

Just five months later, he ran his first marathon, only two-and-a-half weeks short of his 60th birthday.

At the time, Rantisi’s wife, Pam, wasn’t too thrilled, telling him he was too old to start. For inspiration, he put the words, “You’re never too old to start,” on an ID bracelet he wears when he goes running or walking. “People say, ‘You’re too old.’ I ask, ‘What age is too old? It’s just a number.’” Rantisi believes what matters is how a person feels and how they want to feel. “When I run, it’s because I want to feel good. And it does make me feel good.”

Continued on page 52

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Photo by Mike Kemp

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Joe Rantisi ran the Little Rock Marathon in 2009 at age 62, only two years after he started running. His time was 4:53. He continues to run at age 76 and his goal is to build stamina rather than being concerned with his time. He stays on the trail by combining running and walking. Rantisi plans to run the Little Rock Marathon in March. “The Lord willing, I want to go till I reach 100,” he said. is first marathon after going through treatment for prostate cancer.

Rantisi admits to aches and pains, which are magnified in our latter years, so he trains for the long haul. He doesn’t set a goal for how fast he can run a mile, but how long he can stay out. “I measure by the hour, not by how many miles.”

His goal is to be out five to six hours to build stamina and lung capacity, because that’s what it takes for a marathon on race day. He said it is important to pay attention to his body. Pushing too hard can mean setbacks, so he adjusts.

Consistency and discipline are important. “I invest time in it—at least an hour for stretching and exercise every morning before I go to work.” Often, that includes a three-mile walk around the lake near his home, emphasizing his enjoyment doing so.

Rantisi has participated in several area races and runs the Little Rock Marathon every year. He has also raced in Memphis, Chicago, New York and Omaha, some multiple times.

Staying active hasn’t always been easy. He has fallen three times. One required an emergency room visit. He has overcome three lower back surgeries and a C3 neck fusion. He understands his wife’s concerns. Aging often means bones are more brittle, and healing and recovery take longer. “But she knows … I enjoy it. She lets me do it, reluctantly,” he laughed.

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While an inspiration to many, Rantisi thanks God. “He got me this far, at this age, to do things possibly a lot of people half my age can’t do. That’s a glory to God, nobody else. It’s not my body. It’s not my discipline. God has allowed me and blessed me with whatever I need to keep doing what I do.” Inspiring others also brings Rantisi joy. “I was running my first race in Omaha, my knees were hurting so bad (my body was still adapting to it), and two young kids sitting on the grass saw all the knee braces I had and the stuff I had protecting me. All I heard was, ‘If this guy can do it, we can too.’” His advice to others? “Just get out there and do it.”

Rantisi and his wife will celebrate their 51st anniversary in April. Their daughter, Allison Gladden, lives nearby with her husband, Adam, and their son, Bob. After working full-time for the Stephens family since moving to Arkansas in 1994 as the General Manager of the Capital Hotel in Little Rock, Rantisi is finally contemplating retirement. While having mixed feelings about leaving people who are like family, he is looking forward to spending more time with his family, and perhaps adding something new he may enjoy as much or more.

Why not? After all, “you’re never too old to start.”

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Can-do Canady

Morrilton community greatly benefits from the service of Dr. Carlene Canady

By Diane Barnes

C

arlene Canady, Ph.D., is a woman who exemplifies the memorable quote by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “A day on, not a day off.” Service, volunteerism and supporting people’s needs are her passions. Canady provides some sort of need or service to another every day.

Canady retired from years of teaching in the classroom and serving as assistant principal. When her husband, Curtis, retired, they moved from Kansas City, Mo to Morrilton (Conway County) and purchased their dream home. Canady said she cried every day for the first month. “After living for 48 years in another state, leaving my children and my grandchildren was certainly not an easy transition,” she said.

Her husband is from a small community called Cleveland that sat along the outskirts of Morrilton. Their plans to return to Arkansas in retirement were known early, but they were young and just beginning their careers, and retirement seemed like centuries away, so it was always nestled in the back of her mind. “But 48 years, two adult children and nine grandchildren later … this was not at all a painless process,” Canady said.

Now ten years later, Canady said they still enjoy going home to Kansas City. “Now we have a four-year-old greatgrandson that we just adore,” she said. But Canady admits she loves coming back home to Morrilton. She now calls it her sanctuary because she enjoys the serenity of being away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

She found a church home where the pastor offered her a ministerial position as Assistant to the Pastor. Canady was ecstatic! She had served 35 years as associate pastor at her home church in Grandview, Mo. She knew this was another of God’s plans. She also realized that she would be the first woman allowed in the pulpit at this church and wondered

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if the pastor’s superiors, as well as the congregation, would accept this break in tradition.

In October 2023, Canady was celebrated by the church and shown appreciation for six years of service in the position.

“They broke the tradition,” she said. “Again, my prayers were answered. I’m home.”

Another key role that Canady implements everywhere she goes is that of volunteer. Within the first year of her arrival, she began volunteering at the Morrilton Chamber of Commerce. She felt this connected her to the heart of the city.

She learned about the city’s growth and development.

One of Canady’s many aspirations as an African American woman was to see inclusiveness for different social and ethnic backgrounds. She hoped the city’s leaders would provide diverse opportunities to the community.

As she became involved in the community, people quickly realized that she was no wallflower. She spoke on many occasions and at events. She is an active member of the NAACP, the Conway County Democratic Party and the Community Visionaries. After her service with the Morrilton Chamber of Commerce, she became heavily involved at the local Morrilton Senior Adult Center.

Canady is sometimes asked if she ever gets tired. She’s quick to reply, “No. I’m re-tired. I’m doing what I love.”

In 2021, Canady received the Morrilton Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year award.

That was the moment she realized that the community does act on inclusiveness. “My plan is to see that it continues through encouraging young people and all [people] to step up to volunteerism,” she said. “It’s essential to building unity among community!”

Photo by Mike Kemp

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Seniors again

By Vivian Lawson Hogue

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“Growing older is mandatory.

GROWING UP IS OPTIONAL.” - Walt Disney

W

hen I was a high school senior, I had energy enough to play baseball and flag football. I sang, played violin and piano and learned from a brother how to shoot rats at night at Tin Can Hill. I had my first experiences of writing and cartooning in the Wampus Cat school newspaper. After graduation, my best friend and fellow giggler, Carolyn Hazel Lewis, and I took on new lives at different schools, then different life paths.

In 1982, I returned to Conway when my parents were in their early 80s. At age 39, Carolyn and I took up our lives again as if we had never been apart, especially in regard to giggling. We were 26 years from being “seniors” again! She had one child and I had two, so our former energies were then centered on being wives, parents, daughters and eventually both of us as teachers. However, humorous moments never diminished.

Those 26 years passed and we found ourselves filing for Medicare at age 65. We were “seniors again!” It is astonishing how the years accelerate afterward! My parents and two brothers passed on, as did her mother and brother … then Carolyn herself in 2017. I don’t know what God will do about us when I join her in heaven, but He knew long before we were even born that we would be a handful.

There are things that a lot of people don’t know about being a “senior.” For starters, begin now to get your gear together.

Get a power of attorney. Remember that their power is void after you “check out.” Appoint an executor. Make a will. Tell the executor where it is!

Start throwing out things you don’t need and never will again. Your children will not want your deceased parakeet’s birdcage. If your children live in small housing, they can’t finagle your antique bed through their door and maybe have to move it again. Make sure your finances are in order and that any possible future care needed is arranged officially. One of my favorite witticisms is, “I did some financial planning and it looks like I can retire at 62 … and live comfortably for 11 minutes.” The answer is to plan ahead, but also to learn to make do or do without.

Meanwhile, live your life! Go to church. Keep a daily journal, even if it’s only a weather report. My dad started a yearly journaling book before I was born and kept one until his already illegible handwriting was just scratches. It was touching to read his entry for the day I was born. Go easy on useless carbs and heavier on protein and fiber. Keep medical and dental issues under control. Don’t hurry about checking the mail unless you really enjoy perusing political and hearing aid ads. Head for the Senior Citizen’s Center and dance or watch those who do. One of my favorite sayings is, “I still have a full deck. I just shuffle slower now.” Go do some slow shuffling!

If you’re going to be a senior, you should know these facts.

The term “senior” came about in the 1930s to soften the label of “old person.” The life expectancy in America in 1938 was 63 and is now 77.4 for men and 81.7 for women. Apparently women have more to say and need more time to say it.

In 1963, President John F. Kennedy designated May as Senior Citizen Month, a time to acknowledge past and current older citizens, particularly those who defended our country.

The Older Americans Act became law in 1965. In 1978, the American Indians, Alaskan natives and native Hawaiians were included.

In the long past, our seniors were revered for their persistence in living through hard times and for being a family matriarch or patriarch. Many lived with their children and grandchildren, and many contributed to household duties and childcare. Youngsters benefitted from old stories, family history and earlier cultures.

I have one of those stories! Our 68-year-old grandmother Arnold was living with us when I was born. My mother came home one day to find her riding on the handlebars of my oldest brother’s bicycle while he gleefully pedaled over broken sidewalks. Mother was stunned, but she knew the two had collaborated in their mischief.

All three are gone now, and with deeper study, I’m thinking I finally know why I was never given a bicycle.

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Photo by Mike Kemp

AUTHOR OF THE MONTH

DANIEL A. SMITH _____________________ ___________

By Susan L. Peterson

D

aniel A. Smith, the author of “Storykeeper” and “Orb Stones and Geoglyphs,” grew up in Morrilton in the 1950s.

Like most kids back then, he’d spend the day playing and exploring in the outdoors. He and his friends would often visit a special place along the river where they found pottery shards and arrowheads in abundance. His finds, coupled with hearing the stories of others he knew who found artifacts across the state, fueled his imagination about the life led by the people who lived there long before European settlers came. He couldn’t help but wonder what their life was like and what happened to them.

Smith’s first job was working for his father servicing refrigeration units around the state. During his travels, he loved being an observer of the natural terrain, admiring its many ridges, peaks and valleys. Following his graduation from Hendrix College with a major in physics, he began working in the audio business, setting up sound for a long list of celebrities that includes four presidents and well-known stars like Dolly Parton, Bob Hope, Presidents Reagan, Clinton and both Bushes, Paul Harvey, Martha Stewart, Ray Charles,

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Alice Cooper and Jimmy Buffet, just to name a few.

But during his travels around the state and beyond, through deserts and across mountain peaks, he would always regard the lay of the land and wonder about the indigenous peoples who once lived there. He began to read, study and research ancient history and sites, eventually homing in on Hernando De Soto’s 1541 exploration in Arkansas.

For years, Smith studied DeSoto’s travels. He was intrigued by what he learned from reading the conquistador’s journals, which described the many tribes, populous sites, varying cultures, languages and beliefs that they encountered during their travels in the state, and especially along the river.

He continued to wonder what happened to these people and their vibrant cultures, which all but disappeared. Smith knew that there were stories to be told, and the realization hit him one day that he, with his years of research, study and observation, was the only one who could do it. Although the stories came easily to him, transcribing them was difficult.

Writing for him is a difficult chore. He admits to being a terrible speller and that he is very likely dyslexic.

He finally completed “Storykeeper” in 2012 and sent out numerous submissions to publishing houses. The topic of his work and the way it was told by three different interweaving narrators was not of interest to the traditional publishers, leading to 80 rejections. Finally, he investigated self-publishing, which was becoming popular at the time. He liked the ownership and independence that self-publishing allowed him.

“Storykeeper” was finally published in 2013, first digitally and then in print. Smith is pleased with its sales and the fact that it has garnered literary awards and praise from its readers.

Smith tells stories through the voices of three different characters, taking the reader back to 1541 and the Casqui tribe that lived near what is now Parkin (Cross County) in Northeast Arkansas. This tribe greeted DeSoto’s 300 explorers, interacting with them peacefully before they moved on. But a century and a half later, when the next band of explorers arrived, nearly everyone had vanished. Smith’s storytellers explain what happened during this gap in time.

His second book, “Orb Stones and Geoglyphs: A Writer’s Journey,” was published in 2017 and is “a soulful mix of

writing, geology, rock and roll and ancient lost nations.” It describes his writing process while intermingling his search for artifacts and orb stones, which are found in abundance in Prim (Cleburne County).

