2 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Focus on nature
Boost your creativity and focus by spending time outdoors. Enjoy being outside as it improves your mood and optimizes your levels of Vitamin D. I love to take pictures all over the place, it eases my mind and I can pull my heart through the lens of a camera. – Amy Daniels, Unity Health Ambassador
HOSPITALS • CLINICS • SPECIALISTS
Unity-Health.org
Searcy | Newport | Beebe | Bradford | Clinton | Heber Springs April 2018 501lifemag.com | 3
501 LIFE
✎
EDITOR'S NOTE
OWNERS Donna Spears, Sonja J. Keith EDITOR Sonja J. Keith
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Donna Spears ART DIRECTOR Nick Walker ASSOCIATE EDITOR Levi Gilbert PHOTO DIRECTOR Mike Kemp DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Tom Keith CONTRIBUTORS Donna Benton Don Bingham Tanner Cangelosi Brittany Gilbert Laurie Green Linda Henderson Vivian Hogue Carolyn Ishee Megan Ledbetter Karl Lenser Georgie McCarthy
Mark McDonald Mark Oliver Todd Owens Bill Patterson Susan Peterson Robin Richards Jan Spann Donna Lampkin Stephens Callie Sterling Jaison Sterling Katelin Whiddon
FAULKNER COUNTY EDITORIAL BOARD Johnny Adams Jack Bell Don Bingham RaeLynn Callaway Glenn Crockett Kay Dalton Beth Franks Spencer Hawks Mathilda Hatfield Roe Henderson Jerry Hiegel Mike Kemp Julie LaRue
Karl Lenser Monica Lieblong Lori Melton Jay Myers Kiera Oluokun Deanna Ott Pat Otto Jon Patrom Amy Reed Lori Ross Margaret Smith Jan Spann Jennifer Whitehead
CONWAY COUNTY EDITORIAL BOARD
Daffodils are aplenty in the 501 as Central Arkansas welcomes spring. (Sonja J. Keith photo)
Hello spring! While Mother Nature may not quite be finished with winter, the season of beautiful colors and warmer temperatures is making its appearance in the 501. This month, 501 LIFE is all about “Home and garden” as we celebrate the beauty of Central Arkansas as winter’s gray gives away to the bright colors of spring. Daffodils, tulips and crocus appear to be arriving daily, with trees and shrubs beginning their transition with colorful blooms. It’s time to get ready for shorts and sandals. There are a few things for me that signal springtime: ❀ For weeks, I have watched the daffodils in my flowerbed inch their way out of the soil and ready to produce a bloom. My friends on the Daffodil Daze Committee refer to these perky little flowers as “Plant happy!” and their blooms are a welcome sight each spring. ❀ My children will tell you that I’m pretty crazy about azaleas as I’m quick to point them out while driving. While I have not had much luck with growing them in my yard, I enjoy admiring and taking in 4 | 501 LIFE April 2018
the beautiful blooms which range from white to the darkest pink. I also love irises and have managed to keep alive a few in my yard. All their different colors amaze me. ❀ Soon (but not really soon enough) there will be fresh strawberries for the picking and the purchase in Central Arkansas. There’s nothing like a good strawberry pie, strawberry jam and just a plain strawberry. Springtime is an exciting time of year with a variety of special events and activities. Just check out all the calendar items on Pages 8-9. Wow! 501 LIFE is proud to serve as a sponsor again this year for the University of Central Arkansas Night of Distinction, planned Saturday, April 28, at McCastlain Ballroom on campus. (Learn more about this year’s distinguished honorees and this incredible gala by checking out the insert in this month’s edition.) What a blessing to live in the 501 with beautiful surroundings and wonderful people who do so much to help others. Until next month, here’s to “Celebrating spring” and “Loving LIFE” in the 501!
Mary Clark Shelli Crowell Dr. Larry Davis Kathy Edgerton Alicia Hugen Alisha Koonce
Stephanie Lipsmeyer Stewart Nelson Kristi Strain Jim Taylor Morgan Zimmerman
WHITE COUNTY EDITORIAL BOARD Betsy Bailey Tara Cathey Cassandra Feltrop Phil Hays Natalie Horton Matt LaForce
Hannah Owens Mike Parsons Brooke Pryor Carol Spears Kristi Thurmon
To subscribe or order back issues, visit www.501lifemag.com. The subscription rate is $20 for one year (12 issues). 501 Advertising and Publishing 701 Chestnut St. Conway, Ark. 72032 501.327.1501 info@501lifemag.com
501 LIFE is published monthly by 501 Advertising and Publishing (701 Chestnut St., Conway, Ark. 72032, 501.327.1501). The contents of 501 LIFE are copyrighted and materials presented may not be copied or reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publishers. Articles should not be considered specific advice, as individual circumstances vary. Products and services advertised are not necessarily endorsed by 501 LIFE. 501 LIFE is produced on recycled paper.
☰
CONTENTS
April 2018
Volume 10 Issue 12
features&departments 32 Feature
m
For many people in Searcy and White County, Jacob’s Place offers a home and hope for the homeless.
42 Home
On the cover
501 LIFE is celebrating spring in Central Arkansas with its annual “Home and garden” edition. (Mike Kemp photo)
Renovations are well under way on houses in Conway’s first neighborhood.
46 Entertaining
30
While there are days when winter seems to linger on, the weather brings to mind the healthy days of salads and garden vegetables.
68 Sports
Before she was a triathlete, Cabot senior Madeline Abbott was a 10-year-old girl staring anxiously into a pool of water.
72 Travel
46
501 LIFE Contributor Linda Henderson is celebrating spring in the 501 and all its splendor.
neighbors 28 Couples
76
Darla and Adam McJunkins are enjoying life in Van Buren County.
30 Youth
Malvern High School senior Christina Harris has her sights set high.
34 Searcy
For Amy Daniels, one of her greatest joys is spending time at the homestead with her family.
regulars
36 Conway
4 8-9 10-17 42-57 78
The career of Marcus Elliott has taken a turn toward healthcare in the 501.
76 Special friends
Second-graders in Lacie Thomas’ classroom at Springhill Elementary School have a special friend – a bearded dragon.
'501 KIDS' 501 LIFE contributors Katelin Whiddon and Brittany Gilbert present some great tips in the 501 Kids section (Pages 58-61). Have a story idea or a young person you would like to see featured? Send suggestions to info@501lifemag.com.
LIFE pics 18-24
special insert This month’s edition features an insert on the upcoming University of Central Arkansas Night of Distinction. 501 LIFE is proud to serve as a major sponsor of the event.
6 | 501 LIFE April 2018
18
22
Editor’s Note Calendar Loving LIFE Home Person of the month
501 LIFE would like to thank its advertising partners for their continued support and encourage our readers to support these businesses:
Art on the Green, 21 Baker Eye Institute, 21 Baptist Health Pediatric Clinic Conway, 29 Bell & Company, 19 Bledsoe Chiropractic, 51 Central Arkansas Pediatrics, 59 Conway Behavioral Health, 69 Conway Corporation, 23 Conway Downtown, 26-27 Conway Pain Clinic, 63 Conway Regional Health System, 79 Conway Regional Rehab, 47 Conway Symphony Orchestra, 24 Conway Wealth Management, 45 DJM Orthodontics, 30 Edward Jones, 37 First Security Bank, 80 First Service Bank, 13 Freyaldenhoven Heating and Cooling Inc., 53 Harding, 33 Hartman Animal Hospital, 77 Harwood, Ott & Fisher, PA, 35 Hawks Family Real Estate, 40 Heritage Living Center, 5 Hiegel Supply, 67 Julie’s Sweet Shoppe and Bakery, 67 Ladd Ellis, DDS Family Dentistry, 41 Luxury Pool & Spa, 48 Magie Smith Charton Eye Clinic, 39 Magna IV Communications, 62 Ott Insurance, 60 Patterson Eye Care, 71 Pediatrics Plus, 61 Quitman Public Schools, 53 Renewal Ranch, 49 Salem Place Nursing and Rehab, 2 Shelter Insurance, 39 Soaring Wings, 75 Sowell’s Furniture, 52 St. Joseph School, 57 The BridgeWay, 38 UCA Night of Distinction Insert UCA Public Appearances, 55 Unity Health, 3, 65 University of Arkansas Community College Morrilton, 31 University of Central Arkansas, 64 Wilkinson’s Mall, 71
501 LIFE is you!
twitter.com/501lifemag
ďŒŽ ďŒ‰
facebook.com/501lifemag
Van Buren
Cleburne
Conway Faulkner Perry Garland
Saline
White
Pulaski Lonoke
Hot Spring
đ&#x;“Ł
{
Tune in at 12:30 p.m. the last Tuesday of each month to KARK Channel 4 for a segment on the current issue of 501 LIFE.
Get “LIFE� at home! For a limited time, 501 LIFE is offering a special subscription rate for new subscribers - have the magazine delivered to your home for only $20 for one year, $40 for two years. While the magazine is distributed through more than 700 locations in Central Arkansas, copies go fast. Home delivery ensures readers they won’t miss a single issue. Readers can visit 501lifemag.com or call 501.327.1501 to subscribe.
{
Want more LIFE? Subscribe to our two weekly e-newsletters – 501 LIFE Extra and 501 Sports Extra – for access to more news, features, photos and more! Delivered mid-week, each newsletter features a variety of interesting and timely information, as well as photos. The response to Extra has been tremenÂdous, both from those who want to receive it as well as advertisers and individuals with news items who want to be included. The e-newsletters are provided free of charge. To sign up, visit 501lifemag.com and click on “Get 501 LIFE Extra in your inboxâ€? at the top of the homepage.
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 7
đ&#x;“‹
Nutters Chapel in Conway. The four-person scramble will include cash prizes for the top three teams. Proceeds will be used for ongoing operations and special projects at the Ranch. For more information, visit therenewalranch.org or contact James Loy at jamesaloy@hotmail.com.
NEWS/NOTES
April S
M
T
W
T
F
S
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10 11 12 13 14
The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce will host its Fifth Annual Casino Night at 6 p.m. Friday, April 20, at the Maumelle Country Club. For more information or to order tickets, email macc@ maumellechamber.com or call 501.851.9700. The Conway Symphony Orchestra will present its season finale – “Strings Attached� – at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 21, at Reynolds Performance Hall at the University of Central Arkansas. The performance will feature the strings section with special soloists. For more information, visit ConwaySymphony.org or call 501.269.1066.
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 The University of Central Arkansas will have several special presentations in April in Reynolds Performance Hall: Cameron Carpenter – 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 3. Cinderella – 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 18. “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder� – 7:30 p.m. Sunday, April 29. For more information or to order tickets, visit uca.edu/ Reynolds or call 501.450.3265. Three educators will be inducted into the Searcy Public Schools Education Foundation Hall of Honor at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 3, in the Sullards Annex Cafeteria at Searcy High School. Retired educators Barbara Jones and Jo Carol Gentry and current McRae Elementary School teacher Susan Bucher will be honored. In addition, the Foundation will present a Searcy Schools Showcase which will highlight current teachers and students involved with “STEAM� activities (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Tickets are $35 and may be purchased through the Searcy Education Foundation Facebook page or searcyschools.org. The Children’s Advocacy Alliance’s Heroes for Hope – a 10K, 5K and 1.31K race open to runners, walkers, families and corporate teams – will be held 8 a.m. Saturday, April 7, in Conway. After the race there will be an awards ceremony and costume parade along with activities for kids of all ages. For more information, visit hopeandjustice.org. The Conway Alliance for the Arts (CAFTA) will host its Fifth Annual Conway Arts Awards on Thursday, April 12, in the Trieschmann Fine Arts Building at Hendrix College. The public is invited to attend the artist awards ceremony, free of charge, which will include local performing artists. A reception will follow. For more information, contact Amanda Horton at ahorton@uca.edu. Roland Merullo, the award-winning author of “Breakfast with Buddha� and “Golfing with God,� will speak at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 12, during an event hosted by The Wittenberg Foundation at Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church in Little Rock. Merullo 8 | 501 LIFE April 2018
The American Studies Institute at Harding University will host former U.S. first lady Laura Bush for the fourth presentation of its 2017-18 Distinguished Lecture Series at 7:30 p.m. Monday, April 16, in Benson Auditorium. Admission to ASI lectures is free, and all events are open to the public. For more information, visit harding.edu/asi or call 501.279.4497. is the author of 20 books, including 14 works of fiction. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at lovesaintmarks.eventbrite.com or by calling 501.225.4203. The Seventh Annual “Hoof It for Heifer� 20K Trail Run will be held Saturday, April 14, on the Boy Scouts of America trail at Petit Jean State Park. The fundraiser is organized by the Heifer Volunteer Group based in Conway. For more information, visit heifertrailrun.com. The Dr. Lily Peter Spring Celebration will be hosted by Poets’ Roundtable of Arkansas in Little Rock from 9:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 14, at the Cox Building-third floor on the Central Arkansas Library campus at 120 River Market Avenue. The event honors past Arkansas Poet Laureate Dr. Lily Peter (1971-1991). Featured speaker will be Jo McDougall, author, teacher and winner of numerous prestigious awards. Registration is free. For information, visit poetsroundtableofarkansas.org. The American Studies Institute at Harding University will host former U.S. first lady Laura Bush for the fourth presentation of its 2017-18 Distinguished Lecture Series at 7:30 p.m. Monday, April 16, in Benson Auditorium. For decades, Bush fought for key issues in the fields of literacy, education, health care and women’s rights. Admission to ASI lectures is free, and all events are open to the public. For more information, visit harding.edu/asi or call 501.279.4497. The Eighth Annual Renewal Ranch Golf Classic will be held Monday, April 16, at The Greens at
The Arkansas Mission of Mercy, an annual free dental service clinic for under-served Arkansans, will host clinics at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds on Friday, April 27, and Saturday, April 28. The outreach is sponsored by the Arkansas State Dental Association. For more information, visit arkansasmissionofmercy.org. Boati Gras will be held 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 28, at the Fairfield Bay Marina. The event includes food, fun, music, a parade and prizes. For more information, go to visitfairfieldbay.com. The annual First Lady’s Tea will be held 2 p.m. Sunday, April 29, at the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion. Celebrating “Pearls and Lace,� this year’s tea is the perfect opportunity to delight in “what’s new� at the Mansion, while enjoying the delectable tea cuisine and fun festivities. Guests will enjoy princess carriage rides on the grounds, as well as view a breathtaking display of antique china, tea sets and other family heirlooms. Tickets are $50 each. For more information and to order tickets, visit friendsofthemansion.org or call 501.324.9805. Proceeds benefit the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion Association. The University of Central Arkansas will recognize three graduates during its Eighth Annual Night of Distinction on Saturday, April 28, in the McCastlain Ballroom on campus. The honorees are Distinguished Alumni Award recipients Curtis Barnett and Dr. Gene Sloan, and Alumni Service Award winner Jim Schneider. 501 LIFE is a sponsor of the event, which will begin at 6 p.m. Proceeds from Night of Distinction benefit student scholarships. (See the special insert in this month’s edition for more information.)
To submit a calendar item, please send information to info@501lifemag.com. To see a complete list of items, please go to 501lifemag.com.
Renewal Ranch Rally for Recovery on May 19 The Fourth Annual Rally for Recovery will be held 5:30 p.m. Saturday, May 19, at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds. The rally is designed to increase awareness about the devastating effects of drug and alcohol addiction while providing hope that freedom from addiction is possible. Steve Hutton, a PGA professional for 19 years and author of “Pride Aside� will be the keynote speaker. Most recently, he was vice president of field ministry for Promise Keepers and since has served as the founder and president of Momentum Events, producing men’s and marriage conferences in mega-churches across the U.S. A resident of Madison, Miss., his book details a father’s journey through his son’s addiction. There will also be a parade of Renewal Ranch graduates and testimonials from program participants and their families. The event includes a catered meal by Tacos 4 Life. Rally proceeds will be used for operational expenses at the Ranch. Sponsorships are available for the event. For more information, call Bryce McGhee at 501.733.4263 or marketing@renewalranch.net. Renewal Ranch is a non-profit, faith-based organization dedicated to restoring broken lives through Christ while providing the resources needed to lead
by Alexis Sanders A Conway native, Alexis Sanders graduated in 2013 from Conway High School. In 2017, she graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a bachelor’s degree in health education. A daughter of Roosevelt and Vernetta Sanders, she is bed program director at Conway Regional Medical Center.  #SERVEWITHME
productive lives free from drugs and alcohol abuse. The ministry opened its doors in February 2011. Since that time, more than 190 men have graduated from the program.
Celebrating National Community Service Month Seems like there is a national holiday every month from national friends’ day to a national awareness of disease month. Well, the month of April brings National Community Service Month. Volunteering in your community can truly make a difference; individuals can be changed, and it is inspiring when you partner with an organization that inspires you! Personally, I am honored to partner with the Faulkner County branch of Habitat for Humanity since 2016 when I began competing for the job of Miss Arkansas. This year, I have the pleasure of serving the state of Arkansas through my title of Miss Spirit of Arkansas 2018, which I won in October in Morrilton. Habitat
for Humanity inspires me to carry out its mission of “building lives, hopes, homes, and dreams.� Service leads to gratification, new skills and less stress. There are so many things that take up our time and attention, but let’s not forget how vital community service is. So let us encourage one another, especially millennials to volunteer and give back to their communities. We all can make a tremendous impact on our communities when we bring a heart filled with joy, hands ready to serve and feet willing to cross the paths of those in need. For more information on volunteering and community service visit nationalservice.gov.
