June 2018

Little sleep, lots of love:

womensinc.net

JUNE 2018

New dad of eight talks fatherhood

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Full of Blessings

NAna’s kitchen

GREAT BOOKS FOR MIDDLE SChoolERS

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ECONOMICS OF FATHERS & SONS

Hometown hero

Designed for Success

Publisher Kelly Sublett Contributing Writers Jeanette Anderton Cindy Beckman Andrea Champlin Melissa Gates – Cover Story Marisa Hicks Jenny Strange Kelly Sublett Photographers

PUBLISHER’S LETTER June is upon us, and that means it’s time to honor thy fathers.

Dedicated to dads, this edition of WINC. Magazine features topics from foster families to custom suits to an expedition of faith — all tailored for the men in our lives.

I have to give a shout out to all the daddy’s girls out there who know what it is like to measure the making of a man by the example set for you. I have one of the best, and for nearly 40 years, my dad, Mike, has been a rock. He’s seen me through the best years of my life and the worst. He has not wavered in his love and support for me, my family and my choices, but he’s not been afraid to challenge those choices along the way. For that, I am grateful because I am confident his questions and concerns are coming from a place of love.

To assume all fathers and sons and daddys and daughters have this relationship would be far-reaching. I pray for those among us who struggle with family relationships, and I hope for resolutions and peace.

But for June, a magazine traditionally designed for women is taking a peek at the world through the eyes of men, and I couldn’t be more excited.

Melissa Gates, again, has tackled our cover feature, honoring one local family who chose adoption. Her story highlights the unexpected trials and happiness of the process from a father’s eyes.

I had the pleasure of interviewing a father/son who ended up on similar professional paths and share so much of their lives together.

Also, I had a special privilege of learning one story subject in this month’s magazine would announce he and his wife will expect a child in November. Doing the interview the week before Mother’s Day, he had a reveal planned for his family.

Watching the joy spread across his face at the sheer mention of being a father for the first time was indeed fitting in anticipation of this month’s issue.

So to all of those who have shared their dress shoes with tiny feet during a daddy/ daughter dance; to all of those who have picked up teenage boys at a late-night party when they called for help; to all those who have walked daughters down the aisle; and to those who have coached hundreds of hours of a community sport — WINC. Magazine applauds you.

Note: Crafting Fails & Faves and the monthly events caldendar will resume in the August issue due to summer conflicts.

Ron Beckman Andrea Champlin AmyJonesDesigns – 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

Kelly

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

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Full of Blessings

by Melissa Gates, Photos by AmyJonesDesigns Father’s Day is traditionally a day of rest, maybe even a nap, for Dads. But most likely it won’t be nap time for 45-year-old State Rep. David Meeks. That’s because he’s a new father of eight. David and wife, Naomi, are in the process of adopting a sibling set of five kiddos; adding on to the sibling set of three they adopted in

2015. In a short amount of time the Meeks’ went from having no kids to having eight, ages 2 to 7.

From the time they got married in 2009, David and Naomi knew they wanted to foster and adopt. When David was voted into office in 2010 he suddenly had access to detailed information

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about the state’s foster system and just how desperate the needs were. He sat on the Aging, Children, and Youth Committee for eight years, which allowed him to hear reports on the state’s foster system and the issues that affect those children.

“Reading the statistics and seeing how overloaded the system had become really pushed me. One of the biggest issues was the fact that there weren’t enough homes for these kids, and especially sibling groups. Imagine being separated from your parents and then your siblings in one night. It was just heartbreaking. I knew I could do something and that I had to do more,” Meeks says.

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There are hundreds of kids in foster care in Faulkner County; and less than 100 families to care for them. The statistics only get worse as time marches on.

Through David’s work at the Capitol he also found out about an organization known as The Call. That’s a group that helps streamline the process to become a foster family and provides support to foster and adoptive families.

“We attended the informational meeting and knew it was what God had planned for us. We both left with a heart for sibling groups. ... Nothing breaks our hearts more than when sibling groups have to be split up into different homes,” Meeks says.

They immediately began the process of becoming an approved foster home.

“Before we were an open home, we heard of a sibling group of three boys that were 1, 2, and 3 years old that were trying to place together. We called and told them we were one more inspection away from being an open home. Eight days later they asked if we were still interested in the boys. We said yes! That was quite a transition for us; going from zero kids to having a 1, 2, and 3-year-old at once,” Meeks says.

The oldest, JD, is now 7. Ben is 6 and Zachary is 5 years old.

The Meeks’ didn’t want to stop there. They continued preparing and renovating their home to fit even more sibling groups; knowing it was God’s call for them.

“We started with one bedroom with three beds, then moved my office out to the dining room so we could open up two more beds. We eventually even enclosed our garage/carport area so we could add three more,” Meeks says.

Good thing they did. Just before this past Christmas, the Meeks found out about a sibling group of five that needed a forever home. The ironic thing is; they already knew the children and had already been driving them to church and providing for them.

“My wife and I worked on a bus route at our church, where we would pick up families or kids and bring them to church on

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Sundays. We’d visit them on Saturdays and spend some time talking with them and handing out candy or trying to meet the needs of the families with food or whatever,” says Meeks.

They can’t go into too much detail yet or show the kiddos faces because the adoption won’t be final until later this summer.

“It is mind blowing to know that the kids we hugged and loved every Saturday and Sunday are going to be part of our forever family. We are so blessed that they will join our family,” Meeks says.

The five kiddos are ages 7, 6, 5, 3, and 2 years old.

To accommodate all the sweet little ones, the Meeks purchased a 15-passenger van and a 7-passenger one. They call them the Megavan and the Minivan.

As a family of 10, one of their favorite things to do is ride bikes.

Meeks says, “Well, I usually just chase the kids on their bikes!”

David’s wife Naomi is an incredible bargain shopper; and works very hard to make sure birthdays and holidays are big events in their home. Meeks says, “She is always looking for good deals on toys that the kids would enjoy for Christmas. She already has new pj’s for all the kids ($3/each) and a gift closet full of toys for Christmas that she found for 75% off!”