Smith continues to work in the sound and recording business and, like the musicians he works with, has no interest in retiring. It is an enjoyable passion for him, one that comes easily. He is the sound engineer for the 18,000-seat Simmons Arena and the 52,000-seat War Memorial Stadium.

He and his wife, Sandra Taylor Smith, live in Little Rock and have been married for more than 45 years. It is a good match since she too has a special interest in the past, working as an architectural historian.

This inspired storytelling senior is now working on a followup to “Storykeeper.” He has no timeline for completion. Like he says, his stories come when they are ready.

More about Daniel A Smith, including excerpts from his book, his search for orb stones, personal vignettes with celebrities, and work in the sound business, may be found on his website: danielasmith.org. His books are available from Amazon and other online booksellers.

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A return to his roots

After a successful career Dan Smith is back on the farm

By Judy Riley

Diane and Dan Smith

W

hy would 72-year-old successful DuPont retiree Jeff “Dan” Smith return to the land of his roots, 185 acres in the Searcy suburbs? The acreage is small by Arkansas farm standards. He could make much more money selling even an acre for development without the strenuous work of growing horticulture crops. But growing pumpkins and sweet corn on 25 of those acres is just what he does, no easy job even for a young man. The remaining land is pasture and hay. Why come home? That is just it. He is coming back to the farm that has been in his family since 1850. Smith is the 6th generation living and working on this land. In his words, he has always loved the land, is proud of his family’s history and happy to have the chance to keep the land productive and in the family.

The road that brought him back to the Gum Springs Community, just south of Searcy, is very straightforward. As the son of a high school chemistry, biology and ultimately agriculture teacher, he learned to value the land and its resources. Smith worked as a teenager on the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture (UADA) Strawberry Experiment Station in Bald Knob. There, he met and worked under the supervision of world-famous UADA plant breeders Drs. Jim Moore and John Clark. Together, they developed strawberry, peach, nectarine and blackberry varieties that are grown today all over the United States.

That early exposure to experts in horticulture led Smith to get a degree in agronomy from Arkansas State University (ASU). There, he met his future wife, Diane Kestner, who also had ties to agriculture. Her family grew rice and soybeans near Stuttgart, so this life was not foreign to her. Smith’s career took them to the midsouth, where he worked 35 years for agricultural chemical companies, helping farmers increase crop yields and profits. Ultimately, he worked for the DuPont Co., traveling all over the U.S., working with researchers in

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Farm Family of the Year

product development for horticulture crops. This brought him back to the world of strawberries, blackberries, peaches, nectarines, all those fresh fruits we love.

Smith is active in promoting education in agriculture.

He serves as secretary and treasurer of the Arkansas Blackberry Growers Association and is a board member of the White County Farm Bureau Federation, advocating for issues affecting agriculture of all types. He is currently on the planning committee for the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Arkansas Grown Conference and Expo, an event showcasing and promoting all areas of agriculture.

Smith officially retired from DuPont in 2020, so what came next? He began consulting with personnel at Ritter Farms, just north of Judsonia. Every week to 10 days, he ‘scouts’ 150 acres of blackberries, advising the farm manager on the overall health of the plants, when to treat disease, and concerns about insects or other plant health. Lest one thinks this is a small farm, think again. It is the largest of its kind in the U.S. Last year, Ritter Farms shipped 325,000 cases of blackberries across the country. They currently hire 300 folks just to help harvest the crop.

Advising that operation would seem a young man’s job, but not for Dan Smith. He stays fit, walking, jogging or exercising, depending on the weather. Then, there is the actual physical farm work, which is not for the faint of heart. His advice to young folks wanting to pursue farming of any type is to “keep active and love what you.” Does he see a successful future for horticulture farming in Arkansas? “Yes, Arkansas has a great opportunity to become even more involved in growing fruits and vegetables, especially in the hilly part of the state.

Our rainfall, water availability for irrigation, climate and land availability make it ideal.” The future is bright for this enterprising man and for horticulture in Arkansas.

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Features by Levi Gilbert & Mark Oliver Photos by Mike Kemp

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2024 501 LIFE BASKETBALL TEAM GIRLS: Addison Hudspeth; Avery Mills; Blyss Miller; Brianna Miller; Cadie Gifford ; Callie Gottsponer; Chloe

McNabb; Conley Gibson; Emerie Bohanon; Isabella DeSalvo; Jewel Walley; Julissia Young; Kaitlyn Kordsmeier; Kamryn Allison; Kate Wood; Kiara Williamson; Kloey Fullerton; Lexy Heston; Libby Counts; Marlee Raby; Rebekah Faulkner; Riley Gottsponer; Zaniyah Johnson. BOYS: BJ Woodruff ; Brandt Tipton; Cayden Hartman; Dakota Walls; Dashun Spence; Dawson Burgess; Eli Riggs; Elijah Newell; Ethan Kelley; Grant Goddard; Grant Mitchell; Greyson Ealy; Jax Andrews; Kanard Turner; Koben Burton; Luv Patel; Mason Dold; Max Longing; Miles Dickinson; Tucker Cunningham and William Lamb.

ADDISON HUDSPETH - HEBER SPRINGS Heber Springs made waves across Class 4A last season, winning 24 games and reaching the state tournament for the first time in a decade.

Determined to duplicate last year’s success, senior guard/forward Addison Hudspeth leads the Lady Panthers’ hot start as the team aims to repeat history this season.

“Winning our first regional game and making it to state was my favorite basketball memory,” she said. “The excitement was unreal, and it hasn’t happened at Heber Springs for 10 years. This season, our team goal is to make it to the state tournament with 20 or more wins. We will achieve it by pushing ourselves to do our best and never give up.”

Named to last year’s All-State Tournament Team, Hudspeth’s play has captured the attention of multiple collegiate programs. With one season remaining in her historic high school career, all eyes are on the senior as she approaches 1,000 career points.

“Addison can score in a myriad of ways,” Heber Springs Head Coach Spencer Gay said. “She understands how to make plays for teammates and how to get teammates open. She has an extremely high basketball IQ and is like having another coach on the floor. I believe Addison will have a fantastic season and show everyone what she can truly do.”

A leader by example for Heber Springs, Hudspeth hopes to inspire Lady Panthers basketball players for generations to come.

“I want to be remembered as an encouraging teammate that players looked to as a leader,” she said.

CONGRATS FROM

AVERY MILLS - BEEBE Winners of just three games last season, Beebe hits the reset button this year. With a new head coach and goals of rebuilding their basketball culture, the sky’s the limit for senior forward Avery Mills and the Lady Badgers.

“Avery plays with great effort on both ends of the floor,” Head Coach Jordan Riley said. “She is selfless and does whatever is necessary to help her team succeed. I expect Avery to have a successful year and begin helping us build a winning culture again here at Beebe.”

With renewed confidence on the court, Mills dedicates her senior season to her teammates, who have already surpassed last year’s win total.

“My favorite basketball memories are eating with my teammates before every home game,” she said.

“Those times strengthened our relationships and brought us closer together. My teammates and the amazing friendships I’ve built through basketball keep me coming back year after year.”

In her basketball swan song, Mills is also committed to growing the future of Beebe basketball.

“I want to be remembered as a great leader who was well-liked by her teammates,” she said. “Someone who was caring, supportive and a good role model for younger kids.”

“Avery serves our younger students by volunteering as a coach in the Beebe Youth Basketball League,” Riley said.

“She also enjoys volunteering at our local food bank.

She is a kind, genuine person who would go out of her way to do anything if she thought it would help someone.”

CONGRATS FROM

BJ WOODRUFF - MORRILTON Morrilton senior guard Brian “BJ” Woodruff may be the new kid on the block in Devil Dog country, but he has quickly become a household name over the past two seasons as one of the 501’s top scorers.

“BJ has fit into who we are trying to be as a program since day one,” Morrilton Head Coach Keith Zachery said.

“He has quickly gained his teammates’ respect with his work ethic and infectious personality and is the voice of our team.”

From multiple All-Conference and All-State honors to being named to the All-District and All-State Tournament teams, Woodruff has earned a plethora of awards over his high school career. This season, the senior surpassed 1,200 career points and has his sights set on a state championship ring. “Winning the Class 4A state championship is our only goal this season,” he said. “By trusting each other, trusting the process and working hard to become a better leader for my team, we will get there.”

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After high school, Woodruff will continue his basketball career at Black Hills State University in Spearfish, South Dakota.

“I want BJ to have huge success because I know the work he’s done over the past two seasons to achieve his dream of playing college basketball,” Zachery said. “Morrilton basketball loves BJ and we are very proud of him.”

“Keep God first,” Woodruff said. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without Him. If you have a dream, work hard to make your dreams a reality because it will not be given to you.”

CONGRATS FROM

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BLYSS MILLER - CABOT Cabot hasn’t missed a beat since last year’s Class 6A state semifinals appearance.

Behind senior guard Blyss Miller, the Lady Panthers erupted to a 13-0 start this season and appear to be in prime position to contend for a championship ring in 2024.

“The main goal is to go all the way, and we plan to get there by playing the game the right way,” she said. “This means working harder than anyone else, especially defensively, which will result in success offensively. As long as we continue to work hard in practice and work together, we can achieve our goals.”

As a returning starter, Miller has earned the confidence of her teammates and coaching staff and carries high expectations in her senior season.

“Blyss is the epitome of a selfless teammate,” Cabot Head Coach Jay Cook said. “She’s not worried about personal accolades or who is getting the recognition. She just wants to win and for her teammates to be successful, and she’s

willing to do whatever it takes to ensure that happens.”

In addition to basketball, Miller plays tennis and is involved with National Honor Society and FCA at Cabot High School and gives back to the 501 through volunteer work at Cabot United Methodist Church.

“Blyss is well-liked and respected by her peers because of her work ethic in the classroom,” Cook said. “She sets a great example for her classmates and shows them that success doesn’t happen just by chance, but that it takes hard work to get the desired results.”

CONGRATS FROM

BRANDT TIPTON - BIGELOW Bigelow reached the pinnacle of high school basketball last season, capturing the Class 2A crown.

For senior guard Brandt Tipton, it marked another milestone in one of the most impressive athletic careers in recent memory for any student-athlete in the 501.

“Brandt has been part of a lot of winning at Bigelow,” Bigelow Head Coach Craig Neumeier said. “From starting in the state baseball finals his sophomore year to winning state championships in basketball, golf and now football, Brandt has been helping our school claim victory in a multitude of ways.”

Tasked with duplicating last year’s success, Tipton and the Panthers return to the court ready to defend their title in 2024. Repeating as champions amid an improved 2A landscape won’t be easy, but the Panthers are confident in their capabilities.

“Winning the state championship last year will always be my favorite basketball memory,” Tipton said. “There is

no other feeling like being able to experience that with my teammates. Coming into this season, my goals are to be a good teammate who fulfills his role within the team, to win conference and to compete for another state title.”

Academically, he shines equally as bright. The projected valedictorian carries a 4.O GPA, a 32 ACT score and plans to attend the University of Arkansas Honors College to major in chemical engineering. “Brandt works hard in the classroom to be top of his class,” Neumeier said. “He has great work ethic, is always willing to help others and has a motor that never stops.”

CONGRATS FROM

BRIANNA MILLER - MAUMELLE

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Maumelle senior forward Brianna Miller will never forget the day she was introduced to basketball.

“I started playing basketball in sixth grade,” she said. “I was watching a game with my aunt, and I told her it looked fun and I wanted to try it, so she signed me up.”

For Miller, the rest is history. In a career filled with great moments, the senior is committed to finishing strong beside her teammates in her final season.

“I want to make my last year a season to remember,” she said. “My goals are to help lead my team to the state tournament. We can achieve it by working hard every day.”

“Brianna is new to Maumelle this year, but she is a very good communicator,” Maumelle Head Coach Grover Garrison said. “She has been instrumental in promoting a positive environment in the halls and during team functions and will be a catalyst in supporting our team culture and 501LIFEMAG.COM

development this season.”

Off the court, Miller can often be seen lending a helping hand to teachers, students, family and others in need.

“In my free time, I go out and help my brothers with their sports after I have practice,” Miller said. “I still make time to help them with whatever they need.”

A member of the Air National Guard, Miller has plans for a bright future after high school.

“When I’m not playing sports, I’m getting myself ready for the military,” she said. “I want to go to college to become a pediatrician, too.”

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If you would like to contribute to our work, please send donations to:

Hayden Simpson Suicide Prevention and Awareness Fund Greenbrier High School 72 Greenvalley Dr. • Greenbrier, AR 72058

Call the school office at 501.679.4236 for more information.