NEIGHBORS special friends
đ&#x;‘Ľđ&#x;‘Ľ
als love of anim Celebrating ws’ on March 10 d Pa ‘Chase Race an
race director Don Event founder and l friends, Bailey Potter with his specia are rescued dogs (left) and Ava. Both l Shelter. Anima y Conwa from the ) (Mike Kemp photos
will be Chase Race and Paws The 13th Annual ay, March 10. the Chase held at 8 a.m. Saturd nth anniversary of year’s “This is the thirtee g hard to make this workin are teers Chase Race. Volun ever,� said Don Potter, n to being event the best one race director. “In additiosas, there Race founder and in the state of Arkan a free the most unique race and Dogs, able of Adopt will be a Pet Parade t.� to compet costume contes the race continues Even more importantly, who died at age life of Chase Potter, emorative memorate the short turned into a comm 13. A tragedy has been families and s, walkers, children, fun event for runner s. animal of Chase’s love beginning. pets as it celebrates $154,000 since its The event has raised divided year’s event will be Proceeds from this Victims N (Help for Abuse equally between HAVE Friends of the Conway and tes and in Emergency Need) promo Race and Paws g for a Animal Shelter. Chase fundin and pets opted raises funds for non-ad for adolescent females who residential group home through no fault of their care foster es a life have come into that every dog deserv believe izers Organ own. es a home. and every child deserv start with an expanded start Front This year’s event will Park, located at 805 line and finish at Simon ay. The 2-mile state chamConw St. in Downtown to any male a $100 cash prize pionship race awards records. A the present course breaks who or female awarded to entry form will be complimentary 2019 . an age group record anyone who breaks a unique Chase Race All finishers will receive receive a will rs registe who medal. Each person T-shirt. unisex souvenir race
d Chase Race an Paws includes:
this using disposable chips The race will be timed same fast, out and back on the year and will be run online at course, as last year. at chaserace.info/, ok Registration is open Facebo Chase Race and Paws RunSignUp or the sing fee avoid a $2.50 proces Sporty page. Attendees can form available at The by obtaining an entry e St. in Conway; Conway Ronkl Runner, 1016 Van Center, 700 Salem Fitness and Health y ParRegional ng, 10300 N. Rodne Road; Rock City Runni and at Go!Running, 1819 Rock; ham Road in Little Rock. March N. Grant St. in Little had its beginning Chase Race and Paws the brief life of te celebra to 11, 2006, as an event Chase’s Potter, 1991-2005. Donald Lee Chase searched the late Cheryl Potter, parents, Don and legacy of their ually continue the for a way to perpet suffered loved animals and 13-year-old son who s (and parent His injury. from a traumatic brain d on a running event that focuse s, ues to Chase), all runner The Chase Race contin could include pets. year. this rt comfo e provid
Animal l Hospita Dr. Greg Hartman
| 385 Hogan Lane
| (501) 450-6444 | Conway, AR 72034
Dr. Greg HartmanIMA LHO SPI TAL .CO M
HA RTM AN AN
✉
competitive • A quality and Grand Prix Series Arkansas RRCA ile race for championship two-m No pets or only. runners/walkers strollers. e overall male/femal • The first three recognized again walkers will be e register as a this year. (Pleas walker.) ile fun or • A separate one-m for runners/ competitive event ed pets. walkers with leash timing will be used • Disposable chip A start/finish mat in both events. the two-mile, for will be provided the one-mile (no gun time only for start mat). lkers can rs/wa • Registered runne events. participate in both nt (best costume • “Pawsâ€? Pagea pets. contest) for all
LETTERS
Thank you guys for all of the good press you gave Chase Race in the March issue of 501 LIFE. It is companies like 501 that cause me to say daily that “I love Conway and its people.� Thank all of you again, my friends.  Don Potter Conway
• Pet adoption.
Dr. JoAnna Roath
te Diagnostic Servicesg Medicine • Comple General Veterinary • Full Service Boardin Medicine & Surgery Companion Animal
ag.com | 77
March 2018 501lifem
2018 76 | 501 LIFE March
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 9
đ&#x;Œ„
LOVING LIFE
đ&#x;“ˇ
Sharing the 501 LIFE spirit Van Buren
Cleburne
Conway Faulkner Perry Garland
Saline
Hot Spring
White
Pulaski Lonoke
501 readers are enjoying LIFE and sharing their trips and special occasions with others. An overwhelming number of readers are submitting “Loving LIFE� photos for inclusion in the magazine, and every effort is being made to publish them as soon as possible. Headed out on a special trip? Pack a copy of 501 LIFE in your suitcase, snap a photo at your destination and send it to us for publication in a future issue. Have a special occasion or get-together coming up? Take 501 LIFE along, take a photo and send it to us. Photos can be submitted by email to info@501adsandmags.com or by mail to Reader Photos, c/o 501 LIFE, 701 Chestnut St., Conway, Ark. 72032. Please include the names of those in the photograph and their hometowns along with contact information. (Sorry, photos will not be returned.) Here’s to “Loving LIFE.� – Sonja Keith
“Loving LIFE� at the 29th annual GQ Revue held in HB White Auditorium at Morrilton High School. Thirteen young men competed for the title Mr. GQ 2018. Sophomore Luke Peterson was crowned Mr. GQ.
“Loving LIFE� at the 50th reunion of the Conway High School Class of 1967 at Hilton Garden Inn Conway.
10 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Members of the Adelaide Club of Morrilton were “Loving LIFE” at their annual Valentine dinner/dance at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Morrilton. The fundraiser aids the club in sponsoring their annual Angel Tree at Christmas time, helping boys and girls in the area have a better Christmas. Route 66 provided the dance and listening music for the evening for a capacity crowd while the Knights of Columbus provided a delicious meal. The women in the club provided the wonderful desserts.
Conway Christian School’s Nathan Burrow, son of Barney and Angie Burrow of Vilonia, was “Loving LIFE” as he signed to play football at Ouachita Baptist University.
Conway Christian School’s Winston Strawn was “Loving LIFE” after he signed to play baseball with Rend Lake Junior College in Ina, Ill.
Renewal Ranch volunteers were “Loving LIFE” as they planted daffodils at Pompe Park in Conway for the Daffodil Daze Committee: Shane Youngman (from left), Les Lamey, Michael Washam, John Rogers, Jared “Bobo” Ball and Chance Johnson.
The Mayflower Junior high Boys Basketball Team was “Loving LIFE” after winning the District 5-3A championship. The team, which posted a 22-2 record, also won the Quitman Invitational and Faulkner County Invitational tourneys. Team members include: Temyus Andrews (front, from left), Chase Webb, Tyler Slye, CJ Bryant, Brandon White, Garrett David, Caleb Babb, Clint Leslie, Arian King; Coach Michael Harville (back), manager Clayton Magee, Dalton Crumley, Ben Haile, Trent Long, Braxtyn McCuien, Westin Pickell, Brandon Patterson, Brody Kirkemier and Coach Brent Stallings.
Three Searcy High School athletes were “Loving LIFE” as they signed letters of intent with college football teams during a ceremony Feb. 7 in the SHS cafeteria. Jacob Barker signed to play at Ouachita Baptist University. Catrell Green signed to play at Independence Community College. Mason Schucker signed to play at Hutchinson Community College.
The Clinesmith Family was “Loving LIFE” after celebrating family birthdays at the Fish Net near Caddo Valley (Clark County). April 2018 501lifemag.com | 11
đ&#x;Œ„
LOVING LIFE
‘Loving LIFE’ at spring meeting The Arkansas Epsilon State Kappa Kappa Iota spring board meeting was held Feb. 3 at First Church of the Nazarene Brick House in Conway. Members from all over the state attended. Kappa Kappa Iota, a nonprofit organization, is one of the oldest organizations for educators in the United States.
Sharon Balloun of Dardanelle (from left), Carol Dyson of Little Rock, Denise Anders of Dardanelle and Raymelle Greening of North Little Rock.
Arkansas Epsilon State Officers: president Debbie Witt of Dardanelle (front, from left), president-elect Michele Phillips of Greenwood; parliamentarian Diana Glaze of Little Rock (back), secretary Susan Peterson of Dardanelle, vice president Linda Childers of Greenwood, immediate past president Mandy Kuykendall of Van Buren and treasurer Martha Couch of Little Rock.
Danette Fiddler (from left), Sue Gates, Elizabeth Humphreys (president) and Sara Andrews, all of the Alpha Iota chapter in Conway; and Emily McDaniel from Greenwood.
12 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Members of the Nu chapter, KKI, Dardanelle: president Janet Cheatham (front, from left), Kathleen Balloun, Marilyn Bryson; state president Debbie Witt (back), Susan Peterson, Sharon Balloun and Denise Anders.
WE ARE HERE.
7:00 am-9:00 pm Mon-Fri.
FIRSTSERVICEBANK.COM CONWAY | 2475 Washington Avenue | 501.932.5050 CONWAY | 540 United Drive | 501-932-9700 CLINTON | 486 Highway 65 North | 501.745.7200 GREENBRIER | 134 Broadview | 501.679.7300 LITTLE ROCK | 12921 Cantrell Road | 501.801.7402
đ&#x;Œ„
LOVING LIFE
Tim Kordsmeier (from left), Linda Kordsmeier, Jennifer Kordsmeier and Preston Kordsmeier took 501 LIFE along on a vacation to New York City in December. It included a stop at the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. Melanie J. Levy of Dubach, La., mother to Cory Cangelosi and Mimi to Zuzu, Coco, Jo, Jill, Hope and Judah, was “Loving LIFE� last fall in Paris. “My daughter-in-law, Tanner, is a 501 LIFE contributor, and I love them all,� she wrote. Melanie is holding a copy of 501 LIFE, which features the Cangelosi Family on the cover.
The Lasowski Family of Conway – Brandon and Tegan and their children Noah and Landon – was “Loving LIFE� on their first cruise from New Orleans on the Carnival Triumph. They visited Cozumel and Progresso in Mexico.
14 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Zoe Russell (from left), Cade Smiley and Sherry Holder were “Loving LIFEâ€? at the University of Maryland for National History Day (national competition). Cade and Zoe (with Holder as their teacher) placed fourth in the nation (out of 93 teams) in the Group Performance category (Junior Division) with their performance “Enduring Chains: Clarissa Olds Keeler Stands Against the Convict Lease System.â€? In addition, they won the medal for BEST OF STATE (Arkansas) for the junior division.Â
Carl J. Barger (left photo) of Conway took 501 LIFE along to Yosemite National Park in California. “I was amazed at God’s beauty I experienced in Yosemite. It was breathtaking. I took my 501 magazine along with me. If space is available please share this beautiful site with the people who love 501,” wrote Carl. “Loving LIFE” on a trolley car (above photo) in San Francisco: Lena Barger (seated, from left), Carla Barger Phillips, Carl J. Barger; Brent (standing, right) and Houston Phillips.
Dorothy Stevenson (from left), Sharon Rimmer and Suellen Ward of Guy were “Loving LIFE” by marking another visit off their Bucket List at the Badlands National Park on a recent trip throughout the west and northwest states.
John and Michelle Tooke were “Loving LIFE” on a vacation to Glacier National Park in Northwest Montana.
Genie Brooks of Russellville and Doug Brents of Cleveland took 501 LIFE along to Orange Beach, Ala., to celebrate New Year’s Eve.
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 15
đ&#x;Œ„
LOVING LIFE
The Perryville Colts Pee Wee Cheerleaders were “Loving LIFE� after winning first place in the Arkansas River Valley Youth League (ARVYL) cheer competition. The cheer team is coached by Rachel Bull and Jennifer Hawkins. Junior coaches are Lexie Bull, Paige Bradford, Logan McCallister and Katie Webb. Team members are Chloe Frith (front, from left), Dakota Tindell, Kami Williams, Kendyl Griffin, Jailyn Lively, Emma Scarbor, Addison Millsap; Logan McCallister (second row), Lexie Bull, Ava Pate, Madi Snyder, Carlee Denn, Laren Mainord, Anna Leadingham, Madison Bridgeman, Autumn Wagner, Amelia Browne, Paige Bradford; Rachel Bull (back), Gracie Peoples, Tessa Hubbard, Rylee Fuller, Olivia Bull, Kara Anderson, Abigail Bentley, Emma Hawkins, Hanna Thiers and Jennifer Hawkins. “Loving LIFE� at Grana’s Front Porch Fabrics in Conway: Ava (front) with Alissa (back, from left), Cassandra (owner) and Elaine. To learn more about the store, call 501.358.6807 or visit the store’s Facebook page.
Several members of the Conway High School Baseball team were “Loving LIFE� while helping out at the Jim Stone Elementary School Character Assembly.
The NBMC (Nabholz Builders & Manufacturing Company) Hunting Club of Greenbrier was “Loving LIFE� on a recent pheasant hunt to South Dakota: Jackie Arnold (from left), Arlin Winters, Nick Brandon, Ray Nabholz, Ricky Arnold and Joe Nabholz along with their bird dogs, Sam and Jake.
The therapy team at Brookridge Cove in Morrilton was “Loving LIFE�: speech therapist Cheska Neal (from left), physical therapist assistant Nicole Sanders and occupational therapist Shanna Holland.
16 | 501 LIFE April 2018
“Loving LIFE” in Toronto at Casa Loma Castle: Lois Higgins (from left), Judi Keeth, Charlene Clark and Alta Hill. Tom and Pat Murphree of Morrilton were “Loving LIFE” on a Greek Isles Cruise while celebrating their 55th wedding anniversary.
First-graders at Ida Burns Elementary School in Conway were “Loving LIFE.” The students received free tickets to see the play “How I Became a Pirate” at Reynolds Performance Hall at the University of Central Arkansas. To celebrate, the students and their teachers dressed as pirates for the day!
The Bandits softball team took 501 LIFE along to cheer on the University of Central Arkansas Bears in a battle against Crowder, followed by a meet and greet with the players afterward. Members of the Bandits are: Emalee Cook, Hannah Hern, Addison Turley, Kadence Armstrong, Alyssa Amerson, Olivia Wheeler, Ivy Dennis, Taylor Irvin, Haley Vazquez and Presley Milliken. (Photo courtesy of Daniel Wright)
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 17
đ&#x;“ˇ
LIFE PICS
Greenbrier chamber banquet Sonja J. Keith photos
The Greenbrier Chamber of Commerce recently held its annual awards banquet. Kim Tyler was recognized as the 2018 Citizen of the Year and Verna Higgins as the Volunteer of the Year. Mary Andrea Xiaojing “Andie� Finley was honored as the Student of the Year. The theme for the banquet, held at Greenbrier Junior High School, was “Home Sweet Home.� Winners of the chamber’s business awards: New Business of the Year – The Castle at Harmon Ranch Small Business of the Year – Graham Brothers Electric, Inc. Non-profit of the Year – The CALL of Faulkner and Conway counties Business of the Year – Greenbrier Nursing and Rehab In addition, outgoing chamber board member Spencer Hawks was recognized for his service. Mayor Sammy Joe Hartwick also recognized two city employees, Dustin Chapman and Shellie O’Quinn, for their hard work with the Mayor’s XM Award. Tyler and Higgins also unveiled a poster-size reproduction of the Greenbrier City Directory, which featured their photo on the cover. 501 Advertising and Publishing works with the chamber to produce the annual publication.
Greenbrier Citizen of the Year Kim Tyler (center) and her family.
UACCM Chancellor Dr. Larry (from left) and Carlene Davis, Caden Malott, Meredith Post, Conner Post (wearing the nifty tie), Bryan Post and Ann Post (Bryan’s mother).Â
Shawn Johnston (from left), Lindsey Meek, Shonna Battles, Laveane Lovelady, Leslie Hart, Corinne Tarkington and Sharon Duncan.
Greenbrier Mayor Sammy Jo and Cheryl Hartwick.
The Grahams: Sara, Chase, Cody, Clay and Alli.
Dustin Chapman and Lynda Harmon. 18 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Jon Patrom (from left), Marilyn Battles, Matt Carter, Ashley Knight, Tracy Livingston, Robin Hackett and Kenneth Barnard.
Citizen of the Year Verna and Randy Higgins (right) with Mitchell Higgins (from left), Matt Higgins and Danielle (Clark) Higgins
Shannon Casey, Sandy Sweeney, Regina Jones, Tina Cook and Megan Thompson.
Rialto Theater ribbon-cutting The Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Rialto Theater in Downtown Searcy. The ceremony marked the re-opening of the theater after the City of Searcy began operating it and completed some minor improvements. Please visit facebook.com/searcyrialtotheater to see what is playing. Prices are $3 for regular admission and $1 for Tuesdays and matinées. Show times are 6:30 p.m. every evening with a 2 p.m. matinée on Saturday and Sunday. Doors open 30 minutes before the show.
First Security bankers were “Loving LIFE” at the ribbon-cutting.
“Loving LIFE” at the Rialto ribbon-cutting: Randy Rudesill (from left), Steve Jackson, Larry Moore, Amy Burton, Shawn Lawrence, Mike Parsons, Justin Gehring and Will Walker.
YOU DIDN’T GO INTO BUSINESS TO BECOME AN ACCOUNTANT. WE DID. You’re in the business of helping your customers. We’re in the business of providing expert accounting and financial advice that helps your small business get bigger and more profitable. How can we put our 150 years of combined experience to work for you? Let’s start now. Call us today for a free consultation.
Sara DeStefano and Jennifer Bell
2490 Washington Avenue Conway, AR 72032 501-329-7021 bellandcompany.net April 2018 501lifemag.com | 19
đ&#x;“ˇ
LIFE PICS
Gary Griffith and Susan Griffith.
Judy Freeman (left) and Lori Lawrence.
Darlene Williams (from left), Nelda Kennedy, Laurie Ricks and Becky Burroughs.
‘Living History’ at Quitman Robin Richards photos
A “Living History Weekend� was held last fall at Jackson Creek Homestead. The homestead is located at 549 Wesley Chapel Road at Quitman. The event included period dressed homesteaders with tours of barns, a schoolhouse, general store, pottery shop, a covered wagon, and wood and blacksmith shops. Demonstrations were given on making candles and lye soap. There was also a moonshine still. The event included music and concessions. Plans are in the works for the next “Living History Weekend� in September. Siblings Gary Griffith and Susan Griffith own and operate the homestead. For dates and more information, call 501.589.3588 or visit facebook.com/Jackson-CreekHomestead.
Scott (from left) and Melissa Ritter, Trish Adams, Alice Chambers and Pamma Henderson.
Ron Adams (left) and Larry Diedrich.
Tamara Wright (left) and Pam Linn.
Art on the Green starts City Talks University of Central Arkansas Professor and Sculptor Bryan Massey was the inaugural speaker in Art on the Green’s series of City Talks. The speaker series was created to provide authentic, stimulating discussions with sincere, honest, real people. Darren Irby was the moderator. Massey is an internationally-known sculptor. His work includes the Sidney S. McMath Memorial in Little Rock, the Silas Herbert Memorial in Fayetteville, along with works in Little Rock’s Riverfront Park, CARTI Cancer Center’s Sculpture Garden and the Grammy Music Hall of Fame. In Conway, his sculpture of “Otis� is on UCA’s Donaghey Hall building. For more information on the series, call 501.205.1922 or visit artonthegreen.net. Delphine (from left) and Bryan Massey, Nina and Dr. David Baker and Darren Irby. (Sonja Keith photo) 20 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Happy
Easter
John P. Lasater IV
from Art on the Green
New Works by John P. Lasater IV and Jason Sacran
Behold the Lamb of God, which take away the sin of the world. John 1:29
Please join us for the Opening Reception at Art on the Green Thursday, November 9, 4pm-6pm Show runs through December 9 Go to www.artonthegreen.net/events/ for information about this“Sunshine upcoming show. on
My Shoulders� by Nina Baker, oil on canvas. Jason Sacran Available in gallery and online at www.artonthegreen.net/gallery/nina-ruth-baker/
Visit Us Today.
