WINC. May 2018

MAY 2018

womensinc.net

‘Mom’

The most wonderful title in the world

2 WINC. | May 2018

womensinc.net 3

6

The Mother of All Mothers Hometown Hero 25. Brittani Little

Nana’s Kitchen

Mimosas

14. Kathy Bunting

26. Recipes & More

Kristen Abbott

Conversations

18. Art of Something Familiar

29. Makala Spencer

Summer Camp

Stencils

20. Survival Gear

30. Transform a Room

Crafting Fails & Favs

A Look Back

24. Slime

34. Toad Suck Ferry

4 WINC. | May 2018

12

Tinker Zone

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

ALR Photography Good May to all the moms out there!

Being a mom is sometimes the best of times and sometimes the worst of times.

But all the time, we can say we’re blessed with the mess, right?

For WINC. Magazine’s May issue, I wanted to say “thank you” to the incredible moms who give me hope, energy and a space to scream, but also those who help me appreciate all that I have.

WINC. Magazine is created and produced by some incredible moms.

I have two wild and crazy kiddos, ages 4 and 10.

Every day, I am reminded how different they are, how each is developing a personality and character they will take with them through life. I use every opportunity, whether through laughter or tears, to explain how they impact the world around them.

Every morning, I pray for a work/life balance that will keep me in tune with their little lives and give me strength to provide tough love when I am called, snuggles when their limited world view is dark, and enough time to enjoy them as they grow.

I also pray that those who work for me in this effort will have the same in their homes.

My own mother, Gwen, taught me early to be Godly, independent and honest. She still reinforces me when I am sliding or too self absorbed. I still go to her first for mom advice. She’s a grandmother who

plays a vital role, daily, in my children’s lives.

My husband’s mother, Peggy, is likewise an amazing second mom to me and grandmother to my children. I am surrounded by so much love, and my children are also deeply loved by these women.

I have friends who amaze me every day.

Some have lost their own mothers and struggle when they need one. But they make it. They call on the love they knew all their lives.

Some have lost children, and that is something I cannot fathom. But they make it. Every day is a struggle in that regard, but they know those little souls are still changing the world through them.

I know many who cannot have children of their own, but who foster and adopt.

What incredible stories of heartache that can, many times, turn into some of the most impactful stories of love and hope!

So, I thank you all who make a difference, just by doing the job God provided and just by setting some examples of greatness of which I am grateful to witness.

And a shout out to my “Mom Team:” • Advertising Director Lisa Licht — Mom of three, grandmother to four • Sales executive Crystal Geraldson — Mom of one • Sales executive Leigh Anne Gray — Mom to one, stepmom to three • Writer Melissa Gates — Mom to three • Writer Andrea Champlin — Mom to three • Writer Marisa Hicks — Mom to one • Writer Cindy Beckman — Mom to two • Accounting manager Eliesha Wolverton — Mom to one • Controller Cindy Crabb — Mom to five, grandmother to eight

Kelly

Publisher Kelly Sublett Contributing Writers Jeanette Anderton Cindy Beckman Andrea Champlin Melissa Gates – Cover Story Marisa Hicks Jenny Strange Kelly Sublett Photographers Ron Beckman Andrea Champlin Amy Jones – Cover Story Andrew Robertson Kelly Sublett Art Director Jay Prince Advertising Sales Director Lisa Licht Advertising Sales Executives Bobby Eller Crystal Geraldson Leigh Anne Gray Editorial Board Cindy Beckman Andrea Champlin Eden Corley Melissa Gates Lisa Licht Jay Prince Kelly Sublett

Questions or Comments?

Call (501) 327-6621, e-mail: WINC@thecabin.net or write to: 1111 Main Street, Suite 102, Conway, AR, 72032 www.womensinc.net

womensinc.net womensinc.net 55

Pouring on the Blessings:

A Mother to all Mothers

by Melissa Gates, Photos by Amy Jones

Most moms, or mother figures, deserve a trophy, a plaque, a certificate, or all of the above for the love she pours into her family. But 41-year-old mother of four Ashley Lemieux’s trophy would be even bigger.You see, she’s not only pouring love into her own family but also into other moms and their families.

“Mothering as a career can be tough on a personal level because unlike other careers, we do not receive awards, pay increases, trophies, or plaques on the wall when we complete a project or show amazing effort. It requires us to dig deep and find our contentment and satisfaction in God. It is a long-term job; and rewards often come 18 years later, after our kids are grown,” says Ashley.

More than a decade ago Lemieux started something called the Playgroup Pals, a weekly gathering of moms and kiddos.

“After moving to Conway in 2000 and deciding to become a ‘stay at home mom’ I knew my active personality would go crazy if I truly just ‘stayed home.’ I am also a very social person, and I desire community. However, being new to town – I didn’t know many people. The moms I did know already had their

6 WINC. | May 2018

niche and weren’t looking for new friends. I decided it was up to me to take the initiative!”

So Ashely started talking with three other moms who were new to Conway and asked if they wanted to meet at a park or someone’s home once a week for a playgroup. They said yes and Playgroup Pals was born!

“I was drawn to women who were like me, new to mothering and new to Conway. Our commonalities would be enough to bind us. However, each time the group would grow to five or six moms, two or three would have to move out of town and the group would have to ‘restart.’”

Standing strong in her faith, knowing that gathering and supporting young moms was her mission field, Ashley never gave up on her efforts.

“For the first five to six years Playgroup was ever-changing and yet unbeknownst to me in many ways, it was ever-evolving.

I remember praying the ‘Prayer of Jabez’ over playgroup asking God to enlarge the territory of the group to reach more moms

womensinc.net 7

in need of community. God did just that. The group has never stopped growing since that prayer.”

It eventually grew to 100 members and still thrives today even as Ashely’s kiddos have long surpassed the toddler and pre-school ages. The group travels all over Faulkner and Pulaski Counties for play. Among Ashley’s favorite places are Funland inside Burns Park, the Cabot Water Park, the Museum of Discovery, Schaeffer’s pumpkin patch, and Laurel Park. She negotiates discounts with each business to keep costs down for the moms, knowing many bring three or more kiddos with them. Because prices are negotiated based on headcount Ashley requires an RSVP, and many times the money delivered to a basket on her front porch in advance of the playgroup. Sometimes the group is so big Ashley has arranged for businesses to open just for them; at a time the facility would normally be closed.

“Because I lead the Playgroup Pals for free, I do not have money to pay for those who are ‘no-shows.’ Businesses schedule employees based on our headcount, so we have to be accountable to that number as a group. I spend many hours scheduling field trips, tallying headcounts, and collecting money!”

Ashely’s kids range in age from 8 to 24. Her oldest, Christine, is now married and lives in Northwest Arkansas. Her daughter

8 WINC. | May 2018

Taylor is 16, son Trey is 12, and youngest son Jay is 8. Ashley knows mothering is exhausting and also includes being a chef, house cleaner, a doctor, a taxi, and caretaker.

“Mom is the most wonderful title in the world! Yet so often moms become exhausted from the 24/7 job that it is. Many of us are raising kids without any family in town to help.”

Because of that Ashley has organized and delivered hundreds of “New Mommy Meals” to local families. She gets Playgroup Pals volunteers to each make a dish and deliver to her front porch.

“I would put the meal together, include an encouraging note, a small gift, and personally deliver each one. I usually deliver one to three meals monthly.” Ashley did that for years, right up until her youngest started kindergarten several years ago.

Now, when school is in session you can find her substitute teaching in her kids’ classrooms. To her, it’s just another avenue for loving on our area’s kiddos.

“I get to be on the ‘inside’ of my children’s lives in a way I never could before substitute teaching. I am able to encourage and love on other children every day.”

Ashley has her bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas in Broadcast Journalism and loves writing on a blog.

She uses it as another outlet to support moms in their parent-

ing efforts.You can follow her at LemieTellYou.blogspot.com or find her on Facebook: Facebook.com/lemitellyou.

“God has given me an intense passion to look for moms who are new to Conway or who haven’t found their niche or who just need to find more enjoyment in their mothering journey…

Having no family in town, these mom friends became my family and have walked with me through the many ups and downs of

mothering.”

Even though Ashley’s kids are school age now playgroup continues! It meets any time Conway Public Schools are on a break; especially during the summer. She already has this summer’s playgroups planned! To be included in Playgroup Pals events email Ashley at alemieux77@hotmail.com.

womensinc.net 9

What moms are saying: “Ashley is such an asset to the community of moms in Conway. She works very hard to plan fun and budget friendly activities. She does this all on her own time. Not only does she help moms find a place to belong she also helps kiddos find a positive avenue for friendships.”