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CADIE GIFFORD - CLINTON A one-point loss in last season’s Class 4A state quarterfinals gave Clinton all the inspiration it needed to return stronger this year.

Led by senior forward and All-Conference honoree Cadie Gifford, the Yellowjackets are well on their way to reaching their goals this season.

“We worked hard all year to prepare for this season,” she said. “Our team is very dedicated and determined. I hope to lead, score and assist my team to becoming regional champs and making a great run at state.”

A vocal role model for her teammates, Gifford leads by example through effort, encouragement and work ethic and has evolved into one of the top defenders in Class 4A. “I expect Cadie to play a huge role in the success of the team this year,” Clinton Head Coach Matthew Post said.

“She will be one of the best rebounders in our conference and brings great energy on defense. She knows how to win, and I’m glad she’s on our team.”

Off the court, Gifford gives back to her community through Beta Club, FBLA, FCA, FCCLA and volunteer work through her youth group at Formosa Baptist Church. After high school, she plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in elementary education.

“Cadie’s best qualities off the court are how caring she is toward others,” Post said. “She works hard at school and strives to be the best at everything she does. I am very proud of the basketball player Cadie has become, but I am more proud of the person she has become.”

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CALLIE GOTTSPONER - SACRED HEART Two years removed from an ACL and meniscus tear, Sacred Heart senior guard Callie Gottsponer has returned to full strength and stands ready to lead the Knights to new heights.

“Tearing my ACL and meniscus in the state tournament was the biggest adversity I’ve faced in my life,” she said.

“My junior year was frustrating, but as I played more, my health continued to improve. As a senior, I feel like I am able to go all out again, diving for balls and doing whatever my coach asks of me. I’m finally starting to feel like my old self again.”

Preparing to put the finishing touches on her Sacred Heart career, Gottsponer and the Knights are all-in on avenging last year’s first-round state tournament exit.

“Our goal this year is to make it back to the elite eight and beyond,” she said. “If we continue to work together and use our speed and intensity to our advantage, we

have the potential to achieve all of our goals and more.”

Voted team captain this season, Gottsponer leads Sacred Heart to victory through consistent shooting, excellent court vision and taking care of the basketball.

“Callie is extremely smart and loves the game,” Sacred Heart Head Coach Kyle Duvall said. “If we need to make a big shot, everyone wants the ball in her hands because we know she will make it. I am so proud of her and I just can't wait to see everything she will accomplish this year and in her future.”

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CAYDEN HARTMAN - GREENBRIER Greenbrier senior guard Cayden Hartman will never forget the moment he first picked up a basketball, igniting a journey full of positive memories and lessons learned.

“I started playing basketball when I was in first grade,” he said. “My mom is a basketball coach and had me in the gym constantly. My favorite memory was getting to compete in state last year. After the game, our team was upset because we lost a close game, but we were all thankful for the time we put in together. This also made me thankful for basketball because of the friendships I formed with a lot of the seniors that I didn’t have prior to basketball season.”

No matter how his senior season plays out, Hartman is excited to experience it beside his basketball brothers one more time.

“I want to be remembered as the player who helped his team win and played for God’s glory,” he said. “This season, I’m pushing myself to help my team however I can.

As a team, we want to win conference. By working hard every day, we have come a long way in developing a lot of great shooters, which will help us win.”

Hartman’s impact at Greenbrier is sure to be remembered for years to come.

“Cayden has a great attitude in everything he approaches,” Greenbrier Head Coach Mike Simmons said. “His passion for the game rubs off on his teammates through how hard he plays. He is competitive, a great shooter and cares about helping his team win.”

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CHLOE MCNABB - MORRILTON Two wins away from last year’s Class 4A title, Morrilton reemerges as one of the 501’s top basketball powerhouses this season. While the Lady Devil Dogs have set lofty goals for 2024, they’re not overlooking anyone on the basketball court.

“This year, we are taking things one day at a time,” senior guard Chloe McNabb said. “We want to work hard and get better every day. As long as we keep improving without getting complacent, we are going to have a good season.”

For Chloe, success is synonymous with hard work.

“I’ve never been the tallest, fastest or most athletic,” she said. “I try to do the little things like communicating and blocking out that lead to good execution.”

“Chloe is a great shooter, but always looks to get her teammates shots, too,” Morrilton Head Coach Carin McNabb said. “Off the court, she is one of the best teammates I’ve ever coached. With a constant, positive voice,

she supports others with enthusiasm and genuine care.”

As Morrilton’s valedictorian, Chloe also serves as Student Council president and has been voted Ms. Morrilton High School and an Outstanding Senior by the Morrilton faculty and plans to attend Harding University to become a pediatrician and medical missionary.

“I want to be remembered as a good teammate and as someone who would do anything to win,” she said. “Most importantly, I want to be remembered for my faith and that it bled into all aspects of my life, the way I carried myself and the way I treated others.”

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CONLEY GIBSON - CONWAY CHRISTIAN Conway Christian reached the Class 2A state championship game last season, and although the Lady Eagles fell short of securing a ring, a talented team core returns with a chance to seal the deal in 2024.

Led by junior guard Conley Gibson, the Lady Eagles are growing toward their goals, one game at a time.

“This season, I’m working to develop into the best player I can be to help my team win,” she said. “I want to be remembered as a leader who puts in the work and displays the love of Christ through my game.”

“Conley is a fearless playmaker who has a knack for hitting big shots,” Conway Christian Head Coach Trey Lynch said. “This season, she will be asked to carry a large portion of our scoring and playmaking duties. We also hope to see her defensive role expand into a stopper that can defend multiple positions.”

An everyday starter last season, Gibson’s numbers have improved this year, both as a scorer

and a defender.

“Conley is a dedicated player who pours hours of her time into getting better,” Lynch said. “She is a joy to coach and is looking at a bright future on the court and well beyond.”

After high school, Gibson plans to continue basketball at the collegiate level while pursuing a degree in pre-medicine.

“Ability is a huge aspect in sports, but the relationship you have with your team has a huge effect on the atmosphere and success of your career,” she said.

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DAKOTA WALLS - MOUNT VERNON-ENOLA

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A .500 finish last season provided all the fuel necessary to spark Mount Vernon-Enola’s turnaround this season.

Led by senior forward Dakota Walls, the Warhawks have left 2023 in the rearview mirror and put themselves in the discussion as the team to beat in the Class 2-2A conference.

“This season, I want to help my team the best I can so that we can go all the way,” he said. “I would also like to average 15 points per game and five rebounds per game.”

Backed by a senior-laden roster, Walls boasts a high field goal percentage and gives opponents fits with his ability to take charges.

“Dakota has really matured as a player and a person over the last couple of years and is a great competitor,” Head Coach Drew Blocker said. “He is versatile on offense, and I expect him to be a great senior leader and an impact player every night.”

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Walls’ biggest strength comes from his willingness to make everyone around him better. “Dakota provides good leadership and picks his teammates up,” Blocker said. “He is well-liked by his peers and is willing to help those in need.”

Off the court, Walls serves in FFA and Student Council at Mt. Vernon-Enola High School and aspires to be an electrical lineman after high school.

“I want to be remembered as a leader who was respectful of every other player,” he said. “My advice for future student-athletes would be to focus on the important things because they matter in the future.”

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DASHUN SPENCE - VILONIA Everywhere you look, Dashun Spence is making history at Vilonia. As the calendar turns to 2024, the 6-foot-6 senior forward has his sights set on taking the Eagles to new heights.

“This year, I want to lead my team to a conference championship and make a run at state,” Spence said. “We can do this by beating teams how we are supposed to beat them and by being the top defensive team in our conference.”

In December, he eclipsed 1,000 career points and shows no signs of slowing down. The All-Conference and All-State honoree has earned multiple college offers to continue his basketball career.

“Dashun is a gym rat who is always in the gym getting better,” Vilonia head coach Troy Campbell said. “He has developed a strong work ethic on and off the court. A great rebounder who blocks a lot of shots, he really plays above the rim and has done a better

job of finishing around the rim.”

“I want to be remembered as the best athlete to come through Vilonia,” Spence said. He draws inspiration from his favorite NBA player, LeBron James. “I have been playing basketball for 12 years,” he said. “When I was little, I wanted to be just like LeBron. He is what first drew me into basketball.”

Off the court, Spence volunteers for Vilonia’s Future Eagles Basketball Camp. “Dashun is a joy to be around off the court,” Campbell said. “He is a magnet for our youth basketball players, and they love being around him.”

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DAWSON BURGESS - CLINTON After getting a taste of last year’s Regional tournament, Clinton players hit the weight room in the offseason on a mission to get bigger, faster and stronger on the court.

Ready to put their hard work to the test, senior forward Dawson Burgess leads the charge for the Yellowjackets this season. As Clinton’s sixth man last season, he averaged eight points and five rebounds per game. Head Coach Judson Smith expects those numbers to increase in 2024.

“Dawson got serious about athletics and his body over the summer, working extremely hard in the weight room and taking his diet seriously,” Smith said. “We feel more than confident that he will handle everything we ask him to do. He is a leader who holds himself and his teammates to a high standard.”

For Burgess, his senior season is one more chance to make a deep run beside his teammates.

“I want to be remembered as the guy that could bring

ELI RIGGS - HEBER SPRINGS

Eli Riggs is no stranger to adversity. As Heber Springs continues to rebuild its basketball culture, the senior guard understands the importance of being a positive role model for his underclassmen.

“I want to be remembered as someone who helped change the trajectory of Heber Springs basketball for the better,” he said. “I also want to be remembered for being the best example I could have been as a Christ follower.”

“Eli’s best qualities on the court are his toughness, his voice as a leader and his ability to create offense for his teammates,” Heber Springs Head Coach Trusten DeSoto said. “This season, I expect him to continue to lead by example through his work ethic and his play as our point guard.”

On and off the court, Riggs’ faith is a driving force in everything he does.

“After high school, I want to go into ministry,” he said. “My family and I are heavily involved with CALL

energy every time I touched the floor,” he said. “This season, my goals are to be a great leader for the team and to persevere through times of adversity. As a team, we want to make a great run in state. I know we have the skill and athleticism to do it; we just have to maintain our team chemistry and winning mindset.”

Outside of basketball, Burgess runs track and participates in FCA at Clinton High School. After graduation, the senior plans to attend Pulaski Technical College in pursuit of an airframe and powerplant license.

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of Cleburne County, which focuses on recruiting and equipping local foster families. My family has adopted four kids who came through foster care here in Heber Springs. Since I’m the oldest of six kids, my parents rely on me pretty frequently to help with my younger siblings.”

Riggs hopes his story will inspire other student-athletes to never give up when the going gets tough.

“My faith in God has gotten me through adversity,” he said. “Don’t base your success off someone else’s. Everyone’s timing is different, and everyone’s path is different.”

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ELIJAH NEWELL - MAUMELLE Finishing as a quarterfinalist in last year’s Class 5A state tournament, Maumelle enters 2024 with a strong focus on team growth.

As a senior leader, Hornets guard Elijah Newell understands that improving his team’s mental toughness is just as important as its physicality.

“Our goal this season is to win a state championship,” he said. “First, we have to have the mentality for it. Once we have the mentality, then we can get there by working hard in practice and becoming a team. By being a vocal leader and pushing my teammates during practice, I believe that success will come easier in the game.”

A three-sport athlete at Maumelle High School, Newell’s versatility goes a long way both as a leader and as a student-athlete. “Elijah is a great teammate,” Maumelle Head Coach Michael Shook said. “He’s a hard worker, a great communicator and exhibits leadership through his athleticism and willingness to help others.”

After high school, Newell plans to attend the University of Texas at San Antonio to play football.

“Don’t just do what you love during practice,” he said.

“Put in the hours before and after practice, too. The more hours you put in, the more you improve.”

When he’s not playing the games he loves, Newell is making an impact as a role model in his 501 community.

“Elijah has worked with our youth basketball and football camps and volunteers as a mentor at our elementary schools,” Shook said. “He always has a positive attitude and encourages others when they need it.”

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EMERIE BOHANON - CONWAY Emerie Bohanon gives the defending 6A champion Lady Cats a spark on both sides of the court. This season as a junior, Bohanon will step into a new role.

“Emerie brings a contagious energy on both ends of the floor,” said Conway Head Coach Ashley Hutchcraft.