Learn. Teach. Read. See. Understand. All in one place. Monday- Friday 10:00am-5:00pm or by appointment Littleton Park | 1100 Bob Courtway, Suite One | Conway, AR 72032
501.205.1922 | www.artonthegreen.net Art Gallery and Advisory Service Featuring Original Works by More than 30 Artists
Offering Cataract Surgery Call 1-800-305-EYES (3937) Call 501.329.EYES (3937)
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 21
đ&#x;“ˇ
LIFE PICS
Carla Rains (left) and Amanda Cates.
Christina Shutt (left) and Dot Welch.
Lani Meares (left) and Leslie Flores.
Shannon Howland (left) and Wendy Nelson.
Julie LaRue (left) and Pam Sims.
LaShonda Jenkins (left) and Ateca Williams.
Mitzi Reynolds (left) and Lauren Reynolds.
Morgan Kordsmeier (from left), Lori Ross and Mathilda Hatfield.
Janet Criswell (from left), Michelle Phillips and Lori Ross.
Conway Regional Women’s Council networking event Sonja J. Keith photos
The Conway Regional Women’s Council recently hosted a Member and Guest Social and Networking Event. The event included fellowship, fun and food as well as an opportunity to meet women’s council members and learn more about the organization’s work – from sponsoring Dazzle Daze and an annual women’s health fair to providing teacher’s grants to promote healthy lifestyles. The Conway Regional Women’s Council is an advocacy group of the Conway Regional Health Foundation. Established in May 2001, the group promotes women’s health education and provides support for fundraising and volunteer services benefiting Conway Regional Health System. The Council is open to women of all ages who would like the opportunity to learn more about women’s health issues while contributing their talents toward the improvement of women’s health in their communities. For more information, visit conwayregional.org/ about-us/womenscouncil or call 501.513.5778.
Paula Weatherley (from left), Taylor May and Jenna Davidson.
22 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Shelby Roofener (left) and Wendy Francis.
Sacred Heart presents awards Sacred Heart School recently named Brandi Stobaugh Cooper as its 2017-2018 Alumnus of the Year and Martha Briggler as this year’s Honorary Alumnus of the Year. Brandi is a 1995 graduate of Sacred Heart and received a degree in marketing from the University of Central Arkansas in 1999. She attended Sacred Heart for all 12 years of her education, where she was cheerleading captain, co-valedictorian, president of student council and Beta club, prom queen and senior class vice president. She spent the first part of her career in the bank marketing industry in Harrison and later Morrilton before transitioning to local business ownership. Since moving back home to Morrilton, she has been active in the local community while successfully owning and operating Merle Norman. Brandi is the chair of the chamber events committee, a sustaining member of the Century League, a graduate of Vision 2020 and the recipient of the AR River Valley Tri-Peaks Tourism 2016 Award for Conway County. Brandi is married to Kylan Cooper and their two daughters, Karlee and Kambree, attend Sacred Heart where Brandi’s leadership and love for the school has continued. Martha is a graduate of North Little Rock High School and UCA, where she received a bachelor of science degree in business education. She worked at AFCO Steel in Little Rock as assistant purchas-
School board president Allen Andrews presented Brandi Stobaugh Cooper with a plaque in recognition of her service.
Booster Club president Djuana Beck recognized Martha Briggler as this year’s Honorary Alumnus of the Year.
ing manager before moving to Morrilton in 1982, hometown of her husband Fred, who is a Sacred Heart alumnus. She began teaching at Sacred Heart in 1984 and over the years, she has taught all three of her daughters, Jennifer Sheets, Kayla Keith and Emily Lear; four of her brothers-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.
In her time at Sacred Heart, Martha has been more than a teacher – she has been the senior sponsor for 32 of her 33 years, the yearbook sponsor and co-sponsor of the student council and Beta Club. She helped organize the first Grandparents’ Day and introduced students to the stock market game. She also is a founding board member for the Development Advisory Board.
t hwitheso many c aoptions ble
you have all the spoilers powered by Conway Corp Everyone loves to be entertained, and Conway Corp gives you more channels, more choices and more control. From the latest blockbuster movies and shows to cartoons and sports, we’ve got everything your family wants to watch, record or even stream with TV Everywhere. It’s options for you, powered by us.
|
(501) 450-6000
|
ConwayCorp.com
|
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 23
Sherry Rowlett (from left), Avanelle, JC Merritt and Johnathan Merritt.
Karen and Bobby S. Morgan.
Family Council honors longest married couples
Avanelle Merritt (front); JC Merritt (from left), Janelle Merritt, Keith and Sherry Merritt.
Donna Spears photos
Gov. Asa and Susan Hutchinson recently hosted a dessert reception at the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion in honor of the state’s top 10 longest married couples. The event was presented by the Family Council, which promotes, protects and strengthens traditional family values. I.B., 99, and Ima Jewel, 94, Williams of Biscoe (Prairie County) are the state’s longest married couple. They have been married for 80 years and were wed Sept. 4, 1937. Couples from the 501 who were recognized were: Cecil and Lois Robertson of Heber Springs, married 78 years. Gussie and James Stephenson of North Little Rock, married 78 years. Grady and Wilma Adcock of Hot Springs, married 75 years. JC and Avanelle Merritt of Greenbrier, married 75 years. Each couple received a special statement of recognition from the governor.
Sara F. Merritt and Glenn Swiderski.
Avanelle and JC Merritt of Greenbrier with their special recognition from the governor.
Paul and Carol Wilcox.
Linda and Jerry Earnhart.
STRINGS ATTACHED Saturday, April 21, 7:30pm The season finale features the stellar musicians at the core of the orchestra, the strings section, on Shostakovitch’s Chamber Symphony Op. 110a, plus music from Psycho, with special soloists and music that will soar.
2017-18 Season powered by
Reynolds Performance Hall, UCA Campus, Conway • Tickets (501) 450-3265 - ConwaySymphony.org 24 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Pinnacle Mountain State Park in Little Rock at sunset. (Photo courtesy of Arkansas State Parks)
501 5 in the
PINNACLE MOUNTAIN STATE PARK
Located at Little Rock, Pinnacle Mountain features a variety of hiking trails with different degrees of difficulty. Trails range from the least strenuous Arkansas Trail in the center of the 71acre Arkansas Arboretum to the more difficult east and west summit trails.
arkansasstateparks.com/ pinnaclemountain WOOLLY HOLLOW STATE PARK Enjoy the beauty of northern Faulkner County along the 10-mile hiking and mountain bike trails at Woolly Hollow, located near Greenbrier. The 3.5-mile Huckleberry Trail starts at the bathhouse in the campground and loops around Lake Bennett. The trail continues along the ridge, with scenic views of the lake.
arkansasstateparks.com
SPRING A PERFECT TIME TO TAKE A HIKE While cool temperatures hint that winter has not completely moved on, the budding flowers and shrubs signal that spring is nearing. Now, is the perfect time to head outdoors to enjoy the beauty of the 501 while hiking one of the many great trails in Central Arkansas.
BIG DAM BRIDGE
PETIT JEAN STATE PARK
The 501 boasts the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in North America. The 4,226foot span, built atop Murray Lock and Dam between Little Rock and North Little Rock, connects over 14 miles of scenic riverside trails.
Located in Conway County, Petit Jean has more than 20 miles of trails that showcase the park’s natural beauty. Among those is Cedar Falls Trail, which is described as moderately strenuous, but the hike to the 95-foot falls is worth the two-mile roundtrip.
littlerock.com/little-rock-destinations/ big-dam-bridge
petitjeanstatepark.com
501 5 in the
501 LIFE is looking for reader input on future 5 in the 501 features:
• Where are the top spots to enjoy the beauty of spring? • Who offers the most delicious cheeseburger? • Where do you go for a picnic perfect place? • What are your favorite fall activities? Send your responses to info@501lifemag.com. Thanks!
CADRON SETTLEMENT PARK Located near Conway along the Arkansas River, the 150-acre park offers hiking trails and great places for a picnic. The park is operated by the City of Conway through a lease with the Army Corps of Engineers.
conwayparks.com April 2018 501lifemag.com | 25
to
DOWNTOWN
C O N WAY
26 | 501 LIFE April 2018
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 27
ð&#x;‘¥
NEIGHBORS couples
HIM
Adam McJunkins
NATIVE OF: Clinton.
ð&#x;”–
ð&#x;”–
Adam and Darla McJunkins are enjoying life in Van Buren County, where they are raising three daughters. (Mike Kemp photo)
HER
Darla McJunkins
NATIVE OF: Dennard (Van Buren County).
EDUCATION: Clinton High School and Arkansas
EDUCATION: Clinton High School, University of Central Arkansas and
JOB: Substation Technician, Petit Jean Electric.
JOB: Market president for Searcy and Van Buren counties, First Service
PARENTS: Dean and Beverly McJunkins.
PARENTS: Pete and Pat Pronia.
COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Board member of the Greers Ferry Lake Walleye Tournament; judge for local rodeos and the National Championship Chuckwagon Races; and a member of the Van Buren County Cattlemen.
COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: President of the Clinton School District’s Board of Education; vice president of the Van Buren County Special School Board; co-organizer of the Clinton Buddy Walk; Van Buren County 4-H board member; member of the Van Buren County Cattlemen; and secretary/timer for rodeos.
Church.
CHURCH ACTIVITIES: Attends First Baptist
CHURCH ACTIVITIES: Attend First Baptist Church in Clinton and help with the youth on Wednesday nights.
HOBBIES/SPECIAL INTERESTS: Farming and
HOBBIES/SPECIAL INTERESTS: My special interests revolve around
raising feeder cattle; fishing and hunting with my girls; and riding horses.
my three girls and their hobbies. My daughters rodeo and play basketball so that is where most of our time is spent. My husband and I run a farm so we also enjoy working our cattle and farming.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF: Hardworking, determined, trustworthy.
 HOW WOULD working, loyal.
MOST ENJOYED WEEKEND ACTIVITY: My most enjoyed weekend is a productive weekend where we get a lot accomplished on the farm.
in the activities they love.
State University in Beebe.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN THE 501: I love living close to both of our roots. 28 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Arkansas Tech University. Bank.
YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF: Compassionate, hard-
MOST ENJOYED WEEKEND ACTIVITY: Watching my girls compete
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN THE 501: I love the strong community bond that everyone has with each other. I love that I am able to raise my family in the same kind of atmosphere that I grew up in…where everyone knows each other and looks out for one another.
đ&#x;”– THEM
RESIDENTS OF: Dennard (Van Buren County).
HOW WE MET: We actually went to
school together at Clinton all of our life, but didn’t date until after we had graduated.
WEDDING BELLS: Aug. 13, 1994, at the Bar Ĺ?f Ranch in Clinton. CHILDREN: We have three beautiful girls. Sammy, 18, is a senior. Lacey Belle is 14 and a freshman. Katie is 12 and in the seventh grade. PETS: Two dogs (Rope and Ty), five horses, sheep, chickens and cattle.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES ENJOYED TOGETHER: We enjoy doing everything
together, including working on the farm, riding our horses and four-wheelers, working with the show animals, swimming, competing at rodeos and playing ball together. Honestly, living on a farm enables you to almost feel like you have your own little resort to enjoy right here in your backyard.
Amazing health starts with amazing relationships. The relationship you build with your healthcare provider is the cornerstone of your family’s health for life. Dr. Tina Jones and the staff at Baptist Health Pediatric Clinic-Conway are committed to keeping your child amazing by providing quality care close to home in a friendly, comfortable setting.
MORE INFORMATION: The Clinton Down Syndrome Walk is a fun-filled day for kids and adults. It features bounce houses, games, music, fun, food and fellowship, Darla McJunkins and Randi Newland are the main organizers of the Clinton Down Syndrome Walk (formerly known as the Buddy Walk) with money raised donated to several local organizations that celebrate every person with Down Syndrome and other disabilities. Darla and Adam’s oldest daughter, Sammy, has Down Syndrome. “We can’t explain our family without focusing some on the impact this has had on us. It was definitely scary and overwhelming at first. We had so many doubts and fears about her future, but with putting our trust in the Lord and the plans he already had in place for her we were able to help her strive.
It’s the care your child needs, backed by Arkansas’ largest and most preferred healthcare provider, Baptist Health. Providing a wide range of services, including: • Chronic Care Management
ADHD, Asthma and Allergies, Developmental and Behavioral Problems, Migraines, Obesity, and more
“God blessed us with two other amazing girls that are Sammy’s biggest supporters. They have learned to be patient, considerate, kind-hearted and compassionate through the years. They are two very intelligent girls who take pride in helping others and for standing up for what is right. As you can see our girls are our whole life!
• Acute Care Management
“The 501 community has been the best place we could have raised our children in. We have had such loving Christian support. Our main goal since the day Sammy was born was to have her mainstreamed and included in everything we do. We have stayed true to this in every way we could. We always say it takes a village to raise a child and we have truly been blessed with an amazing village! Our town embraced her from the beginning. It makes me proud to be from this area!�
• Vision and Hearing Screens
This year’s race is scheduled Saturday, Sept. 8. For more information on the walk, visit clintondownswalk.com.
Flu, Strep Throat, Diaper Rash, Ear Infection, and more
• Preventative Health Exams • Growth Monitoring • Developmental Milestone Surveillance • Physical Exams and Immunizations • School and Sports Physicals
To schedule an appointment, give us a call at (501) 358-6892 or visit Baptist-Health.com 625 United Drive Suite 120 Conway, AR 72032
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 29
YOUTH
Multi-faceted Malvern teen setting her sights high Story and photos by Dwain Hebda
Malvern, Ark., is known for producing bricks, Billy Bob Thornton and launching the career of John L. McClellan, the longest-serving U.S. Senator Arkansas has ever produced. It’s a good bet that one day native daughter Christina Harris will eclipse them all as a source of civic pride. “I want to give back to my community,” said Christina. “I have a lot of gifts that I recognize God has given me. I like to use them, and I like to use myself to my full capacity and use my abilities and give as much as I can in order to give back to others and the people around me.” If that doesn’t sound like your typical 17-yearold, it’s because Christina is anything but typical. The Malvern High School senior has a remarkably clear vision for her future, a laser-like focus she credits to her role models, starting with her grandmother and guardian Thelma Harris. “She raised me since I was 10 months old, and she’s instilled within me to give back to people as well as how to be a strong individual,” Christina said. “She’s strong; she’s worked every single day. She goes to work even when she may not feel like it or even when she may not want to, but she never complains. She never depended on anyone to give her anything like government assistance or anything like that. “She’s always been one to go out and get it
30 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Malvern High School senior Christina Harris was recently recognized as the Young Person of the Year by the Malvern Chamber of Commerce. herself. She showed me if you want it, go out there and get it.” To say Christina took her grandmother’s example to heart is a criminal understatement. Just scratching the surface of her accolades yields student body president (twice), National Beta Club president (twice) and National Honor Society
president (twice). In Junior ROTC alone, she’s served as battalion commander, STAFF member, color guard team, drill team, raider team and part of the JROTC Leadership Academic Bowl — simultaneously. She’s also participated in about a dozen other school clubs and 15 separate community service
initiatives. For her efforts, she’s received dozens of awards, commendations and honorariums, most recently as Young Person of the Year by the Malvern Chamber of Commerce, an award and scholarship sponsored by Bank of the Ozarks. To top it all off, Christina has been accepted to the Naval Academy Preparatory School, a precursor to the U.S. Naval Academy, which she will enter in 2019, where she plans to major in political science and history. “My aunt, Rona Green, is in the Navy. She’s been in for almost 30 years now,” Christina said. “She’s a commander, and she’s doing really, really good for herself, and through her success she’s always extended that hand back to us, her family. When she worked at the Pentagon, whenever she lived in Hawaii or Guam, she always sent for me to come out and experience what she was experiencing. “That’s really why I chose the Navy; I saw all the positive aspects. I feel like it best fits me as a person because it’s full of opportunity and more ways to better myself.” Christina’s next goal after a career in the military — preferably Naval Intelligence, she said — is to run for public office. She developed an interest in politics through her experience with student government, which led her to such activities as Arkansas Girls State and Arkansas Governor’s School. “Right now in our country, we have a huge divide between Republicans and Democrats,” she said. “I feel like right now we have the mentality of it is them against us, it’s this side against this side. Really, what we need is to be for each other. Our war is not against each other. It’s not against each party. We need to work, and need to be for each other.” “Going into office, one thing that I would really like to do is, I believe in reaching across the aisle. I believe in compromising. I believe in working together for the betterment and the good of the people. That’s one thing that I would really emphasize going in.” The common thread woven throughout Christina’s commendable list of achievements — and something that exudes from the very moment you meet her — are the qualities of a leader. She said such attributes must be honed and developed, which is one reason why she demands so much of herself. “No one’s born a natural leader; that’s something that you maybe have traits for, but you adapt and you strengthen through your experience,” she said. “Every single day as battalion commander or as president of the student body, I’m learning. I’m learning everyone’s needs, I’m learning ways that I can be a better leader, more effective ways of communicating or giving advice. That’s something that I’m continually learning. “I’m also continually critiquing myself, saying, ‘Well, hey Christina, maybe let’s do it this way. Try this one time.’ So being a leader is just overall growing as an individual, and it’s something that I’m continuing to grow at and continue to better myself.”
#moreinMorrilton
LEARN MORE.
BE MORE. Offering Career-Specific and Transfer Degrees § Affordable Tuition § Financial Aid Options § Small Campus Atmosphere § Individual Attention § Hands-On Training
WWW.UACCM.EDU | 501-977-2000
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 31
FEATURE
Jacob’s Place
Shelter helps homeless families Story and photos by Megan Ledbetter
Although the world may be full of troubles and problems to work through, there are also glimpses of hope in the world that make enduring these troubles a little easier. For many people in Searcy and White County, Jacob’s Place is one of those glimpses of hope. Jacob’s Place Homeless Mission is a shelter located on Market Avenue in Searcy. It serves families with children and single women who are experiencing homelessness. Since its opening in 2008, Jacob’s Place Jacob’s Place has Homeless Mission supplied more in Searcy provides than 160 families temporary with rent-free housing for shelter and accommodations as homeless families well as aid to be with children in able to support White County. The themselves again. mission empowers Whether this the homeless includes finding by providing a job, education, financial, spiritual, housing or day care or taking emotional and job parenting and counseling while life-skill classes, receiving shelter. Jacob’s Place Jacob’s Place is assists families an area agency in setting goals of United Way of and maintaining White County. accountability. “One of our focuses is to provide a safe and peaceful environment, where our clients can experience a level of stability and begin the process of getting back on their feet,” said Arthur David, Jacob’s Place house manager. Jacob’s Place began in 2008 under the leadership and initiative of Rebecca Frankford. She realized White County was in desperate need of a shelter like Jacob’s Place and recruited help from individuals like Al Fowler to begin forming bylaws and making it a reality. There was no other place in White County for homeless people to go and receive guidance and shelter. The house itself is owned by First United Methodist Church and is provided to Jacob’s Place for a rent of $1 a year as long as it continues to meet the needs of the homeless in White County. After shutting down during a time when they had no residents, Jacob’s Place reopened in the sum32 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Jacob’s Place Homeless Mission is a shelter located on Market Avenue in Searcy.