-Jennifer Cox, mother of 4

Cannon, Marcus, Carson, Taylon and Jennifer Cox “A friend told me about Ashley and her playgroup right when I moved to Conway; and it was such a blessing! I would bring the kids to play once a week, and not only did the kids get to experience new activities, but I was able to connect with other moms in Conway in similar life situations. That time in my life is priceless! It was such a fun play time with the kids, and I developed lifelong relationships with some dear ladies!”

-Hannah Howell, mother of 2

Hannah, Brody, and Emery Howell

10 WINC. | May 2018

“As the mom of a toddler, brand new to Conway, meeting Ashley was one of the best things ever! She welcomed us with open arms and helped us meet so many new friends. Ashley worked hard coming up with new and interesting places to visit each Friday; and after each play date I knew in my heart that it was the best way we could have spent the day!”

-Colleen Gemelli-Dunbar, mother of 1 Jack Dunbar and Colleen Gemelli-Dunbar “Our family moved to Conway six years ago and at that time we had three children under the age of four. I had just stopped working and I didn’t know many people in Conway. Ashley’s playgroup was such a gift! I was able to get out of the house and meet other moms in the community. Years later, my kids still get excited about playgroup days!”

-Andrea Champlin, mother of 3

Adam, Scott, Annabel, Andrea, and Andrew Champlin

womensinc.net 11

TINKER ZONE

by Melissa Gates

Kids Exploring ‘Why’ and ‘How’ The official definition of the word tinker is, ‘attempt to repair or improve something in a casual or desultory way, often to no useful effect.’ ie-“he spent hours tinkering with the car.” But to a young child ‘to tinker’ means something totally different; exploring, learning, touching, building, growing and understanding.

Ida Burns Elementary 12 WINC. | May 2018

Ida Burns Elementary school librarian Sharon Cone says, “Students benefit from tinkering by asking the why and how questions and then working with peers to explore and discover the answers on their own. We know students learn by doing.”

Ida Burns has a thriving ‘makerspace lab’ where third and fourth graders come for an hour a week to explore, create, discover, and collaborate on STEM projects. (STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Looking to add to her curriculum, Cone recently learned about a tinkering kit program offered through the Museum of Discovery’s ‘Discovery Network.’ But you can’t get the kits unless your school pays to be a network member. That costs $2,500. The network is the Museum of Discovery’s way of exporting its curriculum outside its Little Rock walls and into the entire state.

Cone immediately started shopping for community partners and sponsors because she just had to get these tinkering kits into her students’ hands. And boy, did she find some! Thanks to the Conway Chamber of Commerce, Acxiom and First Arkansas Bank and Trust; not just Ida Burns, but 25 elementary schools in Central Arkansas were gifted with a membership.

That not only allows them access to the kits but also to teacher training in STEM curriculum.

Cone says, “Our community partners saw this as a great way to enhance STEM education in Arkansas schools…we are so, so grateful for their support!”

The kits first arrived in February and rotate through the different schools. Each one stays about three weeks. Each kit is entirely different. Some are full of electrical circuits, others focus on robotics, while others allow kids to play with pulleys and levers. The contents of the last kit of the school year is a surprise from the Discovery Network.

One of the most exciting components of the tinkering kit program is the emphasis on kids teaching kids.

Chamber executive Jamie Gates says, “A big piece of this is kids teaching other kids what they’ve learned; a fourth grader

Ida Burns Elementary “Through Tinkerfest at Toadsuck Daze, participating schools will have the opportunity to engage festival goers in fun and exciting activities. They will hopefully see how students are learning to take charge of their own learning and having fun in the process,” says librarian Sharon Cone. “We know we are helping to prepare our students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and math by allowing them to tinker, explore, discover, and create.”

Long after Toad Suck Daze organizers have celebrated their 2018 Toad race winners, tinkering kits will return to the schools in the fall. They will allow more little ones to not just as the tinker definition says, “attempt to repair or improve something;” but to find confidence, self-esteem, and perhaps a future in building and creating.

Toad Suck Daze runs May 4th-6th in downtown Conway.

Julia Lee Moore Elementary teaching a first grader, or a third grader teaching a kindergartener. Toad Suck Daze offers the perfect platform for that.”

In a one block stretch of Oak Street, during Toad Suck Daze, just east of Toad Suck Square, will be something called Tinkerfest. Each of the 25 schools in the membership program with the Discovery Network will have a booth set up showing visiting kids how to tinker, build, experiment, and create. Kids from Julia Lee Moore Elementary will teach festival-going kids how to make Origami toads, students from another school will help kids make ‘wearable technology,’ while others will build robots with visiting children.

Ida Burns Elementary

womensinc.net 13

Nana’s Early Lessons & Sweet Rewards

by Kelly Sublett At age 6, Kathy Bunting stood on a small chair in her mother’s kitchen in Augusta, Arkansas, and took on a role in her household that would last a lifetime. Armed with lessons from her mother, Annie Gardner, Kathy made sure her work would benefit the family.

“I did the food cooking,” she says. “I made sure it was done when they got home.”

From her own kitchen in Conway, Kathy still cooks for her family with a framed photo of her mother and father, Walter, front and center.

“They are always with me in this kitchen,” she says. “I’m a country girl, and that’s the way my mother was, too. I love flowers and I love color. I probably have more flowers than I need, but I just love them.”

Kathy, one of five children, learned early on that cooking and a kitchen filled with flavor would bring people together, no matter the challenges her family faced.

“My mom and dad didn’t have a whole lot,” she explains. “They picked cotton and strawberries and my dad cut grass. My father only had one arm (he lost it in an electrical accident when Kathy was a child).You would never know it though.You would think he

14 WINC. | May 2018

had three arms by how hard he worked. But they knew how to survive and to share. When they went out to the fields, I cooked.”

Kathy’s father needed a blood transfusion after his accident, and she likes to tell the story that a white man they barely knew donated blood.

“For many years, we didn’t know who that man was,” she says.

“We threw my parents a wedding for their 50th anniversary party and my sister found this man. There was not a dry eye in the room, and it was so touching that he saved my dad’s life.

“We knew what hard times were, but we appreciated other people’s kindness. We did what we could for others all our lives.”

Her family were members of Northside Church of Christ and nearly every Sunday would feed Harding students.

“I remember my mother would have four different meats sometimes,” Kathy remembers. “All the fresh vegetables from the garden and all the cakes lined up. And they would eat! My mother would make her sweet potato pie. She probably made hundreds in her lifetime. That was the preacher’s favorite.”

As a teen, Kathy got a job cooking at the Augusta Inn. her meals were so popular, locals would call in deliveries.

“I was the youngest cook there,” she says. “I would also get big tips for cooking for folks. And I took those tips home to give to my mother.”

Kathy and husband Lavon are still stewards of that spirit, sharing her favorites with church family, coworkers and friends.

One of the most requested is Kathy’s version of Georgia Cornbread Cake.

womensinc.net 15

“It’s in big demand,” she laughs. “I can do it now without even looking at the recipe. I came across a recipe for it in my favorite magazine Southern Living about 15 years ago. I tried to make it a couple of times and it didn’t turn out well at all. So, I tweaked it. I added a little of this and a little of that and made it my own, and finally, I got it. I remember being surprised that a cornbread cake didn’t call for any meal, so I tried it.”

Kathy says she was not able to have a child on her own, but adopted her son, Nicolas in 1982.

Nicolas and wife, Monica, and their children in live Kansas City.

She has stepchildren and grandchildren with Lavon as well. A big family, she says, always lends an opportunity in the kitchen.

“A good meal is comfort, and after a good meal, everyone is relaxed and likes to talk,” she says. “We laugh and have some sad times, too, but you’re surrounded by family, so it feels good.”

Kathy and Lavon share nearly every meal together at home.

Kathy cooks lunch for her husband daily, and says she loves to surprise him with a sweet baked item.

“All the times, good or bad, we spend right here at this table,” she says.

Kathy says she still comparison shops for ingredients so she can keep the tradition of sharing alive. And after Lavon lost his job at Southwestern Energy during a heavy layoff a few years ago, that skill has been more important than ever.

Georgia Cornbread Cake

1 Cup sugar 1 Cup brown sugar 4 eggs, beaten 1 ¼ Cup vegetable oil 1 ½ cup self-rising flour 1 tsp. Vanilla extract 2 Cups pecans, chopped very fine

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease and flour a 9”X13” baking dish. Stir together sugar, brown sugar, eggs and oil in a medium bowl until smooth. Stir in flour and vanilla.

Add pecans and stir until evenly mixed. Spoon into prepared pan and bake for 36 minutes.

16 WINC. | May 2018

“I learned how to budget and find a bargain,” she says. “The Lord has blessed us, and he will make a way. We pray a lot. My mother taught us to pay our bills and keep a roof over our heads.