“Emerie is an elite shooter but has developed her game offensively to be a scoring threat in the paint as well. She is a great defender, and her strength and athleticism set her apart. Not only is Emerie’s energy contagious on the court, but her personality off the court is contagious as well. She has mastered working extremely hard and having fun at the same time. She has a genuine care for her teammates and coaches.

“I expect Emerie to be a leader. For two seasons, she has been led by some amazing players, but now it is Emerie’s time to lead her team.”

After finishing last season ranked in many national Top 25 polls, Bohanon is confident the Lady Cats can defend

a state title.

“Winning a state championship with my childhood friends and sharing that moment with the people I love will always be a favorite memory,” Bohanon said. “The team’s goal is to win another state championship. To achieve this goal, we will have everyone all in, meaning we will give 100 percent energy and effort during practices and games.

“Stepping up and being more of a leader has been challenging, but I know what it takes to be a leader.”

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ETHAN KELLEY - WONDERVIEW Despite replacing all of last season’s starters, Wonderview continues to defy expectations as one of Class 1A’s top teams entering 2024.

As the Daredevils’ sixth man last season, junior guard Ethan Kelley slides into a major leadership role this season as the team strives to avenge last year’s first-round state tournament loss.

“This year, we’re focused on growth, improving team chemistry and strengthening our skills as we push each other to do great things,” he said. “Personally, I’m working hard to correct flaws in my performance and improve as a teammate by making it a priority to be encouraging and supportive on and off the court.”

“Ethan is a tough kid who works hard and doesn’t make excuses,” Wonderview Head Coach Jerod Squires said. “An all-around player, he can score from all three levels and rebounds well for a guard. He is willing to do whatever it 76 | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

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takes to help his team achieve success and has the ability to have an All-Conference and even All-State type of season.”

Off the court, Kelley plays baseball and is involved with Beta Club, FCA and FFA. He assists with Daredevils youth athletics and volunteers through RAAD and his youth group at Forte Reach Church in Hattieville.

“Ethan is a high-character young man who is active in his church and helps referee our pee-wee basketball games,” Squires said. “He is a selfless servant leader who is a great role model for our younger students here at Wonderview.”

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GRANT GODDARD - CABOT Cabot hit its stride late last season, finishing as one of Class 6A’s final four teams.

For senior forward Grant Goddard, the Panthers’ strong finish remains one of his favorite basketball memories.

“After losing one of our starters to a knee injury, we rallied down the stretch to make a great run in the state tournament,” he said. “It was special to see how we responded to adversity and gave everything we had to finish strong.”

This season, the Panthers aim to be the last team standing. “Surpassing last year’s success would be a significant achievement for us,” Goddard said. “I’m surrounded by talented teammates, and I want to develop into a better leader for them. I feel that I can make the biggest impact through motivating, teaching and leading by example.”

“Grant has great leadership and grit that allows him to persevere through any adversity he faces,” Cabot Head Coach Logan Bailey said. “He loves to compete, holds his

teammates accountable and cares more about the success of the team than his personal accolades.”

With a 4.25 GPA and a 33 ACT score, Goddard excels in the classroom as well. After high school, the senior plans to study engineering and become a pilot for the United States Naval Academy.

“I hope to be remembered as a hard worker who gave his best effort at all times,” he said. “This is something that my family refers to as integrity of effort. It's an expectation at home, in the classroom and on the court.”

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GRANT MITCHELL - FAULKNER COUNTY FALCONS Faulkner County Falcons senior point guard Grant Mitchell may not be the biggest player on the court, but he has never let a challenge stop him from achieving his goals.

“Grant aspires to become a collegiate athlete,” Faulkner County Head Coach Brad Rusher said. “On off days, you can find Grant at the gym working to improve his game and watching our livestream to see what he can do better.

I have no doubt he will succeed if he continues to pursue this dream.”

Averaging 18 points per game his junior season, Mitchell earned MVP honors last year and is projected to be a dominating force on the homeschool basketball circuit this season.

“Grant is a hard-working young man with integrity,” Rusher said. “On the court, his best qualities are his court vision, perimeter shooting, defense, assists and rebounding. He does an excellent job facilitating plays and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.”

Selected as team captain this season, the three-time

All-State and All-Conference honoree is committed to propelling his team to the top this season.

“As a team, we want to win all our major tournaments: state, district, regionals and nationals,” Mitchell said. “I think we will achieve it by playing smart and keeping good chemistry.”

A leader by example, Mitchell has set the tempo for a bright future. “Grant strives to do his best on and off the court,” Rusher said. “He encourages others to become the best version of themselves and has been a joy to coach over the years.”

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GREYSON EALY- QUITMAN

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Greyson Ealy has been a standout multi-sport athlete for Quitman, and as his final year as a Bulldog comes to a close, he’s focused on finishing as strongly as possible.

“As a team, our goal is to come into every game with a killer mindset and play our hearts out every game,” he said. “We’ll achieve that by coming into every practice and every lift with a chip on our shoulders.”

Basketball has been a constant presence in Ealy’s life, and it’s the game he fell in love with “immediately.”

“All my family played it growing up, so really I wanted to be like everybody else,” he said. “My favorite basketball memories are probably just hooping at my aunt and uncle’s house on a little dirt patch with a crooked basketball goal. It gave me brothers that I’ll have for a lifetime.” Midway through this season, Ealy is averaging 15.8 points and 6.4 rebounds per game.

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“Greyson’s strengths on the floor are finishing around the basket, shooting, his speed and jumping ability,” said new Quitman Head Coach Josh Sensabaugh. “He is a role model to the younger students, and he’s an ambassador of the school. Greyson is very well-known in the community because of his active involvement in his local church, as well as his willingness to volunteer any chance he gets.

He has helped coach numerous pee wee football and basketball teams.”

Ealy plans to play college football. He holds offers from Air Force, Ouachita Baptist University, Arkansas Tech, Henderson State and more.

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ISABELLA DESALVO - NEMO VISTA Isabella DeSalvo has accepted the challenge this year of moving from first off the bench to team captain.

“It’s been quite the adjustment on the court considering our starting five last year all graduated,” DeSalvo said.

“I’m learning how to not only understand my aspect of the game, but also how the other girls on the team play.

Having to adjust to a new group of girls all at once can be challenging at times, but the more we play together, the more we start to pick up on those little aspects that make playing the game smoother.”

DeSalvo contributed off the bench to last year’s Nemo Vista squad that reached the 1A state tournament.

“Isabella impacted the game on the defensive end,” said Nemo Vista Head Coach Corey Collins.

“She didn’t start, but she played a lot of minutes.

She is our most experienced player we have this year coming back. I expect Isabella to be our team leader and

the girl that the other players can look up to. I want to see her continue to grow on the court and off. She is our glue girl. She keeps everyone together and is our best vocal leader.

“Off the court, Isabella is a very hard worker. She works on her family’s farm while still being active in school clubs and athletics. She is also an outstanding student in the classroom with a 4.1 GPA. For 2023, she was selected as Nemo Vista’s citizen of the year by the Morrilton Chamber of Commerce.”

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JAX ANDREWS - NEMO VISTA Jax Andrews is not afraid to put in the hard work on and off the court.

“The amount of work that you are willing to put into something will be shown in your future actions,” he said.

“This thought is something that I have lived by, and it has helped me achieve a 4.0 GPA, along with tons of progress with my performance on the court.”

Andrews gets the offense going for Nemo Vista from his point guard position.

“Jax is a leader and great teammate,” said Nemo Vista Head Coach Chandler Stanek. “He holds himself and his team to a high standard on and off the court. I expect him to lead the team through adversity and continue his solid point guard play.”

Andrews has set multiple goals for his final season at Nemo Vista: shoot more than 35 percent from 3-point range and have an assist-to-turnover ratio of 4-to-1. He also competes in baseball for the Red Hawks.

He’s involved in Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Beta Club, Fire Marshall, Quiz Bowl, Gifted and Talented and Student Council. He also coaches a fourth-grade Nemo Vista pee wee basketball team. He plans to attend Arkansas Tech University and study electrical engineering.

“I am very thankful for my coaches and teammates that have made this sport as great as it has been to me,” Andrews said. “I would like to especially thank Coach Perry, who has been on this journey with me since third grade.”

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JEWEL WALLEY - SOUTHSIDE BEE BRANCH For Jewel Walley, basketball has been inspired by family, but this year will be different for the senior guard.

“What first drew me to basketball was watching my older brother and sisters play,” Walley said. “I was still in elementary school while they were in high school playing, so in the third grade, I decided to join the team. This year, my sister is no longer playing ball with me. She is off playing college ball. She was the team leader on the court last year, and now that she’s not here, all the pressure is on my shoulders. I know the team, my coach, my parents and the school are all counting on me to do what needs to be done.”

Walley earned all-conference in her junior season.

“Jewel did a great job last year stretching defenses with her outside shooting,” said Southside Bee Branch Head Coach Mandy Goodwin. “Jewel is a

sharpshooter with the ability to put the ball on the floor and get to the rim. Her length also causes difficulty for opposing teams. I am looking for Jewel to play a huge role in leadership on the court while carrying the majority of our scoring load and defending both guards and posts.

“Jewel is a positive leader who encourages others who may be struggling. She is a hard worker in the classroom.

She is an unselfish player who wants what is best for the team. She works hard on the floor and pushes others to do the same."

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Two honorees of the 501 Basketball Team have spent their lives as

Riverview senior Tucker Cunningham and Harding Academy senior Luv Patel are more than just crosstown rivals on the basketball court.

They’re best friends .

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I

ntroduced to one another in youth basketball camps around Searcy, the two hoopsters became teammates for Harding Academy in seventh grade after Cunningham transferred from Riverview.

“We went 12-2 that year,” Cunningham said. “Playing that season together is what really strengthened our bond and we’ve been really tight since then.”

That offseason, Patel and Cunningham joined Arkansas Ducks AAU basketball, where they traveled the country over multiple summers to grow their skills.

“We were very good for a small team of boys from Searcy,” Patel said.

“Because Tucker and I worked well together, it allowed us to win a bunch of tournaments.”

In eighth grade, Cunningham returned to Riverview, and the friends became rivals on the court. For the past four seasons, it has been strictly business when the Raiders battle the Wildcats.

“When it comes to head-to-head matchups against Luv, it has to be me who holds the advantage,” Cunningham said. “When we beat Harding Academy earlier in January, I had 17 points.”

“Yeah, they got us, but we play them again later this year, and I’m hoping that we can get them back,” Patel said. “I also wouldn’t mind seeing them again in the title game.”

Despite their friendly rivalry, both Cunningham and Patel have bright athletic futures and support one another on their basketball journeys.

“Luv is 10 times better as a shooter than I am,” Cunningham said.

“On the court, he does his job well. My favorite memories with him are traveling across the country to play other high-level competition and all the jokes and good laughs along the way.”

“We are two guys with the same goals who want to play at the next level, ” Patel said.

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“On the court, it’s competitive and we do what we have to do to win.

Off the court, it’s always love.”

Luv Patel

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JULISSIA YOUNG - GUY-PERKINS Julissia Young almost walked away from basketball.

“I hurt myself during the season last year, but I decided to continue playing, not thinking it was that serious,” Young said. “In the end, it was worse than I thought. I was always in pain, and this caused me to almost give up. I made myself believe basketball was the reason I was hurt, and it caused me to start hating basketball. I eventually met Coach Alexander. We talked, and he motivated me to play this year. I eventually decided that I would give basketball another shot for my senior year.”

Young and the Lady Thunderbirds had a losing record heading into the postseason last year, but a strong run in the district and regional tournaments led to a 1A state tournament berth.

“Many felt that our team at that time wasn’t very talented,” Young said. “They didn’t think we would make it

as far as we did, but we worked hard and stayed committed, which helped us make it to state. Along that journey, my teammates and I grew a special bond. I feel like I can go to them about anything, and they’ll always be there.”

Off the court, Young is a member of Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America, Beta Club and the Gifted and Talented program. At her church, she serves as the secretary for the morning service and an assistant teacher for the youth class. After high school, she plans to attend college and study physical therapy.

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KAITLYN KORDSMEIER - ST. JOSEPH Kaitlyn Kordsmeier is a St. Joseph Bulldog through and through. On the basketball court, she can play whatever position is needed (but mostly guard). She’s an all-state golfer, she also plays soccer, and she was the homecoming queen this year.