Jacob’s Place reopened in the summer of 2016 with a fully renovated house, including an updated and refreshed full kitchen. mer of 2016 with a fully renovated house, including an updated and refreshed full kitchen, living room, child’s play room and three fully-stocked bedrooms furnished with beds for five people and individual keys for privacy. With the accessibility to a few extra
beds for children and a baby bed, Jacob’s Place has the capability to house as many as 16 to 20 individuals at a time. Jacob’s Place is not an emergency shelter that provides accommodations night-by-night to
whoever walks in the door; a small intake process is required to ensure their tenants have a clean criminal history and drug test. There is also an informal interview to ensure the programs provided by Jacob’s Place are needed; this interview also serves as the time to start setting goals before moving in. The families staying at Jacob’s Place are held accountable and required to meet their goals and maintain their responsibilities. Another important goal of Jacob’s Place is to remove the labels often placed on homeless people. They strive to give these families a chance to break through the stigma that homeless people don’t try to help themselves. Jacob’s Place hopes to empower families who have found themselves in a cycle of homelessness to escape the stereotypes and return to society respectably. “Homelessness has many causes; loss of a job, divorce, drugs and alcohol, or just a series of bad decisions,” David said. Paul McGee is one of the Jacob’s Place success stories. He was a single dad who had fallen into financial trouble due only to health issues and an inability to work in 2016. “I was scared,” McGee said. “I was nervous. I
Jacob’s Place serves families with children and single women who are experiencing homelessness. had just come out of the hospital from surgery, and I didn’t know what I was getting into. But everything at Jacob’s Place stands for good. They help you. They helped me and showed me what to do. No one feels like strangers. It’s family. This is family … If you want to get your life right, and you ain’t got no place to go, turn to Jacob’s Place. They will help you and get you back on your feet.” Jacob’s Place is constantly reaching out to the community to find the families and individuals
who need their help. They are in close contact with the community through local churches, the Department of Human Services, the health department, food pantries and the help of their active board members. They also post frequently on their website and Facebook page as well as spread the word about available rooms using word of mouth. For more information about Jacob’s Place, call 501.380.8283 or visit jacobsplace.org.
FIND YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME
A COMMUNITY OF MISSION
At Harding, we believe who you learn with and who you learn from are vitally important. Our Christian faculty and high-quality degree programs equip graduates with an exceptional education and a Christ-centered worldview. Visit harding.edu to learn more. Or better yet, come visit and see for yourself.
Student body represents 50 states and 54 nations and territories Study abroad programs in Australasia, Chile, England, France, Greece, Italy and Zambia Numerous domestic and international educational excursions for individual majors include major U.S. cities, global missions and more
harding.edu • 501-279-4000
Specialized programs for students from China and Latin America including ESL support
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 33
đ&#x;‘Ľ
NEIGHBORS searcy
Always home How a home leaves lessons for a lifetime
Amy Daniels (center) with Jayden Mann (from left), Bailee Mann, Addison Mann and Kaylee Mann. by Hannah Robison
Imagine a wrap-around porch, rocking chairs, picket fencing and the pure beauty of nature and peaceful bliss. The home of Amy Daniels could be the setting of a farm fairytale, both inside and out. Filling it with family, friends and fellowship have helped her to share her love of the country cabin and her gifts of hospitality. One of her greatest joys is spending time at the homestead with her family and four granddaughters, Kaylee, Jayden, Addison and Bailee, teaching them to embrace life indoors and out, and instilling in them an appreciation for hard work. “Family is everything and this is our home base, our peace, this is where we can come and be together 34 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Tax rules are changing.
ARE YOU PREPARED? The Alliance Family of Companies
in the truest sense of the word of family,” Daniels said. “It’s the simple things, sitting on the porch swing, running around the yard or cooking in the kitchen.” Originally from South Arkansas, Daniels learned how to work and live on her family farm, which her current home is modeled after. “At the old farm I lived on, I learned faith, family and work ethic. There are so many lessons that my grandparents and parents taught me there. At the end of the day, they were teaching me to live correctly,” she said. Amy’s heart lies in two states, Arkansas and New Mexico, and she devotes as much time as she can to her beloved people and places in each. Taking pride in her work in and out of the office, Daniels makes time to slow down and savor life with personal hobbies at home and away. She enjoys hunting, photographing anything her lens can capture, gardening and picking muscadines off the vines with her girls. Her home displays many of her greatest game. Daniels is an active member of the Searcy community, serving in a number of capacities. She diligently contributes her time and talents with the Unity Health Foundation and serves as a member of the Unity Health – White County Medical Center Foundation Board. She is chairman of the development council and is a Unity Health Ambassador. A haven she has helped to provide for the community is through the healthcare system’s Cancer Center of Excellence. To honor the memory of one of her dearest friends and coworkers, she created the gift of the appearance center within the Cancer Center of Excellence and named it Moxie, encompassing the personality of her beloved friend. “Every time I look at that room, I know it is in Susan’s name,” Daniels said. Each day begins in the home, and whether it means sitting on her porch, drinking coffee and reading an insightful book, making breakfast for her grandbabies or preparing for a day ahead of hustle and bustle in the community, Amy Daniels cares deeply for all that she dedicates herself to. “Think about what you can give and reach out based on the passions that are important to you, raise your hand and volunteer,” she said. “Bring who you are, your resources and capabilities and that is the most rewarding gift you can give.”
Harwood, Ott & Fisher, PA is in the business of helping individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals with accounting, insurance and retirement strategies. From tax returns and retirement to business and personal insurance – and so much more - our firm is committed to providing the best in personal service with a “total client service” approach.
Harwood, Ott & Fisher, PA (HOF) John S. Harwood,
MS Tax, CPA, CFF, ABV
Certified Public Accountants
Tax return preparation/planning • Financial statement preparation Consulting Services • And many more... Alliance Insurance Group of Arkansas, Inc (AIGA) Independent Insurance Agency
Business and personal, Health and life policies, Employee benefits Alliance Financial Group, LLC (AFG) Retirement Strategies
Retirement plan analysis both business and individual L. Tray Ott, CPA, PFS
Connie Cody Fisher, CPA
We welcome an opportunity to serve you. Call today to schedule a free consultation Conway, 1504 Caldwell (501) 327-1040 • Perryville, Hwy. 10 (501) 889-5116 hofcpa.net
We are the local ELP (endorsed local provider) for tax services in this area - being an ELP means customers can expect us to have (1) the heart of a teacher (2) we put the client first (3) help our clients within the principles that Dave Ramsey teaches.
Securities Offered through St. Bernard Financial Services, Inc Member FINRA-SIPC
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 35
đ&#x;‘Ľ
NEIGHBORS conway
‘Grateful and blessed’ Marcus Elliott makes move to healthcare
Marcus Elliott has joined Conway Regional Health System as its new director of corporate health services.
by John Patton
The career of Marcus Elliott, 54, a former AllSouthwest Conference offensive lineman for the Arkansas Razorbacks, minister and part-time radio personality, has taken a turn toward healthcare in the 501. What’s driving one of Arkansas’ most wellknown Razorbacks these days? For Elliott, who is also an ordained minister, it is about making a difference in people’s lives. 36 | 501 LIFE April 2018
“I like being able to participate, on some level, in changing someone’s life for the better,� he said. “That gives me energy and hope. It is comparable to helping God change someone’s spiritual life for the better as a minister.� Many of the more experienced sports fans in the 501 remember Elliott delivering crushing blocks for Gary Anderson, a lightning quick tailback for Lou Holtz’s Razorbacks who went on to play for the San Diego Chargers. Or, they have heard his impassioned opinions on 103.7 FM The Buzz radio
station’s Drive Time Sports show. Now, he wants to be a difference maker for healthcare in Faulkner County as Conway Regional Health System’s new director of corporate health services. “I want to be the catalyst for their healthcare. I want to be the person the business community seeks out to solve all their health care issues,� said Elliott. “By helping with their healthcare issues, I can give them the time they need to focus on their business.� He added, “I look forward to helping form
dynamic partnerships with corporate leaders to improve the health of the community. I’m also excited about telling the story of a creative, caring and committed Conway Regional staff.”
NEW JOB Elliott said he enjoys most the interaction with other groups in his new position. “Being able to meet with an organization or group and literally help discover things about their health and wellness that can be changed to make their employees healthier. At Conway Regional there is not a health question that we don’t have the answer for,” said Elliott. “Now, it is just a matter of helping businesses implement the solution.” His wife, Ramona, was the first person Elliott told after accepting the position with Conway Regional. “She took it a lot better than my decision to go into the ministry,” joked Elliott. “She had met the leaders here and had faith in Conway Regional.” Elliott, a licensed minister, previously started and pastored a nondenominational ministry known as “Church 228.” In addition he has served as campus pastor for New Life Church at the Downtown Little Rock campus.
LESSON FROM LOU Elliott is a Little Rock native who grew up a few blocks from War Memorial Stadium. His father, the Rev. Marcus Hurkus Elliott III, a pastor and presiding elder in the 12th district of the African Methodist Episcopal Church for more than 50 years, and his mother, Dorothy Allen Elliott, operated Ricky Lou’s Daycare in Little Rock. He recalls listening to
“
I want to be the catalyst for their healthcare. I want to be the person the business community seeks out to solve all their health care issues. By helping with their healthcare issues, I can give them the time they need to focus on their business.
”
Marcus Elliott Conway Regional Director of Corporate Health Services Razorback games outside War Memorial with friends and dreaming that he would be a Razorback. An All-State high school football player, Elliott made his way to Fayetteville in 1980, thanks to his God-given talent and the “coaching” of his parents and Clyde Horton. He describes Horton, his high school offensive line coach, as a “father figure” who helped with his college decision. Horton and the fiery Lou Holtz are his mentors in football and in life. “Coach Holtz was very demanding but he taught me a lot of lessons that I
use in my business life,” added Elliott. The value of hard work and a bachelor’s degree in business helped Elliott make the transition after injuries caught up to his football career. It is in sales that Elliott has found his business calling. Shortly after college, he became part of an 18-month management training program with Navistar that sent him all over the country, sometimes working in a foundry where engines were being manufactured. Other times he was flying to Orlando, Los Angeles or Chicago to teach management classes. While he struggled at times with the travel, “I learned that I want to be a part of sales because I could meet people and develop relationships,” said Elliott. Elliott has more than 12 years combined experience as an executive sales representative and territory manager with Eli Lilly Pharmaceuticals and Medtronic Diabetes medical devices, as well as eight years with Alltel Communications, serving five years in sales as the manager and then vice president of retail sales. While he has begun to integrate himself into the Conway community, he continues his involvement with Little Rock schools as a member of the board of directors for the Little Rock School District Athletic Foundation and as a volunteer football coach and organizer for the 6th and Goal Youth Football League. Elliott can be described in many terms: corporate healthcare leader, salesman, ordained minister, a Razorback learning to wear UCA purple or opinionated sports fan. But in the end, he prefers “grateful and blessed.”
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 37
Stephana Loyd receives award
Dr. Wesley Cunningham.
Unity Health presentations recognized Residents of the Unity Health Graduate Medical Education program recently completed scholarly activity presentations before their scheduled graduations. Residents are required by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) to present their studies at various local, regional and national scientific meetings and conferences. Fellow Unity Health residents who participated in the presentations and publications included James Bartley, Daniela DeVargas Boyer, Conrad Braaten, Suporn Sukpraprut-Braaten, Todd Brackins, M. Chase Cates, Don M. Carter, Cody Conard, Wesley Cunningham, Ziad Ghneim, Alexander Ghobadimanesh, Mark Haen, Ted Haskin, Jim Ingram, David Krapf, Elaine Leo, Johnny Nguyen, Razik Oumeddour, Mustafa Rayaz, Jeffrey Schlaack, Kayla Schmidt, Dustin Stanley, Danny Tran, and Debbie Waggoner. Unity Health physicians and faculty included, Herman Clements, David Covey Scott Dicus Clark Fincher, John Henderson, Bradley Hughes, Delaney Kinchen, Jayton Lim, Dewey McAfee, Greg Mock, John Paine, Andrew Powell, Eric Robinson, Ronald Wauters and Stacy Zimmerman. Dr. Jeffrey Schlaack and his team — Suporn Sukprparut-Braaten and Drs. Jennifer Doan, Elizabeth Underwood, Lana Gettman, Ryan Koch, Conrad Braaten and Stacy Zimmerman — won second best poster award for their clinical vignette, Spontaneous Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia Post-Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Wesley Cunningham and his team — Dr. Eric Robinson and Suporn Sukpraprut-Braaten — won third best poster for their research on Safety Evaluation of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Compatible Cardiac Pacemaker in a Rural Setting: Standard of Care versus Recent Updates. The awards were received at the American College of Physicians Arkansas Chapter Scientific Meeting held in Little Rock. 38 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer Stephana Loyd was recently named Administrator of the Year at the North Metro Healthcare Awards luncheon. Underwritten by the University of Central Arkansas, the UCA North Metro Healthcare Awards honor individuals and companies that are making an impact on the overall health of the community they serve or their company employees. Now retired, Loyd began her career at Baptist Health 33 years ago as a nurse educator in Little Rock. She then moved to admissions, where she was the department’s supervisor and then director. In 2001, she was promoted to assistant vice president of patient care. During this time, she led the Medical Surgical Unit, Critical Care Unit, Telemetry Department, Rehab Unit and the Emergency Department. Loyd joined the leadership team at Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway in 2015. She was instrumental in the opening of the new medical center, where she helped to hire, staff and train new employees for the 111-bed hospital. Loyd holds a bachelor of science degree in nursing from UCA and a master of science degree in nursing from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. “Stephana exuded loyalty and dedication at work. She was passionate for those she cares for inside the hospital walls, whether it be training new employees or caring for patients and their families,”
Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer Stephana Loyd was recently named Administrator of the Year. said Tim Bowen, BHMC-Conway vice president and administrator. “Baptist Health has been positively impacted by her leadership and dedication, and co-workers who know Stephana will say she genuinely influenced them as well.”
HEALTH ROUNDUP
1
Conway Regional welcomes plastic surgeon, Michael Spann, to medical staff Michael L. Spann, MD, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, has joined the medical staff of Conway Regional Health System. Spann has practiced in Arkansas since 2008 and founded his own practice, Little Rock Plastic Surgery, eight years ago. His practice specializes in abdominal, breast, Brazilian and facial surgery, as well as non-surgical forms of cosmetic procedures. “I am happy to be able to partner with Conway Regional and I look forward to working with the welcoming staff and physicians to provide patients with cosmetic and reconstructive surgery closer to home,” said Spann. Spann completed a two-year residency in plastic surgery at the University of Nebraska in Omaha and a five-year residency in general surgery at Methodist Hospitals of Dallas. He holds a medical degree from Louisiana State University and an undergraduate degree from The University of Louisiana. Spann is currently providing consultations at his clinic in Little Rock and performing surgery at Conway Regional Medical Center. He will soon
expand to a satellite clinic at Surgical Associates of Conway, to practice in conjunction with general surgeons Michael Stanton, MD, Brock King, MD, and William McColgan, MD. “It is our pleasure to welcome Dr. Spann to Conway Regional. Dr. Spann is an accomplished surgeon with a great reputation of excellence,” said Stanton. “His expertise will round out our surgical breast services and we look forward to working with him to help bring additional services to our patients, right here in Conway.” “We are very pleased to have a physician of Dr. Spann’s experience and reputation joining our team,” said Rebekah Fincher, corporate director of physician relations and business development. “Plastic and reconstructive surgery is a new specialty for the community and we look forward to working with Dr. Spann to continue expanding services for the Conway and surrounding communities.” For more information about Spann and his practice or to make an appointment, call 501.219.8000.
Dr. Michael L. Spann has joined the medical staff at Conway Regional Health System.
The Shelter Shield just got
STRONGER
Does your auto insurance policy include Roadside Assistance? Shelter’s does. Find out more by visiting ShelterInsurance.com/Roadside or contacting us. Roe Henderson
1416 Prince St Conway, AR 72034 501-327-3888
RHenderson@ShelterInsurance
® AUTO • HOME • LIFE
We’re your Shield. We’re your Shelter. ShelterInsurance.com
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 39
✎
COLUMNIST
‘(Old) Home, Sweet (Old) Home’ 1946. An interesting time, since World War A native of II was over except for Conway, Vivian small rumblings here Lawson and there regarding Hogue graduated Vietnam and Iran. from the Democratic President University of Central Franklin D. Roosevelt Arkansas had died and was sucwith a degree in art education. A retired teacher, she worked in ceeded by Democrat the Conway School District for Harry Truman. Among 23 years. She can be reached at vhogue@conwaycorp.net. his controversies were his use of salty language and his firing of Gen. McArthur because he would not respect Truman’s authority. Newly invented Tupperware would change food storage, yet my mother still used canning jars. Bikini swimwear debuted, and seamed nylon hosiery returned. But in Conway, Ark., our family of seven was somehow doing without those things and enjoying living in a rented Craftsman style house on Watkins Street. We five children ranged in ages 3 to 20. The boys were interested in work, school and girls, and I was interested in whatever butterfly flew by. Soon, however, we found we had to move and the search was on for another house, this time to purchase. Good fortune, actually a blessing, led my parents to our new home for which they gathered enough money to start payments for a $6,000 Queen Anne/Craftsman home built for attorney Roy George Bruce in 1910. I recall that first visit. The wide and long sidewalk was perfect for hopscotch and skating. I climbed the wooden steps and walked around the wood wraparound porch. Its gray-painted floor and pale green ceiling was fronted with white banisters and 10 large white Doric columns. A noisome door buzzer and a screen door welcomed me and I stepped into a large room of 12-foot ceilings, 12-inch thick brick and by Vivian Lawson Hogue
40 | 501 LIFE April 2018
The original appearance of Vivian's front porch in 1946. plaster walls, darkly stained floors and woodwork, and 9-foot pocket doors. The echo was captivating. The large windows gave much light, and their wide metal blinds are still in use. A flue cover indicated where a wood-burning stove had been, and a lidded wood-box under a window later doubled as a window seat and toy box. All rooms had gas stoves with ceramic heater bricks. Entry doors opened and “locked” with a “skeleton key,” and were rarely locked unless we went out of town. The screen door was “secured” with a hook. Obviously, times have changed, as burglary and theft were uncommon then. The 8-by-30-foot hall led to a dining room and two bedrooms, one of which had a fireplace. There was also a large kitchen, one large bathroom with a clawfoot tub, and a cozy, screened back porch covered with fragrant honeysuckle. Under this former porch was and is a well, now-inaccessible. By 1953, the nest began nearing the fledging point and eventually it would be just the youngest brother, Noel, and me. Our parents decided it was time to completely remodel the house inside and out. You will notice the word was “remodel,” not “restore.” So off came the front porch and beautiful columns and up went one of concrete with brick banisters and
columns unlike the original bricks. The wraparound section was removed to facilitate the construction of a carport. I never pardoned Mother for that decision! I never pardoned my as-usual barefoot self, either, for climbing on a pile of discarded boards and stepping on a nail. Inside, the dining room was converted to a bedroom; the fireplace in my bedroom received gas logs; and the third bedroom became Noel’s man cave. We did get a sewing room out of the enclosed back porch. We also welcomed a second bathroom and an enlarged kitchen which once had a wood-burning cookstove. In the first 20 years post-war, a trend was to give modern looks to classic homes. Add-ons looked like add-ons. Picture windows with the customary tables and modern lamps were inserted on Queen Anne examples giving a Cyclops appearance. In new home construction of the 1960s, the one-story, picturewindowed, tiny front porch and low-pitched roof appeared to serve as an abandonment of antique styles. In the 1990s, an appreciation for older home styles revived and families began restoring historic homes. Those I had admired all my life were being “resuscitated.” Many homeowners were reviving appearances with accuracy and appropriateness. Earlier owners and their neighbors and constituents who developed our city came back into our memories. The Conway that evolved is not what they had in mind, but the one they gave us at that time was close-knit and still memorable. I often praise aloud the efforts of young restoration businesses who are now recapturing some of the wonderful smaller homes in Old Conway. Not all influential Conway people lived in palatial homes. Indeed, the mixtures of elegant and modest designs remind us of the times when kids of all social levels played rubber gun wars in the same neighborhood. . . and only went home when momma called them to supper.