We never went hungry and we had food to spare.”

Her best advice for young people, Kathy says, is to learn to cook.

“Study recipes, surround yourself with things you love — I love my roosters,” she laughs. “My sister says I have too many roosters, but I love my roosters. Cooking can make you feel good, especially if you’re cooking for someone else. When I’m depressed and feeling sorry for myself, I cook and take my mind right off that!”

If you know a favorite family cook and would like to nominate them for a feature, please email ksublett@thecabin.net.

womensinc.net 17

Art of something familiar

by Kelly Sublett The roots of Kristen Abbott’s newest Art on the Green installation are muted among the mixed media works of the “Conway Collection.”

A keen eye is drawn to the layers of history and the pop of newness in each piece. Abbott began working on the collection at the beginning of the year. Using vintage Log Cabin Democrat newspapers, postcards, letters and other found items as her inspiration, she began painting a map of sorts to her roots — to things familiar.

“I focused on getting back to your roots,” Abbott says of the Conway Collection. “It definitely has a sense of history. I like the juxtaposition of combining vintage inspiration with modern composition.”

The centerpiece of the 11-piece collection, now on display at Art on the Green, is a 36” X 36” canvas “Our Roots Go Deep.”

“I used a large, vintage map from the Log Cabin,” Abbott explains. “All the other pieces point back toward that featured piece.”

The Conway Collection is part of a larger body of work entitled “The Correspondence Series” Abbott has been working on for the past year and a half.

“The Correspondence Series was inspired as I began re-reading through stacks of collected vintage postcards,” she says.

“In previous years, I have been attracted to these cards mostly for their gorgeous patina and nostalgic feel. Recently, however, I have been more drawn to the stories that these papers and cards contain. This series seeks to embody individual stories that are tied together by the common threads of history, memory, and place.”

Abbott, who now lives in Denver, Colorado, says Central Arkansas will always bring her back to her roots — not only a hometown, but where influence in her life was strongest.

18 WINC. | May 2018

Although Abbott received a degree from the University of Central Arkansas in 2011, she realized her heart was in the art she creates. She credits local artist and Art on the Green gallery owner Nina Baker for an early introduction to the possibility of being an artist for hire.

“Nina is a dear friend and mentor,” Abbott says. “I remember being 8 years old and her introducing me on my journey.

“I have so many childhood memories of painting alongside her in her cozy studio. She always allowed me to create in an unstructured and exploratory way. It was very freeing and instilled a love of genuine creativity. I am super thankful for her influence, not just artisitcally, but spiritually.”

Baker remembers fondly a little girl who enjoyed creating.

“Kristen is a great girl, and I remember she would be painting and I would listen to her,” she said. “I watched her explore different media, and that’s something I never did as much.”

Baker homeschooled her son, and because Abbott also was homeschooled, often used the opportunity to teach art to a small group. She bought supplies and gave them space to learn.

Abbott, Baker says, was always eager.

“Growing up in rural North Arkansas, I was in the second grade and had a teacher who had us memorize the masters [of

fine art],” Nina says. “I always saw that as a good foundation. So, that’s what inspired me to teach.”

Situating Art on the Green near two schools on Bob Courtway Drive in Conway was no accident. Nina said the space, she hopes, will be available to young people who maybe couldn’t get to other galleries.

“I want it to be a place for excellence,” Baker says. “We’ve had so many amazing artists, from Bryan Massey’s sculptures to masters in glass sculpting. People can come in and learn, too.

Part of the overall goal is to promote and encourage artists.

“Kristen adds a different dimension to her work. She is the first contemporary artist we’ve had at the gallery and it is just so popular.”

For the last six years, Abbott has poured her energy into her work full time. She stays at home with her two young children.

“I always loved to paint,” she says. “I just didn’t see it as a career until I worked at a contemporary art gallery in Tulsa. I started to believe it a viable career path. I got the bigger picture into what it takes to create an entire body of work.”

In 2016, Abbott completed 18 commissioned paintings for Baptist Medical Center-Conway, as it opened its doors to the community. Her works are as much a part of the community here as she is.

“I definitely want this new body of work to be about peace and a connection with hometown,” she says. “It embodies community, and tells a story that is a common thread among all the pieces.”

To view the Conway Collection, visit Art on the Green, 1100 Bob Courtway Drive, Suite , in Conway. The collection is for sale.

womensinc.net 19

S u r v i v al

G ear

by Andrea Champlin My daughter Annabel, at the ripe old age of 9, went to her first week-long summer camp last year. This was a huge deal for us; it was the first time she had been away from home for that long. We knew we would miss her like crazy, but we wanted her to have the experience. She absolutely loved it and is going back this summer.

When I read the packing list last year, it appeared pretty sparse. I remember thinking that it didn’t look like enough stuff.

So I texted a friend whose daughter had been to the same summer camp the year before. I am so glad I did! She sent me, God bless her, a huge list of things we needed. I was shocked!

And I had to get busy shopping! Annabel was leaving for camp in two days.

So this is not a list of clothes, shoes, swimsuits and socks.You already know to pack pajamas. These are things that you don’t generally pack when you’re going on a trip.

Summer Camp Supplies Trunk, Not a Suitcase – This is probably the best piece of advice we got.

A Clip-On Fan – A fan (or two!) is a must! Annabel’s camp does not have air conditioning. We brought one clip-on fan last year and I wish we’d taken two. One dad brought a box fan, somehow attached it to the post on the top bunk, and it was hanging at the foot of his daughter’s bottom bunk, so that it blew directly on her. This dad had some serious summer camp game.

Surge protector and Extension Cord – There may be limited outlets. We wanted to be able to plug in her fan and any-

20 WINC. | May 2018

thing else she needed and still be considerate of her bunkmates that may need an outlet.

Zip Ties – Handy for attaching things. I think this may have been how Super Dad Box Fan Guy attached the box fan to his daughter’s bunk bed. Now I wish I’d asked him.You may also want to bring a pair of scissors to remove the zip ties when you pick up.

Cinch Sack – For carrying water bottle, bug spray, and various other items around camp.

Fast-Drying Towels – There’s likely not a washer and dryer at your camp, so kids will be hanging them to dry. There was a clothesline outside where towels were hung at our camp.

Letters for Your Child – The camp we attended had large bins set up during registration. These bins were for parents to drop letters off for their children. Check to see if you camp has mail call. Ask what the procedure is and what’s the best way to get letters to your child.

Stationary and Stamps – Pack these in your child’s trunk so you can pretend they are going to write you letters. Although there is no way this is going to happen, it will make you feel better as you’re driving away from camp without your child.

Camera – The camp we go to does not allow cell phones or tablets, which I love! We sent a camera with Annabel for pictures. She has a Nikon Coolpix that she got for her birthday a few weeks before. The photo quality is not the best, but she was able to take pictures of her new friends and camp life.

We enjoyed hearing about it and seeing pictures when she got home. There are also some disposable camera options.

daughter doing that are slim. Annabel told me when she got home last year that she was very thankful to have the bug spray.

Shower Tote – For carrying all toiletries and a towel to and from the shower.

Shower flip flops – There’s a product called Showaflops that are specifically made for public showers. They have small holes in the bottom that allows them to dry faster, but any cheap flip flops would work.

Insulated Water Bottle – Make sure it’s insulated so they have cold water to drink.

Money/Quarters – Our camp had a snack shack and a store. We gave Annabel some money for snacks and souvenirs.

Flashlight – I like the flashlights that double as lanterns.

Batteries – Make sure there are extra batteries packed. This will come in handy if your little precious forgets to turn their flashlight off.

Snacks in tupperware – You definitely want to send snacks, but you don’t want any insects to get into the snack stash.

Sunscreen for Body and Face – Make sure you talk with your kids about applying sunscreen while they’re gone.

Bug Spray – I look for a bug spray with around a 15-20% concentration of DEET.You can get a Picaridin substitute to DEET. There are natural bug sprays out there, they will just have to be reapplied more often and I think the chances of my

Towel Wrap – Ok, so the boys probably won’t want this one, but my girl loved it. Helpful when you’re out of the shower and brushing teeth.

Family Photo – My daughter is very sentimental and she told us she would look at our family photo every night before going to sleep. I know this depends on the kid, but it’s a must for us. When my sons are old enough for camp, probably not.

Fan Water Sprayer – I thought this was kind of a silly purchase, but Annabel really wanted one, so I gave in. When she got home she told me she used it all the time. I’m glad she had it.

Twinkle Lights – Ok, so this is totally not necessary, but so cute. We draped these twinkle lights around the side of Annabel’s bed. Plus, I like to say twinkle lights.

Wet Swimsuit Bag – A wet swimsuit may have to be carried around in a cinch sack.You don’t want the wet swimsuit to damage anything else. Honestly, I’m not sure if my daughter used this last year, but she had one.

womensinc.net 21

Hat – To help protect their face from the sun.