“You never have to worry about her getting in trouble, and she will help anyone if they ask,” said St. Joseph Head Coach Austin Neumeier. “She was our point guard and leading scorer last year with over 350 points. She was a big part of why we made it to regionals last year. She is a great dribbler and brings excellent energy. She is the best shooter on the team as well.

“She helps with kids’ basketball camp during the summer and helps at the flea market. I ask the teacher how the girls are doing in class, and almost all of them say something positive about her in class. Nobody has ever said anything negative.”

After progressing to the 2A-Central regional tourna-

ment last season, Kordsmeier and her teammates are working towards taking the next step this season.

“Our team goals for this season are to win conference and to make it to state,” Kordsmeier said. “Our team can achieve this if we stay focused and really strive to win because we are fully capable of succeeding this year. I also couldn’t ask for a better group of teammates to share my last year of basketball with. My personal goals this season are to improve on my outside shooting and free throws."

CONGRATS FROM

KAMRYN ALLISON- GREENBRIER

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Kamryn Allison’s senior season hasn’t started the way she had planned, but the Lady Panther post player is working to finish strong.

“I had to get surgery on my hand at the beginning of the season,” Allison said. “My goals are to improve and have fun. Our team goals are to make it to state. We can do this by working together.”

Allison started playing basketball in pee wee as a youth, and “there was no looking back.” From playing in elementary school to making memories with her teammates at the Harding team camp over the summer, she has had the “best time” with her teammates.

“Kamryn sets a great example for our younger players on how to conduct themselves in the classroom and off the floor,” said Greenbrier Head Coach Payton Edmondson. “She’s very supportive of her teammates and leads on the floor and in the locker room. Her grades and class load are great examples of her work ethic. She’s very in-

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volved in numerous school activities and leadership roles in student organizations.

“Last season, she provided us with depth in the post.

She understands our system and provides great leadership to our really young team. She’s battling through some injuries right now, but should be healthy by conference season and provide us with much needed depth again in the post position.”

Allison is a member of Beta Club, Lifesavers, book club and Health Occupations Students of America. She volunteers at her local animal shelter and plans to pursue a career in dermatology.

CONGRATS FROM

KANARD TURNER - CONWAY Kanard Turner got an early start with Conway High, cracking into the lineup as a freshman. In his junior season, he’s stepping more into a leadership role for a young Wampus Cat squad that’s hungry to climb up the 6A Central.

He is keeping it simple in his approach day in and day out.

“We’re just working to have more wins than losses,” Turner said. “We just going to have to really lock in, work hard in the gym and keep our heads in the books.”

After taking over the Wampus Cat basketball program last year, Marcus Adams has leaned on Turner’s talents to lead Conway. Down the stretch in the final month of last season, he averaged 4.3 assists, 5.1 rebounds and 14.2 points per game.

“Kanard’s best qualities on the court are the way he can drive the ball to the basket with his size, speed, strength and athleticism, and he can guard multiple positions on the floor,” Adams said.

“He’s been encouraging his teammates to be better in practice as of late, and he’s building confidence in our younger guys.”

Turner is a straight-A student in the classroom, leading by example both on and off the court. He holds an offer to play basketball from the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff.

“We expect Kanard to become a better leader for this young team,” Adams said. “He will be leading our young group of guys by example on the court with his experience playing the right way.”

CONGRATS FROM

KATE WOOD - PERRYVILLE After finishing with 19 wins last season, Kate Wood is striving for the next step in her junior season.

“We really want to make it to state because our school has not been in several years,” she said. “We will continue to play as a team and put in the work and effort needed and beyond. We want to send our seniors off on a win at state.”

Wood gives Perryville a skilled athlete at one of the guard spots.

“Kate can play any position,” said new Perryville Head Coach Wesley Kuhn. “She can finish at the rim or shoot from deep, which makes her tough to guard. Kate is very hard to stop. She has quick first steps and gets to the rim quickly. Kate is a very tough competitor. She puts a lot of time into the game of basketball and has so far benefited greatly. I am very excited to have the opportunity to coach this young lady and the rest of the Lady Mustangs.”

Wood also competes in cross country for Perryville. She helps coach a sixth-grade girls pee wee team with her mother. She has an offer to play basketball at Lyon College, and she wants to pursue a career in coaching.

“Kate does well in the classroom and keeps good grades,” Kuhn said. “I expect Kate to step up and be a vocal leader on the team this year. I expect her to grow tremendously on defense which will really help complete her game.”

CONGRATS FROM

KIARA WILLIAMSON - MAYFLOWER A talented senior-laden team with unrivaled team chemistry, the Mayflower Lady Eagles spread their wings this season with plans to rise to the top.

“This year, we want to win it all,” senior guard/forward Kiara “Kiki” Williamson said. “Our six seniors have been playing together since third grade. Since it’s our last year playing together, we want to win state together.”

A walking double-double for the Lady Eagles, Williamson has made a name for herself as a proficient scorer and a shifty defender.

“I watch college players and try to base my game off theirs,” she said. “This year, I have been working on my game inside the paint, such as making good post moves and more jump shots.”

“Kiki has a win-first mentality,” Mayflower Head Coach Coty Storms said. “Because she will be keyed on by opponents, she will have to do a good job of taking what the defense gives

her. We have high expectations for her this year.”

An All-State and All-Conference honoree, Williamson eclipsed 1,000 career points this season and has already punched her ticket to the next level, signing with South Arkansas College in El Dorado.

“I really only eat, sleep and play basketball,” she said. “I want to be remembered as a good, relatable player. Keep working because people will notice your hard work.”

“Kiki has the potential to be very successful on and off the court after high school,” Storms said. “There is no doubt that she will make us all proud.”

CONGRATS FROM

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KLOEY FULLERTON - HARDING ACADEMY As a four-year starter, Kloey Fullerton has one goal left — to close out her Lady Wildcat basketball career as a champion.

“We want to get to the finals, but to also grow close as a team,” she said. “I want to be remembered by the way I carry myself and how I act towards my teammates and my coaches — the look I have on my face and what I say or don’t say.”

Fullerton comes by athletics honestly. Her father, Shane, is the baseball coach at Harding Academy. She passed the 1,000-point mark last season. She averaged 10.5 points per game a year ago, earning all-conference and honorable mention all-state honors.

“Kloey is tough and tough-minded,” said Harding Academy Head Coach Rusty Garner. “She is a terrific shooter who has evolved into a good scorer who plays with tenacity. She hates losing even more than she likes winning.

Kloey leads with her toughness, high motor and work

ethic. She is regularly found celebrating big baskets made by teammates and pushes teammates to be better. We expect Kloey to represent her faith, her family and our program in a wonderful way while also being one of the better players anywhere in our conference.

“Kloey is a quality young lady who is thoughtful and considerate. She has the same compassion, toughness and work ethic in school, social groups and other sports.

It’s just who she is as a person.”

Fullerton is a two-sport athlete, and she has committed to play soccer for Harding University.

CONGRATS FROM

KOBEN BURTON - MAYFLOWER Boasting one strong performance after another, Koben Burton has evolved into Mayflower’s premier three-point shooter this season. Inspired by the Eagles’ past successes, the senior guard will stop at nothing to help his team write basketball history.

“Winning regionals my sophomore year showed us what we can accomplish when we work together,” Burton said. “Our goals this season are to continue improving and make the state tournament.” Determined to take the Eagles to new heights, he dedicated himself to the weight room in the offseason with great results.

“Koben gained strength and athleticism through our workout program, and it has helped his game tremendously,” Mayflower Head Coach Brent Stallings said. “He knows our system well and how to execute it. He plays hard, encourages his teammates and leads by example.”

Beside senior teammate and best friend Finley Poteat, No. 4 rises to the challenge of an elevated

role this season. “This season, Koben is expected to take on a bigger leadership role and encourage our large and talented sophomore group,” Stallings said. “Both he and Finley are returning starting guards that together should provide the experience and leadership for us to have a successful season.”

When it comes to school spirit, few rival Burton’s passion for his 501 community. “Koben is active in all things Mayflower,” Stallings said. “In addition to Beta Club, FCCLA and NHS, he fires up our crowd at football games by carrying the school flag after every Eagles touchdown.

He’s a friend to all and is willing to help anyone.”

CONGRATS FROM

LEXY HESTON- VILONIA Lexy Heston and the Vilonia Eagles are still flying high after a trip to the 5A championship game last season.

“My favorite basketball memory was last year when we won against Parkview for the No. 1 spot in conference leading into the state tournament,” she said. “Coach Simon was really into it with all of us. Overall, it was just a very hyper and fun game to experience. This season, my goal is to be a leader for the team. Not in just scoring or rebounds but someone for all the girls to look up to and be there to ask questions.”

Heston averaged 8.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2.6 steals per game last season, helping lead Vilonia to 29 wins.

“She started every game until she got injured in the quarterfinals of the state tournament,” said Vilonia Head Coach Jeremy Simon. “She had to sit out of the semifinals and tried to play in the finals, but she was too injured to 86 | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

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compete at a high level. Lexy is a great leader for this team, and she is a player that a lot of younger athletes at Vilonia look up to.

“I have very high expectations for Lexy this season, and I believe she has a chance to be an all-state player. We will need her to be more aggressive on the offensive end. We need her to rebound hard and defend well. I need her to play with a lot of intensity and toughness and be the leader of this team.”

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LIBBY COUNTS - MAUMELLE CHARTER Libby Counts is a day-one starter as a freshman forward/center for Maumelle Charter.

“Libby is a constant leader,” said Maumelle Charter Head Coach Logan Dahlke. “She has that quality where people want to follow her lead. It is hard to find someone at that age that everyone naturally gravitates to. She is a force down low. She sets the tone for us on both ends of the floor. She works extremely hard. She is one of the first ones in and one of the last to leave.

“My expectations are for her to be our go-to player in the paint. I expect her to have a season where she dominates both ends of the floor and continues to grow and get better.”

Counts is focused on making meaningful contributions to the team during her first year of high school basketball.

“I just want to make my team better and help our seniors go out with a great season,” she said. “Our goal

is to make it to the state tournament. It will take everyone playing together and fighting through adversity. The biggest adversity is facing our conference. We have many of the best teams in the state in 3A. There are no nights off in this conference.”

Counts also plays varsity volleyball for Maumelle Charter and competes in AAU basketball with the Banshees organization.

“Libby is a focal point in the community and the team,” Dahlke said. “Everyone on the team loves Libby. I am lucky to have the opportunity to coach her.”

CONGRATS FROM

LUV PATEL - HARDING ACADEMY For Luv Patel, basketball has been an avenue for growing up and developing both as a player and as a person.

“My older cousins would always let me play with them when I was young, and I just fell in love with the game because of that,” he said. “I wasn’t really the best kid when I was young, but as I got older, I would always stay in the gym. Those hours in the gym are starting to pay off.”

Patel started the majority of Harding Academy’s games last season, and he gave the Wildcats a knockdown shooting threat.

“Luv is a great shooter and communicator,” said Harding Academy Head Coach Trey Jameson. “He’s also great academically with a 4.0 GPA. He works at a city gym helping referee and work with our city basketball league.

He is one of our hardest workers and has improved tremendously over the past few years. He should be our vocal and emotional leader this season. He is capable

of being one of the better 3-point shooters in the conference and has improved his athleticism, which should help every other part of his game.

“I have not coached many kids who put in more work by themselves to improve their game. He is constantly trying to get better, and I am excited to see how his senior year unfolds.”

Patel was also a member of Harding Academy’s championship football team this school year, and his goal is to get one more ring with the Wildcats.

CONGRATS FROM

MARLEE RABY - MOUNT VERNON-ENOLA Marlee Raby helped create history at Mount Vernon-Enola last year as the Lady Warhawks won their first state championship in program history. She led the team in assists the last two seasons.

“Marlee is the first kid I have ever moved up as a ninth grader in 19 years of coaching,” said Mount Vernon-Enola Head Coach Adam Carlton. “She led our team in assists last season. She has great court vision, and she is willing to do the little things to win. I expect her to continue to grow on and off the court. She is a great leader for our team. She doesn’t care about individual stats. She just wants to win.”

In her final season as a Lady Warhawk, Raby figures the only thing better than one championship is two.

“We want to go undefeated and win a state title,” Raby said. “We also want to make sure we leave our mark on our community. We want to set the best example possi88 | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

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ble for the younger generations. We want to show them what hard work can get you. I want to be remembered as someone who always wants to win, as a selfless player and as an encouraging teammate.”