For each kiddo’s birthday the Meeks take the other seven kids to the dollar store so they can each pick out a present for their

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sibling. Meeks says, “They get a big gift from Dad and Mom and seven little presents from their siblings.”

In joking, David says the ultimate Father’s Day gift would be a nap. He says, “Whenever one of the kids wakes up in the night they call for Daddy. Not sure if that was my wife’s doing or what! But I enjoy being able to help our whenever possible.”

But in reality, his perfect Father’s Day would be attending church together, eating a nice lunch, and going to the park with the entire crew; perhaps squeezing in a nap.

Happy Father’s Day to all!!!

If you’re interested in becoming a foster family you can contact The Call.The Call: www.thecallinarkansas.org

Melissa Gates has been telling stories in Faulkner County for more than a decade. She has interviewed a wide variety of interesting people from U.S. Presidents to rock stars, and countless community leaders. After growing up in the Midwest, she is thrilled to call Conway home, alongside her husband and three kids.

Numismatics:

A Historical Legacy Left to Future Generations June contains so many wonderful things from Father’s Day to school ending and all of the summer fun that begins!

I write this in honor of my late father for two reasons. First and foremost because of Father’s Day and second because I was fortunate enough to inherit his coin collection which I continue to carry on and is the reason I became interested in studying numismatics (just a fancy word for coin study or collecting).

Growing up, my sister and I knew our Father enjoyed collecting many things, but only certain things and he didn’t waste his money on things he didn’t need or really, really want. At some point we began to buy my Dad’s presents strictly from his “list”.

The “list” would have the comic books he needed to complete a set or the coins he was looking for to add to his ever-growing assortment.

When I first got the privilege of carrying on his coin collection, I knew some studying would be involved and study I did! Even though he and I had different interests in coin collecting, we certainly had many things in common. We both liked collecting coins from eras that carried great memories for us. He enjoyed collecting buffalo nickels and silver dollars, while I specialized more in vintage gold and modern bullion.

I am fascinated with gold fractional coins because in the 1980’s everybody wanted a gold coin ring. The demand was so high, as was the price of gold,

that jewelry manufacturers even created gold coin “replicas” to be used in jewelry.

The most enjoyable part of collecting for me is the history behind each piece. As a matter of fact, many historians have used coins as a way to determine the history of certain ancient societies. With summer upon us, I highly recommend coin collecting as a summer hobby for children. I personally think it’s one of the most interesting ways to learn history.You can start with something as simple as the U.S. Lincoln cent, which most of us have floating around in the car or in a jar at home. Coin collecting doesn’t have to be expensive and you will be surprised at how much history your children will ‘accidently’ learn while studying coins; and the more they learn the more interesting it gets.

For example, did you know that in 1943, due to the wartime needs of copper for World War II, the U.S. mint stopped using copper for the Lincoln cent and used steel coated with zinc? This Lincoln cent became known as the “steel penny” and was only minted in the year 1943. These “steel pennies” now sell for around 12 cents each. Not bad for a coin that was once only worth 1 cent! There were also a few steel

cents accidently struck in 1944 and they have been known to sell for as much as $77,000!

Numismatics can be an excellent hobby for both boys and girls alike. I was surprised when my husband pointed out that I was the only woman he knew that had a coin collecting hobby. I was even more surprised when I was contacted by the American Numismatics Association who said that I am one of a very few women studying numismatics and that they are trying to establish scholarships to encourage women to take up the study. Thanks to my parents, I never felt as if anything educational was just for boys or just for girls and I hope you feel the same.

You may wonder if I took up Comic book collecting like my sweet father. Well, no! I actually have a complete set of Beavis and Butthead comic books from the 1990’s that I will gladly sell! Any takers?

I may not have assumed my father’s comic book fascination, but his love for coin collecting is a legacy that I will carry on for years to come. For more information on coin collecting and how you can get started, visit https://www.money.org/

Cindy Webb is the owner of Francis M. Fine Jewelry in downtown Conway. She received her Bachelor of Science in Speech/Communications from UCA, her Graduate Gemologist title from GIA, her Certified Gemologist title from AGS and has continued her education with GIA by receiving the Pearls diploma and Insurance Replacement Appraisal diploma. Cindy has worked in the fine jewelry business for the past 25 years in literally every capacity and is also a practicing numismatist. She and her husband, Donald live in Comway with their 3 adopted cats.

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The economics of

fathers and sons

by Kelly Sublett

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D

on (III) and Donny Bradley (IV), share more than recognizable smiles, bigger than life personalities and a similar passion for sports.

Professionally, the father/son pair have a lot in common, and you can bank on it.

The two are well known individually in the regional banking industry – Don an educator, counselor and mentor, and Donny an executive in the industry.

“I have great memories of sitting down to meals and Dad lecturing us,” Donny says. “You know, how to do X,Y, or Z. A lot of times, it was a classroom environment at the dinner table.”

Don’s three children each picked up the value of education and persistence from their dad. One daughter heads the Department of Environmental Science at Flathead Valley Community College in Montana. The other lives locally and works in pharmaceutical sales. Donny is a senior vice president at First Arkansas Bank & Trust in Conway. All three Bradley children have graduate degrees from the University of Central Arkansas.

“Dad, and I say this genuinely and with utmost respect, always pushed us,” Donny said. “He was one of those tough love guys. I will never forget how excited I was to graduate from college. And before he said anything else to me that day, he said, ‘When are you going to get your masters?’

“In many respects, I had a unique childhood, and I would never have accomplished the things I have without his drive.”

For more than 33 years, the elder Bradley educated, trained and counseled some of the best bankers in the state during his tenure at the University of Central Arkansas. As a professor of marketing and management, hundreds of students seeking degrees in finance most likely completed his courses. As founder and leader of the Small Business Advancement National Center (SBANC) at UCA, Bradley has advised and provided economic resources and counseling to small businesses, nonprofits and legislators. He retired in 2015.