Growing deep roots I’ve always been a visual learner. You A Greencan tell me about brier native, 10 times how to do Laurie is something, and I will the wife of Will still have questions, Green. but show me once The two share and I usually comseven prehend. So it comes children, five grandchildren and a golden as no surprise to me retriever named Marlo. They that often God places own and operate a lawn care business and are members visible, tangible ways of New Life Church in Greento get a point across brier. Laurie can be reached at thegreens@ymail.com. to this beloved daughter of His. Last October, my husband and I made a trip to Ocean Springs, Miss., to celebrate our grandbaby’s birthday. It’s always a nice annual getaway to visit with my step-daughter April and her husband Todd. This last trip they told us how all the hurricanes had created a big storm surge close to where they lived and caused quite a bit of damage. Being just a short 10-minute drive away, Will and I took a trip to the ocean edge to look. I remember the ocean looking so beautiful and peaceful, yet just weeks before, the waters had left a trail of mass destruction behind. As we were leaving, I spotted a tree in front of us, uprooted and laying on its side. I took a photo of it and instantly I felt the presence of God revealing a word to me, asking me were my roots deep or shallow? This image here, this is why God wants us to have deep roots. Colossians 2:7 says, “Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.” Here in front of me was this massive tree with strong branches and leaves, and had I seen it weeks before standing upright, I would have just seen another tree. But this God-given view showed me the “shallow roots” that allowed the tree to tumble during the storm. Often we are like that, from the outside looking in we seem so put together and so strong, but if we are not deep rooted in Christ, I can almost guarantee you that the first strong winds of trouble that blow your way will knock you right over, exposing your shallow roots for all to see. I’m often guilty of caring more about what others think of me than what God calls me to be, after all I am only human and certainly very flawed. These are the moments my roots remain shallow. They grow, but not in the direction intended. Thankfully, I do serve a wonderful and gracious God who loves me and allows me the
Deep roots photo by Laurie Green.
FAITH
✒
by Laurie Green
opportunity to show his goodness and light through all my broken pieces. It’s during this process that my roots grow the way God intended — deep. As I draw closer to the word and the truth, my roots become stronger, and I care less about pleasing others and more about serving God. I’m reminded that often what’s underground is far deeper and more important than what’s on top for others to see. It’s good to spend time in the word and let God reveal what’s growing down inside of you. Ephesians 3:17-18 says, “Then Christ will make
his home in your hearts as you trust in Him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high and how deep his love is.” I read a quote by Christine Caine that says, “Sometimes when you’re in a dark place you think you’ve been buried, but actually you’ve been planted.” I’ve learned that’s one of the best times to start growing those roots deep.
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 41
⌂ Fixer upper HOME
Renovations under way in Conway’s first neighborhood
After – Caldwell Street home (above). (Makenzie Evans photo) Before – Caldwell Street home (left). (Niki Thompson photo) Before – Caldwell Street home (below). (Donna Benton photo)
I am a design nerd, especially when it comes to residential architecture. More than once on a sidewalk stroll, I have had to awkwardly explain to a homeowner that I was not trying to peek in a window, I was simply admiring their well-crafted porch corbels. One of my favorite places to take those sidewalk strolls is along the shady streets of the area informally known as Old Town Conway. Conway’s very first residential neighborhood is here, a planned community that developed in the late 1800s around the downtown railroad depot. This neighborhood – in the general area of Robinson Avenue, Caldwell and Prince Streets – is now known as the Robinson Historic District. Most of the homes in this district and the adjoining neighborhood were built from the 1890s to the 1950s, the glory days of residential design. From stately mansions to the cutest tiny cottages, each home is unique and brimming with charm and design elements from the era of its construction. Many of the homes stand as tall and proud as the day they were built. Some have felt the tragedy of time with their crafted curves and stately lines sagging in disrepair. But there is an exciting trend gaining ground in this little neighborhood. These days it seems like somewhere on nearly every block, hammers are flying and saws are whirring, breathing new life back into another of these fantastic old homes. Homeowners are drawn to this area for its historic style and the convenience of being within walking or biking distance from
by Donna Benton
Donna Benton is a maker of custom home furnishings and specializes in classic painted finishes for antique and vintage furniture. You can see her work at WaterHouseMarket.com.
42 | 501 LIFE April 2018
schools, area parks and the shops and restaurants of Downtown Conway. Demand for this area has sparked a renovation revival. “I truly feel like Old Town Conway is experiencing a revitalization like never before,” said Niki Thompson, brushing some sawdust from her shoulder and onto the front porch of a historic home that is in the midst of a resurrection. “It is becoming a sought after area to live in. No other place in Conway has such a sense of community. The people of old town love where they live. The neighbors all know each other and they take such pride in their homes and neighborhood.” Niki should know. She is the visionary behind the home restoration company Storybook Homes, which she operates with her husband Rory. As we visit, cars passing by on the busy street honk and give a thumbs-up, or slow down to shout a resounding, “Thanks and nice work!”
HOME continued on Page 45
After – Ash Street home (above). (Lance Johnston photo) Before – Ash Street home (right). (Laura Roussel photo) After – Ash Street home (below). (Lance Johnston photo)
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 43
After – Donaghey Avenue home. (Donna Benton photo)
Before – Donaghey Avenue home. (Niki Thompson photo)
44 | 501 LIFE April 2018
HOME from Page 42 “It happens like that all day long,” said Thompson. It is evident that the neighbors appreciate her passion for seeing the beauty beyond the overgrown shrubs and peeling paint and bringing these once glorious homes back for generations to come. Home buyers are going to great lengths to live in old town. Scott and Laura Roussel had been looking for a home in the old town area for several years when they got a lucky lead on a ramshackle little home on Ash Street. Of course, beauty is in the eye of the beholder and Laura could see the potential charm beyond the overgrown yard and broken windows. She enlisted the help of local restoration icon Lance Johnston of Reform Design+Build to turn that little broken down home into a fabulous cottage. Restoring a historic home may seem like a fairy tale, but it is challenging and expensive work. “Most of the homes we redo have been neglected for years and everything needs to be redone,” said Johnston. “It’s difficult to do everything and keep a job on budget.” Thompson said, “I like the challenge of finding the most terrible home on the block and turning it into something beautiful. Often that means tearing out all the walls and even taking the flooring all the way down to the dirt. It’s not easy work but I want to give my best to every house that I work on and help bring out its unique personality.” “Downtown has come a long way,” says Johnston, “but there is still a long way to go.” As more and more homes are restored, the value of those
After – Caldwell Street home. (Makenzie Evans)
homes and the homes around it increase and higher home values mean that more of these homes become feasible to restore from an investment standpoint. “I see the old town area continuing to get more popular with more new infill as well as continued restoration of the older gems. I receive calls on a weekly basis from people interested in living downtown. They are from all walks of life, newlyweds to empty nesters. I think the historic district will one day be the most desirable place in Conway to live.”
“The borders are expanding on the parts of old town where people want to live,” says Thompson. “Not long ago, there were a few specific areas of interest but that area is growing. My vision is that every home in old town would see its full potential and that the uniqueness found in the old town area would spill out into our new neighborhoods. The historic district is in the heart of the city so if you focus on making the heart healthy, the rest of the city will flourish.”
C O N WAY W E A LT H M A NAG E M E N T P R O U D LY W E L C O M E S
PAT MURPHY
TO THE TEAM.
COMPREHENSIVE PERSONAL FINANCIAL PLANNING RETIREMENT PLANNING INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT INSURANCE PLANNING IRA/401K PLANNING E S TAT E P L A N N I N G BUSINESS SUCCESSION PLANNING
Rita Stapleton
Greg Pillow
Pat Murphy
Sandra McCoy
Tricia Milak
Planning today for your tomorrow. 1105 Deer Street, Suite 8, Conway, AR 72032 • 501-358-3994 • conwaywealthmanagement.com Advisory Services offered through Investment Advisors, a division of ProEquities, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Securities offered through ProEquities, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, and member FINRA and SIPC. Conway Wealth Management is Independent of ProEquities, Inc.
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 45
Cheesey Orzo, a version of macaroni and cheese.
46 | 501 LIFE April 2018
ENTERTAINING
�
Orzo perfect for any season While there are days when winter seems to linger on, an Recognized throughout occasional 70-degree the state as an day sprinkled in the accomplished weather pattern brings chef, Don Bingham has to mind the healthy authored days of salads and cookbooks, presented garden vegetables. television Whereas, the programs and planned elaborate events. Today, garden produce is yet he is the administrator for the in the future, it’s defiGovernor’s Mansion. nitely time for health and wellness to follow the December violations in our diets! Orzo is one of our all-time favorites. A tiny, rice-shaped pasta, it is adaptable for any season. Its light texture can be paired with a great vinaigrette and herbs. Orzo offers a great variety of flavors and textures to the discriminating palate! Orzo is the Italian word for barley, a reference to the pasta shape and size that resembles the barley grain. It is most often used in soups, but orzo pasta salads are a delightful change to cold rice salads. Pasta salads are light, but nourishing dishes, and the mixture of vegetables, meats and fish can be a matter of choice. The recipe given below of Orzo Confetti Salad is one that can stand alone or be paired with diced/ julienned chicken, beef or delicious grilled fish. It’s the perfect main entre! by Don Bingham Mike Kemp photo
Orzo Confetti Salad 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo (rice-shaped pasta) Salt Dressing: 3 tablespoons white-wine vinegar 1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard 6 tablespoons olive oil
1/3 cup finely chopped carrots 1 plum tomato, seeded and finely chopped 1/3 cup finely chopped sweet green pepper 1/3 cup finely chopped celery 1/3 finely chopped red onion 1/3 cup minced fresh parsley Freshly ground black pepper 1 to 2 heads Belgian endive, leaves separated 1 to 2 heads radicchio, leaves separated Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil over high heat. Add orzo and 1 tablespoon salt and boil for about 8 minutes, or until pasta is tender but still slightly firm. Turn orzo into a sieve, rinse under cold water to stop cooking and drain well. In a small bowl, combine vinegar and mustard, then whisk in oil. Bring a small saucepan of water to a boil over high heat, add carrots and blanch for 2 minutes. Drain in a colander. In a large bowl, combine orzo, carrots, tomato, green pepper, celery, onion and parsley. Add dressing, season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine well. Serve with endive and radicchio.
Eggs Mimosa with Curry Mayonnaise 8 eggs 1 cup cooked orzo pasta (according to package directions) 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts 3 tablespoons of fresh basil Curry mayonnaise (recipe follows) 1/2 cup vinaigrette dressing (recipe follows) For curry mayonnaise: 1 onion, finely chopped 1 tablespoon oil 1 tablespoon curry powder 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
For vinaigrette dressing: 2 tablespoons vinegar or 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice Salt and pepper 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 6 tablespoons oil Hard-boil the eggs, peel them and leave in cold water. In a small bowl, whisk the vinegar or lemon juice with the salt, pepper and mustard. Gradually whisk in the oil in a steady stream until the vinaigrette is blended and thickened. Taste for seasoning. For the curry mayonnaise, fry the onion in the oil until soft but not brown. Stir in the curry powder and cook gently, stirring for 2 minutes. Let the mixture cool, then stir into the mayonnaise. Work it through a sieve; taste for seasoning. For the salad, add 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts and 3 tablespoons of fresh basil to the orzo pasta. Pile orzo in the center of a round dish. Reserve two eggs; arrange the rest of the eggs, boiled, peeled, cooled and split in half on top of the orzo. Coat them with the curry mayonnaise. Sieve the yolks from the remaining eggs, scattering a little on top of each coated egg. Chop the whites and sprinkle between the eggs. Decorate with watercress, if desired. Serve with vinaigrette dressing.
Cheesey Orzo 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1/2 small onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic 2 cans (14 oz.) chicken stock 2 cups orzo pasta 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano cheese Salt and pepper to taste Preheat 8-inch pot. Add oil, onion and garlic and sauté 2-3 minutes. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in orzo. Cook covered for 15 minutes. Add cheese, salt and pepper to taste.
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 47
đ&#x;?‚
IN THE GARDEN
School gardens
Conway Regional Women’s Council provides grants
Students at Bob and Betty Courtway Middle School in Conway were “Loving LIFE� with teachers and representatives of Home Depot and Conway Regional Health System after building four garden raised beds on campus. The Conway Regional Women’s Council awarded GT teacher Monica Flowers $953 to purchase the materials for the beds and Home Depot employees helped students with the construction. (Sonja J. Keith photo) by Sonja J. Keith
Conway students are learning about healthy food choices firsthand by growing vegetables at their school. Monica Flowers, a gifted and talented teacher at Bob Courtway Middle School, applied for a teacher’s
grant from the Conway Regional Women’s Council. She was awarded $953 last fall to add four raised beds at the school. Students worked in two raised beds last year. Sixth-grader Madison Long said through her classroom experience, she learned how to create a garden. “I think it’s helping us to learn about how to
garden,� said Madison Long. “It helped last year to plant vegetables and flowers.� Sixth-grader Richard Carrasco also noted that building a garden is not hard and he thought the school garden was a good learning experience. “It gives us an opportunity to learn how we get our food at the supermarket,� he said. “I didn’t know there
OVER
YEARS IN BUSINESS
2665 Donaghey Ave, Ste 103 Conway AR • (501) 327-1772 www.luxurypoolarkansas.com 48 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Conway Regional Women’s Council member Lauren Ramoly (from left) and teachers Nicole Loftis and Sarah Lane assist third-graders Bella, Daveon, Jamiya and Kyla, members of the Green Team, with harvesting sweet potatoes from the school garden at Ida Burns Elementary School. A Conway Regional Women’s Council Teacher’s Grant provided the school with the funds for tools, plants and seeds to replant lettuce, cabbage, broccoli, tomatoes, onions, carrots and radishes. were a lot of vegetables you could grow that would survive through the winter.” Madison was appreciative of the teacher’s grant that made the raised garden beds possible. “It was a really good idea that she got this grant to put in this garden,” she said. “It will give all of our GT class an opportunity to learn about how to plant gardens.” The Conway Regional Women’s Council awarded 11 grants totaling about $6,800 to area schoolteachers to support child wellness and fitness initiatives during the 2017-18 school year. “I am very proud to see the impact the Conway Regional Women’s Council is making on the health of our children through our Teacher’s Grant program,” said Dot Welch, associate director of the Conway Regional Health Foundation. “The leadership and dedication shown by this group of women is awesome. They truly care about our community.” This is the third year for the grant program which is available to schools within the Conway Regional service area (Faulkner, Cleburne, Perry, Conway and Van Buren counties). It offers PreK12th grade educators financial support for innovative classroom programs promoting physical activity, good nutrition and/or personal wellness. The grants stem from the council’s emphasis in 2015 on childhood obesity awareness and prevention. Since its inception, the women’s council has awarded $17,298 in grants. The women’s council received $3,200 in donations through the Annual Arkansas Give Day, held last spring, and a matching grant from Central Arkansas Pediatrics, to help fund the program. The remaining funds represent proceeds from the annual Dazzle Daze fundraiser, planned by the women’s council. Grants for other school gardens were also awarded to Conway educators Amanda Krell (Carolyn Lewis Elementary School in Conway) and Nicole Loftis (Ida Burns Elementary School). The women’s council is gearing up for its next grant cycle. For more information about the grant program, contact the Conway Regional Marketing and Foundation Office at 501.513.5771, email foundation@conwayregional.org or visit conwayregional.org/womenscouncil. April 2018 501lifemag.com | 49
⌂
HOME
While mom and dad work downstairs, the kids do homework and browse the web at a study bar on one end of the loft.
50 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Work-life balance
Industrial style space provides both
Adam Treece puts in a day’s work in his new home office. “I had seen that look in Adam’s eye before,” said Rita Treece. “We Donna Benton is were sitting at our dining a maker room table with some of custom home prospective clients, going furnishings over the wish list for their and future home, when one specializes in classic of them says, ‘We want it painted to be just like your home!’ finishes for antique and vintage furniture. You can see her work When you are in the at WaterHouseMarket.com. homebuilding business, sometimes your own home becomes a commodity, on the table and open for negotiation. As the discussion turned to a possible sale, I was already imagining what my next home would be like.” Packing up and moving is OK with Rita. As part of this design and homebuilding duo, she enjoys the process and finds excitement in creating a new living space for her family. “The downside is the transition time when we have to squeeze our family into a temporary rental home in a new neighborhood,” Rita said. Adam had been planning a new office and workshop for their contracting business, and he had the idea to include a temporary living space with the workshop where the family could land while they were in transition between homes. “At first, I thought this was a terrible idea,” Rita said. “But as we begin to explore design concepts, this great new space began to take shape. We designed the whole thing in two days! “We had always been drawn to the downtown, industrial loft style, and we loved that look of iron beams by Donna Benton Rita Treece photos
Natural pine floors and fuzzy blankets add warmth and cozy up this industrial style space. and old brick in historic Downtown Conway buildings. We decided to recreate that look in our home/office space.” Giant windows like you might see in an old factory sweep upward, flooding the space with natural light. White painted shiplap walls and exposed wooden beams add to the open, airy look. A towering wall of antique brick was reclaimed from an old gin in East Arkansas. It still has layers of paint on it from an old advertisement.