Raby has an offer to play basketball at Henderson State.

She is a multi-sport athlete for the Lady Warhawks, competing in golf, cross country, softball and track. She also competes in rodeo. Beyond athletics, she is a member of Future Business Leaders of America, Beta Club and JUST (Jesus Uniting Students Together).

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MASON DOLD - SACRED HEART In his senior year, Mason Dold is taking on the mantle of leadership to help guide a young Sacred Heart squad.

“This year, we have an extremely young team, having only one player with meaningful high school experience,” he said. “As a team, we have to stay positive and work to improve every day. We had a rough start to our season, but we have shown improvement every game and have shown that we can compete with good and more experienced teams. The team has shown that we have the right mindset to do big things this year; we just have to keep working at it.

“I want to be remembered as a leader on the court to the younger generation of our school. You have to work hard, put school first and work when nobody is watching.”

Dold earned All-Conference honors last season, as Sacred Heart made it to the 1A-3 regional tournament. His

goals this year are to reach 1,000 career points and earn a trip to the state tournament.

“Mason is a high IQ player,” said new Sacred Heart Head Coach Ben McBryde. “He knows how to put the ball in the hole. He’s coachable, open-minded and willing to learn and grow as a player and person. He tries to get others involved offensively instead of being a ball hog. I expect him to be an All-State, All-Conference caliber player and to help give us a chance to compete for a conference championship and regional and state berths.”

CONGRATS FROM

MAX LONGING - ST. JOSEPH Max Longing and the St. Joseph Bulldogs are working for a bounce-back year on the hard court.

“I am a very competitive person and love the competing side of basketball,” he said. “Our goal is to make it back to the playoffs and find success to make a deep run. To achieve this, our team has to work hard every day and continue to build chemistry and learn a winning pedigree of basketball.”

Longing had to step up last season as a junior when the Bulldogs faced adversity.

“Last year, Max was one of the leading scorers and the vocal leader when senior Jake Hill was injured,” said new St. Joseph Head Coach Andrew Beck. “He got a lot of time to lead the team as a junior. He was the primary ball handler for the team, and Coach Stanek leaned on him to run the offense and defense. When things are going good or bad, he is always there with words of encouragement and

positive reinforcement. The guys look up to him, they listen to him, and they follow in his leadership.”

Longing also competes in baseball for St. Joseph. The diamond Bulldogs made it to the 1A state semifinals last year. He is also a member of the National Honor Society.

“Off the court, Max is the same as on the court; he is a great leader,” Beck said. “I've always been told the best leaders do what is right even when no one is watching, and that is Max.”

CONGRATS FROM

MILES DICKINSON- CONWAY CHRISTIAN When it comes to adversity, Miles Dickinson is fearless.

From dealing with injuries to tough opposition on the basketball court, Conway Christian’s senior forward has never met a challenge he couldn’t overcome.

“I have dealt with numerous injuries every year I’ve played high school basketball,” he said. “I fractured my jaw early in my sophomore year and missed the rest of that season. Last year, I broke my wrist at the end of football season, and I played all of my junior year with a broken wrist. After surgery came off-the-court rehab that I have had to push through to get me to where I am today.”

Back at full strength, Dickinson leads the Eagles against the highly competitive Class 5-2A conference.

“I expect Miles to be a very strong presence for our team on offense and defense,” Conway Christian Head Coach Austin Trembley said. “Not many teams 90 | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

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in our classification have a player with Miles’ size, skill and athleticism. He is a consistent scorer who gives great effort and is a game changer for our defense with his rebounding and shot-blocking ability.”

Boasting a 3.9 GPA, Dickinson plans to attend medical school with dreams of becoming a surgeon.

“I would like to thank my parents, coaches, trainers and teammates for helping me get to where I am today,” he said. “If I could say anything to future student-athletes, I would tell them to take it all in while they can because it can all be gone so fast.”

CONGRATS FROM

REBEKAH FAULKNER - FAULKNER COUNTY Rebekah Faulkner has been a Faulkner County Falcon since she was 9 years old.

“I remember when I had my first basketball practice,” she said. “I was so ready to get on the court and become a really good player like all the older girls I played with.

This season, I’m working to improve my skills, to show Christian values on and off the court, and to have good sportsmanship while still playing aggressively. As a team, we want to improve our relationship and skills and improve our court vision.

“I want to be remembered as someone who plays hard but shows Christ on the court, someone who has good sportsmanship, and as someone the younger basketball girls can look up to.”

Faulkner and the Falcons compete in the Arkansas Homeschool Conference.

“Rebekah has been putting the work in over the past few years,” said Falcons Head Coach Jennifer

Rusher. “She is constantly looking for ways to improve. I am counting on her to block out and pull down boards, be on the weak side to rebound and make quick putbacks, and make her fast-break layups. Rebekah can play multiple roles on the court. She has played guard, helping to bring the ball down, and has helped create plays along with playing shooting guard.

“On off days, you can find Rebekah at the gym constantly working to improve. I have watched her grow and develop as a basketball player and as a person over the years. She is an absolute joy to coach.”

CONGRATS FROM

RILEY GOTTSPONER - WONDERVIEW When the Wonderview Lady Daredevils won backto-back state championships in 2018 and 2019, Riley Gottsponer got caught up in the wonder.

“I started playing basketball in the seventh grade,” she said. “Watching the Lady Daredevils win a state championship inspired me to start playing basketball. With hard work and dedication, I believed I could do the same.”

Gottsponer and the Lady Daredevils made it to the 1A state semifinals last season.

“My personal goal for this season is to enjoy the last ride and to have no regrets,” she said. “This is my last season with this team, and I want us to go out with a win in the state finals. We have a great chance to win it all.”

Gottsponer has earned All-Conference honors the last three seasons. She also competes in softball and track.

She has committed to play basketball at John Brown University.

“Riley is a versatile player that can play every position

on the floor,” said Wonderview Head Coach Mark Simmons. “She can score from all three levels: inside, outside and mid-range. Riley is a leader who is positive and helps bring out the best in her teammates. She is very coachable and strives to learn and improve every day. She spends countless hours working on her ability to become the best player she can be.

“Riley is a good teammate because of her positive approach to leadership. She is always encouraging, complimenting and promoting others’ successes. Winning is Riley's No. 1 goal. She promotes a team-first atmosphere.”

CONGRATS FROM

TUCKER CUNNINGHAM - RIVERVIEW Last season as a junior, Tucker Cunningham helped lead the Riverview Raiders to the 3A state quarterfinals.

“My sophomore year, I didn’t finish the season and was not in many games, which drove me to come back even harder this season,” he said. “The work will show if you keep working.”

Now Cunningham and his teammates have their eyes set on a state championship. “Tucker’s skill level is incredible,” said Riverview Head Coach Kirklan Pettis. “His ability to handle the ball, create plays and score at all three levels makes him a high-quality player on the court. He started guard for us last year, contributing a lot of scoring for us and a strong defensive presence. He ended up being All-Conference for us and played a major role in our success last season.

“We have high expectations for him on the court. He is one of the driving forces on the offensive end, creating opportu-

nities for himself and getting his teammates involved. He is also a key defender for us, matching up with the opposing team’s best offensive player a lot of the time.”

Cunningham is a multi-sport athlete for Riverview, competing in soccer for the Raiders. He’s also a member of the high school choir. “Tucker leads by example in practice with his work ethic,” Pettis said. “He’s a very good student in the classroom.

Not only does he keep really good grades, but I also get a lot of feedback about what a respectful student he is.”

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WILLIAM LAMB - GUY-PERKINS Although this season hasn’t gone the way William Lamb and his teammates had hoped, the senior point guard is hopeful the Thunderbirds can catch some playoff magic one last time. “[Two years ago] we made it to the final four in the state tournament,” he said. “This was just a moment everyone wants to experience, and when you’re with all your brothers, it just feels like home. You feel like you’re with your family. My goal is to be a better leader for my team and contribute to my school on and off the court.

Our team goal is to work better, communicate better and give more effort. The only way we can achieve this is if we believe in ourselves and continue to lift each other up with positive thoughts.

“I want to be remembered as someone who loved the game, someone who always plays like it’s your last game because you never know when it could be over.”

Last season, Lamb contributed as Guy-Perkins’ sixth

man. This year, his responsibilities have expanded considerably. “I expect him to be our best overall player,” said Guy-Perkins Head Coach Keane Guiden. “His best quality on the court is leadership. Off the court, he has an outgoing personality and is willing to help others. He helps his teammates with assignments and projects.”

Lamb is also a member of the Guy-Perkins baseball team, and he participates in Future Farmers of America.

After graduation, he wants to pursue a career at Dassault Falcon Jet and become CNC machine certified.

CONGRATS FROM

ZANIYAH JOHNSON - SEARCY Searcy made tremendous strides in the win column a year ago, and Zaniyah “Chip” Johnson’s all-state freshman performance went a long way in guiding the Lions. This year as a sophomore, she is ready to take it to another level again.

“Moving up to the high school team last year was a challenge as a freshman,” Johnson said. “Junior high to high school ball was a big difference, but after adjusting and getting confidence, I had a great year. Our team goals this year are to make it to state. Better relationships with each other will elevate everyone’s confidence. We plan to achieve this by being very uplifting, trusting everyone with the ball and really locking in every practice.”

Johnson led Searcy in scoring and assists as a freshman.

“At the point guard position, she does a great job leading the team,” said Searcy Head Coach Kim Sitzmann. “I expect she will continue her success on the court and

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gain all-state honors again this year, along with being all-conference. She is likely to lead us in scoring and assists and possibly steals. She’s a fantastic ball handler, she has great court vision, her passing is excellent, and she creates a lot of offense. She’s shifty. In the classroom, she’s a hardworking, high-level student. She elevates everyone around her to compete at a higher level.”

As she develops her game throughout her high school career, Johnson has a goal to play Division I collegiate basketball. She wants to pursue a career as a travel nurse.

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ARTIST OF THE MONTH

CONWAY LEAGUE OF ARTISTS_____ ___________________

By Susan L. Peterson

The Conway League of Artists (CLA) provides artwork at First Security Bank on Front Street in downtown Conway, along with other locations in the city. The artwork is traded out regularly. Members include Dimitri Papadimitriou (from left), Tracy McGarrity, Katy Killingsworth, Virginia Potter (holding artwork ), Karen Freeman, Marilyn Rishkofski and Christina Blum. Photo by Stefanie Brazile.

F

ifty years ago, five women came together at the right time and place to organize a group for artists in their community.

Little did this diverse group of women, aged 31 to 65, each with diverse talents and abilities, know how successful their endeavors would be.

This year, the Conway League of Artists (CLA) has more than 80 members and is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Over the years, it has positively impacted the work of hundreds of local artists.

Unlike some art groups that focus on a single medium, CLA encompasses a variety of artists. Members work in pastels, watercolor, oils, acrylics, ceramics, photography, woodworking, printmaking and anything in between.

Using EPIC as their newly adopted tagline, the group seeks to Educate, Promote, Inspire and Connect.

In its mission to educate, a meeting is held once a month, usually at the Faulkner County Library. Typically, a program is presented at each meeting that includes a hands-on activity or an invited speaker. Members may also bring submissions for Art of the Month. These paintings are exhibited at locations in town for a month.

Workshops are held several times a year for members to hone their skills or to learn a new technique. Painting with a palette knife and using pastels were two daylong workshops held last year.

The group helps to promote its members through its annual art shows. Approximately $1,200 was awarded in various categories at the Fall Show, a tidy sum for a group its size.

CLA seeks to inspire new artists by making an annual contribution to UCA’s Dorris Curtis Scholarship, which is given to a student at the University of Central Arkansas majoring in art. Funds for the scholarship are raised by raffling member-donated artwork at each meeting. The recipient is invited to present a program to the group about their innovative work.

Members often collaborate with other groups to donate their talents for various causes. Long-time members Sheila Parsons and the late Suzann Waggoner often donated their

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time and skills to create paintings onsite for auction at various fundraising events. Members also participate in city Art Walks and festivals, sometimes providing activities for children.

Christina Blum is the newly elected president of the group.

She and her husband moved from Iowa to Conway at the start of COVID-19. When the group returned to in-person meetings, joining CLA was a means for her to meet others with similar interests, and she was amazed by the talent she encountered.