“I also had a side business called American Marketing Group for years,” Don said. “I consulted a lot of local bankers.”

For the last 20-plus years, Donny has served in the banking industry. He, too, studied under his father at UCA, first as an undergrad and then earning his Masters in Business Administration.

“I guess I got into banking, honestly, because of a conversation I had with my dad during college,” Donny said. “I was talking to Dad one day about the fact I wanted to be in Conway and I wanted to own my own business. He said, ‘What kind of business?’ I said I didn’t know. He said that was a major problem and suggested I get into banking to learn more about business

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and finance. He was my academic advisor, so I guess he knew best. …”

Donny would enter into the banking world and begin soaking up all he could about business from bank customers. He watched successful ventures and those that tanked from bad practices.

“I guess after 20-plus years, I am still polishing my skills,” he laughed. “But really, I don’t see myself doing anything else. I really like what I do. I like being able to learn from people and help people.”

For the father and son, there is a balance between teaching and learning. Donny, although not always predictable, has managed a successful run to home plate.

“I remember him playing baseball the first time,” Don said. “I was so proud when he hit the ball to the fence. He had never played before. But then he ran to third base!”

Donny chimed in with a laugh, “I still learn based off my mistakes, and in the real world, I’ve learned all lessons that way.”

Despite his wayward first run around the bases, Donny ended up an all-around athlete at Conway High School, and those experiences further secured a bond with his sports-loving dad. But beyond that, too, Don is quick to point out that Donny made lifelong connections, bonded by team sports and relationships, with minority cohorts who would later become local clients.

“From the business perspective,” Don says, “I am so proud of the number of people he has helped start businesses and keep in business, especially in the minority community.”

Donny, with a nod, reflected on that point.

“I think, that yes, I have been able to help and do really neat things for my friends, several relationships bonded over sports.”

Don, speaking to WINC. Magazine via phone from Key West on a recent afternoon, said he always wanted the best for each of his three children and is immensely proud of their careers. He acknowledges he pushed, but saw potential and promise in what would lie ahead for his children.

“What Dad won’t say is that he inherited nothing,” Donny said.

“He came from nothing. And I can’t be prouder that he got to retirement and he gets to do whatever he wants to do. If I can be where he is at retirement, I will say, ‘I have arrived.’ To watch and see what he’s been able to accomplish brings the greatest joy to my heart. It was his goal to retire and to travel.”

For Don and wife, Jan, family completes the joy. For the couple’s 50th wedding anniversary last year, they took the whole family to Disney World (Don and Jan have season tickets).

“I mean, it was amazing,” Don said, “to spend a whole week together.”

Donny added, “And they weren’t riding the ‘People Mover.’ Dad loves Space Mountain and Rockin’ Roller Coaster!”

Don made a point to travel with his family from the beginning, using income from his consulting business to visit Hawaii, the Bahamas, spending learning summers in Europe and more than a few trips with Donny to Kansas City to watch the Chiefs or the Royals play.

“We’re both die hard Kansas City fans,” Donny said. “I have so many fond memories of me and Dad at the games, and still, to this day, we do all of those things.”

As patriarch, teacher and mentor, Don hopes the one family lesson that will resonate for generations is the one his own father passed down to him. Donny will surely pass the lesson onto son Bradon (Don Bradley V), 12, and daughter Bree, 8.

“Always try to improve yourself,” Don said. “As my dad taught me, leave it better than you received it. Don’t be satisfied.”

“I still learn based off my mistakes, and in the real world, I’ve learned all lessons that way.”

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Nana’s

by Kelly Sublett

Memories in the mix Walking into Jeannine Berkemeyer’s home, it is evident she’s organized and meticulous, especially in her kitchen, where every item has its place. But there is a lot of her personality in that room — to include her prized tins and collection of salt and pepper shakers.

But beyond anything, the smell of fresh cinnamon rolls and apple pie will bring you in and sit you down among her massive collection of recipes.

“I’m good at pies,” she says. “I learned how to make pie crust in a commercial kitchen and store it in gallon jars. I work in multiples of three when I make crusts, just depending on how many pies I want to make.”

Although her family will point out her Thanksgiving contributions like dressing and giblet gravy — pies included — Jeannine is most proud of her pies. And she should be. They are beautiful.

“I worked at Coy’s drive-In before it was Stoby’s,” she says.

“My older sister worked there. I started in April 1963 as a carhop at first. Everything I know about making pies I learned from Mrs. [Ruth] Crow.”

According to local historians, Ruth Crow was locally known for her pies topped with thick meringue. The Crows sold the restaurant in 1972.

“Seeing her pies, I always said, ‘I have to try,’” Jeannine says.

Jeannine says her pumpkin pies and pecan pies are the most desired by her family.

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“Some people say they never liked pumpkin pie until they tried mine,” she says bashfully. “I use sweetened condensed milk. I just think it is so much better than evaporated milk.”

Her cornbread dressing is a must, Jeannine says. She learned how to make it when she was a senior in high school at St. Joseph’s.

“Our class was trying to make money to help pay for our senior trip,” she says. “Some organization was having a dinner at the school cafeteria. I helped make the dressing under the instruction of Mrs. Schichtl. I still don’t know it by recipe. I just throw it together starting with cornbread, stale bread, chopped celery and onions and chicken broth and an egg, sage and poultry seasoning.”

In her own home through the years, Jeannine says her boys wanted chocolate chip cookies.

“My kids took their lunches to school,” she says. “I probably made chocolate chip cookies twice a week when they were younger.”

Her grandchildren, also enjoy making cookies with Granny.

Whenever they spend the night, Jeannine gets them in the kitchen to make those family-famous cookies.

“They are 9 and 11, and when they came to spend the night, we got up the next morning and made cookies,” she says. “I let them measure and crack the eggs. They like that.”