Pony Tail Holders – Because e it’s hot! I sent a huge bag with Annabel.

Beach Towels – If they have a swimming option.

Mattress Pad – You definitely want a mattress pad.

Twin Sheets – I tried to get a fun pattern so her bed was festive. She didn’t really need a blanket, so I just took a very thin throw blanket to put on her bed in case she got cold.

Cool Blanket – Any thin blanket would work.

Pillow – If your child is used to sleeping on two pillows, make sure you take an extra. Annabel had two. Don’t forget the extra pillowcase.

Swim Goggles – If swimming is an option, you may want to take swim goggles.

Dirty Clothes bag – You don’t want them throwing dirty camp clothes back into their trunk and getting mixed up with their clean clothes.

Now, after you’ve almost spent as much money on camp supplies as the actual camp (insert eye roll here), realize that there are some things your child will not make it back with (insert another eye roll here). Just take a deep breath, put their name on everything, and be ok with this. Annabel did pretty well. I think we were missing a towel and some shorts, but most everything came home.

When she got home I washed everything and whatever was used solely for summer camp I stored in the trunk for next year.

Just make sure you take the batteries out of anything that uses them. That way you’re way ahead on the summer camp packing game for next year.

She loves summer camp and has a great time. I know it’s hard to send them away, but feel better knowing they have everything they could possibly need while they’re away.

For simple shopping you can find links to many of these items on my blog at TheMajesticMama.com/winc.

Andrea Champlin is a Conway transplant with a new appreciation for toads and mythical creatures. She’s a wife, mom of three, and likes to create pretty things all while trying to get the mom thing right. Andrea can usually be found toting her kids around or planning their next trip, but always with paint on her hands.

22 WINC. | May 2018

womensinc.net 23

g n i t f a r C S FAIL

&

This month, WINC. Magazine challenged our crafters to a slimemaking contest. As slime is the rage among pre-teens and teenagers across the globe, we thought our team of crafters might like to show off this fun, family-friendly project.

Each crafter was given basic supplies.

All were instructed they could embellish with colors or textures, but they could not start over. Once the project was underway, they had to stick with it.

S FAV

We rate this month’s craft at skill level 5.

• 4 oz. school glue (plain, colored, glitter, etc.)

• 1 Tablespoon baking powder • Food coloring, glitter, foam beads, etc.

• Contact solution (add to desired slime consistency)

Here’s what you need:

“My tips are to start very slowly with the contact Ellie Reed Age: 14 Occupation: Student Crafting level: 7

solution because it doesn’t take very much at all. I put foam beads, confetti beads, and watermelon scent in mine.”

Ellie makes slime from home, get more pro tips at southernslime13.com

Ellie rated her attempt 10 out of 10

“I have heard a lot about this craft through my Jennifer Poole Age: 54 Occupation: Registered Nurse Crafting level: 7

employees talking about doing this with their kids & that you can make fluffy slime with shaving cream.

I will probably do this again with grandchildren. I would be more creative with colors.”

Jennifer rated her attempt 9 out of 10

“It was a fun little project. But Lance Licht “Monka” Age: 60 Occupation: Retired grandpa Crafting level: 5

mix in your decorations and dye before adding contact solution. I had to fold mine in. I recommend adding the solution slowly to get the consistency you want.”

Lance rated his attempt 8 out of 10 24 WINC. | May 2018

Military Mom Serves Community WN METO O H

HERO

Brittani Little manages a “crazy busy life” with husband, Matthew. She is mother to 6-month-old Quinn and stepmom to 9-year-old Ashton.

She serves in the National Guard and works as an officer for the Conway Police Department.

“I am originally from Missouri but have lived in Conway for around three years now,” she says. “I joined the Missouri National Guard while I was in college. I’m a busy body and going to class everyday didn’t challenge me like I thought it would. I signed up for the National Guard and left just weeks later for basic training.”

More than eight years after signing up, Brittani carries two jobs in the Guard — one as a military police officer and the other as a combat medic.

“I have been with the Conway Police department for two and a half years,” she says. “The first six months I worked in dispatch and realized I wanted to be on the other side of the radio and able to handle everything I was sending the officers to.”

Brittani looks to God for guidance, and after witnessing what drugs can do to

families and communities, she called on her talents.

“The good Lord gave me the ability to handle stressful situations and I decided to use it to benefit others,” she explains.

“Growing up, I had drug use directly affect my life. I saw and lived how happy families can be torn apart by drug use.

No child deserves anything but the best, and being able to get drugs off the street is a personal goal of mine.”

Brittani alternates her CPD schedules with her monthly weekend drill in St. Louis. Setting a good example for her family is a key motivator.

“My stepson is very proud of me and loves asking questions about both the Army and Police Department,” she says. “I hope my daughter is just as proud when she can understand why life is so busy.

“Let me tell you, it takes a village. Those I work with at the police department have become like family and help whenever needed. My kiddos have so many people who love them and their father and I couldn’t be more thankful.”

And at the heart of everything, Brittani is a hard-working mom. A typical day means waking up two hours before a shift starts, getting both children ready for school and daycare, packing lunches, dropping each off at respective daycares and completing the day with at least a 12-hour shift.

“I get home and we work on homework and cook dinner,” she says. “We practice soccer or football and get everyone to bed. As a family we all love playing board games and spending time together laughing and telling corny jokes.”

And no matter if she is working in either role, those family ties keep her going.

“With every shift and every call, the desire to go home to my family is always on my mind and pushes me through stressful situations,” she says. “If I had to give some advice, it would be to cherish the little moments and don’t stress over the small things. If you have ever been in a situation where not going home to your family could have been an option, your priorities and concerns change. It’s worth it to let a load of laundry sit there so you can spend just a few more minutes with family.”

womensinc.net 25

I remember my first Mother’s Day brunch as a new mom so well. I didn’t want any gifts, I just wanted to have a quiet brunch at home with family and friends. And that’s what we did! It was a perfect day and we served mimosas, Belgian waffles and fruit. That’s it! It was so easy and everyone had a great time.

So this year, for our annual Mother’s Day brunch at home, I thought I’d test out some mimosa recipes and share my favorites with you.

Let’s start with the bubbly. I invited a friend over and we experimented with an extra dry prosecco and a brut champagne. I know, my job is hard.

First of all, what does dry mean when you’re talking about wines? It just means that there is no residual sugar and therefore is not sweet.You don’t want a champagne or sparkling wine that is too sweet, because you’re adding juice that already has sugar and plenty of sweetness. Brut is the driest, followed by extra dry.

Any dry sparkling wine or champagne will work for mimosas, and you don’t have to get an expensive bottle. In our very high-tech tasting exercises in my kitchen, we liked them both equally and they worked well with the fruit juices.

And if you don’t imbibe or want the kids to have fancy glasses and join in the fun, you can try sparkling water, ginger ale or sprite as a substitute for the sparkling wine.

Here are our four favorite concoctions.

I’m going to have a hard time deciding which one to have for Mother’s Day brunch.

Story & photos by Andrea Champlin

Orange Julius Mimosa

It only makes sense that I was inspired to come up with this mimosa after a visit to Chick-fil-A. Is there anything more “mom” than taking your kids to Chick-fil-A? I can’t remember exactly what I ordered, but I let the kids share a specialty drink that was offered that day. My husband joined us and had a sip and he said the drink reminded him of an Orange Julius that he used to drink at the country club as a kid. I thought that sounded like a great idea for a mimosa!

You will need: Vanilla Ice Cream (or Vanilla Bean Ice Cream) Orange Juice Champagne/Sparkling Wine Vanilla Directions: Put half a scoop of ice cream in the bottom of a champagne flute. Add two or three drops of vanilla. Pour orange juice to halfway point of champagne flute. Finish with champagne or sparkling wine. Stir gently. (You may be able to substitute vanilla bean ice cream for the vanilla, or use both. I had the cheap gallon of vanilla ice cream because I use ice cream to bribe my kids, and it was still fantastic!)

26 WINC. | May 2018

Strawberry Lemonade Mimosa My daughter, Annabel, took a southern etiquette class last summer and learned how to make lemonade. I’m going to ask her to make some for Mother’s Day and I may commandeer a little of it for a mimosa, or two.

Strawberries will forever remind me of my Memaw’s house. She had a strawberry patch in her backyard and she would let me pick the strawberries when they were ripe. I send her a copy of WINC., so thank you Memaw. You had a big impact on this girl, and for much more than strawberries.