Blum recalled how the group struggled during COVID-19 and how difficult it was to regain momentum. “We met at the library, the rec center and in people's homes,” she said. “We connected. Artists are unique, creative individuals who help me see the world in a slightly different way. They open my eyes to new and exciting things.”

Last year as vice president, Blum organized field trips to the Arkansas Museum of Arts and to Crystal Bridges.

Informal Third Thursday Coffee meetings were also initiated for members to discuss their work, share information and provide support to others.

It might be said that everyone is an artist. But to hone that skill, that ability to take a thought or a feeling and with a few brush strokes express it in a way that moves others, can take a lifetime to master. Having the support of others can make all the difference.

Charter member Virginia Potter said it best: “Just five women birthed the League all those years ago, but it takes more than giving birth to be a mother. It takes nurturing.”

The group will be celebrating its anniversary at a special meeting to be held this spring at Hendrix’s Windgate Center in conjunction with their exhibit, “In the Shadow of the Moon.”

Those wishing to begin or continue their own artistic journey are encouraged to join. A list of meeting dates and activities can be found on Facebook, in the newsletter or on the website ConwayLeagueofArtists.com. Visitors are welcome.

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THE CHOICE IS YOURS. PCSSD invites families outside their district to consider School Choice law

By Jessica Duff

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he Pulaski County Special School District is committed to providing an equitable and excellent education for all students through rigorous college and career readiness instruction. District administrators work year-round to assure all students achieve at their maximum potential through collaborative, supportive and continuous efforts of all stakeholders, including teachers, staff and community members.

The School Choice application period is open through May 1. Registration for Pre-K opened on Jan. 8 for Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 classes. Registration will soon open for families who are not zoned for but interested in attending a school within PCSSD. That registration is for kindergarten through 12th grade and will open on March 4. Students who currently attend a PCSSD school will be automatically re-enrolled for the 2024-2025 school year.

School Choice is an Arkansas state law that allows families to register in a school district that is outside their residential zone. In the past, Arkansas students had to attend school based on where they lived. School Choice allows students to transfer from one district to another district.

“We hope you will consider sending your children to PCSSD. We take your child’s education personally,” said

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Assistant Superintendent for Equity and Pupil Services Dr. Janice Warren. “PCSSD is committed to providing all students with learning experiences that prepare them for college or career readiness.”

PCSSD serves 25 schools across four cities, Maumelle, Little Rock, North Little Rock and Sherwood. Those 25 schools include 16 elementary schools, four middle school campuses, one junior high campus and four high school campuses.

In the Maumelle area there are three elementary schools, Crystal Hill Elementary, Oak Grove Elementary and Pine Forest Elementary; one middle school, Maumelle Middle; and one high school, Maumelle High. If you live in the Maumelle area, you are zoned for one of these PCSSD schools.

However, school choice opens the schools to families outside district lines, allowing students to be a part of the school family, no matter their neighborhood.

If you have specific questions related to registration and school choice within PCSSD, please contact the Office of Equity and Pupil Services at 501.234.2021. You can also visit the website to learn more about School Choice and/or registration to PCSSD.

Pulaski County Special School District spans more than 600 square miles in Central Arkansas and requires highly skilled and passionate personnel to adapt educational policies and personalization to 25 schools. Every school is accredited by the Arkansas State Board of Education. PCSSD has served schools across Pulaski County since July 1927.

PCSSD is committed to creating a nationally recognized school district that assures that all students achieve at their maximum potential through collaborative, supportive and continuous efforts of all stakeholders.

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Photo courtesy of Central Baptist College

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celebrating athletic excellence Perry County's

Cali Lankford

By Dr. Robert Reising

Every team winning a national championship has earned an exceptional honor, its impact forever celebrated throughout history. Similarly, every member of that team can claim a contribution, large or small, to the team’s success, a source of pride that embellishes a lifetime.

C

ali Lankford is as proud today as she was on the day she last donned a uniform as a member of the Central Baptist College (CBC) girls softball team, which won the 2018 National Championship of the National Christian College Athletic Association. Recollections of the pressure-filled four-day tournament remain fresh in her mind, as do the myriad of experiences, athletic and otherwise, that brought her to Botetourt County, Va., the site of national championship play almost six years ago.

Born in Conway in June 1997, Lankford is the only child of sports-loving parents. A foreman in a Morrilton paper mill, her father “practiced softball with me every day,” she proudly recalls about her early years. Not to be outdone, her mother, a tax preparation consultant, had her daughter tossing, dribbling, and shooting a basketball in what was left of her free moments. Both parents, she quickly adds, “expected all A’s and B’s in the classroom.”

The practice and persistence produced huge dividends. Accompanying strong academic performances at Perryville High were no less impressive ones in school athletics. A two-sport performer, she fared nicely on the basketball court but was one of the state’s best in the sport she had come to love most: softball.

While in the former, she gained All-District honors three times and an All-State selection as a senior, in softball, she was twice an All-State honoree after again thrice garnering All-District accolades.

Continued on page 101

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More than a few institutions of higher education desired her combination of talents, but prevailing was CBC, led by its zealous Head Girls Softball Coach, Crystal Robinson. A shade below six feet tall, Lankford brought to Robinson’s program not only a senior-season .519 batting average, complete with eight home runs, but also, as a pitcher, a 13 and 4 win-loss record, accompanied by a 1.17 earned run average (ERA).

At the signing, the coach was ecstatic, three times employing the adjective “great” in identifying Lankford as a student, an athlete and a person. Precious few newcomers to higher education, the CBC mentor realized, offer stronger credentials than the soon-to-be eighteen-year-old’s. Nor did Lankford disappoint. She performed creditably in her lone season of CBC basketball, registering 42 rebounds and 31 points in 12 games as a reserve forward, with softball refusing to wane among sports she preferred. Four years of irreplaceable stardom on the diamond followed.

Except for a few games as an outfielder, she commanded a distinctive role in the Mustangs’ success: she was the team’s designated hitter, batting in place of all pitchers in every game; additionally, she was a key pitcher, particularly in relief assignments. Her place in CBC’s line-up in every inning of play was thus virtually certain. Clearly, she was a team stalwart. Her yeoman-like service included a 3 and 3 win-loss record in 48 innings as a hurler and, in 2016, a multi-inning contribution to a combined no-hitter. It also saw her appear in 141 games and record 96 hits for a .276 career batting average, accompanied by 17 bases on balls, 15 doubles, 13 home runs, and 70 runs batted in (RBIs).

Perhaps most impressive of all was her career slugging percentage, a hefty .438.

Despite quality players like Lankford and an impressive 37-win and 19-loss record, CBC entered the 18-team National Tournament only as its fourth seed. Yet the Mustangs refused to be denied. On May 19, 2018, they emerged from the tournament unbeaten, the lone team not to suffer a loss in five games played in four days.

Belhaven University from Jacksonville, Miss.—the first seed—toppled 5 to 2, a surprise to countless tournament fans, and certainly to the Belhaven faithful, who had never envisioned an upset of their beloved Blazers.

Lankford did not fare well in Botetourt. In 16 plate appearances, she stroked but two hits, one a home run.

Yet she was hardly unhappy. Like every other member of the CBC team, she had claimed a prize larger and more precious than individual glory.

She recognized that teams, not individuals, win championships and that she had been blessed to claim membership on one of those teams, to be remembered and respected as long as recorded history. Lankford went on to earn not only her baccalaureate with honors from CBC but also her Master’s Degree in Health, Physical Education, and Coaching from the University of Arkansas at Monticello, with a 3.7 grade point average.

Currently, she teaches STEM courses at Gentry (Benton County) Middle School and coaches volleyball at neighboring Gentry High School. Away from the classroom, Lankford converses freely and proudly about the teams on which she played at Perryville High and CBC, consistently expressing gratitude to the former for preparing her well for the championship play she encountered at the latter.

That play will never be forgotten in or by Perry County.

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hope home at

Home Health providers treat patients like family W

hen facing healthcare challenges, maintaining your health can be a challenge, especially for the elderly or those living alone or in a poor economic situation. In those instances, they need a home health provider who treats them like family.

Angie Smithson, a physical therapist with more than 35 years of experience, is one of those home health providers. Angie cares deeply for her patients and sets an example for the team of therapists and nurses with Conway Regional Home Health. While her therapy duties are important for the patient's recovery, sometimes they need something extra.

"You want to be a light in people's darkest times, when they feel hopeless and believe that no one cares," said Smithson, who believes that home health is her calling. "I feel like I've been placed here for a reason.

I've been put in a position to identify their needs, and I'm one of many providers trying to help them."

The depth of her caring was revealed when she went to great lengths to ensure that one of her patients had access to an electric wheelchair. The wheelchair was necessary for the patient to attend his doctor's appointments. Smithson drove to her home and used her own trailer to retrieve an unused wheelchair from Damascus and then delivered it to the patient's home in Greenbrier. She also trimmed his hair and the hair of his son with special needs so they would not have to try to attend an appointment in a salon.

The patient said that he had never had anyone care so much about his needs and his son’s needs. “She truly invests in her patients’ well-being and helps in any way she can,” an anonymous coworker of Smithson said. “Not just with physical mobility, but with their emotional support and sometimes even helps raise funds for their financial needs.”

Sindee Morse, director of Home Health,

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praised Smithson’s actions as an example of how her staff goes above and beyond to help their patients stay healthy and avoid hospital stays.

The focus on keeping senior adults and other patients with chronic illnesses living at home is shifting toward removing social barriers to health. Do patients have adequate housing? Can they pay for their medicine, food or utility bills, and do they have the necessary education to stay healthy? According to Morse, these are a few of the questions that must be answered by those providing home health.

Home health providers do more than their standard duties of taking vital signs, providing in-home therapy and helping with medication management. Conway Regional Home Health providers are overcoming social roadblocks to good health, such as:

• Working to ensure their patients’ nutritional needs are met, and if not, assisting them with getting to food banks, registering for Meals on Wheels, or working with area churches to assist in providing meals.

• Reaching out to a volunteer carpenter or a church group to build a wheelchair ramp or fix a flooring hazard in a patient’s home.

• Making calls to a pharmaceutical company to get discount coupons for medicine.

• Assisting patients in qualifying for community services that help with equipment, transportation and caregiver resources.

• Reducing fall risks in the patient’s home, even if that means melting ice or shoveling snow or ice from ramps or stairs.

Without this type of support, home health patients are at risk for a relapse of the medical condition that forced them to go to the hospital in the beginning. They are also at risk of falls, malnutrition and many other health issues.

Angie Smithson, a physical therapist with Conway Regional Home Health, helps patients recover in the comfort of their home.

“A routine, one-hour patient visit can easily turn into three hours or longer depending on the patient’s situation,” Morse said.

The Conway Regional Home Health staff made 17,645 visits in 2023, and many of their patients were senior adults and disadvantaged younger people living in poor conditions.

"The impact our home health program provides is subtle, humbling and at times goes unnoticed," Morse said. "Our

clinicians spend hours of their own time trying to find additional resources for patients who are living in poor conditions and are sick, unsafe, hungry and without family support at home."

Smithson also believes that home health providers add another significant patient benefit. "Sometimes all people need to know is that there is hope, and there are people who want to pay things forward."

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Photo by Brittany Ellen Photography

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PET OF THE MONTH

ANDI

By Stefanie Brazile

I

f you need help babysitting toddlers, you might want to hire Andi the border collie. Even though she is described as “chill” by her fur mom, when she finds herself around a group of kids, cats or goats, her herding trait kicks in.

“Andi is the most spoiled sweetheart,” said Makenzie Evans of Little Rock. “Border collies are energetic and very excitable, but she can be super chill when I need her to be. She’s my shadow and a Velcro pup who follows me everywhere I go.”

Seven years ago, Makenzie learned about Andi through her cousin who is a canine police officer in Conway. He told her that Andi was the runt of the litter and, at 6 months old, was still waiting to be adopted. She wanted her, and he was kind enough to take her home for a month and give her obedience training.

“When I met her, she was pretty much the size she is now,” Evans said.

She’s about 40 pounds, so the professional photographer is able to pick her up and the black and white beauty can lie on her lap. They have also traveled together. In 2021, the pair went on a car trip to Colorado, Utah and New Mexico. “I loved seeing her experience new things,” Evans said. “Andi has been with me through a lot, and she’s saved my life a little bit.”