And there’s always something to talk about in Granny’s kitchen. She will give you the best tips on mixers — her favorite

Name: Jeannine Marie Berkemeyer Children: Brian and Eric Grandchildren: Sophia and Lauren What they call her: Granny

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is a Bosch mixer she’s had for two decades. It has a dough hook, and that’s a plus.

“I would be lost without that mixer,” she smiles. “It has several attachments, a blender, food processor, meat grinder and a salad maker for slicing and shredding. It has a whisk attachment for whipping cream and egg whites, and it has a dough hook for when I make bread and rolls.

“And look at this,” she says picking it up with ease. “It’s portable.”

Old-Fashioned Apple Pie Farm Journal Complete Pie Cookbook, 1965

Pastry for 2-crust pie • ¾ to 1 c. sugar • 2 tblsp. Flour • ½ to 1 tsp. Cinnamon • ⅛ tsp. Nutmeg

• ¼ tsp. Salt • 6 to 7 c. sliced, peeled apples (2 to 2 ½ lbs.)

• 2 tblsp. Butter or margarine

Combine sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Mix lightly through apples (sliced ¼” thick). Heap in pastry-lined 9” pie pan. Dot with butter. Adjust top crust and flute edges; cut vents. Bake in hot oven (425 degrees) 50 to 60 minutes or until crust is browned and apples are tender.

NOTE: Amount of sugar you will need varies with tartness of apples.

Her salt and pepper shakers are interesting, too. And she’s been collecting since she was 9 years old. She has a set from all the trips she’s taken over the years, and now her family members remember to bring her sets from all over the world.

“They’re my memories,” she says. “I have ones I have collected myself and they tell where I’ve been.”

Jeannine also is an expert at quilts and home-grown vegetables, maintaining a garden on a section of what remains of her family’s original 120 acres in Vilonia.

And she remembers one instance just last summer when she had more green beans than she knew what to do with.

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Grandma’s Cinnamon Rolls

The Best of Red Star’s 3rd Baking Recipe Exchange, 1979 “I was all ready to can, and • 5 ½ to 6 cups all-purpose flour • 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon then we smelled gas when we • ½ cup chopped nuts • 2 pkgs Red Star Instant Blend Dry turned the burners on, and that Yeast wasn’t good,” she says. “So we • ½ cup sugar GLAZE called a repairman and decided • 1 ½ teaspoons salt • 3 tablespoons butter or margarine, the range was too expensive to • 1 cup milk melted ª 2 cups powdered sugar • 1 cup water repair so we went to Conway to • ¼ cup butter or margarine • 3 to 4 tablespoons hot coffee look for a new one.

• 2 eggs • ½ teaspoon maple flavor “We picked one out at Sears • ⅓ cup butter or margarine, melted but it was two days before it • ¾ cup sugar could be delivered. By then, I had even more beans to can!” t, As for the future, Jeannine our, yeas 2 cups fl until e in b m knows keeping up with a garden l, co tter ixer bow r and bu ture. Add a large m heat milk, wate ix m In and all the hard work will . r s u e o e degr y d to fl epan, speed. B n to 375 ix well. In sauc eed to melt). Ad e v m o grow more challenging, but she iu t d a e e m m n t ; t on a lt o Pre-h d a n s a s e s te h. Kn gar and 3 minu tter doe considers very much the value of oft doug ased bowl, s ½ cup su -130 degrees; bu moistened; beat a e k a m gre l 20 the vine. g flour to eed unti bout . Place in warm (1 at low sp enough remainin bout 5 minutes t and doubled, a d n le B . a h , g ll in “I would encourage young c li o eggs r ti r l s ti , ti s e la and e adually place un -floured surfac tter. y hand, gr face until smooth t rise in warm people to look at growing their own vegetables,” she says. u tl b h g d li e . On melt ur r; le floured s grease top. Cove ivide into 2 parts h each part with rting with “You’ll save money that way and you know what you’re s ta D u S to . r h g r.

B g e . in u turn edges tangle er butt wn do eating. n. Pinch unch do a 12x9-inch rec uts. Sprinkle ov r P tu r. u h o c a h 1 to dn ith e -inch “We’ve always grown a garden so the food is fresher. ch half in amon an to roll w ed 13x9 or pat ea cup sugar, cinn essing dough in e down in greas s. te u in ¾ pr And most of the time, you’ll want to share those things. We sid 0m Combine e, roll up tightly, ieces. Place cut- oubled, about 3 e sid glaz 12 p ost d always try eat supper together.” shorter roll into Combine until alm

ions Direct

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

place brown. ut each cks. to seal. C ; let rise in warm tes until golden rolls. Cool on ra u r t e o in v h o m r C e 0 . v pans s for 2 izzle o ooth. Dr 5 degree Bake 37 ; blend until sm nts ingredie

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Tinnitus is often described as roaring, buzzing, crickets, hissing, static, humming, or ringing. It may be louder or softer at times and is most noticeable when it’s quiet. Many people have it and simply learn to ignore it, but others can’t seem to ignore it and are bothered constantly.

Tinnitus is a symptom, not a disease and there is not a specific treatment to cure it. The most common cause of tinnitus is sensory hearing loss. This condition presents two simultaneous complaints: “I hear but I don’t understand” and “My ears buzz or ring.” There can be other conditions that cause or contribute to tinnitus to lesser extents. High doses of aspirin, chemotherapy drugs, caffeine, and medications for hypertension can all contribute to increased tinnitus, but by and large the most common condition is hearing loss itself.

The following information is taken from the American Tinnitus Association Treatment Option page of their website:

by Dr. Sam Kelso, Au.D.