You will need: Strawberries Lemonade Champagne/Sparkling Wine Mint Leaves (optional) Instructions: Use your immersion blender or juicer to make strawberry juice. I used my immersion blender and then strained the strawberries using a fine mesh sieve. Use a rubber spatula to press juice through sieve. Discard solids. Pour dollop of strawberry juice into the bottom of champagne flute. Fill to half with lemonade. Top with champagne. Garnish with strawberry.

Optional: My ingenious friend tore apart some mint leaves and muddled them in the bottom of the champagne flute before pouring. It was delicious! Even better after sitting for a couple minutes!

Cranberry Orange Mimosa This one includes the classic orange juice, with a twist! I wasn’t even planning on trying a mimosa with cranberry juice, but the three coconut mimosas we tried were terrible, so I pulled out the cranberry juice.

You will need: Cranberry Juice Orange Juice Champagne/Sparkling Wine Directions: This is not a drink that needs exact measurements.

I liked two parts cranberry and one part orange juice, but this is subjective. Fill glass to half with juice. Add champagne. This would be great to fill two pitchers if you’re having a gathering, and let guests pour how much they like of each.

Pineapple Raspberry Mimosa I love pineapple and I love raspberries! I couldn’t find a raspberry juice, so I made my own. It was surprisingly easy!

You will need: Pineapple Juice Raspberries Champagne/Sparkling Wine Instructions: Use your immersion blender or juicer to make raspberry juice. I used my immersion blender and then strained the raspberries using a fine mesh sieve. Use rubber spatula to press juice through sieve.

Discard solids. Fill champagne flute 1/3 to 1/2 full with pineapple juice. Fill to just beneath the top with champagne. Slowly add raspberry juice to taste. Stir gently. womensinc.net 27

sweet cream waffle mix online, and I highly recommend it.

I topped this Belgian waffle with maple syrup (get maple, it’s worth it) fruit, whipped cream, and powdered sugar. Just remember, carbs don’t count on Mother’s Day. So there you have it! All you need for and easy and festive Mother’s Day brunch for all to enjoy! And to all the mothers, grandmothers, expecting moms, single moms, teachers, desperately-hoping-to-get-pregnant moms, moms with babies in Heaven: enjoy this day. It is to celebrate the love and sacrifice that you have made and continue to make for the love of children. Never forget the impact that you have.

Cheers!

For a link to the sweet cream waffle mix, Mother’s Day printables and more, visit my blog at TheMajesticMama.com/winc.

Belgian Waffles

So now that we have the mimosas taken care of, let’s talk about Belgian waffles. I told my husband that I didn’t want any gifts on that first Mother’s Day, but he got me one anyway: a waffle maker! Our waffle maker has made an appearance at every Mother’s Day since.

I would like to tell you that I make Belgian waffles from scratch; however, that would be a lie. We usually use a mix from the local grocery store, Krusteaz is my favorite, but we will be trying something else this year.

My husband and I recently went to San Antonio and stopped for brunch at the Geunther House. I ordered one of their sweet cream waffles and it was the best Belgian waffle I’ve ever had! As luck would have it, their sweet cream waffle mix was for sale in the gift shop. So I picked some up and brought it home with us to serve for Mother’s Day brunch.

The Geunther House is a home-turned-restaurant and is supplied with flour made from the family mill right next door. We waited an hour and a half to get a table and I would do it again.

If a trip to San Antonio isn’t in your future, you can order the

28 WINC. | May 2018

Andrea Champlin is a Conway transplant with a new appreciation for toads and mythical creatures. She’s a wife, mom of three, and likes to create pretty things all while trying to get the mom thing right. Andrea can usually be found toting her kids around or planning their next trip, but always with paint on her hands.

Conversations with a

Makala Spencer

Occupation: Speech therapist in Quitman School District and full-time mom to two girls: Olivia, 2.5 years old; and Havyn, 8 months Married to: Bradley Spencer, basketball coach The couple will be married five years this August and met at Harding while both playing basketball.

Current hometown: Mayflower Makala is originally from Alpena and Bradley is originally from Lonoke.

Fun fact: The Spencers celebrate an anniversary and both girls’ birthdays in the month of August.

What’s the last music you listened to as a family while driving?

Contemporary Christian station What’s your guilty pleasure?

Binge watching my favorite TV shows on Netflix What’s the one thing in your home you want to get rid of but that your spouse won’t allow?

Probably a few pieces of his wardrobe that he knows I don’t particularly like — haha!

Who is your favorite animated character?

Pocahontas What are you most passionate about?

Being a Mama and helping fellow Mama’s out during this crazy, but incredibly fulfilling journey of motherhood.

What is the furthest you’ve been from home and why?

Africa. On a mission trip with my graduate program in Speech-Language Pathology.

Do you prefer mountains or the beach?

Definitely beach!

Who do you most admire?

My grandma.

Which is your favorite restaurant in town?

Logan’s Is your family more Elvis or Beatles?

A little bit of both but probably more Beatles.

Who is the better driver?

Definitely my husband Who is the calmest?

Definitely my husband What is your family’s favorite hobby?

We honestly don’t do a whole lot outside of our home but when we do it’s probably watching basketball games #lifeofacoachesfamily Where do you go to church?

Robinson & Center Church of Christ What is your favorite memory as a family?

I don’t have one specific memory yet. I cherish every moment all 4 of us get to be together. Whether that’s just hanging out at our home, taking walks, playing outside, or going on day trips somewhere.

Cody Sublett is a native to Faulkner County. He is a local business owner and enjoys sharing the personalities of the people he meets. Whether it is another small business owner or a family he has had the pleasure of meeting, the Cadron Creek Craftsman is happy to share a little bit about the people who make Central Arkansas unique and diverse.

womensinc.net 29

TRANSFORM A ROOM

With a stencil Story & photos by Andrea Champlin I am slightly obsessed with wallpaper. I’ve been looking at it for years, but I cannot make a decision on what I want. So why is the decision so hard? Well, because wallpaper is not something that can be easily changed if you don’t like it. The paper itself is expensive, and it’s expensive to have it hung. I’d love to tell you I’d DIY it, but no way I’d try to do it myself.

I’ve almost purchased wallpaper a few times, but I just couldn’t pull the trigger. It is just too much of a commitment for me! I recently had to get a new washer and dryer, so I decided it would be a great time for a little laundry room makeover and I chose to stencil one of the walls.

If you’re not familiar with a wall stencil, it has the look of wallpaper, but with paint. I tried a green cheetah print in my 30 WINC. | May 2018

dining room last year and I liked it, it’s on my blog if you want to see it, but I’ve already painted over it. I like to change things up a lot, so I’ve been reluctant to wallpaper, but stenciling is another story.

First of all, if you’ve seen a stenciling video, they make it look super easy. It’s not super easy. It isn’t difficult, but it is tedious and time-consuming. So if you’re having a dinner party at your house in two days and want to stencil your dining room before company comes, my advice is to wait. This is not to discourage you, but I want you to have realistic expectations. I stenciled one little wall in my laundry room and I worked on it over several days.

Prepare the Wall I chose a circle pattern stencil for the laundry room. I wanted a mostly white wall with navy circle. I originally thought that I would paint the navy circles over the white. Wrong. I had to paint the wall navy first, then go over it in white. Sometimes it’s hard to tell. Make sure you know which color to paint first.

If you’re working on a large wall, you want to start in the middle. Using painter’s tape, tape your stencil on the wall. Use a level to make sure your stencil is level.You’ll only have to use the level once, but if you don’t, you could have a crooked design all over your wall, and you don’t want that to happen.

Now, having said that, I did not use a level. But I have a good reason! There’s large window in the middle of the wall I was stenciling. I decided to rest the edge of my stencil on the baseboard and tape the stencil to the wall. If my stencil is crooked, then my house is crooked, and I have bigger problems than a crooked stencil.

Tape the Stencil On the Wall Some painters like to use spray adhesive on the back of the stencil. I do not. I just use painter’s tape to secure to the wall.

Just make sure all of the stencil is completely flat on the wall.

Start Painting The first time I stenciled I tried to save money and used a regular paint roller. Big mistake. Huge. I would strongly advise

against that. Spend the money for the proper supplies. It will keep you sane. A regular paint roller holds too much paint. Go ahead and buy the stenciling brush and the four inch foam roller.

The brush is easier for smaller spaces and the roller is good for large portions of wall.

And that brings me to the cardinal rule of stenciling: DO NOT PUT TOO MUCH PAINT ON YOUR BRUSH OR ROLLER! (sorry for yelling) What happens if you have too much paint on your brush and roller? It seeps under the stencil and it’s a mess that you have to fix. Here’s a picture of what happens if you have even a little too much paint.

Once you have the paint on the brush or roller, use a paper towel or piece of cardboard to dab off the excess. It’s better to have too little paint than too much. Gently roll over the stencil.