Three years ago next month, Makenzie and

Ryan Byler married, and Andi was glad to adopt him into the family.

“They usually spend mornings together as he gets ready for work,” Evans said. “The first thing he usually does when he comes home from work is to lay on the floor and cuddle with her. I think she likes him better than me.”

The three of them live in Little Rock and love to go walking, kayaking and on hiking adventures. A Frisbee is Andi’s favorite outside toy and she loves to swim and lie in the sun.

After a day of play, she enjoys naps on their screened porch. “She works hard and plays hard,” Evans said.

According to her mom, Andi is pretty perfect and only barks when the tornado siren test sounds on Wednesdays. She is a social pup and doesn’t mind other dogs at dog parks, unless they are too excitable, jumping around and bumping into her. Generally, she prefers interacting with humans.

But this brown-eyed girl must have some vice, right?

“Squirrels,” Evans laughed. “She tries to chase squirrels.”

Andi isn’t allowed table food, but she is great at vacuuming crumbs and loves to munch on ice cubes.

See more of Andi's adventures on page 106

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Healthy Choice

Unity Health appoints LaDonna Johnston as Interim President and CEO T

he Unity Health Board of Directors is excited to announce the appointment of LaDonna Johnston as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer effective Jan. 17.

Johnston has more than 30 years of experience at Unity Health, having served in multiple leadership roles. She has held positions within the organization including vice president of patient services and administrator of Unity Health – Newport.

She is also a registered nurse and brings expertise as a clinical leader.

“LaDonna’s history, experience and true passion for our organization will be invaluable as we continue to provide quality care to all of our patients,” said Janet Hines, chair of the Unity Health board of directors.

“Her dedication to this organization and the communities we serve will continue to guide our commitment to quality, compassionate care.”

Johnston has helped pave the way in the organization and remains a familiar, steadfast representative of the Unity Health team.

“My goal for the organization is to stay focused on the care of our patients ensuring safe, quality care,” Johnston said. “I plan to continue the tradition of excellence our organization has upheld for decades.”

Unity Health is an Arkansas healthcare system consisting of four hospitals, 28 family practice clinics, specialists and specialty clinics consisting of 15 areas of practice including: Unity Health - Cardiology Clinic, Unity Health - Orthopaedic and Spine Center, the Pyeatt Family Cancer Center, inpatient and outpatient physical rehabilitation, as well as inpatient and outpatient behavioral health.

“As the leading healthcare provider and largest employer in an eight-county area, Unity Health and its more than 2,300 associates strive to improve the quality of health and well-being for the communities they serve through compassionate care,” said Jennifer Skinner, director of marketing and public relations. “Unity Health has more than 150 physicians who specialize in various areas of healthcare.”

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Fulmer takes his finale after four decades

Plant operator honored for 44 years of service to Conway Corp and community C

onway Corp Chief Wastewater Plant Operator Tilden Fulmer recently retired after more than 44 years of service to Conway Corp and the Conway community.

Tilden joined the company as a plant operator in 1979.

After years of dedicated service, he was promoted to chief plant operator in 1998.

In this role, Tilden assisted the plant superintendent while operating and maintaining stationary mechanical equipment, such as water pumping equipment engines, air compressors, generators, motors, turbines, chemical insertion units, etc., to provide utilities services to the city of Conway.

Throughout his time with the company, Fulmer saw many changes.

“We started out with three electric crews and three water crews when I started. I’ve seen hundreds of people come and go, and four CEOs since I’ve been here. It’s time to let the younger generation come in and work.”

Fulmer recalled a storm that threatened to flood the plant and several parts of Conway in 2019.

“There was a flood from heavy rainstorms coming in from Oklahoma in 2019 that really had us worried,” he said. “We were worried that the levee would overflow and flood our plant. We had to sandbag it just in case to make sure that the water didn’t come in on us. Luckily, it didn’t happen.”

After serving his company and community for many years, Fulmer’s work ethic and dedication will be missed.

“I worked with Tilden over 44 years,” Conway Corp Wastewater Plant Superintendent Bill Fulmer said. “He always worked hard, helping to keep our plants working.

He will be greatly missed by everyone he worked with. It will never be the same with him not being here.”

Tilden describes his retirement as “bittersweet,” but is looking forward to his free time.

“I’m looking forward to doing a lot more hunting and fishing and going to the lake, of course, and spending more time with my daughter, Trista,” he said. “But I’m going to definitely miss working with such a great group of guys at the plant. They have been like family to me.”

He bragged on not only his co-workers but the leadership team as well.

“It’s been good working under Bill Fulmer and management,” he said. “All jobs will have some ups and downs when you’ve been at a job this long, but it’s been a great experience, especially under the current administration.”

He leaves with this advice: “This is a great job, with great benefits. Stick with it long enough and you’ll be able to make a good living.”

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CLEAN WATER MEANS ENHANCED QUALITY OF LIFE

By Beth Jimmerson

F

or more than 90 years, Conway Corp has operated the city-owned utility system and now provides electric, water, wastewater, video, internet, voice and security services for the Conway community.

water from Greers Ferry Lake in case of a water shortage due to severe drought conditions or emergencies.

We are dedicated to exceeding our customers' expectations in producing and delivering safe, affordable, reliable, innovative and environmentally sound utility and telecommunication services while enhancing the quality of life in our community.

Part of our mission is ensuring a clean, safe and reliable water supply for the 70,000 residents who rely on us daily.

Water from Brewer Lake is treated at the Roger Q Mills Water Treatment Plant to purify the water before it’s delivered to our customers. Filters remove debris and particles, and disinfectant is added to protect against any bacteria, viruses or other microbes that might remain. The treatment plant can currently treat more than 24 million gallons of water daily for the community.

Our employees are on the job 24/7/365 managing the many steps involved in collecting, cleaning and delivering water to you, our neighbors.

Here is just some of what’s involved in managing our system.

COLLECTION Conway’s primary source of water is Brewer Lake, a 28,900 acre-feet lake located near Plumerville. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers created the lake in 1983 by damming Cypress Creek. Operation and maintenance of the lake was turned over to Conway Corp later that year.

We have on-site employees who oversee the operation of the lake, and our crews focus on helping the watershed stay healthy by looking at timber management and stabilization of the lake banks. We recently planted more than 3,000 bald cypress trees around the lake banks to help protect the lake and maintain a high quality of water for our community.

We have Cadron Creek as a backup water source, and we also have an agreement with Central Arkansas Water to collect

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TREATMENT

We conduct multiple daily tests to ensure the water we send to your home or business is safe. In addition to the daily tests, we gather bacteriological samples that the Arkansas Department of Health tests each month.

We have a partnership with the UCA College of Natural Science and Mathematics for continued testing for the natural constituents in water that impact taste and odor. The Biology Department is taking a leadership role providing undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to be a part of water quality monitoring tests. This proactive testing is helping us better understand taste and odor issues from natural algal activity in the lake and is in addition to our regular daily tests.

DISTRIBUTION Our water distribution system has more than 400 miles of pipe buried underground. That’s enough pipe to stretch from Conway to the Gulf of Mexico if laid end to end. Our system also boasts approximately 7,000 valves, 2,500 hydrants and more than 25,000 meters. Our crews work 24/7/365 repairing and upgrading infrastructure to ensure a seamless distribution.

Ensuring our customers have enough safe, clean drinking water for years to come remains our top priority, and we have a master plan for water supply to ensure the needs of customers are met well into the future. Water projects don’t happen overnight, and we work daily to ensure we have enough water not only today but 50 years from now.

A series of “once in a lifetime” projects are now underway – including expanding the current water treatment plant, constructing a second raw water line from Brewer Lake to Conway and planning for an additional water source.

These projects, in addition to the ongoing work of maintaining and upgrading the system as needed, will boost resilience, reliability and sustainability of the system for years to come.

We expect to invest $75 million over the next five years in projects that will maintain, repair, protect and upgrade our water system to prepare for the future. At the same time, we’re committed to keeping water rates as low as possible while still delivering clean, safe water to our customers.

Conway Corp staff and consultants are developing plans for an 8 million gallons per day (MGD) expansion at the Roger Q Mills Water Treatment Plant that will bring the capacity to 32 MGD. We are working closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to build a new intake and receive an additional water allocation from Greers Ferry Lake. This includes developing a partnership with Community Water System to build shared infrastructure, which may include an intake on Greers Ferry Lake, a 34-mile transmission main and a new water treatment plant.

In addition to these partnerships, we’re working closer to home by updating infrastructure, replacing old water pipes and increasing water main capacity to prepare for the future.

We’re dedicated to providing an excellent water product at the lowest possible cost to our customers. From the lake to the water quality lab to your faucet, we’re at work every day delivering a safe, reliable water supply for the residents of Conway. You can drink, wash and cook comfortably knowing we have a master plan to prepare for Conway’s future water needs so our community has ample water for years to come.

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501 LIFE Magazine, First Security Bank and Conway Regional Health System proudly present the 2024

Attention Art Teachers and Students “It’s time to invite your students to draw, paint or even photograph the beautiful Daffodils that grace us with their presence every spring for the annual Daffodil Daze art contest. I am excited for this contest, to see young artists’ creativity and to celebrate the Daffodil Daze Committee’s beautification efforts on Faulkner County’s parks and trails,” says Daffodil Daze Art Contest Chairman Paulette Higginbotham.

The Daffodil Daze Art Contest is open to all Faulkner County kindergarten through the 12th grade students.

• Entries must be submitted on 8.5x11 paper in any art medium, including photos. The subject can be any variety of daffodil flower(s). This can be still life, landscape or narrative in nature. Encourage students to think outside the box.

• Entries will be judged in three school divisions: ELEMENTARY (kindergarten through fourth grade), MIDDLE SCHOOL (fifth through eighth grade), and JUNIOR HIGH/HIGH SCHOOL (ninth through 12th grade).

On the back of your entry, please list the student’s name, school, grade, teacher, phone number and email address.

Monday, April 1, is the deadline to submit entries at the 501 LIFE Magazine office in Conway at 920 Locust St. Suite 104.

Winners will be announced in 501 LIFE and they will also be honored at a Daffodil Daze reception.

FOR MORE INFORMATION paulette@501lifemag.com 501.314.2062 501LIFEMAG.COM

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PROUDLY PRESENTS PERSON OF THE MONTH

RHONDA DIXON

NURSE PRACTITIONER CONWAY REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM

“Rhonda Dixon is a local healthcare hero. She is a compassionate caregiver that seamlessly blends medical expertise with warm-hearted personalized care.”

— Keith Cooper, MD

FAMILY: I am the mother of two biological children, Hannah, 22, and Jacob, 18. I also have two bonus children, Ryland and Nicki, by way of my husband, James France, MD, who is a retired urologist.

EDUCATION: I graduated from Baptist Nursing School in

1994 as a registered nurse, then attended the University of Central Arkansas and earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2005 and a Master of Science in Nursing in 2013.

WORK: I work at Conway Regional Medical Clinic on Prince

Street alongside two other amazing providers.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: My church home is the Church Alive. I am immensely proud to call Conway home. I graduated from Faulkner County Leadership Institute in 2010, where I met some amazing community members and learned about our city government, multiple nonprofit service opportunities, and how we as a community can support each other. I have a history of volunteering in the past with Conway Interfaith Clinic, which serves our uninsured friends. Later, I was able to serve there as a provider after returning to finish my graduate degree under the leadership of St. Vincent Infirmary. I had the honor of co-chairing and initiating the first-ever Jack Logan Golf Tournament and helping organize 114 | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

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the Conway Fall Classic. I also served on the board of the women’s shelter of Faulkner County.

HOBBIES: I delight in being involved in a monthly book club and enjoy the support and encouragement of a personal trainer at Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center, where I believe “movement is medicine” and benefits people of all ages.

PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

My achievements—other than my family being my greatest blessing and becoming amazing young adults, I have no idea. I tend to focus on others, and I am struggling to remember my achievements.

I attended a class for developing goals, networking and being successful, and I realized I had achieved a lot of those goals already.

I realized how hard I was on myself. We as women tend to criticize ourselves instead of recognizing our successes. It is important to be kind and encourage others, be less hard on ourselves, to build strong relationships, and do something to make this world a better place. I count myself so very blessed and appreciate all the opportunities God has afforded me.

ADVICE FOR SENIORS ON LIVING WELL:

The patients I care for who do the best living in their older years are those who continue to move and keep their weight in check.

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