Ringing in the Ears

Hearing Aids Tinnitus is overwhelmingly connected to some level of hearing loss. Augmenting the reception and perception of external noise can often provide relief from the internal sound of tinnitus. Most patients develop tinnitus as a symptom of hearing loss, caused either by age, long-term hearing damage, or acute trauma to the auditory system. According to the general scientific consensus, hearing loss causes less external sound stimuli to reach the brain. In response, the brain undergoes neuroplastic changes in how it processes different sound frequencies. Tinnitus is the product of these maladaptive neuroplastic changes. Patients with hearing loss and tinnitus may find relief

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from the use of hearing aids and other sound amplification devices.”

A 2008-9 study published in The Hearing Review revealed that approximately 65% of patients experienced mild to moderate relief from tinnitus while using hearing aids, and that 22% experienced major relief.

The House Ear Institute in California has referred to hearing aid amplification as, “The gold standard for tinnitus relief.”

There is agreement within the audiology community and verified through research that amplification is considered the standard of treatment for tinnitus management in the presence of sensory hearing loss. There are other forms of treatment available that are less successful and often incorporated in the absence of hearing loss such as tinnitus retraining therapy and masking.

Also, from the American Tinnitus Association: “There are presently no FDAapproved drugs specifically for tinnitus, and no medications that have been shown to reverse the neural hyperactivity at the root of tinnitus. Drugs cannot cure tinnitus.”

So no matter how many advertisements you may see on television about cures like Lipoflavanoids and other vitamins, there is simply no medical evidence that they work.

However, there is evidence that anti-anxiety drugs work to help relax patients and make them feel less anxious about their tinnitus.

You should visit with your otologist about these options.

All major hearing organizations include hearing aids as tinnitus treatment: the American Tinnitus Association, Better Hearing Institute, American Otological Society, American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, American Speech Hearing Association, House Ear Clinic, Academy of Doctors of Audiology, and the American Academy of Audiology.

Many of the better and more sophisticated hearing aids available today contain some form of tinnitus masking incorporated into the hearing aid circuitry which is easily used by the patient. One of the greatest challenges in working with tinnitus patients is that everyone is different.

ReSound hearing aids include a tinnitus sound generator (TSG) that has helped many patients manage their tinnitus. The Smart App allows each patient to select and switch between sounds that provide the most relief. This direct audio streaming from a smartphone gives the patient direct access to customizable soundscapes that fit their unique needs.

Again, tinnitus is not a disease, but rather a symptom of an underlying condition.

Tinnitus cannot be cured, but it can be managed.

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Ugly Lamp

Ma

by Andrea Champlin

Our previous home was all neutral. There was beige everywhere. If you read this magazine last month and saw my laundry room, you know that I’m starting to stray far from neutral. I love bringing color into our home and lamps are an easy way to do that. I went to to a local thrift store and found four inexpensive lamps to transform.

I got four lamps and they had all seen better days.

Unfortunately, I was unable to salvage the lamp shades. They were all too dirty and torn and I wanted different shapes anyway. So I kept the shades long enough to take before pictures and then they all went in the trash.

A couple of things you need to make sure you do before you start your lamp makeover: 1. Make sure the lamp works.You don’t want to waste time on a broken lamp.

2. Clean it! You can paint dust, but why would you?

Now let’s get started. Matte chalk paint has been in vogue for years, and I’ve used it many times, but shiny paints are back and I’m so glad! I used lacquer and metallic paint on these lamp bases.

BEFORE

**** Pretty in Pink We’ll start with these two beauties. Well, I’m sure they used to be beauties, but those days are well behind them. But we’re going to fix that.You’ll notice that these two lamp shades are far too short for the tall lamp.You can see the light bulb hardware. Good thing they’re already in the trash.

Supplies for the base: Spray Primer Amy Howard Lacquer Spray Paint

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Supplies for the Shade: Fabric for lamp shade Styrene Sheet Wire lamp shade rings Clamps Quick Dry Fabric Glue Scissors or spiral fabric cutter Tape Measure

akeover

The base of this lamp was really easy. First, I used a spray primer to cover the base of the lamp. I then used Amy Howard’s lacquer spray paint in Begonia. I applied two coats. I love the bright pink! I was really happy with this paint.

I knew the type of shade that I wanted, but I could not find the right size! I picked up a couple shades from a local store, but I didn’t like them. So I decided to make a lamp shade. This was not what I had planned. I just wanted to buy a shade and glue some cute ribbon to the bottom.

But after researching a bit, I found that it isn’t too hard to make your own lamp shade. So I tried it, and it worked! I was so excited!

This isn’t an overly difficult project, but it does take several steps. If you want to try it yourself, there are more pictures and a link to the video that I used on my blog. Doesn’t it look so happy with a pink base and a cork lampshade?!

BEFORE

After

**** A Girly Girl Lamp I needed a new lamp for my daughter’s room because her lamp gets knocked off the table about once a month and it was beginning to look like my thrift store finds. I found a lamp that I loved online, but it was $200, so I decided to recreate it by recovering her current lamp shade with white fabric and using acrylic paint to paint a similar design. I also used liquid gold leaf to paint the inside of the lamp shade. My daughter thought that was the coolest!

Supplies Needed: Spray primer Modern Masters gold paint Liquid gold leaf White fabric Paintbrush Quick dry fabric glue

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Superhero Lamp My boys have been asking for a lamp forever because their sister has one; however, they’re the main culprits of knocking lamps over in the house. So $12 was about all I was prepared to spend on a lamp for their room. This was so easy to do!

Supplies Needed: Spray Primer Lacquer Spray Paint Lamp Shade (link on the blog) The spray paint that I used came from a local discount store and worked a little better than the expensive Amy Howard paint that I used. I like the Amy Howard colors, but if you can find a cheaper version in a color that you like, go for it! My boys share a room and they were thrilled with this lamp that matches the paint on their walls.

I hope these projects have inspired you! If you’re thinking about adding some color, lamps are an easy way to do it! Happy painting!

If you want more details on this DIY, you can go to TheMajesticMama.com/winc.

BEFORE 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.