If using a brush, a work from the edges to the center. This will help reduce the chance that paint seeps under the stencil.

Remove the Stencil Once you’re done painting, carefully remove the stencil.

You do not need to wait for the paint to dry to remove the stencil.You do, however, need to wait for the paint to dry on the wall (and the stencil) before placing it on the wall again.

Stenciling works by placing the stencil over part of the wall that has already been painted. This is how it looks like wallpaper.

You shouldn’t be able to tell where you stopped and started stenciling.

womensinc.net 31

Line Up Your Stencil, Paint Again Once the paint on the wall is dry, simply repeat these steps for the entire wall. The first time I stenciled I did not wait for the paint to dry. Don’t be like me.

This is Where it Gets Tricky The hardest part of my wall was working around the ceiling, window molding, and the cabinetry. It was not fun.You have to bend the stencil to fit around the corners and hold it with your hand while you paint. It is frustrating if you have a lot of cabinets

or windows in the room you’re working on. The easiest type of wall to do is a plain wall with no curves and no windows.

Those are pretty easy. It gets a little more challenging the more windows, corners, or cabinets you have.

When I had only the sides of the wall left to do, I cut my stencil. It was too difficult to fit around the corners and the stencil was getting heavier because of all the dried paint(and more difficult for the tape to hold.)

I didn’t want to cut the stencil because I always like to reuse things, but there was just no way to finish without making the stencil smaller.

Touch Up There are always a few spots where the paint got away from me. I simply take a regular art paintbrush, and go around the wall the touch up the paint.

You’re done! This is time-consuming, but it can make such a huge impact on a room without much expense. If you try a stencil project I’d love to hear from you! You can email your project to andrea@themajesticmama.com.

For all the details on paint colors, the tools I used things I used, and photos of the rest of the laundry room, visit my blog at TheMajesticMama.com/winc.

Andrea Champlin is a Conway transplant with a new appreciation for toads and mythical creatures. She’s a wife, mom of three, and likes to create pretty things all while trying to get the mom thing right. Andrea can usually be found toting her kids around or planning their next trip, but always with paint on her hands.

32 WINC. | May 2018

womensinc.net 33

A Look Back...

The Toad Suck Ferry

by Cindy Beckman

Almost fifty ago, the Toad Suck Lock and Dam, and the bridge that spans its top, opened to the public. Part of the larger McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System, they were constructed between 1965 and 1970. Before this time, travelers had to use the Toad Suck Ferry to cross the Arkansas River.

A ferry of some variety or another operated at Toad Suck throughout most of its history. The first regular river crossing there was said to have been in 1823 when a postal route to Hot Springs was established. A skiff, large enough for just an operator and a horse and rider, was propelled back and forth with a pole.

Near the skiff crossing on the Perry County side was the tavern, the site of the well-told story about patrons who “sucked on jugs of mountain dew until they swole up like toads.” The tavern was said to have been in operation from 1830 to 1850. Although the ferry had several names over the years, it was the “Toad Suck” name that stuck.

Over the years, several methods were used to get the ferry across the river. At one early juncture, two low-powered motors were used to pull the boat along. While one was in service, someone was tinkering with the other, so another crossing could be made. A cable, stretched across the water, was said to pull the ferry across around the turn of the 20th century. A slotted stick was used to grab the overhead cable and pull it along.

In later years, after everyone was on board, the operator would head the ferry upstream about a quarter-mile above where the landing was to be made. The craft would drift diagonally across with the current, then be guided to the desired landing place. Wind, high water and sand bars often created challenges.

Those who remember riding the ferry will no doubt have memories of waiting beneath the big trees on each side. On the Faulkner County side, two large trees, an oak and pecan, grew together, providing shade. Many passed the time – sometimes a 30-minute wait – hunting arrowheads in the nearby fields.

34 WINC. | May 2018

Through most of its history, the ferry was privately owned and operated. Senator Guy “Mutt” Jones of Conway, Rep. Paul Van Dalsem (D-Perry) and Conway businessman Dave Ward, as well as the Conway Y.B.M.A., were among the various owners.

Rep.Van Dalsem recalled that when he owned the ferry in the mid-1930s, it was a wooden barge. When it became unsafe, he hired a young Conway mechanic named Dave Ward to build a steel barge and johnboat. The johnboat, built by Ward in 1939, towed the ferry until the late 1940s and is on display at Toad Suck Landing Park.

Ward once recalled, “One day a man who lived at Cedar Park [Cadron Park] caught a large pontoon that was floating down the river and sold it to me. I split it open and used it to make round shoulders, which I welded on each side of the barge. I welded a circle underneath, put a board floor on top of them. A Ford motor, Model A, replaced the old one.”

In 1953, Sen. Jones got a $20,000 legislative appropriation for state operation of a toll ferry at Toad Suck. Clay Rice Cross of Dumas was awarded the contract from 1955 to 1960. The toll charged was 10 cents a head for livestock; 25 or 50 cents for

This is one of the last pictures of the Toad Suck Ferry.

The new bridge can be seen in the background.

Photo courtesy of Faulkner County Historical Society

This picture, taken in the 1960s, is of Ty Marshall, running the ferry.

Photo courtesy of Barbara Marshall Smith, daughter of Ty Marshall, and Kelli Smith Rice, granddaughter of Ty Marshall.

pedestrians; $1.00 for passenger cars; $1.50 for trucks and school buses; and $2.50 for heavy trucks. In 1957, Sen. Jones and Rep.Van Dalsem initiated legislation to make the ferry toll-free.

A new ferry was constructed by H.B. Smith Welding Company of Dumas in 1956.

It was 20 feet wide, four feet deep and 60 feet long and was made of steel. There were big paddle wheels on each side and the cab housed a D-2 Caterpillar motor. To maneuver the paddlewheels, operators used clutches like those on a bulldozer.

Ty Marshall, who lived near Stoney Point for most of his life, ran the ferry as did his father before him. Marshall’s son, Don, also ran it for a time. Cordell Chapman had the contract for the ferry’s operation from December 1958 until the bridge opened in 1970.

When Lock and Dam #8 and the Highway 60 bridge were formally dedicated on September 27, 1970, the ferry made its last trip across the Arkansas River. Efforts were made to preserve it as a museum, but the Highway Commission moved it to Peal, Arkansas to transport passengers across Bull Shoals Lake.

A historical marker was placed at the site of the traditional landing on the Faulkner County side in 1970. The names of the lock and dam and bridge were changed to Toad Suck Lock and Dam and Toad Suck Bridge in 1971. The ferry’s motor and a replica of the ferry can be seen at the Faulkner County Museum. womensinc.net 35

Improving the banking experience Life isn’t lived exclusively Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

It’s happening before your daily commute begins, and long after you’ve arrived home for the night. There’s church on Sunday mornings, soccer practices on Saturday afternoons and a whole host of activities in between.

Few things are constrained to “banker’s hours,” so why limit the hours you can bank?

FAB&T is new to the City of Colleges, but throughout the financial institution’s nearly 70 years serving central Arkansas, it has been focused on making life easier for customers. With that in mind, FAB&T has opened a Conway branch with personnel who can be reached all seven days in the week.

Located at 804 Hogan Lane, the bank features three QŪB (pronounced “cube”) machines, featuring an interactive teller experience than can be accessed during extended hours.

Bank personnel are available through QŪB from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, as well as Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.

QŪB blends the convenience and independence of an ATM and online banking with the personal touch of being inside a FAB&T branch.

With QŪB, you can cash a check down-to-the-penny, make a deposit, pay your house or auto loan, and interact with live account representatives, all without leaving the comfort of your vehicle.You can also access QŪB as an ATM, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with your FAB&T debit card from MasterCard.

Additionally, FAB&T offers a 24-hour customer support line — (800) 982-4511 — operated by an Arkansas-based staff.

“Over the years we have tried hard to look at new services or changes from the customers’ point of view, and then work back from there,” board chairman, CEO and bank president Larry Wilson said. “What is good for the customer? How can

36 WINC. | May 2018

we help make banking and life easier? Let’s take a look at that, and then build what we do from there.”

FAB&T refers to this approach as helping customers “LIVEFirst.”

Improving the banking experience and communities in which FAB&T operates is central to the bank’s mission since its founding in 1949. FAB&T was instrumental in securing the Little Rock Air Force Base being located in Jacksonville in the 1950s, and bank founder Kenneth Pat Wilson was a significant force in establishing Rebsamen Memorial Hospital for the town in 1962.

FAB&T, which has 22 locations throughout central Arkansas, was recognized as Bank of the Year for the Air Force in 2015 and 2016. The bank recently announced a partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas, and FAB&T’s 3 Degree Guarantee on THV11 has helped spotlight nonprofits throughout its service area.

