July 2021

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 1

2 | 501 LIFE July 2021

What it means to be a

Mayo Clinic Care Network member

Your physician can collaborate with Mayo Clinic specialists on your behalf.

This helps ensure you receive the care you need, close to home.

Mayo Clinic Care Network members have special access to resources that include eConsults, eBoards, AskMayoExpert, Inpatient Telephone Consults and Patient Education materials.

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HOSPITALS • CLINICS • SPECIALISTS ARKANSAS

Unity-Health.org July 2021 501lifemag.com | 3

“I simply remember my favorite things and then I don’t feel so sad.”

EDITOR Stefanie W. Brazile PUBLISHER Jeremy L. Higginbotham FOUNDERS Donna Spears and Sonja J. Keith SPORTS AND DIGITAL DIRECTOR Levi Gilbert COPY EDITORS Jordan Hickey and Andrea Miller BRAND AMBASSADOR Donald Brazile ART DIRECTOR Jeremy L. Higginbotham PHOTO DIRECTOR Mike Kemp FINANCE DIRECTOR Debbie Flowers ADVERTISING SALES: Donna Spears & Sondra Maroun

— from The Sound of Music

CONTRIBUTORS Becky Bell Donna Benton Don Bingham Kellie Bishop Donald Brazile Brittany Gilbert Laurie Green Dwain Hebda Linda Henderson Vivian Hogue Beth Jimmerson

P

Stefanie enjoying the tulip collections at Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs.

sychologists say that what we collect and how we store and display those items gives insight into who we are. Isn’t that interesting?

So, why do we collect items? Some do it for the thrill of the hunt, some as an investment, and still others want to meet new people with similar interests. Collectors scour garage and estate sales, online auctions, and websites in search of their next treasure.

Then, once they’ve assembled enough items for it to be considered a collection, their attention turns to how to display them. Both collecting and displaying can become expensive hobbies, but many people use their collections as home or office décor and conversation pieces.

One collectible I can’t resist is unusual, small vases. As a lover of anything that blooms, I find it’s a natural fit. Another of my favorite things is glassware, but my shelves are full and I can’t justify buying any more until I say farewell to a few of my favorite things — can you relate?

As I thought about our July theme, my mind travelled to the greatest collection of unique people, activities, and items I’ve seen outside the Smithsonian museums: the Guinness World Records website. My mother, a fervent collector of books, introduced her three children to the record-keeping anthologies of wild achievements and it was a favorite Christmas gift to her grandsons. My most frequent thought about Guinness winners is awe, with a close second being, “How do they have the time to work on that?” If you haven’t been wowed lately, visit the website, search for “collections,” and you’ll find 1,650 entries to dig through.

Our team of contributors has been excited to develop stories for this issue because it was a fun mind-bender to decide who or what to write about. We searched the 501 to bring you unusual and/or extensive collections. They are “catalogued” on our Contents page for your convenience.

Even though people are venturing away from home more, we realize that some of you aren’t ready to visit public places beyond what is essential. With that in mind, my hubby and I visited two museums in Little Rock and brought back souvenir pictures to share with you.

Flip to pages 14 and 20 and find some colorful photos from a new exhibit at the Old State House Museum and from the Esse Purse Museum. If you are able to visit these interesting places this summer, I encourage you to do so.

Other topics in the July issue include patriotism, community events, new books, a look at vintage fashion and the second installment of our new art feature. This month, we meet a couple who are set painters for the Argenta Community Theater in North Little Rock and our person of the month is the city’s mayor.

Open the scrapbook of these pages and enjoy many images of collectibles — the best part is that you don’t have to dust any of them!

4 | 501 LIFE July 2021

Editor

Kevin McCoy Jennifer McCracken Mark McDonald Mark Oliver John Patton Susan Peterson Dr. Robert Reising Judy Riley Chloe Short Donna Lampkin Stephens Morgan Zimmerman

FAULKNER COUNTY EDITORIAL BOARD Johnny Adams Jack Bell Don Bingham RaeLynn Callaway Glenn Crockett Kay Dalton Beth Franks Russ Hancock Spencer Hawks Mathilda Hatfield Roe Henderson Jerry Hiegel Mike Kemp Julie LaRue

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

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

Stephanie Lipsmeyer Stewart Nelson Kristi Strain Jim Taylor Morgan Zimmerman

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

Matt LaForce Mike Parsons Brooke Pryor Carol Spears Kristi Thurmon

To subscribe or order back issues, visit 501lifemag.com.

Subscription rate is $20 for one year.

(12 issues)

Make the Jump Media, LLC 920 Locust Ave., Suite 104 Conway, AR 72034 501.327.1501 • info@501lifemag.com

501 LIFE is published monthly by Make the Jump Media, LLC (920 Locust Ave., Suite 104, Conway, AR 72034, 501.327.1501) owned by Jeremy Higginbotham and Stefanie W. 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. Products and services advertised are not necessarily endorsed by 501 LIFE.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 5

CONTENTS

July2021

Volume 14 Issue 3

6 7 8 10 12 14

Letter from the Editor/Staff Box List of advertisers/Writers’ Room Upcoming events/News Loving LIFE Photos All American Fishing Derby ESSE Purse Museum celebrates women

By Stefanie Brazile

18 Couple of the month:

Cassie & Matthew Page 20 Barton Coliseum exhibit at Old State House

By Stefanie Brazile

m

22 Yesterday’s fashion stands out today

By Tina Faulkner

24 Youth of the month: Cabot's Natalie Stocks

By Stefanie Brazile

26 Search for arrowheads feeds passion

By Dwain Hebda

28 Entertaining: Sweet Land of Liberty

By Don Bingham

30 32 33 34 36

‘America’s Book’ supports literacy efforts Toad Suck Car Club keeps on trucking Christian Athlete's Scholarships River Cities Dragon Boat Festival Farmers collect antique tractors

By Judy Riley

38 Grand old collection

By Dwain Hebda

40 Summer water usage

By Beth Jimmerson

42 Petroliana collection

By Bill Patterson

44 Celebrating Artistic Excellence:

Set painters

By Aaron Brand

48 Conway Regional ‘best place to work’

By John Patton

50 My valuable, no-cost collection

By Vivian Hogue

52 CBC’s Scholarship Gala successful 54 A work in progress

By Laurie Green

56 A collection from the final frontier

By Dwain Hebda

58 Collecting seashells

By Brittany Gilbert

59 Kid of the month: Anthony Long-Irby

20

By Becky Bell

60 Celebrating Athletic Excellence:

Cleburne County - Mooneyhan III

By Dr. Robert Reising

62 Pet of the month: The pig lady

By Becky Bell

34

64 Authors in the 501: Tracy Peterson

By Susan L. Peterson

66 Antique medicine bottles at Baker Drug

By Chloe Short

67 Mock drill helps first responders

By Stefanie Brazile

68 Heber Springs photographer’s legacy

By Linda Henderson

70 Reader, oh reader, where art thou?

72

By Donald Brazile

Saving face

By Donna Lampkin Stephens

74

Person of the month: Mayor of N. Little Rock

6 | 501 LIFE July 2021

On the cover

Special thanks to Meredith and Paul Bradley who have been “hopelessly devoted” to one another for 12 years. We also appreciate the Toad Suck Car Club for the “Greased Lightning” hot rods and Dr. David Myers of DJM Orthodontics for providing the perfect vintage backdrop for our cover shot.

(Mike Kemp photo)

NBA Legend and University of Central Arkansas graduate Scottie Pippen was "Loving LIFE" last month when he visited Conway for his Basketball Camp along with the special announcement that the basketball court at the Farris Center had been officially named the Scottie Pippen Court.

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

Celebrate your independence from searching for a 501 LIFE!

For only $20 a year, you can have 501 delivered to your home.

While the magazine is distributed to more than 700 locations in Central Arkansas, copies go fast.

Home delivery ensures you never miss an issue.

B Bledsoe Chiropractic, 25

Visit 501LIFEmag.com or call 501.327.1501 to subscribe.

C Conway Corp, 41 Conway Regional Health System, 75 Conway Regional Rehab, 73

Catch 501 LIFE on KARK News at 12:30 on June 29, 2021!

D DDS Denture + Implant Solutions, 49 DJM Orthodontics, 58 Downtown Conway, 46-47

E Edward Jones, 43

F First Community Bank, 37 First Security Bank, 76 First Service Bank, 13 Freyaldenhoven .

Heating and Cooling, 31

Did you know 501 LIFE covers

11 counties in Central Arkansas?

501lifemag

501lifemag

501life

G Garage Experts, 26

welcome to the Writers’ Room

H Hartman Animal Hospital, 63 Harwood, Ott & Fisher, PA, 65 Heritage Living Center, 5 Hiegel Supply, 27

J Jim Davidson Book, 41 Julie's Sweet Shoppe, 59

M Methodist Family Health, 39 Middleton Heat & Air, 9 MSC Eye Associates, 23

O Ott Insurance, 74

P Pain Treatment Centers of America, 71 Patterson Eye Care, 27

S Salem Place, 55 Shelter Insurance, 31 Sissy’s Log Cabin, 15 St. Joseph School, 19 Superior Health & Rehab, 2

U Unity Health, 3 University of Arkansas .

Community College Morrilton, 61 University of Central Arkansas, 33

Judy Riley has lived in White County since 1980. She holds degrees from the University of Arkansas and Texas A&M University-Commerce. She retired as a full professor for the U of A Cooperative Extension Service and currently helps her husband, Tom, with a hay production and beef cattle farm and is a board member for several community foundations.

Levi Gilbert

has been with 501 LIFE since it was founded. The UCA graduate plays an essential role in determining both the 501 Football and 501 Basketball Teams, as well as working on the magazine’s online publications.

Levi lives in Greenbrier with his wife, Brittany, and their three children. He also serves as the play-by-play TV announcer for Wampus Cat athletics on Conway Corp and as a learning consultant for Acxiom.

Donald Brazile

is from Texas and has lived in Arkansas since May, 2020, and yes — he loves it! He is a graduate of Centenary College of Louisiana and studied at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. His writings have appeared in the Lectionary Homiletics Journal, Open Windows, and the Texarkana Community Journal. His favorite names are Stefanie (wife), Harley (son), and Claire (daughter). Contact him at don@501lifemag.com.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 7

501 NEWS/EVENTS

The 37th annual

Pops on the River July 4 • 3 p.m.

Free event held in the River Market area of downtown Little Rock. The event features shopping, food trucks and live music inside the First Security Amphitheater by local acts and the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra. Active or retired military can receive special discounts at the event by checking in at the main gate. Fireworks will begin around 9:30 p.m. and are shot off the Main Street Bridge. Visit pops.arkansasonline.com

“United We Stand” Searcy’s Beats & Eats July 4 • 6 p.m.

Free Live Music at the Argenta Plaza July 4 • 5 - 8 p.m.

In North Little Rock at 510 Main Street. SYNRG, a trio, will be followed by “The Rodney Block Collective,” Attendees can bring lawn chairs and are encouraged to bring food and drinks from Argenta restaurants. Ample free parking is available throughout the downtown area.

“Fresh Grounded Faith” August 6 & 7

Held at the Searcy Event Center, 1300 Higginson St., the event features free live music by Elvie Shane, a Nashville headliner, and by Cliff & Susan who will open the show. Other features include Fun Zone amusement rides, patriotic circus performers, an exotic animal petting zoo, community yard games, food trucks, merchant vendors, hot air balloons, a salute to veterans and fireworks show. There are a limited amount of Fun Zone passes, tethered hot air balloon rides and event shirts. To purchase Fun Zone and balloon tickets or shirts, visit hardingtickets.universitytickets.com.

Freedom Fest Conway 2021 July 4 • 6 p.m.

The free event includes live music, food trucks and fireworks at Beaverfork Lake Park. Tune into Y107 that night for coverage. Carpooling is encouraged and bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating. Fireworks will begin around 9 p.m. Find updates on Facebook at “Freedom Fest Conway 2021.”

8 | 501 LIFE July 2021

An area-wide women’s event called will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Aug. 6, and from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Aug. 7, at Antioch Baptist Church, 150 Amity Road, Conway. Jennifer Rothschild is the featured Bible teacher. She has sold more than 1 million Bible studies through Lifeway. She will be joined by best-selling author and speaker Angie Smith and worship leader Michael O’Brien. Inperson and online attendance is offered.

Antioch Baptist Church and several area churches are sponsoring the event.

Tickets are available for purchase at freshgroundedfaith.com/events or by calling 800.859.7992.

Community of Caring July 24 • 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

The 25th annual event in Searcy will be held at the Unity Health Annex, 3004 Hawkins Dr. This outreach mission will provide for the health needs of the community by offering medical and dental exams, prescriptions, grocery and personal care items. Individuals and families needing these services can participate by arriving between 9 a.m. and noon. For more information, call 501.278.3230.

501 NEWS/EVENTS

Acxiom's Eric Lamb honored with

Conway Outstanding Citizenship Award An Outstanding Citizenship Award was given to Conway resident Eric Lamb on June 15 in recognition of his role as Santa Claus.

During a ceremony at City Hall, city attorney Charles Finkenbinder presented the award and thanked citizens for going “above and beyond every day, every week for something bigger than themselves.” Lamb is the third award recipient this year. The Outstanding Citizenship Award was founded by Finkenbinder’s office to honor those who help foster a sense of community.

For the past seven years, Lamb has dressed as Santa Claus during the holiday season to make deliveries of toys, food, clothes, and shoes to children in Central Arkansas and some other states. He personally donates his money, hosts fundraisers throughout the year, and receives donations and purchases gifts for children and families to make their holiday season better. Families submit a brief application to him so he knows what they need.

“My heart is so overwhelmed today — couldn’t hold the tears back to hear the Conway City Attorney talk about me going beyond the call of duty in my community!” Lamb said. “Thanks to my family, friends and my job [at Acxiom] for supporting me. I’m determined to continue to make a difference in a child’s life one by one.”

Lamb has always wanted to help those less fortunate than himself and recalls giving his new clothes and shoes away to classmates when he was young. To become involved in his efforts, visit his Facebook page “Eric L Lamb.”

TRUST. VALUE. LOCAL SERVICE. “We’ll Take Care of That” We’ve got qualified, trusted local technicians in your neighborhood every day. What that means for you is same-day appointments, 24-hour emergency service and extended hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. with no overtime rates. Our highly trained professionals are standing at the ready to see to all of your heating and air repairs, installations and replacement needs.

Give us a call or visit us online today!

501-224-4888 | MiddletonInc.com July 2021 501lifemag.com | 9

LOVING LIFE

501 readers are "Loving LIFE" from

Sea to Shining Sea! 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 info@501lifemag.com or by mail to Reader Photos, c/o 501 LIFE, 920 Locust Ave., Suite 104, Conway, AR, 72034. Please include the names of those in the photograph, and their hometowns, along with contact information. Sorry, photos will not be returned by mail but can be picked up at the 501 LIFE office.

Ben Oliver, age 7, was “Loving LIFE” at the FedEx Forum in Memphis while watching Game 3 of the NBA Western Conference Quarterfinals. He attended his first NBA game with his dad, Mark.

The Garver team was “Loving LIFE” as their very own "Uncle Sam" won Best Drummer at the 2021 River Cities Dragonboat Festival in Maumelle. Carlie Hobby (from left), Diane Hannah, Hunter Hobby, Whitney Gorsegner and Megan Kuhlman.

10 | 501 LIFE July 2021

Teri and Rik Sowell were “Loving LIFE” while vacationing in Key West, Fla.

Connie Copley (from left), Mary Kay Dunaway, Pat Crowder, Margo Presson, Peggy Weatherly, Linda Johnson and Sherry Norrell were “Loving LIFE” during their annual girls’ trip to Santa Rosa Beach, Fla.