HOME continued on Page 52 April 2018 501lifemag.com | 51
Wes plans his day from his loft bedroom. The kids have their own hideaway in the loft area.
This no-nonsense kitchen is all business with its stainless steel appliances and open plank shelving.
HOME from Page 51 “One guy sat on a bucket and chipped away the old mortar from each brick by hand,” Adam said. “What a peaceful job that must be. Bricklaying was my first job, and I am a bit of a brick nerd. We made sure to use historic bricklaying techniques to replicate an old industrial building.” A natural pine and custom steel staircase leads up to an open loft where the kids have their bedrooms and a study and play space. An industrial style space can be rigid and harsh, but the Treeces did a great job balancing those concrete and steel elements with natural wood and upholstered pieces to give the whole space a clean and simple atmosphere while also being warm and inviting. Their last home was farmhouse style, and Rita found that most of their furniture and décor crossed over and worked well in the industrial style home. Fresh flowers and fuzzy blankets cozy up the space. “Sharing a living and work space has taken a little getting used to,” Rita said. “But it is actually very convenient. While the kids are in school, our home is open to clients and subcontractors. If they happen to be there at lunchtime, then well, they eat with us. We love having people here! “Our kids love the open space. There is plenty of room for nerf gun wars, and skateboarding in the house is fair game. The minimal décor and simple streamlined space makes it easy for us to put our home items away quickly before the work day begins. The industrial style building has been a source of design inspiration for several upcoming projects.” The home/office is a fun place for the family to live, work and entertain. 52 | 501 LIFE April 2018
S Y M M E T R Y:
‟
A C LA S S IC LO OK ! ‟
2 0 7 W E ST A RCH ST. , D OW N TOW N S EA RCY
5 0 1-2 6 8 - 8 1 0 0
9A M- 5:3 0PM MON-F R I
1 0A M- 4PM SAT ‟
S OW E LLSF U R N I T U R E .COM
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 53
⌂
HOME
One-of-a-kind
Vintage furniture creates unique bathroom vanity by Donna Benton
Whether you are building a new home and looking for ways to give it your own style, or just thinking about a new look for a boring bath, this budget-friendly idea is perfect to add some personality to a bathroom. Many times, a bathroom vanity doesn’t get a lot of creative thought and it’s easy to end up with that all-too-common box of doors and drawers. But it only takes a little thinking outside the box to add an exciting central element to this essential room. If you are a regular reader of my home feature, you know that I am a huge fan of bringing fabulous, well-crafted furniture pieces back to life. You may also know that I love to get imaginative and try to use these pieces in non-traditional ways. A beautiful vintage piece of furniture can make the perfect one-of-a-kind bathroom vanity. It also makes a great DIY project if you are a little handy. Here are some helpful hints to help you find the right piece. Hunting for the perfect piece is part of the fun. Shop your local flea markets and antique stores for a piece that will work for your style and space. Whether you are a farmhouse fanatic, crazy for midcentury modern or you love the iron and wood of an industrial look, there is something out there that will be right for you. Old buffets and dressers are perfect, but don’t rule out small tables, desks and old workbenches. Let your imagination run wild! Usually the price is right on these pieces so you can dig into them with drill and saw with no regrets. There are a few things to consider when selecting a piece. First, make sure the depth (front to back measurement) is wide enough to accommodate your sink and faucets. Most sinks come with a template to cut the hole that it will fit in. You can usually find these template sizes online, then use that as you shop for a piece to make sure your sink will fit. Next, make sure your piece is the right height. Most furniture pieces are in the 30- to 36-inch range. Shorter pieces will work with a vessel sink that sits on top of the countertop and taller pieces will work with an inset sink that sits flush with the countertop. The top of your sink should be about 36 inches from the floor when you are done. Finally, make sure you have room for the plumbing inside or underneath. Here is where you have to get a little creative or maybe enlist the help of a craftsman if you aren’t very comfortable with power tools. If your piece has drawers down the center where your sink and plumbing will fit, you will have to cut away the insides to accommodate the sink, drain and water supply lines. Take a look under your existing bathroom sink and you will get the idea. Most of the time you will have to phase out 54 | 501 LIFE April 2018
A vintage sideboard gets a new life as the perfect double sink vanity. (Donna Benton photo)
A custom quartz countertop follows the dreamy curves of this antique buffet. (Mike Kemp photo) the top drawer completely and permanently affix the drawer face closed with screws. Sometimes, with a little planning and measuring, you can notch out the lower drawers for the plumbing and keep them
working. If your sink will have daily use, consider replacing the top with a quartz, marble or other solid surface countertop. If it is only for occasional use
Hunting for the perfect piece is part of the fun. Shop local flea markets and antique stores for a piece that will work for your style and space. (Donna Benton photo) like a guest bath or you don’t mind being diligent to wipe up splashes, you can keep the original wood top and seal it with polyurethane or other wood sealing product. Shop for a piece just like you would shop for a piece of furniture for your home. If you would choose the piece for your home, it would probably make an extraordinary vanity that would spare you from the tragedy of an ordinary bath.
Often you can keep the original drawers working and preserve storage space by notching out drawers to make room for the plumbing. (Donna Benton photo) April 2018 501lifemag.com | 55
đ&#x;Ž¨
GET CREATIVE
Funky Frugal: Sign from the heart
I have a friend in Hot Springs who has reached out to me in good and bad times since we moved here five years ago. Heather Meseke is a wife, mom, teacher and friend. She invited our little family over when we first moved to Garland County. My husband and I looked at each other when we left and decided we could be their neighbors! So we bought a lot near their house! Heather is a friend who deeply cares, and this year she showed her affection for others by making homemade signs for her friends. I loved my sign made from pallet wood so much that I asked her to share a few tips with 501 readers! A little bit about yourself? I am a wife to Chris (coach’s wife at that), and mama to Cayden (7) and Carsyn (4). I love Jesus with all my heart and believe that with God all things are possible. How do you find time to craft while being a busy mama? I do 99 percent of my crafting during nap time or after bedtime when my littles are asleep. The other 1 percent of the time, I have A LOT of help!
by Tanner Cangelosi
An alum of the University of Central Arkansas, Tanner owns her own business – www. neonsouthernlady.blogspot. com – and has done a variety of projects, from individual home dÊcor items to painting murals in private residences. For more information, Tanner can be reached at tcangelosi@ newlifechurch.tv
56 | 501 LIFE April 2018
How did you come up with the sign concept? We had a big, open wall in our home that I wanted to decorate with something rustic and personalized, yet simple and meaningful. That’s when I had the idea to create something with our monogram and the year we were married. How did you make them? The actual sign structures are made from taking pallets apart and sanding and cutting the wood to size, then creating a structure to attach the planks to. That is the hard part — or at least the most time-consuming. It is ALL done by two amazing guys in my life, my husband and my father-in-law. I just sketch the layout of how I want the wood with details (size dimensions, whether straight stacked or staggered planks, etc.), and these two make it happen. Then I first draw the design with chalk and then go over it with several coats of paint (the raw wood soaks up a lot of the paint, so it usually takes several coats). How/where do you hang them? We attach two hooks to each sign for optimal hanging because the larger signs can be rather heavy. I have placed them above my kitchen sink window (my “Meseke market� sign), above a buffet in a dining room, on the fireplace mantle and above the headboard in a master bedroom. They are actually versatile and can go just about anywhere according to the size and space you have to fill. How long does a single sign take? It usually takes me about an hour to design, chalk and paint
each sign (depending on size and whether I paint on natural wood or paint the sign a white base before painting the design). Then, it doesn’t take very long to paint the additional coats or layers and shading over the original. The most time-consuming part is constructing the signs from the pallet wood, and my husband and his dad usually make an afternoon of it and make me several at once. What is the average cost of a sign? It depends. If you have pallets and tools to construct signs, you can make them relatively inexpensively. It would be the cost of your paint, brushes, chalk and mounting hardware — and then your time! Otherwise, I would recommend looking for cheap pallets and buying in bulk. Tips for making signs for Easter or Mother’s Day? I love cross decor, so I think a cross themed wood sign would be beautiful and could be displayed year-round. I think a fun Mother’s Day design would be “Mama since ____� with the year you became a mama and then to incorporate some floral accents with your little one(s)’ handprints and painted name(s). One year, my babies made me a Mother’s Day sign with painted flower pots and stems, and then each of their handprints were placed as the flower. It said “Mother’s Day� and the year and had their names under their flower pot base. To this day, it is one of my most cherished gifts. If you are sentimental like me, these personalized signs will be a favorite in your home, too!
đ&#x;’Ą
ENERGY SMART
Entertainment right at home The entertainment industry is a vital part of the American economy, but according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, we spend less than 5 percent of our entire household budget each year on recreational activities. For the average American household, that’s about $3,000 a year, so it’s important to get the most for your money. Compared to many other types of entertainment, cable TV is a great value. Conway Corp starter cable lets you enjoy nearly 100 channels plus access to TV Everywhere for only $2.37 a day — that’s less than your morning latte. Consider other types of available entertainment. Seeing a movie in town on a weekend night costs $9.50 per person. Take a family of four and that’s $40 for two hours of fun before you even take a trip to the snack bar. With cable, you could watch a newly released movie and the same family of four and the same two hours would only cost 20 cents. According to Statista, the average concert ticket is $74.25, and the average NFL ticket is up to $92.98. You pay more for three hours of entertainment to see your favorite band or player than you would pay for a month of cable to see your favorite stars and shows, which often include sports and music offerings. Some of the first cable services ever delivered broadcast TV channels in Arkansas in 1948. By 1990, cable TV boasted a robust 79 networks, and consumers ended their day on the couch in front by Beth Jimmerson
A long-time Conway resident, Beth McCullough Jimmerson is the marketing coordinator 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.
of the television. Today, times have changed, and entertainment means something different. We live in a highly competitive video marketplace where entertainment is no longer confined to the living room. Cable is a whole lot more than just the TV. With TV Everywhere, we no longer have to sit at home, gather in front of the TV and wait patiently for our favorite shows to come. Apps turn nearly every device we own into a TV screen, so we can watch what we want, wherever we are, on the schedule we choose. We have access to live programming that can stream directly to a tablet, computer or smartphone. We can watch our favorite shows and even store our programs in the cloud to watch later. Apps deliver
thousands of hours of programming and make TV an anytime, anywhere experience. Best of all, this streaming service is completely free with your cable subscription. You can watch the big game live across town or across country with no worries. You also get to watch your favorite shows without waiting. Most content airs exclusively on cable or on cable first. If you prefer streaming, you get the best of both worlds with cable. Cable TV provides more content choices at a better price. Want to watch an Emmy award-winning movie or the Super Bowl for less than 30 cents each? Cable’s video platform is a creative canvas where the world’s top writers, directors and actors are producing cinema-quality programming that is dominating the awards circuit and the TV ratings — and you can have it all for $2.37 a day. To learn more about Conway Corp cable or to set up your free TV Everywhere account, call 501.450.6000 or visit ConwayCorp.com/services/cable.
đ&#x;’Ą ☆$
đ&#x;š€
501 kids
☆
☆
đ&#x;Ž¨ đ&#x;”ż ♪đ&#x;’Ľ
Teaching children responsibility I was so proud of both of my girls receivA native ing the character award of for “responsibility� at Conway, their elementary school Katelin this year! Knowing that Whiddon my girls are learning reis a family sponsibility and shownurse ing that even when we practitioner at Central are not around makes Arkansas Pediatrics. She this momma’s heart and her husband, Daniel, happy. I want my chilhave two daughters. A dren to grow up to be graduate of the University of responsible adults and Central Arkansas, she has the best way to start is her bachelor’s and master’s by teaching them to be degrees. responsible children. As parents, sometimes it is far easier for us to do things for our children rather than make them do it themselves. If my husband reads this, here’s my admission of guilt sometimes. By making children clean up after themselves, perhaps over time they will learn not to make as big of a mess. By letting children help pick snacks, we can teach them healthy eating. There are so many ways we can teach lifelong skills to our children in our everyday lives. Over the past two years, we started giving our girls a weekly allowance and to earn their allowance, they have assigned chores to complete. We let our girls help make their chore list – which I strongly encourage parents to try. Of course, we had chores we came up with but the girls added some great options as well. Our girls are 8 and almost 6 and some of their chores are: feed dogs, make bed (this one rarely gets done – but they have bunk beds so I cut them some slack), clean room, clean playroom, bring dishes to the sink after meals, and be nice to your sister. We add in other ways they can help as those present themselves. As adults, we grumble with housework and cleaning, but I notice my girls begging to scrub a toilet or clean the table. Just a couple of nights ago, I posted a picture on Facebook of my oldest daughter vacuuming with her iPad in a backpack connected to her headphones, listening to music. She was excited to get to help (and I was excited for her too!). Showing them that helping can be fun will make it less of a daunting task. How far you want to take chores is up to you – but I do encourage children to have some sort of jobs at home. Of course, these should be age appropriate. For example: Ages 2-3: put toys away, stack books on the shelf, throw away trash, wipe baseboards, put dirty clothes in the hamper. Age 4-5: feed pets, dry spills, make the bed, clean up toys, sort silverware, take dishes to the sink. Age 6-7: fold towels, match by Katelin Whiddon
58 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Age appropriate chores Ages 2-3: put toys away, stack books on the shelf, throw away trash, wipe baseboards, put dirty clothes in the hamper.
sweep/vacuum. Age 8-9: load dishwasher, fold clothes, dust, wipe off table. Age 10-11: Clean bathrooms, bring in mail, help cook simple meals, vacuum.
Age 4-5: feed pets, dry spills, make the bed, clean up toys, sort silverware, take dishes to the sink. Age 6-7: fold towels, match socks, clean room, help
socks, clean room, help sweep/vacuum. Age 8-9: load dishwasher, fold clothes, dust, wipe off table. Age 10-11: Clean bathrooms, bring in mail, help cook simple meals, vacuum. Ages 12+: help wash/ vacuum cars, wash windows/mirrors, clean bathrooms, help iron, mop floors.
Ages 12+: help wash/ vacuum cars, wash windows/mirrors, clean bathrooms, help iron, mop floors.
Talk to your friends about ways they’ve helped their children learn responsibility. Look for fun ways to teach these valuable skills and make it enjoyable! You’ll love watching how proud your children will be of themselves when they get to help out and serve their family and others around.Â
ð&#x;š€
ð&#x;’¡ ☆$
☆
☆
ð&#x;Ž¨ ð&#x;”¿ ♪ð&#x;’¥ Emma Killough AGE: 9. CITY: Searcy. SCHOOL: Fourth grade, Southwest Middle School. FAVORITE SUBJECT: Math. FAMILY: Mom (Diane), Dad, (John) and brother (William). FAVORITE MEAL OR SNACK: Pizza. MOST CHERISHED POSSESSION: My dog, Lily. MORE INFORMATION: I like cheer and spending time with family.
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 59
đ&#x;’Ą ☆$
đ&#x;š€
501 kids
☆
☆
đ&#x;Ž¨ đ&#x;”ż ♪đ&#x;’Ľ
Math, muffins and memories We’re a homeschool family, and a part of our Brittany curriculum is for our Gilbert is a former kids to learn valuable FACS skills at home. We do teacher at Maumelle math, reading and High writing, but we also try School. She to incorporate these and her lessons in to other skills husband, Levi, have three children that are important, for and live in Conway. Brittany can be reached at b.gilbert37@gmail.com. instance, household responsibilities. The other day, our son, who is in kindergarten, thought we were just playing a game with money when I was really reinforcing his math lesson. When we started skip counting and I used a term from the lesson, he caught on and said, “Hey, this isn’t school time.� I was busted, but I also reminded him that we learn for a reason, and those lessons are used every day. It’s obvious that math can be used in cooking. It’s a fun way to teach kids that math is important and can also be yummy. Having your kids in the kitchen with you can also create fun memories that you will both cherish. When I really miss my grandma, I love to make some of my favorite foods that remind me of her. There were just some things that only she could make taste amazing, and I remember the conversations we would have and what it was like to be in the kitchen with her. I cook with my kids so they will have the same type of memories. by Brittany Gilbert
60 | 501 LIFE April 2018
One of my kids’ favorite recipes is a healthy banana muffin. They love watching our bananas get really ripe because they know that they can be used for these banana muffins. I love knowing that even though I’m not the greatest cook, there is something that I can make with my kids that they look forward to and talk about being one of their favorite foods.
Healthy Banana Muffins 1 large egg 3 large (1 1/2 cups) very ripe bananas 1/2 cup applesauce, unsweetened 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey 3 tablespoons olive, avocado or coconut oil (melted) 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 1/3 cups whole wheat or spelt flour Preheat oven to 375 degrees and spray non-stick 12-muffin tin with cooking spray. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, lightly beat the egg. Add bananas and mash well. Add remaining ingredients, except flour, and whisk to combine. Now add flour and gently stir until well incorporated. Do not over mix otherwise muffins will be tough. Fill each tin almost full with batter. (I used a regular ice cream scoop.) Bake for 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let muffins cool for about 5 minutes and transfer to a cooling rack to cool off completely.
Annual H.O.O.K.S. event helps St. Joseph School St. Joseph School recently held its annual H.O.O.K.S. (Helping Out Our Kids’ School) event at the church’s Parish Hall. A catfish dinner, along with silent and live auctions, brought in $70,000 to pay for a variety of school needs not covered by its yearly budget. Jeff and Beth Crowder and Frederic Simon were the chief organizers of the event.Â
đ&#x;š€
đ&#x;’Ą ☆$
Members of the school’s National Honor Society helped serve the meal.
Jason (from left), Abigail and Amy Covington.Â
☆
đ&#x;Ž¨ đ&#x;”żâ™Ş Amy Hartman was the winner of a “women onlyâ€? drawing for jewelry from Lee Ann’s Fine Jewelry.
Ronnie and Ann Hargis Lensing.