After 26 WINC. | June 2018

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WN METO O H

HERO

Stephen Shackelford: A Veteran’s Veteran

by Kelly Sublett Stephen Shackelford lives near Vilonia with wife, Emily. They have two children Elijah Cole, 10, and Allisyn Grace, 4.

A life of service was exemplified for him from the beginning, and although there are challenges, he has chosen a professional life after the military to help other veterans.

Stephen was born in Jacksonville, Arkansas, on the Little Rock Air Force Base, and his father was a C-130 Loadmaster.

“My dad had always tried to sway me to join [the military], but at that point, I was too young to listen to anything. I saw first-hand how the Air Force had him deployed for long periods of time and that just didn’t seem like something I wanted to do,” he said. “A few years after high school, I found myself working two to three jobs trying to make ends meet. My best friend from high school, Chris Brannon, was 28 WINC. | June 2018

talking to me one day about him and his brother joining the Army and asked me if I wanted to join with them. At that point, it seemed as if a beacon of light shone down from the Heavens above and was showing me the clear path!”

During Basic Training for the U.S. Army, Stephen obtained his EMT license and later became a Certified Nurse’s Assistant.

“I’m proud that I obtained the Combat Medic status in the Military,” he said.

“School was tough and hot during June, July and August in San Antonio, Texas!”

Now, Stephen works for the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System in the Acute Psych Unit at Fort Roots in North Little Rock.

“I look forward to coming to work every day at the VA to help my fellow Veterans that are trying to deal with everyday choices, and the trauma they

endured that is preventing them from doing so,” he said. “Knowing that I am doing my best to help my fellow veterans gives me great pride in what I do.”

After two deployments, once to Iraq and once to Afghanistan, in combat zones, Stephen said he is left with much reflection of service and struggles.

“I have obtained the National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Army Forces Reserve Medal with Device, Global War On Terrorism Service Medal, Global War On Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Army Good Conduct Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award and my most proud possession, my Combat Medical Badge,” he said.

The Combat Medical Badge is an award of the United States Army which was first created in January 1945. Any member of the Army Medical Department, at the rank

of Colonel or below, who is assigned or attached to a ground Combat Arms unit of brigade or smaller size which provides medical support during any period in which the unit was engaged in active ground combat is eligible for the CMB. “I was fortunate enough to get attached to the Evac Platoon of Charlie Med 39th Support Battalion,” he said.” There, my Squad Leader, Ron Ward, took me under his wing and showed me the way. Along with Ward, I met Adam McCauley, Aaron Harper, Michael Miller and Andrew Baker who helped mold me into the Medic that I was going to be. Other highly influential people were Greg Oginski, Stephen Perry, Kacey Teague, James Rhoades, Cort Calkins, Bobby Norwood, Tim Honea and Rebecca Spencer.

Each of these people can be counted on for being a positive role model and to lead the way.”

But leaving active combat left something else. Stephen was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder he has battled for years. But in April, Stephen welcomed Mare, an 8-week old German Shepherd puppy to the family. Working with the Cpl. Dane Freedman Foundation, Stephen was designated a good fit for the program with help of Kay Dale, of “Poje German Shepherds” in Sidney, Arkansas.

“So I found this group. I gave Kay a call and we immediately hit it off! She knew that this GSD would be a great fit in my life and would increase my quality of life.”Stephen said. “My plans are to have her trained to be able to detect my panic attacks from PTSD. I was also diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes while I was in the military, and I will want her to be able to detect when my sugar is too high or too low as well.”

Stephen and his family are animal lovers, and have begun raising a farm of sorts.

“I’m currently in the process of raising a rabbit farm,” he said.

“I have had up to 14 rabbits that all started with an Easter Bunny from my parents for my two kids! I also have 8 chickens and a duck (Goosey Goosey) that lay eggs for me. I currently have Lion Heads, Chinchilla Rabbits, a Californian/New Zealand and a Rex. We just traded two chickens to my wife’s Aunt Tanya, due to a

misfortunate incident, for two baby chicks. One is an Australorp and the other is an Easter Egger that lays pastel colored eggs!”

Through it all, though, Stephen holds one thing most dear.

“My life lesson would be to make God Number One and everything else will fall into place — a life lesson I wish I would have learned a long time ago,” he said. “But it’s never too late to trust in Him.” For more information on the Cpl. Dane Freedman Foundation and how you can help, log onto www.danefreedman.com.

If you know a verteran or first responder and would like to nominate them for a feature, please email ksublett@thecabin.net.

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Great books for middle schoolers

by Andrea Champlin

I had to opportunity to read all of these Some of my favorite times as a parent (plus a few more) and I think these are have been spent reading books to my great books to teach and entertain. children at bedtime. My oldest is starting middle school this year and even though I don’t read to her much anymore, I still lie in bed with her at night and we talk about her day. For some reason, I find out more about her day and what’s going on in her life during this time than any other conversation. We’ll talk about friends, growing up, problems at school and pretty much anything else that’s on her mind. I treasure these times and I hope we do this until she leaves for college.

We also like to talk about books. I try to read some of the same books she does and we discuss them. Since she’s starting middle school this year I wanted to find some books that dealt with social issues. Books that may give her a different perspective on the world and enhance her critical thinking skills.

30 WINC. | June 2018

Loser by Jerry Spinelli You are going to love Donald Zinkoff.

The kid loves life and has an enthusiasm for even the most mundane things. He stands up and salutes his teachers at school, he thinks being a mailman is the greatest job ever, and he wants to be best friends with a boy that makes earwax candles. It’s impossible not to like Donald Zinkoff when you’re reading this book. But he’s getting older, and kids are starting to notice that Zinkoff isn’t like everyone else.

His writing is atrocious, he’s hopeless at sports, his grades are mediocre; but it’s his performance at field day that earns him the nickname “loser.” But it’s the way Zinkoff reacts that is so touching. He stays the same. He’s horrible at sports, but still tries with the same enthusiasm. Kids are unkind to him, but he’s still as personable and friendly as ever. Donald Zinkoff has a heart of gold and the coordination of toddler.