LOVING LIFE

Gary and Marsha Wallace of Greenbrier were “Loving LIFE” with their granddaughter, Lainey Milam, at the regional gymnastics championship in Galveston.

Studio West in Conway was “Loving LIFE” in front of their new mural by artist Anna Hunter. Front: Sabrina Browers (from left), Leigh Lynch, Mary Johnson, Gracie James and Robin Kelley. Back: Rose Poole (from left), Kari Clinton and Bailey Powell. Photo by Caitlin Beaty.

Doris Yingling was “Loving LIFE” while spending time with relatives in Salt Lake City, Utah.

St. Joseph School hosted a Basketball Camp for 4th through 7th grade girls and they were “Loving LIFE” and learning new skills.

Older student assistants helped the coaches. Participants were: Front Row: Isabella Denys (from left), Grace Tucker, Annabelle Trusty, Blair Beam and Ruby Jones. Back row: Ashlynne Vote (from left), Coach Kay Lynn Hill, Coach Luke Davis, Catherine Royal, Kaitlyn Kordsmeier and athletic director Brent Bruich.

John Miller (from left) and Billie Carter were "Loving LIFE" as they celebrated the ground-breaking of Toad Suck Mini-Golf to be constructed soon in Conway.

Whitney Waggoner of Arkansas Circus Arts was “Loving LIFE” in downtown Little Rock and celebrating National Doughnut Day at Hurt's Donut.

Makiya Robinson (from left), Latisha Washington and Elijah Washington were "Loving LIFE" at the Thrill of Toad Suck with amusement rides from Miller Spectacular Shows.

Tusk, the University of Arkansas’ live mascot, was recently “Loving LIFE” as he napped in Morrilton behind Joey Beck (from left), Misty Willbanks, Mayor Allen Lipsmeyer, Razorback Cheerleader Brayli Roberson, junior cheerleader Hadley Goodson and John Fresneda.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 11

501 NEWS/EVENTS

Conway Optimists hook some fun with

All American Fishing Derby Story and photos by Jeremy Higginbotham

W

ith a motto like “"Bringing Out the Best in Youth, in our Communities, and in Ourselves," the Conway Morning Optimist Club lived up to that promise and was proud to host the 2021 Kids All-American Fishing Derby at the Bob and Betty Courtway Middle School pond.

“It was the first time we’ve ever held the event in June, and it was the best one we’ve ever had,” said club member Bill Townsend. The group had more than 100 kids attend the event which had been cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19.

They awarded two prizes in four separate age groups that ranged from ages 3 to 13.

The prizes were given for “Biggest Fish” and “Most Fish by Weight.” Additional sponsors included Bob and Betty Courtway Middle School, Walmart, Faulkner County Judge Jim Baker, Jerry Southard, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Julie’s Sweet Shoppe and First Service Bank of Greenbrier.

The event was dedicated to the memory of Joe White who passed in late 2020.

White was a member of the Conway Morning Optimist Club, as well as a past member of the Faulkner County Election Commission. He served on the Salvation Army Advisory Board, and as a board member of the Faulkner County Council on Aging, and was instrumental in acquiring funding for the John and Ola Hawks Senior Center. He was a staunch supporter of the Pine Street Backpack Program, and served as a delegate for Arkansas at the 1996 Democratic National Convention. He also served for more than two decades on the First Security Bank-Conway Advisory Board.

For more information on becoming part of the Conway Morning Optimist Club, contact Bill Townsend at 501.679.3601 or Ronnie Barton at 501.336.7200. The group looks forward to an even larger event in 2022.

12 | 501 LIFE July 2021

Tim and Jennifer Lee of Greenbrier with their kids Ayden and Briell made it a morning of family fun.

Samuel Rawls of Conway makes a big catch.

William Murdock of Cabot came home with the prize for most fish by weight of all participants, catching a total of 37.5 lbs. of fish.

Chris Jamison (from left), Davion Clegg, Demontre Clegg, Taylor Jamison, Tynisha Jamison and Antonio Jamison

Members of the Conway Morning Optimist Club were "Loving LIFE" as they brought families together for the outdoor event.

Jerrell Perkins of Conway was on hand early with his kids Jada and Jeremiah to get a jump-start on the competition.

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CONWAY NORTH | 501.932.5050 | CONWAY SOUTH | 501-932-9700 July 2021 501lifemag.com | 13 CLINTON | 501.745.7200 | GREENBRIER | 501.679.7300 | LITTLE ROCK | 501.801.7402

It’s what’s inside that counts ESSE Purse Museum celebrates the essence of women by exploring the items they carry

By Stefanie Brazile See story on page 16.

Anita Davis, Founder of the ESSE Purse Museum & Store

14 | 501 LIFE July 2021

M Y L A G O S M Y W AY

C AV I A R C O L L E C T I O N S

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 15

COLLECTOR

T

he contents of women’s purses are as unique as the women who carry them, often to the detriment of their shoulders and necks.

Collector Anita Davis believes that what’s inside the bag reveals what’s important to the woman.

In 2013, the ESSE Purse Museum & Store opened in Little Rock’s SoMa neighborhood as part of a walkable, funky, family-friendly area south I-630.

“Anita Davis has been collecting purses for more than 30 years,” museum director Ally Weaver said. “As she travelled across the country by car to visit her daughters, she would stop at antique malls and flea markets and noticed that there were all these wonderful bags that nobody was paying attention to, so she started buying them and giving them a home — collecting them that way.

“After years and years of doing that, she realized that the purse is really a container for the feminine,” Weaver said. “So that’s how the concept of having a women’s history museum told through the purse came to be.”

The privately owned, brightly lit space offers a visual parade, captivating to both women and men. The staff used the pandemic as an opportunity to rework existing exhibits which are separated by decade from 1900 through 1990.

Added bonuses include an exhibit about purses women use for travel, another that focuses on glamorous evening wear, and a third that features purses made of exotic skins and furs. Additionally, the staff creates vibrantly colored temporary exhibits several times a year that are a feast for the eyes.

“Even for people who have been here before, it’s very new, very fresh,” Weaver said.

As a collector of hundreds of purses dating back to the early 1900s, Davis decided to open some of the bags and use them as time capsules, honoring women and revealing the external factors that caused them to choose what they needed to carry around.

“It’s what’s inside that counts — what’s important to each individual — and that’s where the name ‘ESSE’ came from,” Weaver said. “In Latin, that means ‘to be,’ and so Anita chose that because she feels that a purse carries a woman’s essence of who she is.”

16 | 501 LIFE July 2021

At the ESSE Purse Museum, there is a case that represents each decade from 1900 through 1990.

There was a simplicity in the 1900s purse when women didn’t carry cash or keys because they typically didn’t own anything.

The bags are small and utilitarian.

A tin of aspirin, smelling salts, and a change purse that would accommodate maybe five pennies are displayed. Some of the beaded bags are in great condition because they were rarely used.

Fast-forward to 1920, bags are a little larger and more unique. They contain tiny matchbooks, a booklet of face powder leaves, tiny photographs and small reading glasses.

The roaring ’20s case reveals a lot more decadence, beading and personality. “During the 1920s is when the first group of women got the right to vote and that plays into the style. It’s a little bit of women’s liberation and freedom and a reaction to being restricted and more controlled in the early part of the century,” Weaver said. “There’s rouge and makeup, which were taboo earlier on.”

Advance to the wartime effort of the 1940s and you see an extension of the concept “mend and make do.” Women are making their accessories. The display includes war rations and tokens, ticket books, a stack of letters, a kit for mending hose, and garters to hold them up. “You would have to mend because you’re not going to be able to get new hose,” Weaver said.

In the fabulous 1950s, the lighted case reflects fun and playfulness. Bags show more personality with feminine shapes and plastic handles.

The swinging ’60s reveal developing pop and contemporary ideas, along with the beginnings of labels on bags.

The museum has a pair of early bags from Gucci and Coach.

Perfect for a day trip for family members or a group of friends, the ESSE Purse Museum & Store is one of only two purse museums in the world, with the other being in Seoul, South Korea. There is no cost to shop in the store and museum tickets are $ 8 for students, seniors, and military, and $10 for adults. Group discounts are available and details can be obtained by calling ahead. Masks are required and updates are available at essepursemuseum.com. They are open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. They accept purse donations with details available on the website.

Mural outside ESSE Purse Museum

Basket purses were popular in the 1960s and 1970s because designers “Caro Nan” (Carolyn and Nancy from Mississippi) used sturdy New England baskets and had women paint storefronts from their cities on the fronts of their bags.

Display photos by Stefanie Brazile Purse Wall/Anita Davis photos by Nancy Nolan

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 17

GREENBRIER NEIGHBORS Couple of the Month

HIS STORY

Photo by Mike Kemp

Cassie Page Matthew Page

WHERE DID YOU GROW UP: East End/Sheridan EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology; Masters in Administration and Leadership.

HER STORY

WHERE DID YOU GROW UP: East End/ Sheridan area.

EDUCATION: Bachelor in Science, Family and Consumer Science, Masters of Arts in Teaching and a Masters in School Counseling.

WORK: K-5 school counselor at Westside Elementary in the Greenbrier School District.

WORK: Eighth-grade social studies teacher; head boy’s soccer coach at Conway High School.

PARENTS: Terry and Linda Harris of East End. COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Sports with my kids and school kids, shopping

PARENTS: Lynn and Dianna Page of East End. COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Sports with my kids, quality

local, finding ways to help families within our school.

time with my soccer team (float trips, soccer camps, swim parties, etc.).

Team building is very important to me.

CHURCH ACTIVITIES: New Life Church in Greenbrier volunteer and Thanksgiving Food deliveries.

HOBBIES/SPECIAL INTERESTS: Spending time

CHURCH ACTIVITIES: New Life of Greenbrier greeter/volunteer, and I volunteer at the Women’s Conference each year.

HOBBIES/SPECIAL INTERESTS: Just being a coach’s wife and a sports mom.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF? Jesus lover, energetic, people person, busybody, outgoing, kind, hardworking, selfless and I think I’m funny.

outdoors and anything Arkansas Razorbacks.

WHAT IS ONE THING PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF?

When Hayden was 2, we were having a family photo session. He was running down a sidewalk into my arms (which weren’t extended all the way) and he ran straight into my front tooth. So now my front right tooth is FAKE!

Hardworking, funny, leader who loves hard.

WHAT IS ONE THING PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU? I am fluent in sign language. My best friend’s parents growing up were deaf. I knew the only way to communicate with them would be to learn sign language, so I did. Also, my dad adopted me when I was 13.

MOST ENJOYED WEEKEND ACTIVITY: A weekend on the water.

WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO? It’s not whether you get knocked down; it’s whether you get up. – Vince Lombardi.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT LIVING IN THE 501? It’s home to our family. We grew up here, got our education here and are now raising our family here.

18 | 501 LIFE July 2021

I am TERRIBLE with song lyrics but LOVE to sing loudly in my car.

Dance parties in my kitchen (at least once a week) are a must for our family!

MOST ENJOYED WEEKEND ACTIVITY: Snuggled up with my pup on the couch watching movies.

WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO? “Shine your light.” Matthew 5:16 states: Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT LIVING IN THE 501?

501 is home. I started my life here and was so excited to return. I love how big the area is but yet feels so small and homey. I love the traditions we carry on each year. What is not to love about this area?

WHEN/HOW WE MET:

We met in 1999 on the school bus.

Cassie had just moved to town from Conway (where she lived for 10 years) and now lived close to me in East End. From day one, we became close friends.

We started dating in eighth grade and became high school sweethearts.

THE PROPOSAL: Cassie was in her senior year of high school. I had just started college at UCA, so we were broke. I proposed at my house by sending Cassie on a scavenger hunt. She started with the game hangman on my driveway with chalk (she still has the chalk she used). That message sent her to another location and so on. She ended in my backyard with me on one knee ready to spend the rest of our lives together.

WEDDING BELLS: We were married on May 21, 2005, a week after Cassie graduated high school at East Union Missionary Baptist Church. This is where Cassie and I both attended church at the time.

CHILDREN: We have two children: Hayden (13) and Raygen

(9).

PETS: Dog: Lilly Roo, who just showed up on our front porch one day. Two cats: KitKat and Hugo. A hamster named Leo (belongs to Raygen.)

FAMILY ACTIVITIES ENJOYED TOGETHER:

Our children are very involved in sports right now, which keeps us very busy. We wouldn’t change it for the world. Hayden plays soccer for Rise in Conway and Raygen plays softball with the Arkansas Hurricanes.

TELL US SOMETHING NEW ABOUT YOUR FAMILY: Matt’s soccer team from Conway High had

an awesome season and were conference champions and state runner-ups. Matt received Coach of the Year for 6A Central.

Cassie received Counselor of the Year for Central Region from the Arkansas School Counseling Association (ArSCA).

Hayden, a student at Greenbrier Middle School, received Student of the Year for seventh grade.

Raygen got student of the month at Greenbrier Westside Elementary School.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 19

COLLECTORS

Old State House exhibit celebrates legacy of concerts at Barton Coliseum Story and Photos by Stefanie Brazile

T

hink back to the first live concert you attended — do you remember your excitement and the friends you went with? When you left, your heart was pumping, your ears rang for days and you probably couldn’t wait to buy your next ticket.

If you’re from Arkansas or neighboring states, there’s a good chance that you were fortunate to see a mega star at the T.H. Barton Coliseum located at the Arkansas State Fair Complex. You now have the opportunity to relive those memories for free at the Old State House Museum in Little Rock. The wise folks at the Arkansas State Fair recognized that their collection of posters, signed guitars, clothing worn by stars and other memorabilia had outgrown its space and contacted Bill Gatewood, director of the Old State House Museum. His team catalogued more than 13,000 individual artifacts and chose favorites for the temporary exhibit called Play it Loud: Concerts at Barton Coliseum.

“This exhibit has been a labor of love for me personally,” said Jo Ellen Maack, curator. “Growing up in Little Rock, I remember going to Discount Records and buying my $4 or $6 concert ticket, getting dropped off at the gate to see a show with my friends before we could drive, and being in awe of the concert-going experience. It was truly a time to see and be seen.”

20 | 501 LIFE July 2021

For decades, part of the musical “score” of the 501 was the Barton Coliseum. It hosted the largest acts of the day and was one of the crown jewels of the south because it could handle 10,195 screaming fans at standing room only. Built as a rodeo arena for $1 million, it was dedicated in 1952 and hosted stars such as Dale Evans and Roy Rogers, Fats Domino, Chuck Jackson and Paul Williams during the 50s. As rock and country grew, the Coliseum welcomed Chuck Berry, Elvis, Merle Haggard, The Jackson Five, Lawrence Welk and Tammy Wynette. During the 1980s, the walls shook to the hottest hair bands like Bon Jovi, Cinderella, Def Leppard, Poison, AC/ DC and ZZ Top. Each band left behind mementos which are now creatively displayed on walls and in large cases inside the state’s original capitol building until the fall of 2022.

“When the [Old State House] team approached me about putting this exhibit together and when I saw the wide array of amazing artifacts that had been uncovered at Barton, I knew we had a hit on our hands,” Gatewood said.

“Jo [Maack] and the team have done a great job making this a sensory experience,” he continued. “Usually we are telling you, the guest, information but this time it’s the guests who are in the driver’s seat reliving their history.”

Gatewood says that the colorful exhibit will appeal to anyone who has enjoyed music since the 50s. “And we all get a kick out of seeing a kid who’s really into music to be thrilled over the guitars and other memorabilia,” he said.