“First Arkansas Bank & Trust has always supported the communities we serve,” said Mark Wilson, senior vice president of FAB&T and a 1998 Hendrix graduate. “We work together with our fellow businesses to help our communities with educational initiatives. We’re excited to join Conway, grow with the community and provide those same banking services we have provided to our customers in Jacksonville, Heber Springs, Greenbrier, Cabot and other communities for the past 68 years.”

FAB&T designed the Hogan Lane branch as a modern and welcoming environment for customers. From opening a new account to securing a mortgage, home equity line of credit or small business loan, customers have access to what Mark Wilson describes as “the branch of the future.”

“This is not the branch of the 1990s or 2000s. We’re bringing a new style of banking, that’s really the old style - personalized attention and all the financial services you need.”

Local Independent Pharmacies Donate Medications This month I thought I’d use my allotted advertising space as more of a public service announcement and to “toot the horn” for the local, independently owned pharmacies.

Unless you have been in hibernation since the first of the year – which actually doesn’t sound like such a bad idea given the crazy Arkansas weather and terrible flu season we’ve had – you are aware of the terribly low payments that your local pharmacists have been receiving from the PBM middleman since January 1st.

I’m proud to say that hasn’t diminished our desire to help wherever help is needed, which brings me to the point of this article.

The Arkansas Pharmacists Association and the Arkansas Pharmacy Foundation have been working with the Arkansas Dental Association’s Mission of Mercy Dental Clinic since its inception 13 years ago. Conway’s own, Dr. Terry Fiddler, along with pharmacist, Dr. Ronnie Norris from McGehee, have been instrumental in the success of this event over the years. This annual event rotates through various cities across the state. This year, ArMOM 2018 will be located at the Conway Expo Center, 2505 East Oak Street on Friday, April 27th and 28th and will require approximately 1,200 volunteers, making it the largest turnout in the state’s history. Volunteers will literally “build” the facilities on the 26th. Over the years, the clinic has served 21,000 patients and has donated 11.3 million dollars of free dentistry and $250,000 of pharmacist services!

Approximately 150 dentists will participate, many being from the Faulkner County dental society. So, let me also “toot the horn” for these volunteer dentists from around the state who will be doing all of the dental procedures as well as the dental assistants, dental hygienists, and a host of other volunteer professionals such as nurses and dental lab technicians. Many other lay volunteers will

serve as patient escorts, triage clerks, language to promote the profession of pharmacy in interpreters, setup and teardown helpers, Arkansas through continuing education and by registration assistants and hospitality hosts and providing scholarships to outstanding students. hostesses.

As it relates to the Mission of Mercy Clinic, Typically, the Mission of Mercy event serves the foundation provides the funds to purchase thousands of patients from all over Arkansas the medications that will be dispensed free of and the surrounding 5 states. Most, if not all charge to the patients who need them. The of these patients have no dental insurance sheer number of doses we expect to dispense and are unable to afford proper dental care. might surprise you. We ordered 6,000 According to one WebMD article, researchers Amoxicillin 500mg capsules, 1,000 Clindamycin know that there is a synergistic relationship 150mg capsules, and 12,000 Ibuprofen 600mg between oral health and overall wellness. tablets in addition to a few other medications.

In light of that, this dental clinic is not only But, with 2,500 to 2,600 patients expected, it making the patients look and feel better, it is will all be needed. actually reducing their risks of some chronic Enter your local independent pharmacists. I diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and started thinking about how great it would be osteoporosis. if we could all band together and provide the Pharmacists and pharmacy students from funds to purchase these medications instead the UAMS College of Pharmacy and Harding of pulling from Foundation funds. Every University College of Pharmacy will play a vital independent pharmacy in Conway, Greenbrier, role in the success of this event as well. Well and Vilonia contributed enough to more than in advance of the event, volunteer pharmacy pay the entire costs. So, I want to say a special students from both institutions will prepackTHANK YOU to American Drug in Greenage hundreds of prescriptions that will be brier, Amity Road Pharmacy, Baker Drug Store, written for these patients. Under the direct Conway Medical Park Pharmacy, Cornerstone supervision of volunteer pharmacists, upper Pharmacy, Heartland Pharmacy, Medcare Pharlevel pharmacy students will then dispense and macy, Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy, Smith Family counsel the patients on each medication they Pharmacy, SavOn Drugs, US Compounding, and are given. This will be an excellent training Vilonia Family Pharmacy for your generosity. exercise for the students. From personal Also, thank you to another central Arkansas experience, I can attest that they will likely independent pharmacy, Cornerstone Pharmacy uncover many medication issues in the process in North Little Rock, for donating all of the and perform interventions that could possibly prescription vials for the clinic. Once again, be life-changing. you have put the needs of others first and As a past president of have made your communities proud. the Arkansas Pharmacists Association I David Smith is the owner and chief pharmacist at Smith Family Pharmacy where he works with his wife Shirley and serve on the Board staff. He graduated from the UAMS College of Pharmacy in of Directors of the 1974 and has been taking care of people in the Conway and Arkansas Pharmacy surrounding areas for more than 43 years. He loves spending Foundation, a 501(c) time with family and is No1POP to 5 wonderful grandchildren.

(3) that was created

womensinc.net 37

Untreated Hearing Loss Affects Brain Structure and Function

by Dr. Sam Kelso, Au.D. Recent studies shed light on the importance of timely treatment of hearing loss.

Most people believe that hearing loss is a condition that only affects their ears. In reality, untreated hearing loss can affect so much more, including brain structure and function.

According to a 2013 John Hopkins University study, hearing loss may increase the risk of cognitive problems and dementia.

A 2011 dementia study monitored the cognitive health of 639 people who were mentally sharp when the study began.

The researchers tested the volunteers’ mental abilities regularly, following most for about 12 years, and some for as long as 18 years.

The results were striking: The worse the initial hearing loss, the more likely the person was to develop dementia. Researchers say that there are plausible reasons for why hearing loss might lead to dementia — the brain’s hearing center, called the auditory cortex, is very close to the regions where Alzheimer’s first starts.

Hearing loss also has a noted link to brain shrinkage.

Although the brain naturally becomes smaller with age, the shrinkage seems to be fast-tracked in older adults with hearing loss, according to the results of a study by Frank Lin, M.D Ph.D. through Johns Hopkins University and the National Institute on Aging. The report revealed that those with impaired hearing lost more than an additional cubic centimeter of brain tissue each year compared to those with normal hearing.

Those with impaired hearing also had significantly more shrinkage in particular regions, including the superior, middle and inferior temporal gyri, brain structures also responsible for processing sound and speech.

When a person is affected by untreated hearing loss, their auditory cortex becomes “impoverished” due to the lack of

38 WINC. | May 2018

sound stimulation. Treating hearing loss in a timely matter, however, can help offset this.

These studies indicate the urgency in which hearing loss should be treated. “If you want to address hearing loss well,” Lin says, “you want to do it sooner rather than later.”

womensinc.net 39

Master Gardener of the Year

Sunnie Ruple

by Marisa Hicks

As a young girl,Vilonia resident Sunnie Briley Ruple acquired a love of gardening, learning skills through generations of instruction — her mother and grandmother.

Today, Ruple — who celebrates her 10-year anniversary with the Faulkner County Master Gardeners this year — finds herself passing this trait onto others whether they are her grandchildren or other curious minds. Because of her dedication and love of gardening, Ruple was named the 2017 Faulkner County Master Gardener of the Year.

Ruple was recognized March 14 by fellow gardeners, as they bestowed her with an engraved stepping stone that brandished her recent accolade. Master Gardener Mary Johnson, who heads the courthouse project that aims to keep the courtyard prestigiously beautiful for county residents and visitors, said Ruple’s award was well deserved.

“Sunnie Briley Ruple is a pillar of our group,” fellow Master Gardeners have said of her volunteer hours and dedication to the program. “Whether digging in one of our dirt projects, leading our executive board or helping behind the scenes, you’ll find Sunnie selflessly serving with a healthy dose of her quick wit.”

Ruple said she attributes her gardening expertise to her mother and grandmother. Without the generations of knowledge instilled in her during her youthful years, she would not 40 WINC. | May 2018

have received Gardener of the Year, she said. In keeping up with her love and appreciation for her grandmother for helping stir such a life-long passion in her life, Ruple said she nurtures a rose bush to this day that was once dear to her grandmother and a staple of her home before she passed.

“I still have a rose bush that was from my Granny that was on her old well house,” Ruple said. “I also have my grandparents’ old dinner bell and wash pots that I use for pots in the garden.

I’ve had the rose bush for 20 years … they’ve been gone longer than that, but the old place is still there so I went out and got it.”

Ruple said it feels good to honor her grandmother through keeping the gorgeous, prickly bush alive and thriving.