I like this book so much because Zinkoff does not allow others’ opinions to define him. He never changes. He stays the same sweet, funny and quirky kid throughout the book. I have a daughter that marches to the beat of her own sequined, showtune-singing drummer, so I hope this book resonates with her. camp. The butcher’s wife pleads with her onlooking German neighbors to do something. The butcher’s wife has known these families for years, has lived beside them, and considered some friends. No one helps.

This is an opportunity to discuss: questioning authority, having a healthy skepticism of what you hear on the radio, see on television or read on the internet, and doing the right thing. Even if no one else is.

Parallel Journeys by Eleanor Ayer These are the true stories of a highranking member of the Hitler Youth and Jewish mother that survived Auschwitz.

It’s the same period of history told from two polar opposite perspectives. This book tells enough about the horrors of the Holocaust without terrifying a young reader. I’ve read several fiction and non-fiction books about this period in time and this is the first one I’ve read that had a perspective from a Nazi, and it was fascinating.

Alfons Heck rose to the highest ranks in the Hitler Youth in his early teen years.You will read about the propaganda machine of the Nazi regime and how they essentially brainwashed very young children into being Hitler fanatics. Children were required to join the Hitler Youth at 10. This is not to excuse any atrocities committed, but it does give a glimpse into one German child’s mind during World War II. Another chapter tells of a Jewish butcher that is taken from his shop and thrown in a wagon bound for a death

The Lions of Little Rock by Kristin Levine This is a touching story of friendship, bravery, and courage that tells the story of Marlee Nisbett and her friendship with Liz. These two twelve-year-old girls form a fast friendship, but when it’s discovered that Liz is black and attending a white school, it looks like their friendship is over.

However, the two girls courageously (and a bit naively) decide to continue their

friendship in segregated Little Rock. Marlee begins the story too shy to speak, but with Liz’s encouragement, she slowly begins to find her voice.

As the story progresses, Marlee gives her mother the courage to speak out against the injustices done in the name of segregation.

The girls and their families face discrimination, death threats and violence.

This piece of historical fiction takes place the year after Little Rock’s Central High School was integrated, when all Little Rock high schools were shut down. There are many landmarks discussed in the book that your children will probably recognize. This is well-written.

Note: This story discusses some aspects of puberty. The n-word is also used in the book.

Wonder by RJ Palacio I had high expectations for this book; it exceeded them. This is a story of kindness, friendship and acceptance that makes you see the world a little differently; even this forty-year-old mama. I expected the story about the trials of a young boy with severe facial abnormalities, but it’s so much more. I love that this book switches the first-person point of view from the main character, August Pullman, to that of his womensinc.net 31

sister and some of their friends. The book offers insight into not only what it was like being August Pullman, but what it was like being friends with August Pullman.

All kids will go to school with an Auggie Pullman; there will always be someone that doesn’t fit in, that needs a little more kindness than necessary. As a mom, what I want for my children in school (besides a great education) is for them to show kindness to others, and for others to show kindness to them. It’s that simple. This book inspires.

Note: I watched the movie two days after finishing the book. The movie is fine, but it doesn’t compare to the book. If your kids have seen the movie and you don’t think they need to read the book, respectfully, I believe you’re mistaken.

Revolution is Not a Dinner Party

by Ying Chang Compestine This beautifully written piece of historical fiction takes place after the Cultural Revolution in China and during the last years of power of Chairman Mao, in the early 1970s. The book is based on the author’s experiences growing up in China and to be honest, I was not familiar with this period of history. This story is told from the point-of-view of a 10 year-old girl living with her upper class parents in China. Circumstances for her family deteriorate dramatically during the last years of Chairman Mao’s rule. This is a story of hardship, courage and endurance and can lead to powerful discussions.This book has information about the author and discussion questions at the back.

Note: Suicide is discussed in this book.

Blubber by Judy Blume As a mom, this book was hard to read.

It’s set in a fifth grade classroom where a group of students mercilessly torment and bully an overweight girl, Linda Fischer, whom they’ve nicknamed Blubber after she gave an oral report to the class about whales. The story is told from the point of view of fifth-grader Jill Brenner, but the leader of the clique is Wendy. The girls in the book are afraid to cross Wendy and so they follow along with whatever awful thing Wendy can think to do to Linda.

Finally, Jill has had enough of Wendy’s control over their classmates and stands up to Wendy. The next day Jill is the target of Wendy’s bullying and sees what Linda had been experiencing.

This is a great book to talk with your child about bullying and about speaking up if they witness someone being bullied.

Note: The mom in this book does smoke. Also, the not nice word for a female dog is used by Jill Brennon and is directed toward one of the other characters. I’m still going to give it to my daughter to read, but I like to know these things ahead of time.

Wringer by Jerry Spinelli Palmer does everything he can to fit in with “the gang.” He pretends to be someone he is not. He is pressured into doing things that make him uncomfortable.

He wants more than anything to fit in, but he just doesn’t. There is an annual festival in his hometown that concludes with a competition where pigeons are shot for sport. At the age of ten, young boys are expected to have a role in this annual

32 WINC. | June 2018

tradition; they are supposed to be the wringers. Palmer dreads turning ten.

Peer pressure is the driving force for Palmer; peer pressure and the desire to fit in make Palmer behave like someone else, until he realizes that he doesn’t want to fit in anymore. This is such great book for middle schoolers.

I hope I’ve given you some ideas if you have a middle schooler home with you this summer.

Books matter.Your kids should read good ones.

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.

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A Look Back...

Springhill Baptist Church—1946-1966 Photo courtesy of Springhill Baptist Church

Homecoming

by Cindy Beckman

For longtime Baptists living in the northern part of the county, the arrival of June meant it was time to get ready for Homecoming. Homecoming was a day of special activities at the community church; a time for those who did not live in the community anymore to come back to visit.