“Play it Loud: Concerts at Barton Coliseum” is an exhibit that grandparents can share with grandchildren and groups of friends will enjoy. There is no cost to enter and the Old State House is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Visit arkansasheritage.com for updates.

1950s dress worn at Barton Coliseum by Arkansas actress, singer and songwriter Dale Evans who was the wife of actor and singer Roy Rogers.

Staff members are proud of the exhibit. They include Education Director Georganne Sisco (from left), Youth Education Coordinator Amanda Colclasure and Marge Jackson, head security guard.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 21

FASHION

By Tina Faulkner of American Jane Vintage Photos of models by Makenzie Evans 22 | 501 LIFE July 2021

“I

t’s vintage!” Have you heard that yet? You compliment a friend or even a stranger on their super fresh outfit and they proudly squeal, “It’s vintage!”

They go on to tell you that you can’t find it at one of those big chain stores but that it is a treasured piece of clothing that used to be their grandmother’s or maybe their mom wore it in high school. Sometimes it doesn’t have a family lineage, but they regale how they found it while out thrifting.

What is vintage? According to my junking big sister, Jenifer Hendrix from Jenifer’s Antiques, it’s anything 20 years or older.

“So … you’re saying those Y2K shirts are now vintage?”

Yep, I am.

“Wait, what?!? That cannot be.”

‘Tis true.

Granted, vintage has now taken on a meaning that is more than just age or a date of manufacturing. Vintage has come to now be synonymous with quality, one-of-a-kind items, and quite often they were made in the USA. The workmanship of the garments as well as the quality of the fabric used in the garment industry are things that have drifted over the years. You hear talk of fast fashion these days. In the past, the fashion industry would have four collections a year; now they are cranking out 16 micro collections annually. No matter how hard they try, it is hard to sustain quality with that kind of turnaround. Vintage is slow fashion; Father Time has curated this collection himself.

So many items these days cannot make it through three wash cycles before they have holes, lose their shape or just give up.

With vintage, you can be confident no one else is wearing an outfit like yours. Where you found it, the inventory is often only one deep; there is not another one like it in the whole shop! When it fits, it sure does feel like providence that you found each other. Often in our shop, it seems like the clothes pick the people instead of the other way around. Frequently, I have felt like Merlin watching Excalibur pick his King Arthur. I say, “Many have tried but this dress has chosen you,” in my most Disney-animated-movie wizard voice.

The majority of vintage clothes were

made here in the United States well up into the early 1990s, when the garment industry started the exodus to overseas.

In fact, when we were trying to decide what to call our vintage clothing and home goods shop, I was reminded that my husband had recently done a genealogy deep dive. He discovered he had a great-great-great- (I don’t remember how many greats she was) grandmother whose name was America Jane. We thought that fit perfectly with selling vintage because so much of it was made in America.

One thing I love about wearing vintage is that we have all of fashion history to pull from. WE decide what works for us. WE’RE the boss. What sets off MY silhouette the best? What are YOUR go-to colors that make your eyes sparkle or compliment your skin tone? Sometimes trends don’t always leave room for that. Letting ourselves pull from the past opens a whole other closet to help us present the best visual version of ourselves. We are so much more than the clothes we wear, but it sure does feel good when we have fun getting dressed again. Remember to smile; it is always your best accessory.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 23

CABOT NEIGHBORS Youth of the Month

Cabot's valedictorian has eye on cancer research

C

By Stefanie Brazile

abot High School's valedictorian credits hard work and her parents’ support for her success.

Natalie Stocks has grown up in Cabot, which is the largest city in Lonoke County. She enjoys knowing a lot of people in the small town and looks forward to broadening her view next fall at the University of Arkansas. She is quick to tell you that her success can be chalked up to hard work. As evidence of the hours that she's willing to put in, Stocks graduated with a 4.53 GPA while taking 12 Advanced Placement (AP) classes. She was awarded the Chancellor's Scholarship from U of A, as well as the Governor's Distinguished Scholarship.

In her graduation speech, she recalled a time when she didn't care about school and tried to convince her father, Mark, to let her take regular classes, rather than going the pre-AP path. "But my dad knew I was capable of much more and convinced me to push myself. And so, I did. I started to hold myself to a higher standard."

Sadly, the summer before Stocks entered 8th grade, her mother, Lashawn, was diagnosed with cancer and passed away that December.

"I really did not want to try anymore, I wanted to just give up," she told her classmates in the valedictory speech. "But my mom used to tell me this quote by Winnie the Pooh: 'You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.' Thank you, mom."

Stocks told attendees that she kept pushing herself that year and made all A’s and continued that work ethic for four more years. She doesn't believe that she was the smartest graduate at Cabot High, but she does take credit for working the hardest.

She plans to earn a degree in molecular biology and genetics and then go to medical school in North Carolina. Ultimately, she wants to conduct cancer research. "I have a deep understanding of how cancer affects people and their families, and I also know my own potential, so I want to use that to help people in any way that I can," she said.

"You can do absolutely anything you want to with your life," she said. "Dream the life you want and make it your reality. It may get hard, but there are so many moments in life that make it worth it. For me, so far, those moments have been late nights with my friends, laughing every day in calculus class, and spontaneous trips to get ice cream with my sister, Madison."

Another part of her plan is to take her lab/husky mix, Blu, to college when she starts her sophomore year.

Her other high school interests included being a member of the Cabot Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Council, Junior Civitan, Key Club, Mu Alpha Theta, and National Honor Society.

She has enjoyed volunteering at animal shelters, nursing homes, and with the Special Olympics.

"I enjoy living so close to all my friends," Stocks said. "I've grown a lot closer to my dad and he's very similar to me in that he is very quiet and not one to talk a lot — but I know he's always there for me and always going to support me in my future endeavors."

24 | 501 LIFE July 2021

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 25

COLLECTOR

Get to the point...

Search for arrowheads feeds collector’s passion W

hen it comes having collections, John Hutchcraft keeps a lot of plates spinning. He has an arrowhead and spear point collection that defies description. He also has a collection of military items predominantly from World Wars I and II and a separate collection of Civil War items, the largest piece being a Confederate cannon.

“Those are my three big things that I like to collect,” he said.

Hutchcraft cut back from seven collections a couple of years ago when he retired as one of the greatest high school basketball coaches in Arkansas history — a 42-year career in which he “collected” state championship appearances (21), state titles (11) and wins (2,013).

And in true high school basketball coach fashion — his day job for four decades at Guy Perkins — he still shakes his head at the ones that got away, both on the court and in his collections.

“I grew up in St. Charles. Well, that’s

26 | 501 LIFE July 2021

Arkansas County and that’s what I call the ‘Freeways of the Indians,’ where the White, Arkansas, and Mississippi rivers all ran together,” he said. “At that time as a teenager, we were hunting and fishing guides and I was out on the rivers all the time. I saw artifacts, but I had no interest.

“I think back now to when I was there. I saw arrowheads on the ground because I was on the river almost every day. I can remember picking up arrowheads and looking at them and admiring them and putting them back down as a teenager. What was I thinking? Why did I not keep those beautiful arrowheads?”

Hutchcraft got turned onto the hobby for good about 30 years ago by a friend who was a fellow enthusiast. In short order, collecting points became less a hobby and more of a way to feed his soul, particularly when he was out hunting in the countryside.

“They’re all over Arkansas,” he said.

“And that feeling when you, yourself, find

an arrowhead? I tell people, ‘You need to be real careful about that.’ Because when you find that first one, there’s a big, strong addiction that comes on that will take a lot of your life. It’s amazing when you find your own. So those are my treasured ones, the ones that I’ve personally found.

“I was collecting when I was a coach. Now that I’m retired, I have more time to go out and look. It is very peaceful when you’re out in the woods and you’re thinking about Indians and the artifacts and stuff like that.

It is a stress relaxer, you know. If you decide to collect and stuff, it will be something to relieve stress, for sure.”

With a collection as vast as his – he estimates 5,000 point specimens but doesn’t really know for sure – narrowing it down to a single favorite item is nigh on impossible. When pressed, Hutchcraft said a turquoise-colored spear point stands out, just as it did when he found it in a rice field near the St. Francis River.

His collection is not missing any specimens.

Hutchcraft likes to focus on Native American artifacts from his home state, and his collection pretty well represents every general category of points used within indigenous tribes, along with some tool artifacts thrown in for good measure. But as any true collector would, he always has his eyes out for certain things anyway.

“I like an arrowhead called a Dalton,” he said. “And then we have one here in Arkansas that’s really a great collector, named a Calf Creek. Those two are two of my favorite ones.”

Perhaps the most intriguing element of Hutchcraft as a collector is how freely he shares information with others seeking points for their own collections. Some suggestions are to search near waterways where indigenous hunters would have stalked game or, how a freshly-tilled field can also yield a wealth of history.

Many point hunters would guard such pro tips jealously to prevent others from beating them to a prize artifact. But the way Hutchcraft sees it, the wonder of the hobby is great enough to be shared by all.

“I do buy arrowheads and I hunt arrowheads,” he said. “But you’ve got to remember when you buy an arrowhead from someone, it’s a whole different story when you reach down on that ground and pick it up, knowing that the last time a person had that in their hand was 200 or even 10,000 years ago.”

Photos by Mike Kemp

“This might be my favorite point. It’s a large spear point that I’ve had about 35 years. I have some other favorite ones, too, but this might have become one of my favorites.”

get f ra m e d at

Pa t t e r s o n E y e C a re

- John Hutchcraft

Photo by Mike Kemp

2505 Donaghey, Ste 102 • Conway, AR

501.450.9900

pattersoneyecare.com

Photos by Mike Kemp July 2021 501lifemag.com | 27

ENTERTAINING

Photo by Mike Kemp

Sweet Land

of Liberty

By Don Bingham

28 | 501 LIFE July 2021

I

n doing some research on the history of our Nation’s Independence Day celebrations, I discovered some invigorating and inspiring history.

John Adams wrote to his wife Abigail that July 2nd “will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary Festival” and that the celebration should include “Pomp and Parade … games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other.” The Declaration of Independence, which had been written largely by Jefferson was formerly adopted on July 4th. Though the vote for actual independence took place on July 2nd, from then on the 4th became the day that was celebrated as the birth of American Independence. George Washington issued double rations of rum to all his soldiers to mark the anniversary of independence in 1778, and in 1781. Several months before, the key American victory at the Battle of Yorktown, Mass., became the first state to make July 4th an official state holiday. July 4th, 1777, marked the first use of fireworks in Philadelphia.

Just a quick glance through our cookbook collection reveals 65 pasta salad, 36 red, white and blue star-spangled cakes, a freedom S’mores Dip, and 53 Essential Fourth of July Party Appetizers. This list does not include the hundreds of potential grilled vegetables, potato salads and meats for any celebration palate.

My wife and I were discussing how we might pare down such an exhaustive list to a brunch menu – eliminate lunch, and then have an early dinner (does that sound familiar to a certain age demographic?).

Thus, here is how we will celebrate this Fourth of July (provided arthritis does not flare up, unexpected company does not stop by, we are not needed to babysit, the smoke alarms don’t go off – necessitating the emergency trip to Walmart for batteries, etc., you get the picture.)

One of our all-time celebration favorites is the Dutch Baby! The Dutch Baby pancake is like a hybrid of a pancake, a crepe, and a popover – all in one giant skillet. We first indulged in this “wonder” in Chicago at Richard Walker & Company several years ago and it has become one of our favorites. At first, it is a slight bit intimidating to cook, but once you follow the steps – this often, mishapened beauty, is very forgiving and absolutely delicious.

Start with a thin, pancake-like batter and a hot skillet. Pour the batter into the skillet all at once and slide it into a hot oven. Within a few minutes, the batter will start to puff around the edges, rising higher and higher until this “pancake” looks more like a poofy pillow.

Once those edges turn golden and you can’t resist the sweet aroma of baked good any longer, it’s ready!

Some helpful hints for success with this dish would be the following: First, use a blender or food processor to make the batter very smooth with no lumps. Then, rest the batter to give the flour a chance to absorb the liquid, which gives a better texture and less flour flavor. Also, use a hot skillet to help the pancake puff. You’ll enjoy some crunchy, caramelized edges this way.

Use a 9- or 10-inch skillet for making this pancake. The pan does not have to be cast iron, as long as it is an oven-safe pan. Our favorite presentation is from the skillet, sprinkled with powdered sugar and a squeezed lemon – but fruit, jams, jelly, lemon curd and maple syrup are delightful additions.

Dutch Baby The

(Puffed Pancake) 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup whole or 2 % milk 2 large eggs 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Pinch of nutmeg 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Powdered sugar, maple syrup, jam, etc., for serving.

1. Blend the batter: Place the flour, milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, nutmeg and salt in a blender for 10 seconds; scrape down sides and then blend for another 10 seconds. The batter will be loose and liquid.

2. Rest the batter: leave the batter in the blender and set aside to rest 20-25 minutes.

3. Heat the pan in oven: Meanwhile, place a 9- to 10inch oven safe skillet on the middle rack of the oven and remove any racks above it. Heat the oven to 425 degrees.

4. Melt the butter; when ready to make the pancake, remove the skillet from the oven; add the butter and swirl the skillet to melt the butter and coat the bottom and sides of the skillet.

5. Add the batter: pour the batter on top of the butter.

Place the skillet in the oven.

6. Bake until the Dutch Baby is puffed, lightly browned across the top and darker brown on the sides and edges, 15-20 minutes.

7. Serve while hot from skillet or transfer to a serving platter. Dust with powdered sugar. Cut into wedges and serve with squeezed lemon, maple syrup or jam.

May the joys, delights, blessings and traditions of our America be with us all this 2021!

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 29

WRITING

‘America’s

Book’

Author aims to spark love of reading in every child; ensures proceeds support nationwide literacy

I

n 2005, a successful businessman and author founded a project to help preschoolers from lower-income families develop a passion for reading.

Jim Davidson is convinced that early literacy – teaching children to read and write – assures success in life and is one of the greatest needs we have in America today. For this reason, 16 years ago he founded a nationwide literacy campaign titled “A Bookcase for Every Child.” Solely a volunteer effort, the project provides a quality wooden, personalized bookcase to children being reared in lowincome families. They also receive a starter set of about a dozen books, including a Bible.

The ability to read helps people escape poverty and live longer. As a reader of this publication, you may not realize that nationally more than 60 percent of eighth-graders read below grade level, according to the 2013 National Assessment of Education Progress. A study by the U.S. Department of Education determined that 32 million adults in the U.S. cannot read and that 60 percent of low-income families have no books at home for preschoolers.

Learning to read and write is a skill set that many people take for granted and one that Davidson wants to extend to every child.

Becoming a literate adult impacts whether a person seeks medical help, takes part in their community, or votes. This also impacts one’s ability to advance in the workplace and greatly influences the future education of their children.

To date, “A Bookcase for Every Child” has presented more than 800 bookcases in Central Arkansas, and more than 2,000 have been given to low-income preschoolers in five other states.

Davidson is passionately working to raise funds to see the bookcase project spread to every state in the nation.

30 | 501 LIFE July 2021

Due to his age and wanting the all-volunteer, committee-led project to continue, after 16 years the founder turned the project over to the Conway Kiwanis Club in 2020. This was a natural fit as the motto of Kiwanis International is “Serving the Children of the World.” The club plans to hold its first annual banquet in October to continue the tradition of raising funds to purchase wood and supplies to build the bookcases. There is a set of plans that guides woodworkers with exact measurements to build a sturdy bookcase that will last a lifetime.

In addition, Davidson has donated part of the proceeds from one of his previous books and has recently published what he considers his most important work yet, titled “Your Future Begins Today.”