The life-long Faulkner County resident also said her curiosity of the outdoors never halted. Last year, she went through training to become a Master Naturalist, noting she really enjoys raising plants that are native to this region. To her, Ruple said gardening is a reason to get outside and appreciate nature. It’s also a means to teach adolescents about the benefits different plants offer.

“I’m especially into native gardening and am trying to teach people not to use foreign plants that are invasive and use more of what was here natively,” she said. “It’s better for the birds, the pollinators and bugs that way.”

Jonson said Ruple is a staple to the Faulkner County Master Gardeners.

“She’s such a hard worker and we’re glad to have her,” Johnson said.

Seventeen-year-old Master Gardener Kate Turner said volunteers such as Ruple have taught her many skills since she recently joined the team.

Along with hours and hours of service work, planting and educating other Faulkner County residents on the importance and calming nature of gardening, Ruple and her husband of 48 years, Charles, also maintain two businesses — First Class Trophies and Sign Gypsies. However, while keeping up with all the tasks that come along with not just one but two businesses, Ruple said she still finds time for grandchildren and her other two favorite hobbies — hiking and reading.

womensinc.net 41

Marriage in the Wilderness

by Becke’ Stuart

“And you shall remember the whole way that the LORD your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that He might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not.” Deuteronomy 8:2 Not exactly a verse on marriage, but today, that’s where I landed as I was pondering marriage. A friend asked me to write on the common seven-year slump in marriage and to be honest, I don’t feel qualified. The news alert is that you can be married for 19 years and still get in slumps. If I’ve learned anything, it’s that you have good years and bad years in marriage. You plod along, knowing that while remaining faithful in a bad year, a good year is most likely right around the corner.

The whole marriage thing takes two unique, God-image-bearing-independents and miraculously makes them one. God, in His goodness, combines the two to show off a clearer picture of who He is. He is both strength and beauty. Warrior and lover. Adventurer and safe harbor. Justice and grace. Thwarter and peace giver.

Being one is mysterious and profound and beautiful...and sometimes frustrating and sigh producing. Because here’s the deal: if you are one with your husband, and he heads into a spiritual wilderness, you better pack your bags, because you are going with him...and the stay might be longer than you could have ever imagined.

So many things have driven Eric and I into wilderness experiences through our 19 years of marriage. Some of the time, we entered hand in hand, like after losing our baby. Other times, like through the loss of various family members, depression, pride, health issues, work frustrations, running from God, and anxiety, we have run headlong into the barren land, barely leaving our spouse time to pack his/her bags and recognize the season that is about to unfold.

Sometimes, God allows us to enter the wilderness just to know what’s in our hearts. He wants our faith steeled; He wants evidence of obedience, not just lip service.

Most of the time, when our spouse heads to the wilderness, we really don’t want to go. Who on earth wants to be thrown into a pit? I think it’s here where God whispers that this is one 42 WINC. | May 2018

place where we can be faithful to Him, by standing right beside our husband as he wrestles with the hard stuff – as he wrestles with God Himself. Wasn’t it Jacob that wrestled with God in a place called Peniel? Peniel means the face of God. We know the wrestling allows us to see God’s face...so we stand by our spouse faithfully, and pray eyes are opened to behold Him. So, if your husband is in the wilderness, go dwell there alongside of him. Love him well and surrender him over to God. Let loose of your expectations of him. Pray God is tender and that He will reveal Himself in a fresh way. Surrender any preconceived notions of how long the experience will last, knowing full well, it could be years.

During this time, your well will run dry. You are in the desert, after all. Pray against attacks from the enemy. Know that your living water is always available in the Word of God. Spend extra time right there and ask to be content with God filling you, even if no one else is. Look for the brief sparks of joy and praise Him a little extra in those moments.

Remember the times that your husband loved you well in your wilderness season and trust God that another “good” year of marriage is right around the bend. And never forget that when you finally get to unpack and settle in the land of promise that you will continue to carry around the lessons learned while in the barren land.

Becke’ Stuart has always been drawn to the written word, but she fell into penning the words herself when she found herself needing an avenue to process grief. For Becke’, writing has been one way to dive headlong into the hard stuff of life, allowing God to meet her right there in the mess and answer her chief prayer: “Lord, give me eyes to see!” Becke’s deepest desire is that her words might offer readers a glimpse of Jesus and His infectious love.

Becke’ has been married to her husband, Eric, for 20 years.

Together, they are raising four boys ranging in age from 5 to 18.

When she isn’t cheering her clan on in sports, she enjoys photography, singing, and mass amounts of guacamole.

2018

Arts calendar

Please refer to the event website for more information and pricing.

May 1: Summer scholarship deadline. Blackbird Academy. http://www.blackbirdacademy.org May 1: Jewelry sale fundraiser for Friends of the Faulkner County Library; @ Faulkner County Library; 8 a.m.-7 p.m. (G) May 1: Daffodil Daze Art Contest Winners Reception @ Art on the Green; 5:30 p.m.; 501205-1922 (G) May 3: Women Run Arkansas Run/Walk Clinic @ UCA track; 6:30-7:30 p.m.; all skill levels; www. womenrunarkansas.net (A) May 3: National Day of Prayer (multiple locations) (G)

May 5: Conway Noon Rotary Pancake Breakfast @ Hole in the Wall Cafe, Conway; 6:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.; Tickets $5 at door/children under 5 FREE (G) May 5: Tour de Toad @ Conway Municipal Airport; 10 a.m. registration/11 a.m. start; three cycling routes to choose from; www.literacyactionar.org/ events/tour-de-toad (G) May 5: Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives @ Toad Suck Daze main stage; 9:10 p.m. FREE (G) May 4: Josh Hoyer & Soul Colossal @ King’s Live Music, Conway; 8:30 p.m.; Tickets $5 at door (A) May 9-20: Smoke on the Mountain; Red Curtain Theatre, Conway; times/location TBA; www. redcurtaintheatre.com (A)

May 4: Music recital; Blackbird Academy. Antioch Baptist Church. http://www.blackbirdacademy.org.

(G)

May 11: The Creek Rocks @ King’s Live Music, Conway; 10 p.m.; Bluegrass/folk (A)

May 4-6: TOAD SUCK DAZE, Downtown Conway; 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; For a full list of activities and entertainment @ http://toadsuck.org/ (G)

May 12: Today! Museum Alive @ Reynolds Performance Hall; 6-9 p.m.; Tickets $4-12 @ http:// www.blackbirdacademy.org. (G)

May 4: LANCO @ Toad Suck Daze main stage; 9 p.m.; FREE (G)

May 13: Mother’s Day May 18: Das Daddy @ King’s Live Music, Conway; 9 p.m. (A) May 19: FFA Day @ Downtown Conway Farmers’ and Crafters Market, Parkway Street, Conway; 9 a.m.-noon (G) May 19: Cooking Conquests: Rubs, Marinades & Sauces @ UCA Downtown, Conway; 4- 6 p.m.; reservations @ uca.edu/outreach/classes/ ccrubsmarinadessauces (PG13) May 24: City Talks with Bart Catleberry @ Art on the Green; 5:30 p.m.; 501-205-1922 (G) May 26: Swap Meet @ Palmer Music Co., Conway; 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; buy, sell or trade musicoriented gear; live music & food (G) May 31: UCA Small Developer Conference @ CDI Central, Conway; 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; register/tickets @ http://uca.edu/cced/dev-con/ (A)

May 4-6: TOAD SUCK DAZE

May 4: Artitst, Wendy Leonard, open reception for new exhibit @ Art on the Green; 4-6 p.m.; 501-205-1922 (G) May 5: Kids Fishing Derby @ Woolly Hollow State Park; 9-11 a.m.; ages 15 and younger to participate in derby. Bring your own bait, stringer and tackle.

Kids must fish on their own; Snack bar; free admission (G) For more information, contact the park at 501-670-2098.

May 5: Toad Suck Daze Run @ Downtown Conway; Tadpole Trot/10K & 5K; more information/ registration @ toadsuckrun.com (G)

Rating key G – Suitable for all ages PG – Suggested for ages 7+ PG13 – Suggested for ages 13+ A – Suggested for Adults 18+ womensinc.net 43

.

More Than 50 Reasons to Celebrate.

This year, CareChex® named Conway Regional: #1 Hospital in the Central Arkansas Market for Medical Excellence in Overall Hospital Care (2018)* #1 Hospital in the State for Patient Safety in Orthopedic Care (2018)* #1 Hospital in the State for Medical Excellence in Women’s Health (2018)* Plus, 49 other prestigious awards* In addition to our full and dedicated team, we would like to thank you, our patients, for continuing to trust Conway Regional for your health care needs. *CareChex® — an information service of Quantros, Inc.

One Team. One Promise.