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 61
AUTHORS IN THE 501
Aidan Eslinger: Talented writer and actor Aidan Eslinger is a multi-talented Susan sixth-grader at Carl Peterson holds a PhD Stuart Middle School in education in Conway who has and taught at the already published a University book, created an onof Central Arkansas line blog and written, and Slippery produced and directed Rock University in Pennsylvania. She retired in 2004 and now two stage plays. At age spends her time doing artwork 12, he is the youngest (painting and pottery). She is the executive secretary of the 501 author to date preArkansas Reading Association, sented in this monthly a professional organization for educators that has about 800 feature. members statewide. At the age of 5, Aidan wrote his first version of “The Colorful Sky.” After many revisions and a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised more than $1,100 to assist with printing costs, illustrations and promotions, Aidan finally saw “The Colorful Sky” in print last February. It’s a fanciful tale of a boy named Justin who, on his way to a friend’s sleepover, loses the juice he was taking there. Something crazy happens the next day, but you’ll have to get the book to find out what. Since the book’s publication, Aidan has held book signings in Conway, West Memphis, Jonesboro and other locations. “The Colorful Sky” may be purchased online at Amazon or from Aidan’s website, aidaneslinger.com. Aidan’s success is due in part to the support of his family, friends and teachers. In fact, his book is dedicated to two teachers: Mary Smith, his first-grade teacher from Nettleton Intermediate in Jonesboro, who gave him his love of books; and his fourth grade teacher, Sarah Tyler at Carolyn Lewis Elementary School in Conway who made him love by Susan Peterson
Vehicle Wraps
writing more than he thought he ever would. Aidan’s creative ventures extend beyond mere book publishing. Like many children, he always enjoyed performing for his family and friends. After being cast in “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” in Jonesboro, where his family lived at the time, Aidan took it a step further. He decided to write, direct and produce his own play, “Steve Comes Home,” which was produced in West Memphis in December 2014. His second play, “Grandma’s Easter,” was completed in March 2016 and had two live performances. He is working on a third stage play, “Sister Secrets,” about a divided
Event Signage
Floor Graphics
family forced to deal with secrets. Aidan’s parents, Nadia and Lamar Eslinger, relocated in 2015 to Conway when Nadia, a University of Central Arkansas alum, was hired as an academic advisor at the university. In 2016, Aidan enlisted the help of his younger sister, Ariah, to work with him on a YouTube vlog. They launched their “Sibling Rivalry” channel, which documents family events and fun sibling challenges. Aidan still enjoys performing and has had starring roles in local Red Curtain Theatre productions. He appeared as Simba in “The Lion King Kids,” as Brom Bones in “Sleepy Hollow” and the King in “Cinderella.” He was also a guest soloist for UCA’s MLK Prayer Breakfast and has/will perform the National Anthem at UCA and Hendrix basketball games. He was a featured soloist in the school choir and became vice president of student council. Government? Acting? Writing? It seems like this amazing young man can do just about anything. It’s no wonder that the next book he is working on is titled “What I Can Be from A-Z.” Look for it soon.
Retail Signage
Want to get noticed? Go BIG with Magna IV’s Wide Format Printing Steven Schilling | steven@magna4.net | 1-800-946-2462 | www.magna4.com
62 | 501 LIFE April 2018
YOUTH
Kids Run Arkansas: ‘It’s just fun’
KRA celebrates 10 years of running, face painting and food for families by John Patton
Friday, April 27, will be circled on calendars all over the 501 again this year as parents get their kids ready for one of Conway’s most popular running events. Under the guidance of Mallory Lefler, fitness coordinator for the Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center, Kids Run Arkansas® will celebrate its 10th anniversary at 6 p.m. that day. Due to construction at Laurel Park, Kids Run will begin and end in the south parking lot of the fitness center, near the new Tucker Creek Trail entrance, and will include some of the trail. The event gets larger each year as more parents decide to join in. “With this being year 10, it’s going to be even more exciting,” said Lefler. “I’m hoping to give more scholarships to the local schools and I am expecting attendance to continue to grow from last year. As always, we are promoting fun, healthy activities for the whole family.” Last year, nearly 1,200 runners participated from 45 different schools across Arkansas and $8,000 in scholarships was awarded to physical education programs. Kids Run Arkansas is open to kids of all ages. The health and fitness center recently announced that Groovy Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is the title sponsor again this year. The event offers fun for the entire family, including face painting, games and more, leading up to the 1-mile and 3-mile run/walk. While it is a running event, there is no chipped timing as the event strives to promote fun and fitness for youth and families. “It’s just a fun event and a great way to be a part of the community,” said Matt Mallett, a par-
Young people and their families at the start of last year’s Kids Run Arkansas fun run. ent at St. Joseph School. “We’ve participated for a number of years. It’s a really fun event, a way to get them out running and being active. That’s always a challenge now-a-days.” He credits Kids Run for encouraging his two oldest children, Caleb and Ashleigh, who are now running in cross country events. “That was their introduction to running. We look forward to it every year. Mallory and the rest of the crew make it fun for the kids.” St. Joseph has been the top participating school the last eight years, and PE Teacher Karen Vandivere says they are anxious to defend their title. Over the years, funds from Kids Run Arkansas have purchased soccer nets and hockey goals, all sorts of sports balls, a volleyball set and other items for the PE program at St. Joseph. The most unusual equipment may be a parachute that the students play under and run with during PE. “We started doing it and won the first year and now whole families like to participate, moms and dads, older brothers and sisters,” said Vandivere. “It’s mainly just being with their families and
friends, but some of them run with their friends from other schools.” Woodrow Cummins Elementary School may have something to say about a St. Joseph victory this year. “We always have a great number of kids that come out and run. We are very grateful for Kids Run Arkansas, not only does it get our families out there running but also for the financial return for the PE programs,” said Sarah Catherine Orahood, a PE teacher and sponsor of the running club at Woodrow Cummins Elementary. Last year, Woodrow Cummins was able to purchase pedometers for the PE students along with balls and jump ropes. About 200 students from the school participated in Kids Run last year and brought their families. “The kids like it because they get to run and they get to eat and enjoy the other post-race activities. Food is always a good thing to bring families out after school hours,” she said. Smoothie King smoothies and snack items are always on the menu at the Kids Run event. Organizing and conducting activities for more than 1,000 people requires numerous volunteers and all are welcome. “In addition to our own employees, I want to thank the volunteers from UCA, Conway High School students and the Conway Running Club who monitor the course,” said Lefler. “They are here annually but we are open to others who want to help.” Volunteers should contact Lefler. Registration was scheduled to open in midFebruary. For more information, contact Lefler at 501.450.9292, ext. 309, or mtate@conwayregional.org.
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 63
BUSINESS ROUNDUP
Mary Bane Lackie named UCA development director The University of Central Arkansas Division of Advancement has named Mary Bane Lackie as the new executive director of development. In this role, Lackie will coordinate all development programs including major gift, annual giving and planned giving programs. She will serve as a principal gifts officer for the university’s top prospects while working collaboratively with college development and advancement officers. She will begin March 16. “Dr. Lackie is a proven fundraiser who will no doubt immerse herself into the UCA culture. She has strong family ties in the Conway community and looks forward to returning to this area,” said Kale Mary Bane Lackie has Gober, vice president been named executive for University director of development Advancement. “Her at the University of experience as a vice Central Arkansas. chancellor will not only be beneficial to Institutional Advancement but to the UCA community as a whole. We are excited for Dr. Lackie to join the Division of Advancement.” Lackie most recently served as vice chancellor for University Advancement and executive director of the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith Foundation. Prior to this role, she spent more than eight years working abroad. She worked at educational institutions in Poland, Armenia and Dubai before wrapping up her stint overseas working on two education projects in Pakistan. On the last project to improve teacher education in Pakistan, she worked for Teachers College, Columbia University. “I am so excited to be coming home to Conway and to UCA,” Lackie said. “I worked at UCA early in my career, and I have many friends and professional colleagues there. Two of my sisters, my husband and many other members of my family are UCA graduates. Also, I was born in Conway, and my husband grew up there, so after traveling the world, moving back to Conway is really coming full circle for us.” Lackie earned a bachelor of arts degree in journalism at Arkansas Tech University; a master of arts in student personnel services from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, La.; and a doctorate from the University of Arkansas.
SUMMER
64 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Three inductees selected for Searcy education hall of honor Three educators will be inducted into the Searcy Public Schools Education Foundation Hall of Honor on Tuesday, April 3. The banquet and induction ceremony will be held in the Sullards Annex Cafeteria at Searcy High School beginning at 6:30 p.m. In addition to the Hall of Honor induction, the Foundation will present a Searcy Schools Showcase. This showcase will highlight current teachers and students involved with “STEAM” activities (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) throughout the Searcy School District. Tickets for the event are $35 and may be purchased online through the Searcy Education Foundation Facebook page or Searcy Public Schools website at searcyschools.org. For further ticket assistance or table sponsorships, please call 501.207.4402. Being honored in 2018 are retired educators Barbara Jones and Jo Carol Gentry and current McRae Elementary School teacher Susan Bucher. The honorees were selected from nominations submitted by the public to the alumni committee of the foundation. The three recommendations were then voted on by the foundation board. Justin Lawson, Searcy Education Foundation
president, said, “The Searcy Education Foundation is excited to recognize these deserving nominees who have contributed so much to the students in the Searcy School District. We are also looking forward to the STEAM Showcase by current faculty and students from each campus. It should be an inspirational and educational night for all of those in attendance.” Since the inception of the Foundation, grants have been awarded to teachers for educational programs that were not funded by the normal operating budget of Searcy Public Schools.
SUMMER2018 REGISTER NOW!
Summer Sessions at UCA are the perfect opportunity for you to move more quickly toward your degree, saving both time and money.
uca.edu/summer ucentralarkansas
@ucabears
@ucabears
SUMMER SESSIONS
SCHEDULE MAY INTERSESSION: MAY 14 – JUN 1 8 WEEK SESSION: MAY 14 – JUL 6 13 WEEK SESSION: MAY 14 – AUG 10 SUMMER I SESSION: JUN 4 – JUL 6 10 WEEK SESSION: JUN 4 – AUG 10 SUMMER II SESSION: JUL 9 – AUG 10
Conway Corporation recognizes Jacob Longing Construction Conway Corp has named Jacob Longing Construction the 2017 Energy Smart Builder of the Year for its dedication to building energy-efficient homes in the Conway community. Energy Smart homes use less energy than standard-built homes and help save homeowners money and energy for years to come. Conway Corp has recognized 23 homes built by Jacob Longing Construction as being Energy Smart in 2017. They currently have seven more Energy Smart homes under construction. “Jacob Longing Construction has been committed to building homes that have met or exceeded Conway Corp’s Energy Smart criteria,” said Conway Corp Major Accounts and Energy Efficiency Manager David Avra. Energy Smart specifications are based on the United States Department of Energy recommendations. Energy Smart homes can save 20 to 30 percent energy use over a standard built home thanks to a variety of energy-efficient features including insulation, high-performance windows, tight ducts and efficient heating and cooling equipment. “748 Energy Smart homes have been built since the program began in 2009 with an estimated accumulative energy savings to the homeowners of more than $853,000,” Avra said. Jacob Longing Construction is owned by Jacob Longing, a Conway High School and University of Central Arkansas graduate. “Building quality, energy smart homes is impor-
Conway Corp Major Accounts and Energy Efficient Manager David Avra (right) recently awarded Conway Corp’s Energy Smart 2017 Builder of Year honors to Jacob Longing Construction for the company’s dedication to building energy-efficient homes in the Conway community. tant to my clients,” said Longing. “I strive to build them the most energy efficient homes possible to help keep utility costs down and potentially increasing their resale value.”
Customers interested in learning more about Energy Smart homes or builders interested in building Energy Smart homes can visit ConwayCorp.com/ EnergySmart.
CLARITY HEALTH & WELLNESS Providing essential behavioral health services for all ages. Ron Wauters, M.D. Herman Clements II, M.D. Greg Wooten, M.D. Melanie Curtis, PA-C Kitty Douglas, LCSW Lynda LaRue, LCSW Shalyn Hahn-Kostreva, LCP
Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. 2908 Hawkins Dr. | Searcy, AR (501) 203-0055 | Unity-Health.org April 2018 501lifemag.com | 65
�
SPORTS ROUNDUP
Conway Regional Tennis Classic planned at new facility The new City of Conway tennis facility, which features eight outdoor tennis courts at Laurel Park, will see its first tournament in April. The Conway Regional Tennis Classic is planned Friday, April 27, through Sunday, April 29, at the new facility, located at Laurel Park on Prince Street. The features of the Conway Tennis Center include: Eight post tensioned concrete tennis courts A 1,400-square-foot pro shop building with a reception area, offices and restroom. Two 1,200-square-foot pavilions with heated and cooled indoor viewing areas and public restroom facilities with showers. Outdoor tiered concrete seating and bleachers for spectators. There will also be a crosswalk across Prince Street to provide easy access for the Conway High School Tennis Team. “The unique design incorporates traditional elements with a modern sculptural form,” said Emily Ferris, project architect representing Sowell Architects. “We used the same traditional red brick that is used on Conway High School to help unify the streetscape along Prince Street.” Construction began on the project in August and will wrap up in early April. The City of Conway appropriated $2.5 million from the Parks Department Advertising and Promotion (A&P) Fund for the project. Corco Construction is the general contractor. The tennis tournament will feature singles,
doubles and mixed doubles divisions for beginners to open players. There will also be a combo mixed doubles division. Players from all over the state are expected to play as this is a “sanctioned” tournament with play contributing to rankings within the USTA system. The cost is $30 for the first event and $22 for the second event. Entries must be submitted by Tuesday, April 24.
The defending 2A state champion Quitman Lady Bulldogs were “Loving LIFE” as they prepared for a matchup with Earle in this year’s state final. Earle won the state title. Quitman posted a 35-4 record for the season.
66 | 501 LIFE April 2018
All entrants will receive a T-shirt, light food throughout the tournament and a full lunch sponsored by Centennial Bank on Saturday. Prizes will be awarded to first, second and consolation winners. The Conway Convention and Visitors Bureau is also a sponsor. For more information about the tournament and to sign up, visit conwaytennis.net.
The Conway Lady Cats were “Loving LIFE” as they prepared to head to Hot Springs for the 7A girls’ state championship game against North Little Rock. It was a fourth appearance in five years in the finals for the Lady Cats, who posted a 27-4 record for the season. NLR won the state title.
Toad Suck Daze Run on May 5 Plans are in the works for the 35th annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run, planned Saturday, May 5, in Conway. Over the years, the race has raised more than $411,000 for local charities. Proceeds from this year’s race will benefit a variety of local non-profits: HAVEN (a residential shelter for abused girls) Boys and Girls Club of Faulkner County CAPCA (empowering individuals and families so they can succeed) Main Stage EdUCAtion (connects children to performing arts through field trips) Conway Athletics (help to resurface the Conway High School track) The event includes a 10K Run, 5K Run, 5K Fun Walk and Tadpole Trot races. The event begins and ends at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School. Online registration ends at noon Friday, May 4. Chip timing technology will be used and participants must wear a race chip to get an official time. Participants registering after 7:30 a.m. on race day will not receive a timing chip and will not be timed. The Tadpole Trot starts on the Conway High School track about 9:45 a.m. (after the 5K and 10K events) and includes races for children ages 4-12. Kids ages 4 through 8 will run a half lap, ages 9-10 will run one lap, and ages 11-12 will run two laps (one-half mile). The first, second and third place finishers in each Tadpole Trot receive trophies and all
other entrants receive a ribbon. The school with the largest percentage of registrants (based on enrollment) in the Tadpole Trot will be presented with a traveling trophy and $200 for its physical education department. Entry fee for the 10K and 5K events is $25 until noon Friday, May 4, when it goes up to $30. 5K and 10K entrants receive a technical shirt for those who pre-register. The Tadpole Trot registration is $10, which includes a cotton T-shirt. Free refreshments will be provided for all entrants. The Conway Kiwanis Club is the main organizer of the event, which is supported by the Conway Running Club and Conway Convention & Visitors Bureau. The Toad Suck Daze Run partners with Literacy Action of Central Arkansas, which sponsors the Tour de Toad bicycle event, which is also held on Saturday, May 5. Participants who complete the Toad Suck Daze Run (5K or 10K) and Tour de Toad receive a custom Iron Toad medal. For more information or to register for the Toad Suck Daze Run, visit toadsuckrun.com. For information on Tour de Toad, visit LiteracyActionAR. org/tourdetoad.