With a preface by Faulkner County Judge Jim Baker, the book was recently published and deals with issues like letting go of the past, working on your present, and creating a more promising future.

“This is America’s book,” Judge Baker said. “It can change the culture.”

In the preface, he wrote, “This book helped me remember that the best things in life are free. … I know you will grow from reading this book. I will guarantee it. Jim Davidson is for real and he lives what he writes. I just wish I had read this book 50 years ago.”

Davidson is a Christian businessman and an experienced author and speaker. He produced a daily radio program that was broadcast coast to coast on more than 300 stations. He wrote what is likely the most successful self-syndicated column in the history of American journalism as it was published in more than 365 newspapers in 35 states. He was Arkansas Salesman of the Year, Chair of the Little Rock Chamber’s Diamond Club sales organization, a former Pulaski County Justice of the Peace, and has received “Good Neighbor” and “Distinguished Service Awards” from his community.

Davidson and his wife, Janis, have made a commitment that for every 375 copies of “Your Future Begins Today” that are

sold, they will give a $1,000 grant to a Kiwanis Club, or other service club, as seed money to get bookcase projects started in communities across America. Companies and other organizations that purchase 375 copies to motivate or encourage employees, or as an employee Christmas gift, will become a designated project sponsor.

Judge Baker believes in the book and its mission so much that he has personally purchased 80 copies from the author.

Another leader has endorsed “A Bookcase for Every Child.” Former Conway Police Chief Randall Aragon helped Davidson get the project off the ground and later started a bookcase project when he moved to Fairbanks, Alaska, and later to Truth or Consequences, N.M. Bookcases continue to be given to preschoolers enrolled in Head Start, and a “presentation day” recently took place in Conway and 50 children were gifted with bookcases and starter books. Davidson’s dream is to see this happen in communities across America.

Support the dream to grow literacy and mold successful generations by purchasing “Your Future Begins Today” by calling Davidson at 501.499.2179. For autographed copies, send $20 each (includes postage and handling) to Jim Davidson, 2 Bentley Drive, Conway, AR 72034.

Happy 4th of July!

Roe Henderson 1416 Prince St. Conway, AR 72034 501-327-3888 RHenderson@ShelterInsurance.com We’re your Shield. We’re your Shelter.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 31

COLLECTORS

Car Club

Photo by Mike Kemp

Members of the Toad Suck Car Club include: Dr. Donald Myers (from left), Bruce & Joanne Hamm, Darwin Boy, President Larry Jones, VP Bill Helton and Cleon Flowers.

Still Trucking Toad Suck Car Club continues shows, supporting community for 35 years

F

ounded in 1985, the Toad Suck Car Club is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and enjoyment of all cars and trucks. Whether a vehicle is old or new, original, restored or modified, there’s room for you and your vehicle in this open club. The group welcomes those who have a collectible car, and also those who appreciate antiques.

Membership to the club is $25 per year and includes a discount for members at O’Reilly’s Auto Parts in Conway. The president is Larry Jones and the club is affiliated with the Mid-America Old Time Automobile Association which is headquartered at the Museum of Automobiles on Petit Jean Mountain.

They host at least one car show annually, with their namesake show being held in conjunction with the annual Toad Suck Daze Festival during the first weekend of May. The club did hold a spring show this year, despite the fact that the festival was presented over many weekends instead of as a singular event.

The Toad Suck Car Club is recognized for donating money from their car shows to local charities including $1,000 annually to the Museum of Automobiles, and to other non-profits that are cancer-related and to the local women’s shelter.

A founding member of the Club, Dr. Donald Myers stands in front of his son’s 1951 Mercury. "The real story is that Dad's first car was a '51 Mercury in 1957.

He always regretted selling it which led to my desire to own one ... dad and I finally got to drive to Florida to pick this one up when I was in my 40's,” Dr. David Myers said.

32 | 501 LIFE July 2021

The club has announced its Annual Fall Car Show at Pickles Gap Village on September 11. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., judging will take place at 11 a.m., and trophies will be awarded at 2:30 p.m. Judging is on the 100-point system. Classes include before and after 1995. Trophies will also be awarded for the best paint, engine, interior, and a best of show.

A 9/11 Remembrance is being planned. For questions, call Larry Jones at 501.733.2427, or Bill Helton at 501.358.0436.

EDUCATION

The Cliff Garrison Fellowship of Christian Athletes

presents scholarships to local athletes T

he Cliff Garrison Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) gathered May 18 at the Hendrix College Wellness & Athletic Center to present five Faulkner County student-athletes with college scholarships. The 2021 recipients were Savannah Mooney of St. Joseph High School; Shelby Duncan of Vilonia High School; Jace Kramer of Conway Christian High School; and, Anthony Snyder and Jordan Pate of Conway High School.

The FCA was created five years ago in honor of Hendrix College's Head Basketball Coach/ Athletics Director Cliff Garrison. Garrison has been inducted into the Hendrix College Sports Hall of Honor, University of Central Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame, and the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame.

FCA Namesake Cliff Garrison poses with Shelby Duncan of Vilonia High School.

Each year, the Cliff Garrison FCA Board holds a golf tournament fundraiser to award these scholarships. The Annual Bob & Betty Courtway Golf Tournament will be held at The Greens at Nutters Chapel Golf & Country Club on Sept. 20.

"The entire Conway FCA Board wishes these scholarship recipients their very best for success as they take on the next step in their lives," said Vance Strange, chair of the board.

Ryan Webb, Faulkner County Area Director of the FCA presents Conway's Jordan Pate with a scholarship certificate.

Ryan Webb with scholarship recipients Savannah Mooney of St. Joseph High School and Anthony Snider of Conway High School.

GROUNDBREAKING CYBER RANGE FOR HANDS-ON LEARNING

U

CA is home to the first cyber range in the region built for students – and we put it to good use. Our instructors go beyond simulations, introducing actual cyberattacks that teach students how to navigate viruses, system attacks, identity theft and more in the real world.

UCA.edu July 2021 501lifemag.com | 33

EVENT

Success of River Cities Dragon Boat Festival shows communities are ready to row Photos by Mike Kemp

B

illed as "the ultimate family-friendly tailgate party," the 8th annual Arkansas Dragon Boat Festival kicked off June 11 at Lake Willastein Park in Maumelle with kid's activities, food trucks and a light show in the sky, but the real fireworks began the next morning when 28 teams competed for the glory of being dragon boat champions!

A fundraiser for the Children’s Protection Center in Little Rock, the event supports a much needed cause for Pulaski County families.

"Children's Protection Center is the community's response to child abuse,” said Terri Todd, development and marketing director for CPC. “Every single person in our community has a part to play in keeping children safe. At CPC, this happens corroboratively with all of the different agencies that respond to child abuse, from investigators and advocates to specialized medical and mental health professionals.

34 | 501 LIFE July 2021

Healing from abuse is absolutely possible when the unique services and response is available. That's what we provide."

Organizers were unable to have the event in 2020 and began planning for the 2021 event, uncertain of how it would turn out.

"We anticipated, that this year would be quieter and raise less than usual, but we were wrong!” Todd said. “Dragon Boat 2021 has been one of our most successful events ever in terms of money raised — over $138,000 to date! This event makes a huge difference in how we provide services to families. In the last two years we have experienced unprecedented growth in the number of families we serve and we must grow our programs to respond to the growing need. This event is definitely helping us get there."

Shameka Nesbitt (from left), Zach Sanders and Dustin Ivey of the Maumelle Police Dept.

Jenny Duke, CPC Staff Member, and Anthony Valley, CPC Board Member.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 35

COLLECTOR

Farmer & Fixer

By Judy Riley

For anyone who ever lived on or near a farm, a visit to the Carpenters is a walk back in time.

T

he family farm is located on Highway 381 south of Lonoke. Beside two modern and well-manicured homes are a couple of farm shops surrounded by a sea of green, John Deere green, that is. The father and son team of Doyne and Todd have collected old tractors all their adult lives. What began as a necessity, repairing old tractors to use, became a fascination and a quest.

Some might call it an obsession. They admit to possessing more than 100 old tractors, but add that many of them are used for parts, at least that is what their wives understand.

Doyne’s grandfather bought the land in the early part of the last century.

His reasoning for buying the original 170 acres was that it grew large trees.

According to Doyne, “My grandfather thought if the land was fertile enough to grow trees, it would surely grow cotton.” But that began the painstaking task of removing the trees that thrived in the bottom land. The family continued farming for five generations of Carpenters. Like most farmers in central Arkansas, they originally grew cotton. And Doyne proudly pointed out the John Deere 730 that was attached to the family’s first one-row cotton picker. Through the years, the family increased the farm to 900 acres and grew rice, soybeans, corn and wheat. They updated their farming equipment, but somehow it just did not seem right to part with the old.

The first tractor Doyne purchased was a 4010 John Deere, which he still has, of course. The oldest tractor in the collection is a John Deere 1930 Model D. But the Carpenters’ most prized possessions are 530 lp’s, which in tractor circles is known as one of the rarest and most expensive models. There were only 417 of those models ever made and the Carpenters have five! Looking through three barns and a couple of side sheds full of tractors, one notices they are all green. When asked why only John Deere, Doyne said, “I bought an International once, didn’t like it and that was the last one I ever bought.”

The Carpenters have a standard for tractors they work on. Their measure of success is when the tractors will start and run and perform as they were originally meant to, a process that often takes months. The practical side of them wants the tractors, old as they are, to have utility. Furthermore, they have a standard when dealing with other collectors. According to longtime friend, former tractor collector and U of A Extension weed scientist Dr. Ford Baldwin, “the father-son duo are the most honest, positive and humble people you’d ever meet. They collect just because they love old tractors and are not about to take advantage of anyone.” The Carpenters belong to a network of tractor collectors who share information about the secrets, the difficulties, and the “Aha” moments of restoring old tractors. The Carpenters credit much of their success to fellow farmer and retired John Deere mechanic Jack Duck.

When asked if their wives support their habit, Doyne recalled his wife’s comment when he came home with yet another old tractor. Judy said, “Doyne, one of these days you are going to come home with one too many of those.” Apparently that day has never arrived. When asked by their wives who owns which tractor, both father and son admit, “That one belongs to Dad,” or, “That one belongs to Todd.” They each blame the other for their fascination with collecting tractors.

The Carpenters are a remarkable family with a remarkable hobby. In the end, they simply love to preserve the equipment that forged Arkansas’ modern farming history.

36 | 501 LIFE July 2021

Doyne and Todd Carpenter, a father and son team, have collected old tractors all their adult lives. What began as a necessity, repairing old tractors to use, became a fascination and a quest.

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COLLECTOR

Photo by Mike Kemp

A grand old collection

By Dwain Hebda

D

uring her nearly 40 years as an educator, Pattie Howse-Duncan was famous for bringing history lessons to life. On units covering the Revolutionary War, she’d divide her elementary school classes into the colonists and the British, complete with spies on each side.

In her off time, she was similarly imbued with living history through her unique hobby of collecting American flags. It’s a pastime that feeds her soul as well as her imagination.

“It’s just patriotism; my dad was in the Air Force and it’s just something that’s embedded, you know?” she said. “When I taught school and a child would bring something to school and say, ‘I saw this and wanted you to have it,’ and it was something that was patriotic, that always meant a great deal to me.”

Howse-Duncan started her collection of flags when a relative was cleaning out closets and laid things out for the asking.

“I was probably 27,” she said. “My relative said, ‘I have a bunch of stuff on my kitchen table I don’t want anymore. Look through it and see if there’s anything you want.’ I looked and, yeah, I don’t have an American flag. I’d love to have this flag. She said, ‘Oh, Sweetie, you don’t want that flag. It’s no good; it only has 48 stars.’ I said, ‘Oh, I do want that flag,’ and that was the first piece of my collection.”

The artifact set off something in Howse-Duncan that has yet to abate in the nearly 40 years that have transpired, expressed in a 38 | 501 LIFE July 2021

collection that numbers about 250 flags and flag-related items.

“I could not count the number of 48-star flags that I have now because I have it in a variety of sizes,” she said. “I probably have, I don’t know, 60 of the 48-star one. You could antique for two hours and find 48-star flags, they’re so numerous and so easy to find. I can’t pass them up.”

Now retired, Howse-Duncan has ample time to indulge her passion for collecting American flags. She and her husband, Keith, will plan vacations so as to hit local flea markets and antique stores. They’ve enlisted pickers to sniff out treasures, and they have good friends in local antique stores who keep their eyes peeled for additions to the cache as well.

Many of the flags she has framed and hanging on the walls of her home, each with a story and some with special significance. Several in her collection were issued following the admission of a state or states, such as the one that flew after Oklahoma became a state in 1907. It’s one she prizes for personal as well as historical reasons.

“Keith and I were both born in Oklahoma, and we were delighted to get the Oklahoma one,” she said. “The Oklahoma one has 46 stars.”

One particularly interesting flag is a 42-star model that was never official due to the timing of Idaho’s statehood.

“The U.S. flag is not official until July 4 when the president, whoever

was president at the time, makes it official,” she said. “The reason there was never an official 42-star flag is because North and South Dakota, Montana, and Washington all entered the union in November 1889. For months and months, flag companies were frantically making 42-star flags, and then Idaho came in on July 3, 1890. So, by the time July 4 got here, the official flag was a 43-star flag, because we had 43 states.”

Like any avid collector, Howse-Duncan has her unicorns for which she is always on the lookout. The official flag following Colorado’s statehood – 35 stars – is one, as is a set of World War I-era lithographs issued to honor all-Black regiments of the U.S. Army.

"They made three lithographs honoring these men in three different prints,” she said. “They are very hard to find. I have one of the three, I paid a lot of money for that one, and I have seen a second but it was more expensive than what I was willing to pay.

I’ve never seen the third one except online.

“I just think they are American treasures, something that I really, really value. And I think for a long time, people didn’t know that they existed. It's a really neat thing.”

Howse-Duncan said it’s not just about the items themselves but the hunt for collectibles that brings her and Keith, whom she married five years ago, such joy. For his part, Keith has always demonstrated a keen understanding of the way to his wife’s heart. Despite not being a collector himself, he kicked in an artifact that immediately found a place of honor in the collection.

“Keith worked in the space shuttle program in his career with the Air Force,” HowseDuncan said. “He had a flag that flew on a four-day mission through aerospace on Space Shuttle Discovery.”

Still other items are valuable on a more personal level, such as a flag that flew over the U.S. Capitol and the one the couple’s son-in-law brought home from his deployment in Afghanistan. And then there’s a particularly moving item gifted to Howse-Duncan by a friend.

“He owns a store in downtown Conway, Park Hill Home, and he found a very tattered old flag,” she said. “Of course, we’re supposed to dispose of old tattered flags, but this one was framed beautifully with great, great care. When he presented it to me, I just burst into tears. Somebody just took such wonderful care of it, and I wish I could’ve met the person who did that because they honored it so beautifully.

“And that meant so much to me, just knowing somebody valued it the way they did.

Thank you, person, whoever you are. Things like that mean a great deal to me.”

Pattie Howse-Duncan started her flag collection at 27 when a relative was cleaning out closets.

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July 2021 501lifemag.com | 39

ENERGY SMART

A

s temperatures rise during summer months, our consumption of water also increases. We participate in outdoor activities like swimming and gardening and use nearly four times as much water as the rest of the year to keep our lawns green or fill our backyard pools.

Some homes can even use up to 3,000 gallons of water on a peak day, which is the equivalent of leaving a garden hose running for nearly eight hours. The good news is with a few simple techniques, you can save water and money all summer long while still enjoying your favorite outdoor activities.

Landscaping

Beth Jimmerson A long-time Conway resident, Beth McCullough Jimmerson is the manager for marketing and communications for Conway Corp. She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Arkansas and a master’s degree from the University of Arkansas.

She can be reached at beth.jimmerson@ conwaycorp.com.

40 | 501 LIFE July 2021

Now is a great time to determine which area of your yard needs the most water and to prioritize the watering needs of outdoor plants and trees. Newly planted trees, shrubs and lawns should receive the priority when it comes to determining the need for water. While most plants and bushes are not planted until spring, those planted the previous year may not have had time to develop extensive root systems. It’s best to water early in the morning when temperatures and wind speed are the lowest to reduce loss from evaporation. Mulching also reduces loss and keeps the soil and roots cool.

Remember a slow trickle from the hose is the most effective method for absorption.

Flower and Vegetable Gardens

Most flower and vegetable gardens require watering to stay productive.

Mulching can help retain additional moisture in the soil and around the roots.

Most well-established trees and shrubs can withstand a prolonged period without rain or watering. Far more plants die from

over-watering than under-watering. For many garden plants, the best way is to let your finger be the guide. Dig down several inches near the base of the plant. If the soil is dry, that’s an indication you need to water.

Lawns

Don’t over-water your lawn. As a general rule, lawns only need one inch of water every five to seven days. Try placing a small empty tuna can near your sprinkler system to help you determine when to turn off the sprinkler. When the can is full, you have watered approximately one inch. Water lawns during the early morning hours when temperatures and wind speeds are lowest to reduce loss from evaporation. Try setting your lawn mower blades one notch higher because longer grass means less water evaporation.

Rain Barrels

Place rain barrels or buckets beneath your gutters or downspouts.

For every 1,000 square feet of roof surface, you will collect 420 gallons of water during every inch of rainfall. You can use the rainwater for outdoor plants and trees or to wash your car. Channel storm water across lawns and into garden beds away from your house. Consider rain scaping by establishing a watershed-friendly garden, which will use storm water to thrive and create beauty around your home.

Swimming Pools

Uncovered backyard pools lose hundreds of gallons of water each month from evaporation. Using a pool cover and keeping it covered when not in use will reduce evaporation of water and chemicals by nearly 70 percent. Check your pool for leaks often, and always consult a professional with pool maintenance to reduce your risk of structural failure like a cracked shell that would waste thousands of gallons of water over the summer.

We all see our water use rise dramatically during the summer, but our monthly statements don’t have to rise too. Start planning now to use water more efficiently, and your entire family will be having fun in the sun all summer long.

For more water or electric efficiency information, call the Conway Corp Energy Smart team at 501-450-6000 or visit ConwayCorp. com/EnergySmart.

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July 2021 501lifemag.com | 41

COLLECTOR

42 | 501 LIFE July 2021

Story and Photos by Bill Patterson

Hugh Austin’s Petroliana collection is unrivaled in Central Arkansas

H

ugh Austin has been collecting petroliana, or antiques related to gas stations and the oil business, since he was a boy. Having spent his working career in the auto service industry, it’s a natural fit. His collection also expands into other areas, especially if there is a local or family connection.

As with most collectors, Hugh can remember details of an item he collected and enjoys sharing this with others. He will remember something he sold and regrets that he let it get away. His wife, Wrenetta, is a top-notch collector of Depression-era glass and antique furniture. She says Hugh is an “antique keeper” because he enjoys the buy but not the sale.

Hugh’s collection is spread out over his business (Austin Brother’s Tires), at the couple’s Conway home, at their cabin, and at their barn near Heber Springs. The collection is always growing, his knowledge is vast, and you see his joy when he gets a chance to share his collection with others.

He is also the kind of guy who wants to preserve history that is meaningful to others. Once when he was helping his brother clear a house that had sold, he came across some military papers about a gentleman of military distinction. Hugh gathered them together and donated them to the University of Central Arkansas’ archives.

Later when the war veteran was posthumously inducted into the Arkansas Military Hall of Fame, his daughter was shocked at the amount of history and paperwork they had for his induction ceremony. Thanks to Hugh, his history lives on.

Hugh Austin loves gas station and oil business antiques.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 43

By Aaron Brand

BARBARA & JOHN RHODES N

ot all art is found inside a gallery or exhibition space. We may just as easily see art on stage with actors moving around it, sharing the dialogue and action necessary for theater to come alive.

It’s scenery, another facet of the dramatic arts that makes a play or musical feel believable and real.

Arkansas-based set painters like Barbara and John Rhodes provide an essential element to theatrical productions, whether it’s “Ragtime,” “Newsies,” “La Cage aux Folles” or “Cabaret.” The set establishes a place where characters and plot find their proper home.

Artists in their own right, this husband-and-wife team’s talents help North Little Rock’s Judy Kohn Tenenbaum Argenta Community Theater productions realize the theatrical team’s creative vision.

Barbara and John began their ACT involvement with a 2013 production of “Jesus Christ Superstar.” Suzette Patterson, a friend and Barbara’s former fellow teacher at North Little Rock High School, encouraged the couple to paint scenery for ACT, Barbara recalls.

John explains that a group of teachers came together to build scenery and he joined them. “I became one of the girls then,” he quips, adding, “It’s a lot of people who have an interest in the theater, an interest in the community, and enjoy being around each other.”

Barbara believes that painting sets creates a space where others may flourish. “You feel like you’re not wasting your time, but you’re really doing something you enjoy. In the process, we end up with another media that other artists can use to express their craft, and we have got talent here.”

What makes Argenta Community Theater so successful?

Dedicated people, for one thing.

“I think it has a strong network system. Everyone knows everybody or knows of someone,” Barbara said, calling ACT co-founders Judy Tenenbaum and Vince Insalaco strong advocates for the theater company.

“They have sponsored things and they have backed up things, not just with work but with their money and their time.” Barbara noted that actors have also worked with the company for a long time.

John believes that the local theater community supports each other. His wife agreed, saying, “Nobody is trying to undermine anybody. Everybody is trying to help everybody.”

The couple help with two or three Argenta productions a year.

Barbara even did a small part for “Mrs. Minerver.” “It was a wonderful experience,” she recalls.

What makes for great scenery in a play? It depends. With a laugh, Barbara said, “Sometimes no scenery.” John explains that a little may be enough, and sometimes a deep background is needed, as with 44 | 501 LIFE July 2021

“The Secret Garden,” where greenery and flowers set the outdoor mood.

For “Fiddler on the Roof,” wooden slats were painted for the floor. “We were on our knees or bending over a lot,” Barbara remembers. They felt it.

They work hard on aspects like a scenery flat used to depict a building, room, or some other part of the set.

Banners for “Brigadoon” are an example, or the Statue of Liberty, necessary to situate the action in a certain time and place, Barbara explains.

“It’s only used three seconds in the play, but it’s important to tell the story,” John said.

Both bring their artistic past to the current work. John was an art major but also involved in theater at Hendrix College.

“I still paint, and I’ve got friends who make their living painting,” he said. Acrylic is his favorite. He likes beautiful, impressionistic paintings.

It boils down to creative thinking according to Barbara: thinking outside the box. She encouraged her students to do so at North Little Rock High School.

Her art? Eclectic. She knows a lot about this, a little of that.

“Because I’m a teacher I have a huge toolbox,” she said.

Her page at FineArtAmerica.com showcases Yupo paintings (Yupo is a synthetic paper), oil paintings, watercolors, digital art and calligraphy.

“I’ve never really perfected what Barbara Rhodes’ art is,” said Barbara, a Mid-Southern Watercolorists and calligraphy guild member. She figured she’d do so when she retired, but she discovered that was too labor-intensive.

“I didn’t want to sit down and have to do 100 pieces of artwork,” Barbara admits. To establish a style, artists concentrate on work that showcases certain elements that become their signature look,

Photo by Mike Kemp

For Barbara and John Rhodes, set painting is more than a backdrop. recognizable in all they create. Instead, she simply crafts art she enjoys, whatever that may be. She’ll have several projects going at the same time and then focus on creating something pleasant from the chaos.

John said they use their art skills in ACT set work. For example, scenery must look a certain way to the audience, regardless of what it looks like on stage. “The lighting has to be the right thing, the scenery has to be the right thing, the music -- that all comes into it. It has to work together.”

Having survived the pandemic to see theater life reopen, what do they view as the value of dramatic endeavors?

“Oh, being back together again, to work together and be a community again,” Barbara said.

After all, art is a shared experience. If someone paints a thousand pictures but nobody sees them, nothing is accomplished, her husband believes.

“You can’t have a concert or a play or anything without an audience,” John said. “A person can play in a room all day, but until somebody hears you play, it’s just him. The same thing with theater,

even more so. You’ve got to have the interaction. You’re doing it because you enjoy it, but what you enjoy is what the people who are attending receive from it.”

He recalls a story about a woman whose house burned down, destroying her quilts inside. Everyone said she lost everything. Not true, he explains.

“She said, ‘No, I still have everything I gave away,’” John said. “As long as you’re able to give to the community and give to other people, you have something. That’s why people do this.”

It’s the sharing that matters for Barbara and John Rhodes — creating sets, creating art on stage, is another way to share.

“I feel like we have been given a gift, and our art has given us the ability to have a richer life because of our experiences,” Barbara said. Ever the teacher (she taught 36 years and, she estimates, more than 6,000 students), she runs a Facebook group page titled Art Projects and Other Tools for the Art Classroom, which has an obvious purpose. The couple’s art is found on another page, Barbara and John Rhodes’ Art Gallery.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 45

A Ribbon Cutting celebration marking a new location for 501 LIFE Magazine was held June 14 at 920 Locust Avenue in downtown Conway. A standing room only crowd joined the publication’s new owners to mark the occasion.

Last October, Stefanie Brazile and Jeremy Higginbotham purchased the established publication. Because of the pandemic, they waited to host a public celebration.

46 | 501 LIFE July 2021

HEALTH

Conway Regional

recognized as one of best places to work in healthcare

By John Patton

C

onway Regional Health System has been selected by Modern Healthcare magazine as one of the 2021 Best Places to Work in Healthcare. This is the fourth consecutive year for Conway Regional to receive the highly sought designation.

The complete list of this year’s winners, in alphabetical order, is available to subscribers at ModernHealthcare.com/bestplaceslist. Modern Healthcare will publish a special supplement featuring a ranked list of all the winners along with the September 20 issue.

"One year into the pandemic, we've seen the industry transform to meet the needs of its patients and employees," said Aurora Aguilar, Modern Healthcare's editor. "Time and time again, the most resilient and successful organizations show that empathy towards their staff, clear vision and compassion towards the patient buoys teams and sets them up for success.

We congratulate the Best Places to Work in Healthcare for eliciting loyalty from their workforce and communities during harrowing times."

The president and CEO of the hospital is proud of the distinction. “It is an honor to receive this designation for the fourth consecutive year, and it is a validation of our culture at Conway Regional,” Matt Troup said. “We are blessed to have a bold team that is engaged, who take pride in their calling, and work in unity to provide exceptional care. It is a privilege to serve and accept this recognition on behalf of the team at Conway Regional.”

This award program identifies and recognizes outstanding employers in the healthcare industry nationwide. Modern Healthcare partners with the Best Companies Group on the assessment process, which includes an extensive employee survey.

“Our focus has been on developing a culture that nurtures a sense of family and engagement,” said Richard Tyler, chief human resources officer at Conway Regional Health System. “We have been able to foster an engagement level that translates to excellent service and high-quality care for our patients through listening to and caring for our physicians and staff.

We are very proud of our culture and this independent survey process is validation of the great work and incredible team we have.”

Conway Regional also received a Best Place to Work award from Arkansas Business Publishing Group in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020.

The health system will learn its ranking on the Best Places list and be celebrated at the 2021 Best Places to Work in Healthcare awards gala taking place on September 16 at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago. Information on the award gala and conference is available at ModernHealthcare.com/ BestPlacesGala.

About Conway Regional Conway Regional Health System provides complete health care services to a seven-county service area of North Central Arkansas including Cleburne, Conway, Faulkner, Perry, Pope, Van Buren, and Yell Counties. Centered on a 150-bed, acute care medical center, the health system provides patients with a variety of services including heart health, orthopedic care, neurospine surgery, vascular surgery, gastroenterology services, women’s health, surgery, and rehabilitation. Conway Regional operates an expansive physician enterprise, including ten primary care clinics and seven specialty clinics. Additionally, the health system operates a Rehabilitation Hospital and a 70,000-square-foot Health and Fitness Center. In June of 2019, Conway Regional announced a management agreement with the Dardanelle Hospital, since renamed the Dardanelle Regional Medical Center.

With more than 200 physicians providing services at Conway Regional, the organization partners with the medical staff in an Accountable Clinical Management Model (ACM). This one-of-a-kind partnership creates a model of shared governance to promote meaningful engagement of physician leaders with hospital administrative leadership — all in an effort to improve patient experience and enhance care.

Learn more at conwayregional.org.

48 | 501 LIFE July 2021

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 49

COLUMNIST

My valuable, no-cost collection;

no storage needed Vivian Lawson Hogue A native of Conway, Vivian Lawson Hogue graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a degree in art education. A retired teacher, she worked in the Conway School District for 23 years. She can be reached at vhogue@ conwaycorp.net.

50 | 501 LIFE July 2021

M

y mother was a collector. She had lived through “wars and rumors of war,” the Great Depression, 21 moves in as many years, and five children, four of them boys. She collected everything from piles of fabric scraps, patterns, yarn, rubber bands, and string, the latter arriving tied around what was then called the Arkansas Gazette. The string ends were tied together and wound into a tight ball. Rubber bands were “processed” the same way. The segmented string was tied around packages wrapped in cut-to-fit paper grocery bags and mailed to sons in the military, relatives, or a daughter in college. Sometimes they contained her world-famous peanut butter cookies or fudge. The rubber bands were used for rubber band/spit-ball fights, although she never knew that. Well, okay, she knew about the spit-balls.

I still have my stamp collection begun about age 9. We subscribed to many magazines, and I always read the back-page ads first because there I could find stamps to order. A solid dime was taped to the ad and mailed to the H.E. Harris Stamp Co., and I received a glassine envelope full of stamps from throughout the world.

Since 1996 I have also collected reader letters and emails about one of my columns that evoked memories of their own. Memories can sometimes be triggered by only a word, but often by familiar life’s activities in common with the writer. Like fingerprints, no one will have memories exactly like yours. If you have a minute, let me read to you some of the abridged comments on various subjects, and see if you had similar experiences.

A longtime friend said, “I can still see my mother, aunt, grandmother and the church’s ladies’ circle gathered in my aunt’s home. My uncle would set up three quilting frames and they shared a week or two of meals, prayers and quilting to donate for church fundraisers. I also recall them laying white bedsheets on the furniture throughout their 14-room Victorian home. They would work for days making homemade egg noodles and spreading them on the sheets to dry. They froze many cooked chickens for church chicken noodle dinners.”

From a local reader: “My mom was a stay-at-home mom like most moms. She had a wringer washer like yours. My job was to guide the clothes into the first and second rinse tubs. I also handed Mom clothes pins as she hung clothes on the line. Even with all the work, we actually had more “porch time” to sit on the porch sipping tea and enjoying each others’ company.”

Another friend wrote: “One downtown scent that you didn’t mention was that which came from the old Coca-Cola ice boxes [called ‘sweetwater’ boxes] at neighborhood groceries. We used to wash the bottles and return them for the 2¢ refund. We pulled them in a red wagon if there were too many to carry. Instant cash!”