BREAKFAST/LUNCH ICED & GOURMET COOKIES BIRTHDAY, WEDDING & GROOM’S CAKES
21 COLORS OF M&M’S
24 FLAVORS OF JELLY BELLIES BALLOONS • CAKE POPS CUPCAKES • PIES
PASTRIES • BROWNIE BARS CHEESECAKES • DIPS
HOMEMADE ROLLS • DONUTS SPECIAL ORDER— DEVILED EGGS AND PASTA SALAD
juliessweetshoppe.com 201 Skyline Drive in Conway Towne Centre /juliesconway
(501) 205-4301
Greenbrier Middle School students, faculty and administrators were “Loving LIFE” with Dot Welch, associate director of the Conway Regional Health Foundation, on the new walking trail at the school. The track was made possible through a teacher’s grant from the Conway Regional Women’s Council. Health and physical education teachers Nathan Moreland and Taylor Stone applied for the grant and were awarded $500. Other expenses were covered by the school’s PTO. The trail is designed to provide students with physical activity options before school. April 2018 501lifemag.com | 67
SPORTS
Before and after
Cabot’s Abbott becomes state’s first women’s triathlon signee by Mark Oliver
Before she was a triathlete, Cabot senior Madeline Abbott was a 10-year-old girl staring anxiously into a pool of water. “When I was younger, my family made it a priority for me to become water safe,” Abbott said. “I didn’t know how to swim, but I loved being in the water. Even though I was probably the worst swimmer in my swim lessons, I enjoyed learning and was begging my family to go to practice. Soon after, my parents signed me up for the swim team, and by age 11, I was swimming competitively.” Before she was a triathlete, Abbott was a 14-yearold girl admiring her father’s initiative to stay in shape. “My dad was going out and running in the neighborhood for exercise,” Abbott said. “One afternoon, I decided that I would go with him. Being able to do that together was special for me. My passion for running grew just as it did for swimming. Shortly after, I started running cross country and track and field for Cabot Junior High School. Cabot offered a daily class period where I could run for an hour each day, be coached and run with others my age — I was sold. My competitive nature and the encouragement from my coaches allowed running to take off for me.” Abbott’s love for running quickly took off. In eighth grade, she won the mile run at the conference meet. As a freshman, however, the strain on her body from swimming and running began to take its toll. “I began getting stress fractures for overusing my body,” Abbott said. “I had to make the decision to quit running and focus solely on swimming so that I could heal. Knowing when you’re injured and you can’t do what you love, it’s frustrating, but I was determined to find a way to incorporate running into my life at a competitive level.” Before she was a triathlete, Abbott was a high school sophomore with both a passionate dream and a daunting challenge. “In 10th grade, I was still swimming for Cabot High School, but I missed running competitively. I started researching and discovered triathlons, where I could swim, run and bike competitively. However, the biggest problem was that I didn’t own the bike I needed to begin my training.” A road bike for Abbott would cost thousands of dollars — no easy task for a 15-year-old high school student. “My parents were extremely supportive, but coming up with that kind of money for something I hadn’t done before was difficult,” Abbott said. “I started working as a lifeguard and teaching swim lessons at Cabot so that I could save money to buy a bike. It took a lot of time and hard work, but I was finally able to purchase a bike at the end of my 10th grade year.” 68 | 501 LIFE April 2018
Cabot High’s Melanie Abbott (right) with her swim coach, Victoria Wadley. Mission accomplished. However, Abbott’s biggest challenge through her journey was yet to come — finding triathlon success through self-coaching. “Once I had my bike and started training for triathlons, my newest obstacle was not having a coach or a team to let me know how I was doing in my training,” Abbott said. “I relied heavily on figuring things out on my own. It was difficult to find information online because everything was tailored toward middle-aged adults — your typical triathletes. For me, I just had to try new things to see what worked. I came up with my own workouts and training combinations and worked to a point where I thought I could excel in competitions.” After years of gaining the confidence, skillsets and equipment to reach her goals, Abbott entered her first triathlon when she was 15. “My first triathlon was a great experience,” Abbott said. “I was nowhere near getting a medal or winning, but I learned a lot about what the other kids my age were doing and how the racing aspect worked, and it only made me want more.” After a meaningful first run, Abbott gathered what she learned from her first experience and turned the tables when she entered her next competitions. “My next couple of triathlons were in northwest Arkansas, and I won my age group in both of them,” Abbott said. “To go from the beginning of my first triathlon to winning my age group was a vast improvement for me. I attribute my results in those races to having such a strong swim background. I was able to get ahead in the swimming portion of the event and did enough in the cycling and running
portions to stay ahead to win.” After getting her first wins under her belt, Abbott didn’t stop there. In 2017, the triathlete won her age group yet again in races in Arkadelphia, Bryant, Eureka Springs and Mountain Home and found a way to reach new heights during her journey. “The more I raced, the better I became,” Abbott said. “It got to the point where I wasn’t just winning my age group anymore, but I was the top female finisher and I was even placing high among the men, too.” After just two years into the sport, Abbott was already making waves that would extend beyond the 501. In November, Abbott became the first-ever women’s triathlon scholar in Arkansas, signing with Drury University in Springfield, Mo. “When I was deciding on colleges, I knew that my decision would come down to academics,” Abbott said. “I knew that I wanted to find a school that would challenge me academically, and Drury was the perfect fit. As someone who wants to major in journalism, Drury has its own journalism department with many opportunities to get into broadcast and print. “Athletically, my goals align with the goals of my future coaching staff. Drury’s coaches were looking for athletes who were willing to put in the work to propel the program into one of the top three, nationally, and I saw that as an opportunity to improve the most. It went beyond who I was as an athlete, but also wanting to find people who could fill leadership roles and maintain the values and morals that Drury hopes to uphold.” Before she becomes a Drury Panther, Abbott is
already blazing the trail for future Cabot Panthers to follow in her footsteps. “This year, I created a Triathlon Club at Cabot High School,” Abbott said. “I want to be able to help others who are interested in becoming triathletes so that they can have the connections to meet people and learn from them so that they don’t have to do it on their own. It’s a positive environment where athletes of all abilities can join and learn, and I hope that it paves the way for more students to become multi-sport athletes and
Melanie and her parents, Celeste and Michael Abbott, at her signing ceremony. triathletes.” After all her hard work paid off, Abbott hopes that her journey will inspire others to achieve their dreams. “I’m excited to share my story because I hope it will inspire more triathletes to compete in the high school and collegiate levels,” Abbott said. “Before I competed in triathlons, I was afraid. I was afraid to get into the water. I was afraid of getting hurt while
this is your journey.
running. I was afraid that finding a bike would be too expensive. I was afraid that I would do all of this and it wouldn’t turn out to be what I thought it would be. “What I learned through all of this, however, is that when you let go of fear, you will accomplish great things and find a way to reach your goals. If you have the passion to do what you love, passion outweighs fear.”
B E H AV I O R A L H E A LT H
Begin to heal in our adult inpatient treatment program. Upcoming expansion of services: · Adult inpatient substance use program · Adolescent inpatient program
begin healing with us.
· Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) program
Call Today: (501) 725-8190 | conwaybh.com | 2255 Sturgis Rd Conway, AR 72034 April 2018 501lifemag.com | 69
ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE in the 501
Van Buren County: Bobby Burnett by Bob Reising
Van Buren County gave him his start. Born on Jan. 4, 1943, on a 160-acre farm between Clinton and Choctaw, Bobby Burnett went on to be labeled “a man playing a boy’s game” by a teammate on the 1964 University of Arkansas football team, the lone squad in the school’s long gridiron history to claim a national championship. In the spring of 1961, legendBobby Burnett ary Razorback football coach Frank Broyles recruited the by-then multi-sport Smackover High School star after watching him win the 110-meter high hurdles in the “Meet of Champions” in Little Rock, a competition that brought together every school district’s champion to determine the best hurdler in “The Natural State.” What flashed before Coach Broyles’s eyes was to become Bobby’s signature move on the Hog gridiron during his years of varsity play. When he could not skirt a team’s ends or slash through their line, the 6-foot-3, 210-pound speedster hurdled over opponents, escaping their outstretched arms to claim precious yardage or touchdowns. But before Bobby could employ his acrobatic move to Razorback advantage, the “Freshman Ineligibility Rule” combined with his supposed bent for fumbling kept him from championship play until the 1964 season. By early in that season, he was prepared for nothing less, much to the delight of thousands of wildly grateful fans. One teammate even termed him “a miracle man” as he led Razorback scoring with nine touchdowns, eight tallied on the ground. In the final contest of the season, with but 4:41 remaining on the scoreboard clock, he hurdled over University of Nebraska linemen to register the winning points in the 10-7 brawl, guaranteeing the Hogs the national title. Sports aficionados forever after agreed that Bobby’s New Year’s Day 1965 Cotton Bowl six-pointer was “arguably the most significant touchdown ever for an Arkansas football team.” Yet he displayed even greater brilliance in the fall of 1965. He again led the Hogs in scoring, this time with 16 touchdowns, the most in the Southwest Conference and the highest number in team history. He also led the conference in rushing with 947 yards, won the Charles T. Myers Award as his team’s Most Valuable Player and earned AllAmerican Honorable Mention. Noteworthy, too, is that in Bobby’s last two seasons of varsity play, when Arkansas lost but once in 22 contests, he combined for 368 carries and receptions without 70 | 501 LIFE April 2018
On the football field: Bobby Burnett (from left), Tommy Burnett, Clell Burnett and Billy Burnett.
The Burnett Family wearing Denver Broncos shirts: Bobby (seated, from left) and Dorothy Burnett, Shane Burnett, Randy Burnett; Chad Burnett (back) and Deana (Burnett) Alldredge.
get f ra m e d at
Pa t t e r s o n E y e C a re
Burnett Family: Billy Burnett (front, from left), Clell and Frances Burnett, Tommy Burnett; and Bobby Burnett (back).
501 LIFE is profiling noteworthy athletes from Central Arkansas, one from each of the 11 counties in the 501, in a special series titled “Celebrating athletic excellence.” The 11 are representatives of the quality of athletes found throughout Central Arkansas and are not meant to be the best or the most noteworthy. This is the 10th installment in the ongoing series.
Dorothy and Bobby Burnett were married at the First Baptist Church in Springdale on July 12, 1965. a fumble. An appearance in the 1966 Senior Bowl, in which he scored two touchdowns, only added to his luster, as did the two letters he had earned in varsity track before departing Fayetteville for professional football. Few players in the pro game have enjoyed a rookie season better than Bobby’s. Playing for the Buffalo Bills in the American Football League (AFL), in 14 games he excelled as both a running back and a pass receiver. He recorded 766 yards on 187 carries and 419 yards on 34 receptions, registering 1,185 all-purpose yards. His brilliant offensive performance gained him “Rookie of the Year” honors in the League, finishing ahead of the heralded Mike Garrett, the University of Southern California’s Heisman Trophy winner of the previous fall. Bobby added
2505 Donaghey, Ste 102 • Conway, AR
501.450.9900
pattersoneyecare.com
selection to the AFL’s All-Pro Team to his accolades, as well as a two-touchdown performance in the Pro Bowl. Nor did his team fail to appreciate his stellar play. The Bills named him their Most Valuable Player for 1966. But tragedy awaited as the following season unfolded. Eight games into the AFL campaign, Bobby suffered a devastating knee injury while running a sweep against the New York Jets (on which his brother, Tommy, was an offensive end). Never again was Bobby capable of performing at his spectacular best, although in 1969 he attempted an aborted three-game comeback with the Denver Broncos. In retirement, the affable Bobby prospered in Colorado. At the time of his death on Oct. 1, 2016, he was the president of the state’s largest single-office real estate company, employing more than 500 agents. Van Buren County will always be proud of its iconic native son. So, too, will the 501. April 2018 501lifemag.com | 71
The Easter Cross at Antioch Baptist Church in Conway.
72 | 501 LIFE April 2018
TRAVEL
Celebrating spring in the 501
Azaleas and dogwoods in bloom at Hendrix College. Story and photos by Linda Henderson
It is finally looking like spring has sprung and April is here. The origins of the month of April are from the Gregorian calendar, the most widely used civil calendar. The calendar was named for Pope Gregory XIII, who instituted it in October 1582. In the Gregorian calendar, April is the fourth month of the year; in its predecessor the Roman calendar, it was the second month. The length of April was increased to help correct the solar/lunar cycles in previous calendars. April is derived from the Latin word aperit, which means to open. April is the month of the growing season and when trees and flowers begin to open. April is also the month of spring rain, hence the old saying, “April showers bring May flowers.” Easter most years falls during the month of April. April is the month of renewing of the beauty of the earth as well as God’s promises of spiritual regeneration. Some interesting things about the month of April: It is still a very popular first given name for many
Springtime at the Faulkner County Museum. April 2018 501lifemag.com | 73
Dogwoods in bloom in Conway (above and right photos). American girls. April’s birthstone is a diamond, and the birth flower is the daisy. The Farmer’s Almanac recommends most summer fruits and vegetables be planted the weekend after Easter. April begins on the same day of the week as July every year. If you are a sports-minded person, baseball season opens in April. The 501 area has its own minor league baseball team, the Arkansas Travelers. The Travelers play at Dickey-Stephens Baseball Park in North Little Rock. A little history about the Travelers, they are the longest running minor league franchise. Their name originated from the folklore of a minstrel known as the Arkansas Traveler, who roamed the Ozark Mountains selling wares and singing songs. April also has several national designated days and months. April is National Month of Hope, Jazz Appreciation Month, Keep America Beautiful Month, Lawn and Garden Month, National Soft Pretzel Month and, my very favorite, National Straw Hat Month. So make the most of the longer and warmer April days. Take a walk, visit a park, go outside, attend a professional baseball game, put on your straw hat and plant a tomato plant, enjoy the warm sunshine and increase your vitamin D absorption. April is the perfect month to spend time outdoors enjoying the great weather with your family and friends.
Jim and Linda Henderson are lifelong residents of the 501. During the week, Jim has a construction business and Linda is a registered nurse at the Conway Human Development Center. On the weekends, they travel the 501 and other areas of Arkansas. Jim drives and hauls equipment. Linda takes photographs of Arkansas. During their travels, they have gained appreciation and love for The Natural State. They have found the 501 has so much to offer for weekend fun and beauty to photograph. 74 | 501 LIFE April 2018
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 75
đ&#x;‘Ľ
NEIGHBORS special friends
Toothless
Greenbrier second-graders enjoy class pet
Leader of the day Ryder Moix (front) and Toothless with Lacie Thomas and the students in her second grade class. by Sonja J. Keith Mike Kemp photos
Second-graders in Lacie Thomas’ classroon at Springhill Elementary School have a special friend – a 2-year-old bearded dragon named Toothless. Thomas, who has 24 students in her class, was given Toothless in October 2016 by a kindergarten student. “She had gotten him as her personal pet and she didn’t realize that they shed. They didn’t want it anymore and they decided he would make a great classroom pet,� she said, adding that she had mentioned to her class that she wouldn’t mind having a pet. He was already named, from a character in the movie “How to Train Your Dragon.� Originally from Heber Springs, Thomas is in her 18th year of teaching. She graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with an early 76 | 501 LIFE April 2018
childhood education degree. She also has a master’s degree in elementary reading and math. She has worked in the Greenbrier School District for 12 years. This is the first time Thomas has had a class pet, but there are others at Springhill Elementary, including a hamster and other bearded dragons. Thomas said the bearded dragon’s ease of care makes him an ideal class pet. “I think he’s a little unusual and it gives them exposure to something most of them won’t see otherwise.� Thomas said there are many benefits to having a class pet – from behavior incentives and educational opportunities to social aspects. “I think it gives us something that connects us,� she said. As a behavior incentive for the second-graders, there are competitions among students to see who will be rewarded with a chance to have lunch each
week with Toothless in the classroom. Students can also work on their reading skills with the pet. “A lot of time, they will read to Toothless (through the glass). They love it because he catches every little movement that they make. He really does look like he’s listening to them read,� Thomas said. “I knew it would help some kids who struggle to read. Sometimes reading to a stuffed animal or a class pet will let them practice reading without the pressure of reading to a person.� There are also other science applications with the class pet as students learn about different animal groups. At the beginning of the school year, the class did research about bearded dragons so they could become more familiar with Toothless. “The students are really in to it because they want to be able to tell their families about him. That strengthens that home
and school connection,” Thomas said. Thomas said throughout the school year, her students are eager to tell family members about their class pet. “Parents are definitely surprised at how much they know about bearded dragons. They will come home talking about him, a lot.” Thomas said that while some students may be unsure about holding Toothless, they are no longer scared by the end of the school year. “They just love him.” Thomas said some of the boys in her class like to “one up” stories and have bragged about catching bearded dragons in the woods. She pointed out that the animals are native to Australia so the stories are obviously not true. Toothless is easy to care for, according to Thomas, and he’s already as big as he is going to get. He eats spring mix salad (no iceberg), mealworms and water. He also likes fruit. The leader for the day is responsible for feeding Toothless. His sand has to be changed a couple times a year. “He’s real simple. I just have to keep his sand clean,” Thomas said. During long breaks, Toothless stays at the Thomas home, where he is well cared for. “I have two sons and they are crazy about him. They love him.” Thomas said Toothless prefers being around small groups of students versus the entire class, which can make him jumpy. Typically very calm, Toothless has been known to hiss if he gets mad. If he’s really mad, his beard turns black. “He’s usually pretty laid back,” Thomas said. “He doesn’t make noise.” Toothless does shed but not as much as he did when younger. “One day last year, his head was shedding and it looked like he had a helmet on.” Thomas said. “That was so funny. My kids thought that was hilarious.” The students offered their own insight into their class pet: “He loves sleeping.” “Sometimes he can be grumpy.” “He stays on his rock.” “He has lots of spikes.” “His belly is soft.” “He likes to swim in his bath tub.” When prompted to write a story the end of the first week of school, Toothless was a popular topic. “He’s a little bit of a celebrity in here.”
The leader of the day helps feed and care for the class pet.
Springhill Elementary teacher Lacie Thomas and Toothless.
Animaal l Hospit Dr. Greg Hartman
Dr. Greg Hartman
| 385 Hogan Lane | Conway, AR 72034 | (501) 450-6444
HARTMANANIMALHOSPITAL.COM
Dr. JoAnna Roath
General Veterinary Medicine • Complete Diagnostic Services Companion Animal Medicine & Surgery • Full Service Boarding
April 2018 501lifemag.com | 77
đ&#x;‘Ľ
NEIGHBORS person of the month
Leslie Lamb
CITY WHERE YOU LIVE: Conway. WORK: Administrator at Heritage Living Center. COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Conway Area Chamber
of Commerce, participate in various Alzheimer’s Association activities, Conway Regional Medical Center Healthcare Coalition Committee and the Arkansas Healthcare Association. When my kids were younger, I was very involved in coaching their various sports.
CHURCH ACTIVITIES: Attend New Life Church. FAMILY: Husband, Shane Lamb; son, Taylor Hart
(27), lives in Fayetteville and works for Advantage Solutions; and two daughters, Payton Hart (25) lives in Little Rock and is a NICU nurse at Arkansas Children’s Hospital and McKenzie Hart (20) is a sophomore at the University of Arkansas.
EDUCATION: Bachelor of science in physical therapy from the University of Central Arkansas, 1989. FAVORITE BOOK: I loved the “Hunger Games� series.
FAVORITE MEAL: Any meal at Great Southern and I also love anything Italian.
MOST CHERISHED POSSESSION: I cherish the patchwork blanket that grandmother made me when I was little. MOST ENJOYED WEEKEND ACTIVITY: When
my kids were little, I loved traveling with them to watch them play soccer or volleyball, but now I love squeezing in a weekend getaway to the beach.
NO. 1 VACATION SPOT: Anywhere with a beach.
Costa Rica, St. John and St. Lucia are among my faves.
FAVORITE PLACE IN ARKANSAS: I love hiking the trails out at Cadron Settlement Park and canoeing the Buffalo and Spring rivers. A graduate of the University of Central Arkansas, Leslie Lamb is the administrator at Heritage Living Center. (Mike Kemp photo)
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN THE 501: I love that so many of my college friends have
stayed in the 501 and the sense of community that brings. I love the “small town� feel that Conway has but yet still offers so many diverse dining and shopping options. Conway was a great place to raise my children and they are proud to call the 501 their home! 78 | 501 LIFE April 2018
We are all on the same team. Yours. At Conway Regional, fighting breast cancer is only part of completing the journey. Join us in welcoming Dr. Michael Spann, whose expertise in breast reconstruction surgery provides yet another layer of comprehensive breast care in your community. From detection with 3D mammography to surgery and breast reconstruction, look no further than Conway Regional.
Pictured above (L to R)
Dr. Keith Bell, Radiology Dr. William McColgan III, General Surgery Dr. Micahel Spann, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Dr. Michael Stanton, General Surgery
One Team. One Promise.
We know you from the drive-thru.
And the barbeque. At First Security, we take personal to a new
level. How? By keeping it at the local level. Here, you work with a team that’s invested in the community. You know our faces, and we know yours – from the ballpark, the grocery store, even our Teal Grill cookouts. Local people. Local decisions. Local commitment. When your bank is only in Arkansas, you know it’s all about you.
O N L Y IN A R K A N S A S
fsbank.com • onlyinark.com
Member FDIC