My late brother, Noel, wrote: “For many years, the ice man would deliver ice to our door. Mother would put a card in the window telling him how much ice we needed. The ice house downtown was a social center of Conway for many years as everyone went there to get their ice for making ice cream. Workers would put a big block in a crusher and bag up the chips for you when finished. I recall seeing the men with leather pads on their backs and wielding big tongs to move the blocks.”

He also mentioned, “Mother would take us to Mr. Joseph’s to select her own live chicken for Sunday dinner. We had a small coop where she kept the condemned before that day. That was where as a young philosopher I had to come to grips with the fact that my kind and dear mother was also capable of cold-blooded murder in preparing that innocent chicken before she sent us off to Sunday school. She was using her mothering instinct, and one must never interfere with a mother and her brood.”

“Mr. Sheofee operated the Intercity Bus Depot where we went regularly to pick up Dad after a day of working in Little Rock. He often gave us vanilla cookies while we waited. Other times we waited in front of the post office if Dad was driving his government car. I recall watching birds (Chimney Swifts) as they gathered for the evening, funneling down into the post office chimney.”

Nancy Moix, a former co-owner of Massey Hardware, recalled, “Both of my sons grew up working in the store during high school and college.

I still see the rolling ladder on the east side and remember my four-yearold son, Chris, giving his grandpa, Romie Moix, a ride he will never forget – right off the ladder and into the row of stoves! If walls could talk, we would hear many tales from around the old iron heating stove.”

Mike Morris recalls, “At Christmas I would have a very small sum with which to buy presents. One particular time I searched the aisles of Thines Variety Store, carefully trying to find the right gift for my mother. All of a sudden I came across the perfect present – an ice pick! It cost 10¢. Oh, to be 6-years-old again.”

Another reader wrote, “James Favre (pronounced “Fah-ver”) and I spent many summer evening hours at the Conway Corporation generator building. We would just sit and watch the generators work. Occasionally the night operator would take a big oil can and oil several places on the machinery … simply amazing.”

Reader Eric Glover said, “I am reminded of a conversation with my Granny Fielder who lived to be 100. We were in the kitchen preparing a holiday meal. I mentioned our new microwave oven … my mom said she’d be lost without her Presto cooker. We asked Granny what was one thing in her kitchen she couldn’t do without and she said, ‘running water!’ It’s all in the perspective.”

A 501 area reader said, “This makes me thankful for simple memories I have of my husband’s grandfather. I want to sit in his living room again and talk about how he and Grandma used to bring baby calves in the living room on cold winter nights. They would wrap them up and lay them by the wood stove so they wouldn’t freeze.”

The late Ken Parker stated, “My dad was a Conway firefighter from 1924 to 1948. We lived near the fire station when I was growing up. The siren you mentioned was near our backyard. The first night of his retirement, Dad was awakened by the alarm. He came over the foot of the bed, got tangled in the covers and darned near broke his neck. As he lay there on the floor, he remembered that he no longer had to respond to alarms.”

He added: “We had city buses starting during World War II. It had one route, from Arkansas State Teachers College (now University of Central Arkansas) through downtown, up Front Street past the Hendrix College campus on Washington Avenue to Harkrider and the Circle Inn motel. The entire ride cost a dime.”

These and many more calls, emails, cards, and grocery store visits by readers let me know that I have touched their former lives or provided learning. I now have a few close emailing friends I have never met and likely never will! If we ever do, I’m sure we’ll find a good conversational starting point over a cup of coffee and a homemade peach fried pie. Ohh-h, my goodness!

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 51

EVENT

C

T

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Brian Birdwell speaking on stage.

52 | 501 LIFE July 2021

CBC President Terry Kimbrow

entral Baptist College (CBC) hosted its second annual Scholarship Gala on June 5. The black-tie optional event featured keynote speaker Lt. Col. (Ret.) Brian Birdwell, and was held at the Conway Expo Center.

Proceeds from the event benefitted student scholarships and CBC President Terry Kimbrow announced $707,500 had been raised through event sponsorships and private donations.

The theme was “A Celebration of Faith and Patriotism” and the program focused on the mission and ministry of the college, which is “the integration of Christian faith and academic excellence in a Christ-centered environment.”

The emcee was Yalanda Merrell, Health Professions Recruiter for UAMS Northwest. During the event, CBC Alumnus A.J. Gary, Director of the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management, and the Governor’s Homeland Security Advisor, shared his reflections as a graduate of the college’s PACE Program. He then introduced the Conway Police Department Honor Guard who presented the colors, and Mr. Gary led the pledge of allegiance.

Peggy Pillow, Administrative Assistant to President Kimbrow, sang the National Anthem.

Following the opening prayer by Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Gary McAllister, CBC Dining Services Chef Jill McCollum, served a delicious meal. It was concluded with the “Parade of Patriots Cream Cake” delivered by a Gala volunteer to each of the 56 tables.

Following the meal, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Brian Birdwell was introduced by alumnus Chaplain Kevin Guthrie. Birdwell shared his amazing story of God’s provision for his life when on September 11, 2001, American Airlines Flight 77 was crashed just yards away from his second floor Pentagon office. Birdwell was critically wounded and severely burned. Of the burns that covered more than 60 percent of his body, nearly half were third degree in severity. Today, following 39 operations, months of hospitalizations and numerous skin grafts, he has made a miraculous recovery. Despite physical limitations, he testifies not only to his physical healing, but the ultimate miracle of grace through Christ. He ended his comments with sharing the importance of places like CBC in the landscape of higher education in America.

After the keynote speaker, Arkansas State Senator Jason Rapert presented Birdwell with the Arkansas Traveler Citation.

A special Dueling Pianos performance of a patriotic medley was given by Wrenetta Austin, Becky Cameron, Judy Rogers, and Lynette Stanley. The pianos used in the performance were provided by Steinway Piano Gallery of Little Rock. After his closing comments, Kimbrow asked Ms. Pillow back to the stage to sing the little known fourth verse of the National Anthem.

CBC Alumnus Cody Hiland, former U.S. Attorney, closed the event in prayer.

In his announcement of the $707,500 that had been raised through this event for student scholarships, Kimbrow acknowledged an anonymous matching gift of $400,000, 53 event sponsors, and many additional individuals and businesses who made contributions towards the total.

“I am truly grateful for the generosity of so many,” Kimbrow said. “The Central Baptist College Board of Trustees, businesses, not only in Conway, but across the state of Arkansas, and other individuals who are such faithful supporters of Central Baptist College all came together to make this an unforgettable night for the support of Christian Higher Education."

CBC is a four-year, private, liberal arts college owned and operated by the Baptist Missionary Association of Arkansas.

The college offers approximately 40 baccalaureate degree programs, 16 athletic teams that compete in the AMC conference of the NAIA, and 6 fine arts performance groups. For more information, visit cbc.edu.

Keith and Sherry Merritt

Representative Spencer & Xochilt Hawks

Senator Jason and Laurie Rapert

A.J. and Kim Gary

Jeff and Kristin Herring, Allan and Charissa Eakin

David and Ashley Moore, Jason and Lisa Speer

David Jr. and Brixey Hendrix, Doug and Yvonne Hendrix, and Dana and David Hendrix

Conway Police Department Honor Guard

Tara Mallet and Lori Case Melton

Cole and Julie Crossland

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 53

INSPIRATIONAL

A Work in Progress I

love to look at people’s collections when given the opportunity. I wish I could say that I was a collector, but the truth is, collecting is hard work and I'm a bit of a procrastinator. Who am I kidding? I'm a TOTAL procrastinator, so I stick to being a viewer of others' treasures.

However, my daughter Brittainy is the complete opposite of a procrastinator and she has a massive collection of nesting dolls. I think she got her first one when she was about 10 and she hasn't stopped collecting them since.

At 25, you can imagine how impressive her collection has become.

Honestly before this issue on collections, the truth is I never gave these nesting dolls much thought (other than she had a lot of them). But as I started looking, I found it interesting that each doll is completely different, but they are all unmistakably similar when it comes to what makes them a nesting doll.

If you do a quick Google search on nesting dolls, you can find all kinds of interesting facts about them. Undoubtedly the most important element of the dolls is the wood used to 54 | 501 LIFE July 2021

By Laurie Green create them. Once the type of wood has been selected, the process then involves each trunk being cut from the top and bottom and then examined to see if the wood is fit to be carved into the nesting doll. After the selection and inspection, the logs are arranged and aired out for one to two years! Why such a long process?

Because the crafter knows they need a solid foundation to make the dolls strong.

This is the same way it is with our faith. We need a good, strong foundation to make sure we can withstand the elements of this life we are living. I have learned over the years this is also a long process that sometimes takes years to develop.

An area that I constantly seem to be working on is remembering scripture. I know that Hebrews 4:12 tells me the word of God is quick, and powerful … so it's something I often try to work on remembering. Seriously, how many of you can relate with me that you can remember every lyric to almost every ’80s song, but when it comes to retaining scripture, we just go blank? I just wish my brain worked the other

way around because I'm not sure being able to belt out a bad karaoke version of Wham’s “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” has the same effect as being able to quote some life-giving scripture.

Look, I've been a follower of Jesus for quite a few years now, but learning scripture is still a work in progress for me. I've been known to avoid group Bible studies because I feel like I'm unequipped. I share this with you because I've learned that typically if I'm struggling with an issue, chances are I'm not alone in the struggle.

But there is strength in standing on top of your weakness instead of being crushed underneath it.

I know that God is not done with me yet; I am certainly still work in progress. But just like that beautiful collection of nesting dolls, I feel like as Jesus completes one tiny part of me, he has already started on the next layer that will surround that portion and continue until I grow to a completed representation of a woman with strong faith and a solid foundation.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 55

COLLECTOR

By Dwain Hebda

56 | 501 LIFE July 2021

Photos by Mike Kemp

W

hen it comes to his love for "Star Trek," Mike West is an open book.

Meeting him, he sports a golf shirt with the USS Enterprise — the iconic spaceship of the TV series — embroidered on the chest. Reclining on a sofa in the inner sanctum of his home, where he displays his treasures, he sips from a mug declaring "Kirk-Spock 2020" while his beloved series plays on a big screen television nearby.

All around, items from figurines to toys to magazines to a "Star Trek"-themed Monopoly game catch your eye, which eventually comes to rest on a vintage "Star Trek" pinball machine blinking in the corner. There's too much to take in at first glance and this isn't even all of it.

"This is just a small portion," he said, glancing around the room. "I've collected a lot of the action figures that are still packed away in boxes. Any movie that came out, I tried to get all of the stuff I could, because you never knew what was going to be the last movie, or if it was going to be three or four years before they do another one."

So, does he know how many items the collection holds?

"I have no idea," he said with a half sigh. "No idea."

As wide and deep as his collection runs, some things stand out to the mild-mannered DeWitt native and longtime UAMS pharmacology researcher. Among them, some original action figures from his childhood that have survived — well-loved and played with — from his early fascination with the show.

"I was born in 1958 and the show aired from '66 to '68. So I was 9 or 10 years old when the original show was on," he said. "I remember really liking the show and the science fiction and all that kind of stuff.

"In college, I still loved the show. I decorated my dorm room. I had models hanging and the curtains and the bedsheets. I had the whole nine yards. Of course, back then there really wasn't that much stuff available, you know, merchandising stuff and that kind of thing."

West said the things that appealed to him about the show were the science of space travel and the logic exuded by his favorite character, Mr. Spock. Spock's visage is everywhere in this collection, anchored by a drawing of the iconic figure on the fireplace mantel. His daughter Emily, now a Conway architect, drew it in high school.

"She gave it to me as a gift," West said, beaming. "It's one of the things in the collection that I really like."

Having grown into a cultural touchpoint, it's easy to forget "Star Trek" ran for such a short period. In its wake came various movies and franchise reboots and these are also represented within the collection. But none, West said, ever held the same magical allure as the original.

"Some of the movies, they're OK," he said.

"I think 'The Wrath of Kahn,' the original, was my favorite. But we were all so hungry for 'Star Trek.' I remember standing in line to see it. Line out the door. All the hardcore Trekkers are there, they came over in costumes and all that kind of crazy thing.

"Probably 'The Next Generation' is my favorite of all the later TV series. I gave them a chance, you know, like 'Star Trek Voyager.' 'Deep Space Nine,' everybody rants and raves about it and how it was done so well. But it's like, 'Yeah, man, but they never went anywhere.' Not till the latter part, when they started doing their little war thing and they'd leave and there would be

a little bit of action. But it was more like a soap opera."

As open-minded as he was to these new and updated twists, West is less charitable in his assessment of other science fiction fares that followed the seminal TV series, especially "Star Trek's" arch-enemy franchise.

"I think I saw the original 'Star Wars' — I won't even say the word 'movie,'" he said coldly. "You will not find a single 'Star Wars' thing in here.

When I have someone come in here like, 'Oh, I love your 'Star Wars' collection!' It's like okay, you're out. We're not having that in here.

"In fact, my grandson had a 'Star Wars' birthday party for his fifth birthday. I mean, he doesn't know. So, everybody was like, 'All right, we're all going to wear 'Star Wars' T-shirts!'

I was like, 'Well, I'm not. I'm wearing a 'Star Trek' t-shirt.' And I did. So, that explains my commitment."

West's collection continues to grow, though it's to such a point now (when pressed, he places it at well into hundreds of items) that it's hard to imagine anything he doesn't have at least one of yet. West said that's not true, that there are still items here and there on his collector's bucket list.

"To me, this was the Grail," he said, noting a themed metal lunchbox on the mantel. "I always wanted a 'Star Trek' lunch box with a thermos. It's pretty hard to come by and it's pretty expensive. I never could afford it. It was right before the pandemic hit and I thought, 'I'm going to get me one.' And then it was, 'Oh shoot, I shouldn't have spent that money!' But I got it, you know."

He smiles as he looks at it and, in this light, he's 10 again.

"It's pretty cool."

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 57

501 KIDS

collecting seashells

&

memories

By Brittany Gilbert

Anniston Clark, Carolina Clark, Talia Lee and Everly Gilbert enjoy the surf and shells.

By Beth Jimmerson 58 | 501 LIFE July 2021

I

’m not much of a collector. In fact, I’ve written articles about minimalism because I feel overwhelmed by clutter of any kind.

However, in recent years I have discovered a new love for the beach and have started a collection of my own.

We had our first family beach vacation to Florida four years ago, and I fell madly in love with everything about it — the soft, white sand, the unpredictable waves, the beautiful, blue ocean that stretches as far as the eye can see. God meets with me each and every time I go and reminds me of his majesty, goodness, attention to detail, and his care for all of life.

I knew people collected seashells, but it’s not anything that has ever been appealing to me. Seashell décor and the like still aren’t my cup of tea, however, there is something about shells that you collect yourself. Walking the beach and sifting through the sand for unique pieces gives me a joy that I didn’t expect. As I write this, I can feel the sand on my feet, the water washing over my legs and the salty wind blowing through my hair. I go between watching the waves and thoroughly examining the ocean floor and beach for shells. Broken shells are usually all over the place, therefore my kids know that for super common shells like scallops and clams, they must be complete and not broken. I’ll be honest that most of these shells get placed back on the sand because we’ve collected so many already.

This summer, thanks to my friend Anne, I learned that shells have names and are categorized from common to rare finds. We hit a gold mine at Navarre Beach, where I found the most unique and beautiful shells I’ve ever seen. I learned that sunrise is the best time to go hunting, and while I’m not a morning person, I was extra motivated to wake up and walk the beach. I’ll probably never remember all of the names, and that’s definitely not my focus, however it is so cool to know that they have names and classifications. It’s really neat to find a shell that isn’t common. It’s especially neat to find a shell that is rare and to know that because of how cool God is to share his creation with us, it is possible to find those really rare creations.

Probably the best part of my seashell hunts is sharing with my family. Walking the beach is never boring because you never know what you’ll come across. My kids love exploring, too. My 4-yearold daughter is probably my biggest partner when it comes to hunting. We have the best time, and it has really been a big part of strengthening our bond. I know we will have stories to tell for years to come and the amazing seashells as proof. So, I would say I’m a collector of seashells, but also of smiles, laughs, conversation, and quality time with my favorite people in the world.

501 KIDS

501 LIFE KID OF THE MONTH

Anthony

Long-Irby W

By Becky Bell

hile Anthony Long-Irby’s friends are busy on their cellphones or playing video games, the 13-year-old can be found in the middle of the woods enjoying the peace of nature.

And although time in the outdoors is its own reward, he has received nearly all the badges from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s (AGFC) Outdoor Skills Program, which recognizes the abilities of Arkansans in nature.

Launched in January 2019, the program encourages people of all ages to sharpen their outdoor skills in 10 categories: archery, conservation leadership, fishing, game calling, hunting, shotgun marksmanship, rifle marksmanship, paddle sports, trapping and watchable wildlife.

Anthony lives in Mayflower, but since his grandparents, Anthony and Deborah Long, bought a home in Calico Rock, Anthony and his siblings have been doing more hunting, fishing and exploring.

Anthony Long-Irby only lacks three badges from the Arkansas Game and Fish Anthony was 5 when they bought the place in Northeast Arkansas, Commission’s Outdoor Skills Program. so he’s grown up learning about and loving nature.

“Papa taught me how to hunt, fish and camp, pretty much everything outdoors,” Anthony said. “On the property, we would see caves and creeks, and we even saw a bear. It was a big ball of fur. We saw them about 80 yards from their house. We’ve seen a bobcat and have stalked deer.”

A highlight of this year was harvesting his first turkey because turkey hunting is different from hunting deer, and Anthony liked the chance to hunt something requiring a different skill set.

“It was tricky, but it was fun. You have to be quiet, and you can’t be seen,” he said. “With deer, you can stay a little further away because you don’t have to use a shotgun. With turkeys, you use a shotgun, and you shoot from their neck to their head. You can also use a bow to hunt them, but you just can’t use a rifle.”

These hunting and camping accomplishments have earned the middle schooler patches through the AGFC’s program. He has three to go to complete it.

“When Anthony was 8 years old, he received a triple trophy for harvesting a deer by modern gun, archery and a bow,” his grandmother said. “He received a patch for the triple trophy and a certificate.”

Anthony also received a triple trophy in deer hunting for using all three ways to harvest a deer at age 10 and again this year.

And even though Anthony had already begun working on his badges before the pandemic, it was the pandemic itself that helped launch him in pursuit of more badges, Mrs. Long said.

The two categories Anthony still needs experience in are conservation and paddle sports.

“I’m trying to get the paddle-boating patch, and I have to do one overnight stay during a canoeing or a kayaking trip. I have to float one river or creek, and I have to attend a basic canoe or kayaking class,” Anthony said.

He has decided that he might like to be an Arkansas Game and Fish officer when he grows up. “I want to make sure that safety and animals and conservation stay good,” Anthony said.

Papa Tony said he has been hunting and fishing since he was 14 and was honored to mentor his grandson because the skills are important to know.

“I believe it is kind of dying off, call it a trade or way of life. It has kind of dwindled down,” Long said. “More kids nowadays are sitting in front of the Xboxes and know very little about the outdoors. I wanted to teach him to be able to be self-sufficient and to provide for himself through hunting and fishing. And one thing I could say is if he got lost in the woods, he knows about making a lean-to for shelter and he knows how to make fire from scratch. He knows how to survive.”

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 59

celebrating

By Bob Reising

Cleburne County

Walter Mooneyhan III

H

State winning pole vaulter now soars for Arkansas company

e is as cordial as he is competent, as energetic as he is effective.

Now Senior Director of Associate Relations for the Walmart Corporation headquartered in Bentonville, Walter Mooneyhan III has built on public school and college athletic success and decades of ever-mounting responsibilities in Human Resources to win respect both in and far from “The Natural State.” At age 51, he has secured his place in Arkansas’ Track and Field history while continuing to be an asset to a globally significant enterprise.

Born in Heber Springs, a city he labels “great,” Walter enjoyed a childhood he terms “awesome” and an adolescence he recalls fondly. His older pole-vaulting twin brothers and his two younger sisters aided in keeping sports at the forefront of family conversations as he moved through his K-12 education. Pee-Wee Football introduced him to a sport that he played for four high school Varsity seasons and at which, as a 140-pound inside linebacker, 60 | 501 LIFE July 2021

he was but “a little bit better than average.”

No such assessment, however, fell upon his skills in the activity to which his brothers introduced him in seventh grade. Allen and Andy were the state’s AA Track Meet’s top two pole vaulters in 1984, its second and fourth best a year later—Walter, easily their equal soon thereafter.

By 1987, Walter was consistently vaulting 15-feet, and in the state’s AA Track Meet that year he not only topped the field but also shattered the state’s AA record of 14-feet, 9-inches with a 15-feet, 4 1/2 inch vault that in 2021 remains the best ever in Heber Springs’ reclassified AAAA. A week earlier, at the Meet of Champs, he had vaulted even higher, resetting the overall classifications’ state record with a 15-feet, 9-inches.

The Arkansas Gaz surprised no one when it named him 1987’s “Athlete of the Year,” and as 1988 dawned, his name appeared with increasing frequency in discussions of the nation’s most promising

high school pole vaulters. He soon proved that elevated distinction to be accurate.

Before graduating in the spring of the year, he had claimed championships in the State AA Track Meet; Arkansas State University’s Top Gun Indoor Meet; and the Meet of Champions at Heber Springs. At ASU, he vaulted 16-feet to become the state’s first high schooler to reach that coveted mark; on his home campus, he zoomed to a 16feet, 4-inch vault, that, to this day, is the highest mark ever registered at his school.

None of his feats escaped the attention of Guy Kochel, the legendary Arkansas State University coach lauded for his expertise in pole vaulting. Walter welcomed an invitation to continue his education in Jonesboro, and within two years, while majoring in English and in Physical Education, he had earned national success and acclaim. In the winter of 1988, the ASU pole vaulters swept the American South’s indoor title, in the spring of ’89, the Conference’s outdoor title.

“Friends for life,” Walter recently labeled his ASU teammates, comrades possessing special athletic skills with whom he has forged a bond, indefinable but undeniable, to be cherished always.

Significant changes loomed, however.

“Personal reasons” abruptly forced his departure from his ASU studies as well as from pole vaulting. He completed the B.S. in Organizational Management at John Brown University in Fort Smith in 2000; his beloved sport, he “did not touch for 25 years.”

Human Relations (HR), global and domestic, demanded Walter’s rare combination of “People Skills” and business acumen. A variety of positions preceded seven years as Complex HR Manager with Tyson Foods, followed, in 2007, by a trio of increasingly responsible posts with Walmart leading to the Senior Directorship he assumed in 2018.

Walter continues to celebrate “the disproportionate — the overwhelming — favor from the Almighty” that has come to him. He feels especially blessed that, seemingly from birth, he has possessed “the wisdom to learn from others,” including his siblings and his high school coach, Harold Wilson, and that every member of his family merits the label” a nice person”: Stacy, his wife since 1993, and his children, Nicklaus (as in Jack) and Cassidy (a pole vaulter at South Dakota State University).

The honor that fell to him in January of 2014, induction into the Heber Springs Panther Den of Honor, he delights in, just as he does his return to pole vaulting as a registered volunteer in Pea Ridge, where he resides. Cleburne County and the 501 are proud that such a modest, accomplished human has his roots in their soil.

Walter and his daughter, Cassidy, when she won the pole vault competition in 2019 at the Meet of Champions in Lake Hamilton (Garland County.)

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July 2021 501lifemag.com | 61

PET OF THE MONTH

And these little piggies went

everywhere V

By Becky Bell

ickie Casey, who is known as the Pig Lady, loves to share her love of pigs with people who may not have ever seen one up close.

You might see Casey at a festival or a birthday party for children or adults with a dozen pigs in tow for everyone to pet and hold and adore. She will come out for any occasion. Schools sometimes ask her to come so the children can have a petting zoo for the afternoon.

She’s been doing this for about six or seven years.

“The thing is that people who do these parties sometimes have a child, and usually it’s a little girl, who is obsessed with pigs,” she said. “They come out with the coolest cupcakes or cakes with piggy themes. Once, there were cupcake piggy ears, piggy snouts, and they had two big foot-long inflatable pigs on my table.”

Casey knew one of those inflatables would be great for her festival appearances, so she asked where the mother had bought the item.

She ended up taking one home that she continues to use today.

Casey, raised on a farm in Mount Vernon, developed her affection for pigs at an early age.

“If they were born in the cold or they weren’t doing well, I always got to play nurse,” she said. “That’s when my love for pigs started.”

These days, she has about 125 pigs on her property in Quitman, with probably 100 of those being mini pigs. She said mini pigs are technically anything up to 24 inches tall and 300 pounds.

“That is where knowing your breeder comes in,” she said. “I’ve got some close to that big. When I breed them, I breed them with a smaller breed of pig. Sometimes you have either a smaller size or an awesome disposition.”

The pigs she takes to parties and festivals are small enough to be held. Although most people think pigs are always pink, they are not, she said. She has one breed, the Mangalitsa, that are striped when they are small. They do outgrow this eventually, but most people enjoy seeing such a different-looking pig, she said.

One of the things Casey likes most about being the link between people and pigs is the expression she sees on the person’s face when they are holding the animal. One year at Heber Springs, something special happened with an elderly woman.

“A mother and daughter came up to me, and the daughter said, ‘My mother is 86 years old and she’s never touched a pig in her whole life,’” Casey said. “I let her hold that pig, and the look on that 80-something-year-old’s face was like a 4-year-old on Christmas.”

This experience was not the first time Casey had seen pigs make an impression on elderly people. Once when she was working in a nursing home, she was given permission to bring one to work with her to show the residents.

“I saw what these pigs did for these elderly people who couldn’t really do anything but look out the window,” she said, tearing up. “It touched my heart.”

Once during the Wings Over the Prairie Duck Festival at Stuttgart, a man came by and gave her one of the best compliments she has received as the Pig Lady.

“He said, ‘Ma’am, I have been doing festivals now for 30-something years, and I have never seen a get-up like you have.’ People come and say, ‘Thank you,’ ... for putting smiles on the faces of so many.”

For more information about Casey and her pigs, go to The Pig Lady on Facebook.

62 | 501 LIFE July 2021

Jack Whitehead (from left), Emma Mireles and Hayes Hoelzeman at Legacy Learning enjoy a pig in a blanket

Trey Kitchens squeals with glee has he holds his first piglet.

Top: Robert and Crystal Sikes of the nationallyrecognized Keto Savage Podcast get the "skinny" on the crew that Vickey Casey, "the Pig Lady" brought to a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Left: Katie Henderson of Legacy Learning enjoys a quiet moment with one of Sikes' pigs in between classes coming out for their visits.

Right: Laura Holloway of Blue Barn Bakery snuggles with one of the pigs who helped her celebrate her new location in Downtown Conway.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 63

WRITING

Book explores dyslexia challenges as explained by a child

By Susan L. Peterson

T

eachers are often inspired by the stories their students tell.

When Tracy Peterson heard one student explain her difficulties with learning to read, she knew she needed to share her struggles with others. Tracy's book, “Cartwheels: Finding Your Special Kind of Smart,” tells the story of Sloan LaFrance, a first-grader who would much rather do cartwheels than read. Why? Sloan has dyslexia.

Tracy is a 35-year veteran of the teaching profession. During that time, she taught a variety of grades and levels in four states. During the last 10 years, she taught first grade at Episcopal Collegiate School in Little Rock. She uses a reward system where students may "buy lunch with the teacher,” which gives her the opportunity to talk with students on a more personal level. It was during one of those visits that Sloan truly opened up about her difficulties learning to read, saying that the “magic” just wasn’t there for her like it was for her friends and brother.

Although many books on dyslexia exist, many are geared to parents and teachers about intervention strategies. Tracy noted that few children’s books were available from the perspective of the child.

She thought that Sloan’s story could be a way to help and encourage others who face similar obstacles. With the permission of Sloan’s parents, Tracy continued with the project.

For about six months, Tracy “played around with” Sloan’s actual words to get a concise flow. Next, she had to find a publisher and an illustrator. Tracy asked Erin Woods, the parent of a student in her class and the owner of Et Alia Press, to review her manuscript. Tracy was surprised when Erin came back with more than a review - she offered to publish it!

To find an illustrator, Tracy sent out emails to friends and university professors. She met with several artists before hiring Lindsey Witting, a student at UCA. “She seemed to get it,” Tracy said.

Their work proved to be more difficult due to COVID-19 constraints that were in place at the time. They had many virtual meetings on Zoom and even met in parking lots to analyze drawings and discuss progress.

“Cartwheels” was finally released this March. In addition to Tracy’s name, two others are credited on the cover: Sloan LaFrance as narrator, and Lindsey Witting as illustrator. Several thousand copies were sold within the first few months. Tracy credits the book’s 64 | 501 LIFE July 2021

success with the fact that it fills a special niche in the children’s book market. She is encouraged by the number of comments she receives from the parents of children with dyslexia. “This story reminds me of me” is heard frequently.

Tracy hopes school counselors, teachers, and other educators will use the book to help those with dyslexia realize that they are not alone and that help can be found.

“Early intervention is the key,” she says. The book can also help to explain the condition to others and encourage empathy.

Tracy is using her book as a springboard to develop a children’s book series entitled “From Their Eyes.” Already she has another in the works. "Ball Caps, Beanies, and Being Bald” is about a boy who has alopecia, a condition that results in hair loss. She hopes to follow it with another book describing what it is like for children with Type 1 diabetes. Again, Tracy will use the words of the children she interviews to write from their perspective.

Tracy lives in Little Rock with her husband, Chris, who is now retired from athletic director positions at UALR and UAPB. Even though the two enjoy traveling and visiting their children in New York, Florida, and northwest Arkansas, Tracy is not yet considering retirement. Instead, she continues to inspire and be inspired by the children she works with.

“Cartwheels” may be purchased from online bookstores, local stores, and Et Alia Press. (Visit etaliapress.com and use the code 501LIFE to receive 10% off, free shipping, and a signed copy of the book.) Tracy enjoys discussing literacy issues with groups, and she is available for speaking engagements. To find out more, visit her website: www.teachertracypeterson.com.

Sloan LaFrance inspired the book “Cartwheels” because at one time she said she would rather do cartwheels than read. Her teacher, author Tracy Peterson, helped the firstgrader deal with the obstacle of dyslexia.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 65

COLLECTOR

White County: Johnny Adams

Photos by Donald Brazile

Jimbo Hendrickson has owned and operated Baker Drug Store since 1978. When he purchased the corner drugstore it came with a huge collection of old medicine bottles and instruments, many of them still containing the original contents. Customers still see the expansive display all around the store.

Antique medicine bottles

offer glimpse of days gone by

By Chloe Short

L

ocated in downtown Conway sits Baker Drug. Customers know this store for its reputable service, friendly cashiers, and for the owner, Jimbo Hendrickson. You can bet these customers have also noticed the vast collection of antique medicine bottles the store exhibits.

Hendrickson displays various bottles around his store that capture the eye. Some date back further than 1964. The bottles contain things like poison, a desiccated placenta, and a memory substance. He also displays objects like old measuring cups, syringes, and inhalants.

Hendrickson said he decided to arrange them around the store because he owned so many of them and wanted to give customers something interesting to look at and read.

“Anytime you had a bottle that had raised glass [like ridges], it meant it was a poison of some kind. Because before they had electricity, 66 | 501 LIFE July 2021

they’d pick it up in the middle of the night and wouldn’t know if it was poison or not unless it had the raised glass on it.” he said.

The pharmacist said that customers are most interested in the bottles that contain poisonous substances. Other bottles that shoppers most notice feature handwritten labels that state how to mix the drug. These medicine bottles show no expiration dates because early in medication history, expiration labels were not common.

Most of the displayed antique medicines are no longer available by prescription nor safe for consumption because of health reasons and medical advancements.

“The most interesting one to me in my collection is a bottle of heroin and chloral hydrate with a handwritten label, so it goes way, way back,” Hendrickson said. “I have one bottle of tincture cannabis that was dated back in the

’50s. I’ve got iodine we used to sell all the time.

They took it off the market because of all the mercury in it, but I’ve got a gallon of it.”

He bought Baker Drug from former pharmacist John Reese in 1978. When he purchased the store, 95% of the bottles came with it and lined the shelves all the way to the back of the store.

The rest have been gathered from customers and make nice additions to the store.

“In fact, I've got like seven more totes of bottles upstairs that I need to unpack,” Hendrickson said.

Customers, people considering a local pharmacy, and other intrigued citizens looking for a unique collection of history can stop by Baker Drug on 924 Front St. in downtown Conway.

HEROES

Photos by Claire Seale – Laney Media

Building demolition offers

By Stefanie Brazile

first responders training mecca W

hen First Community Bank-Conway announced plans to tear down some old structures to build a full-service banking center earlier this year, a skilled first responder jumped into action.

“When we saw the video about how First Community was going to tear a building down in Conway, I went to Ms. Lori [Melton] and told her I thought it would be a great training opportunity for our task force and firefighters,” said Bill Keithley, assistant chief of the Conway Fire Department and coordinator for the Central Arkansas Urban Search & Rescue Task Force Teams 1 and 2. “They said we could use it as long as we needed.”

Melton is the senior vice president of business development for the bank, which opened in Conway last year. “There are five buildings and when they asked if they could do some training, we said, ‘Yes!’ And then we contacted the police department to see if they wanted to use the structures, too.”

The week of May 24, Task Force firefighters and emergency medical services (EMS) staff converged on the corner of Harkrider and Polk near downtown Conway, for mock training drills.

Ambulances and firetrucks surrounded the former home of Second Baptist Church.

Those who came for training are firefighters and EMS workers from Benton, Bryant, Conway, Little Rock, North Little Rock, Jonesboro, Jacksonville, and the Pulaski County Office of Emergency Services.

“Here at the fire department, we’re always trying to find buildings we can train in when [they’re] not on fire,” Keithley said. “Normally, we have to be mindful not to damage a structure, but we know they’re going to tear it down, which gave

us a chance to do whatever we needed to do.”

Instead of just jackhammering a concrete slab or tearing through a wooden wall, the church sanctuary offered the chance to do some high angling rope exercises. “It’s hard to find somewhere that you can hit almost every aspect of your team’s capabilities,” the experienced first responder said. “The amount of different buildings and construction that we had — like wood, frame, and brick structures built in the ’70s, to something built in the ’90s — gave the squad a view of anything they could encounter in the city.”

Because there were so many buildings, 30 people were there daily for three days and all of them were able to get hands-on training. Victim rescues were practiced with mannequins. First Community provided water and fed them lunch one day.

“We are thrilled to offer our facilities to the fireman and police staff for training,” said Grant Gordy, community president of First CommunityConway. “We realized this was an unprecedented opportunity for them to hone their skills in five different buildings and 88,000 square feet. It has been interesting to watch as we have seen how dangerous their jobs really are. We truly thank them for all they do, and are prepared to do, to ensure our safety.”

Asbestos abatement was done by the bank before the mock drills began.

“We want to thank First Community for letting us use the facility before they tear it down,” Keithley said. “We had a group from Jonesboro here and down to Benton. When you think about it, it benefits not only our community but has been a statewide benefit."

The First Community Bank-Conway team served the first responders a barbecue lunch at the mock training. They are Community President Grant Gordy (from left), Branch Manager Tara Mallett, SVP of Commercial Lending Jerry Harrison, and SVP of Business Development Lori Case Melton.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 67

PHOTOGRAPHY

Heber Springs photographer leaves a

legacy of everyday rural life Photos and story by Linda Henderson

T

his month’s 501 LIFE Magazine theme of collections is a perfect time to share a trip to the Cleburne County Museum. The museum is housed in the historical Old Post Office building located in downtown Heber Springs. Along with artifacts of daily living, an extensive genealogy library, a collection of Mike Disfarmer’s photography can be found in the museum. As a person who loves the art of photography, I found Disfarmer’s collection extremely interesting. I spent several hours studying and researching the history of this obscure photographer, who captured images of ordinary rural people, a simpler time and place.

Disfarmer, aka Mike Meyers, was a realistic portrait photographer. He rarely used studio props, just a simple cloth background. His primary subjects were Cleburne County residents during the Depression, World War II, and the post-war era.

He was born around 1882 in Indiana and moved to Arkansas as a teenager. He and his mother later moved to Heber Springs in 1914. In 1915, Disfarmer began working as a professional photographer. Heber Springs was a gathering place for local Cleburne County farmers and their families, especially on Saturday. Long-term residents of the area report getting your picture made was the thing to do when you came to town on Saturday. Disfarmer charged 25 to 50 cents for each photo. He made postcard and wallet-size pictures. During that period, almost everyone in Cleburne County had one or more of his photos.

Many people returned year after year to his studio to document their changing lives.

His photos were made on glass-plate negatives. He continued to use glass plates even after other more modern types of film became available. This kind of negative necessitates longer exposure times.

Longer exposure times require those having their portrait made to remain still for 30 seconds or longer.

In 1925, he purchased a lot in Heber Springs and built a home studio.

After his mother died in 1935, he changed his last name from Meyer to Disfarmer. The reason for changing his name to Disfarmer, “not a farmer,” was a rejection of his family farming history.

He continued to photograph the inhabitants of the county until his death in 1959. After his death, the mayor of Heber Springs bought the contents of his studio from his estate, which included 6,000 glass-plate negatives. Eventually his negatives were acquired by a photo editor and were stabilized and preserved.

During the 1990s, his portraits were discovered by the art world and have now been exhibited in museums, galleries, and art books.

His work has become so important that Disfarmer’s gravesite in Heber Springs Cemetery is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

As his work has become recognized as an art form, the museum’s collection of Disfarmer’s photos have also become well-known. Exhibit visitors have come from Canada, Australia, Sweden, Germany, and France.

Who knew we had a world-famous photo collection in the 501? So, take the short drive to Heber Springs and enjoy the Cleburne County Museum. The museum is located at 102 E. Main, Heber Springs. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday–Saturday. Admission is free, with donations welcome.

68 | 501 LIFE July 2021

Photos taken of the Cleburne County Museum’s Mike Disfarmer photography collection were used with permission of the museum.

READING

Reader, oh reader, where art thou?

By Donald Brazile

Books are keys to wisdom’s treasure; • Books are gates to lands of pleasure; Books are paths that upward lead; • Books are friends. Come, let us read.

- Emilie Poulsson

T

here’s a saying among book-lovers that a person who will not read is no better than the person who cannot read. Whatever may be your final evaluation of this statement, there can be no doubt that many who are weak could be strong, many who are bored could find fulfilling activity, many who are depressed could find encouragement, and many who are grieving could find hope, if only they’d pick up a book and read. There are books we read, enjoy, and promptly forget. There are books we read and remember. And then there are the books that transform our lives. And every time a significant book is read and vitally influences the reader, the reader becomes something of a dynamic transformer. The charge, the current, is built up and released with new power for the future steps on the journey of life. Or, as the ancient book of Ecclesiastes wisely passes down to us, “The words of the wise prod us to live well.”

A child, an adult, or senior adult can find 70 | 501 LIFE July 2021

reading equally satisfying. It can be ended and started again at will. There are few pleasures that are financially less costly (resale shops/ public libraries) than finding and collecting books. It can be engaged in privately or with friends (book clubs). And, once initiated, there are few things that bring a greater variety of pleasure, delight, and fullness to one’s life than simply finding a quiet place alone with a book.

George Martin put it best when he said, “A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies, the man who never reads lives only once.”

Since this month’s theme is about collectibles, I want you to consider becoming a collector of words and books. Why? Because “words speak louder than actions.” Yes, you read that right! This phrase is as true as its first cousin: “Actions speak louder than words.” They are both equally true. Let me share an example.

Last month I officiated a wedding in Texas, and in response to my reading of the marriage vows,

the groom and bride individually and joyfully replied, “I do.” My reading of the vows and their spoken response became the very act whereby the marriage became binding. You see, the written and spoken word is the means by which much of the world’s work is done, its miracles performed. So, in all your collecting, ravenously collect rare, medium and well-done books!

To sum up, I‘d like to circle back to the title, “Reader, oh reader, where art thou?” What type of books do you collect? Have you read any good books lately? Take a moment and share with me your summer reading list and how it’s challenging, comforting, informing, or directing you. Send an email to don@501lifemag.com, or if you’d rather, send a brief note to Don Brazile c/o 501 LIFE Magazine, 920 Locust Ave. Ste. 104, Conway, AR 72034. Let’s celebrate the collecting of books and authors and the written word. Happy collecting and reading!

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COLLECTOR

Saving Face

Face Jug collection comes with a pretty interesting history

F

or Steve Lance of Conway, perhaps it’s the faces. Besides his day job as a lecturer and writing instructor at the University of Central Arkansas, he’s had a “side hustle” at Jenifer’s Antiques for 18 years and he’s assembled an unusual collection.

But it’s the faces - old photographs and face jugs - that dominate his collections, particularly the face jugs.

“Face jugs have an ancient tradition, going back to the Fertile Crescent,” Lance said. “In this country, it is pretty well accepted that the artform was introduced through the African slave culture in the South.”

Bryan Massey, chair of the UCA Department of Art and Design, provided more context.

“Face jugs are a form of folk art passed down from generation to generation of enslaved Africans as a form of expression guiding their loved ones to what they believed was safe passage from mortality to immortality,” Massey said. “As an African American artist/sculptor, I can appreciate the unlearned, unskilled ancient work by the enslaved Africans in this country as well as the modern-day artists continuing to carry on this tradition.”

Lance first discovered the genre during 72 | 501 LIFE July 2021

By Donna Lampkin Stephens his doctoral studies at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville in the mid-1990s.

“There was a big flea market, and twice a year they had a super sale where dealers would come over and bring their stuff,” he recalled. “I thought, ‘I like that.’ We couldn’t afford to buy one then, but when eBay came along, I saw I could get really good ones there.

And if I waited, I could usually get one for a good price.”

He said the tourist and collector trade was responsible for keeping the art alive.

“It is going stronger than ever, and jugs by the most revered potters are continually coming up for auction on eBay and elsewhere,” Lance said. “In my experience, the demand for certain potters guarantees that pieces of their work are always coming to light. And the prices have continued to climb. It isn’t at all uncommon for a jug by the late Lanier Meaders to go for more than $1,000.”

A recent eBay search yielded more than 1,100 face jugs for sale or auction.

The auction site crockerfarm.com shows auction highlights that include world auction records for an American face vessel ($177,000) and American face jug ($100,300).

Lance is proud of the collection he’s

assembled and has only sold one.

“When it got here, I didn’t like it, although I liked the potter,” he said. “I don’t think I could sell them around here. I’m afraid if I put them in the booth [at Jenifer’s Antiques] they might get damaged. But I never regretted buying that jug by that potter.”

He hasn’t stored any of his treasures at his house in Old Conway either.

“They scared the kids when they were little,” he said with a chuckle, referring to his son and daughter. “Dee [his wife] didn’t like them at first, but she likes them now.

“And now the kids have decided they would like to keep them. You know, it takes time to build a good collection. I was buying three or four a year at one time, but I haven’t bought any since Rachel started college.”

But he’s getting the itch to start again.

“There are a couple I’d like to replace,” he said. “I don’t know if I’ll sell them. The kids may eventually want to divide them up. I’ll buy some I think they would like.”

Lance has been a collector since he was 15.

“Stuff,” he said. “Primitives, old stuff. I started going around to shops in Mountain View and Searcy and Batesville. Mama and I would stop at shops along the way when we

were going to see my grandparents. She thought it was funny. She never thought I’d be very serious about it.”

The collecting bug has infected another generation of his family. “The kids and I go a lot of places,” Lance said. “They both like thrifting and old stuff.”

He said his side business informs his teaching. His booth at the antique store encourages him to be creative. He was inspired to pursue other interests by his mentor at UT, the late Robert Drake, a Southern memoirist and writer. Drake said: “The worst thing I can say about someone is he is nothing apart from his job.”

Lance said he never wanted to make the side hustle his full-time gig.

“It’s too much work,” he said. “But I like it. It gets me out. We make a little money on the side, some [items sell for] more than others. I do a lot of small things, and I do some really nice things.

“I’ve learned a lot running a small business,” he said. “Certainly, I think it’s added a lot more diversity to my teaching.

Emotionally, it fulfills an artistic outlet. I paint furniture, I frame prints. I think it helps make me feel a little more complete.”

He remembers another piece of advice from an old friend in Mountain View who told him, “Never buy anything you’re not willing to keep if it doesn’t sell.”

And he admits to having regrets about many things he’s sold.

“I wished I hadn’t sold them,” he said. “But it’s easier to let go once you start. And you’ll always find something to replace it. I tell all my friends an antique dealer is nothing but a hoarder with a tax number.”

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July 2021 501lifemag.com | 73

NORTH LITTLE ROCK NEIGHBORS Person of the month

Terry C. Hartwick CITY WHERE YOU LIVE:

North Little Rock.

FAMILY:

One daughter, Tammy Hartwick McCormick, and two sons: Derrell and Ryan Hartwick.

EDUCATION:

Graduate of North Little Rock High School.

Attended the University of Central Arkansas.

Air Force, Veteran of Foreign Wars.

WORK:

I am the Mayor of North Little Rock since January. I previously served in the office from 1984 through 1989. I was appointed Director of North Little Rock Parks & Recreation in January, 2016.

I was also President and CEO of the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce from 2001 through the end of 2015.

WHY DID YOU GO INTO YOUR FIELD:

I believe I can make a positive difference.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES:

Working with all neighborhoods and departments in North Little Rock to continue making our city the best!

CHURCH ACTIVITIES:

I attend Lakewood United Methodist Church.

MOST CHERISHED POSSESSION:

My friends and relationships.

MOST ENJOYED WEEKEND ACTIVITY:

Playing golf with my friends.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THE 501?

Its proximity to everything: rivers, mountains, golf courses, lakes, entertainment, horse races, etc.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO INCLUDE?

I want to make everything better for the people in North Little Rock.

74 | 501 LIFE July 2021

A Growing Health System for a Growing Community

Left to Right: Mary Burgess, MD, and Mallory Smith, MD, of Conway Regional Infectious Disease Center

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We’re not just growing—we’re growing together.

July 2021 501lifemag.com | 75

TO GETHER FOR Better.

Arkansans appreciate community. We work and raise families. Care for our neighbors. And come together in good times and bad. At First Security, that local strength is what we love best about our home state. There is commitment here.

And heart. And hope. Thank you to everyone who is standing together, learning from one another, and making Arkansas a place we all love to call home.

76 | 501 LIFE July 2021 Member FDIC

We’re proud to be your community bank.