Traditionally, each Baptist church in the area had Homecoming on a different Sunday in June. That allows people from miles around to attend all of them. They could visit friends and relatives they might not see but this one time a year. In the days before automobiles, attendees came in wagons, buggies, surreys, on horseback or they walked the dusty roads to the church.

Springhill Baptist Church has its Homecoming the first Sunday in June. Bethlehem Baptist Church at Shady Grove and Bono Baptist always schedule their Homecomings for the second Sunday of the month. Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, south of Wooster, always had its Homecoming the third Sunday while Needs Creek Baptist Church finished out the month, celebrating Homecoming on the fourth Sunday in June.

In the past, Homecoming was an especially important day for the community. Everyone always dressed up for the occasion.

34 WINC. | June 2018

Extra money would be earned hoeing cotton so that material could be bought for new clothes. Mothers would sew new clothes for the whole family. Children might even get new pairs of shoes.

Homecoming Day festivities usually began with a morning singing. Invitations would be mailed on penny postcards to singers throughout Faulkner County. Many of the singers prepared themselves by attending singing schools held at various places in the county.

The time of singing was often followed by a time of reminiscing and a few words from the preacher. During this time, the ladies of the church would leave to set out the food for the “dinneron-the grounds.” For many years it was just that. Tablecloths and quilts would be spread out on the ground. Sometimes church benches would be taken outside to use as tables for the food. In more recent years, Homecoming dinners have often been held in the church fellowship halls or activity centers.

In the past, “fixin’ the dinner” for Homecoming was a family affair. The children would catch a spring pullet for their mother to fry. All sorts of vegetables would be prepared. Pies, cakes and

bread would be baked. There was always an abundance of food.

Noontime was not only for eating but for visiting and exchanging news. People shared the joys and sorrows that had occurred in their lives over the previous year. New babies were introduced and condolences were expressed for the loss of loved ones.

After lunch, some would go back in to the church for more singing. Windows would be raised and “funeral fans” would be flapping in the still summer air trying to catch a breeze. The singing would drift outside where the men were discussing their crop conditions under the trees.

Most of these Homecoming traditions are still carried on today but changes have taken place over the years. Pleasant Valley Baptist now holds its Homecoming the second week in July, moving it from the third Sunday to allow families to celebrate Father’s Day. Many of the lifelong residents of these communities have passed away so their descendants don’t come as often but Homecoming is still celebrated with dinner and song.

Pleasant Valley Baptist Church—1930 to 1953 Photo Courtesy of Pleasant Valley Baptist Church

Cindy Beckman is a local freelance writer. She writes A Look Back, a weekly Tuesday column; A Look Forward, a bi-monthly Sunday column; and the daily Yesterdays column for the Log Cabin. She has also authored several local history books and articles. She may be reached at beckman@windstream.net

Bono Baptist Church—1923 building until 1989 Photo courtesy of Bono Baptist Church

Typical scene of “dinner on the grounds” at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church from the 1980’s.

Bethlehem Baptist Church—used original church until 1960 Photo courtesy of Gale Garrison womensinc.net 35

Conversations with a

Tommy Green Hometown: Cabot Spouse: Mandy Green Children: Lawson, 3 years; Brecken, 7 months Occupation: Financial Advisor at Centennial Bank Fun Fact: Tommy plays wood bat, fast pitch baseball for The Pirates in The Men’s Senior Baseball League of Central Arkansas. They are the defending champs.

Who is the better driver?

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

Turks & Caicos. Vacation 2016.

Who is the calmest?

Do you prefer mountains or Definitely me the beach?

What is your family’s favorite What’s your guilty pleasure? Beach hobby?

I’ve been known to eat an Lake Hamilton in the summer Who do you most admire? entire large pepperoni with jalapeños from US Pizza in one My wife, Mandy. Her ability Where do you go to church? to juggle a demanding sitting.

Cabot United Methodist work schedule and care for Church What’s the one thing in your our two boys with so much love definitely deserves my home you want to get rid of What is your favorite admiration. but that your spouse won’t memory as a family? allow?

This past Mother’s Day. It was Which is your favorite Too much floral decor! restaurant in town? warm enough for us to swim in the pool as a family. Our Fire & Stone in Cabot Who is your favorite 7 month old loves the water animated character?

Is your family more Elvis or already!

Scooby-Doo Beatles?

Beatles What are you most Cody Sublett is a native to Faulkner County. He passionate about? is a local business owner and enjoys sharing the personalities of the people he meets. Whether it is Playing baseball. I am still another small business owner or a family he has had the pleasure of meeting, the Cadron Creek Craftsman playing at age 37. is happy to share a little bit about the people who What’s the last music you listened to as a family while driving?

LCD Soundsystem-All My Friends

make Central Arkansas unique and diverse.

36 WINC. | June 2018

For your family.

For life.

Home furnishing Refinishing Trim

501-499-1916 | Facebook & Instagram @cadroncreekcraftsman

womensinc.net 37

Hey, Bubba. Watch this!

Ladies, does that sound like the man in your life? Or fellas, does that sound like something that has ever come out of your mouth? I bet the answer to both of those questions is yes. They say confession is good for the soul, so I’ll be honest and include myself in the “yes” group. For those of you who think of me as someone who has at least a little bit of common sense, I think it’s best for me to conveniently leave out the specifics of the dumb stunts I’ve pulled in my day. However, there is a picture of me in the 1970 edition of the Razorback yearbook hanging on to the bumper of a car sliding down an ice-covered Dixon Street in Fayetteville, but that was just for fun, right?

Did you know that there is even an annual award for the dumbest stunts attempted? Yep. They are called the Darwin Awards, named for Charles Darwin, whose controversial publication, The Origin of the Species, presented so-called “evidence” that species evolve over time to fit their environment better. The official website, www.darwinawards.com, asks the question, “Do the Darwin Awards really represent examples of human evolution in action?” At the very least, the “winners” of these awards – the vast majority of whom are males – seem to “significantly improve the gene pool by eliminating themselves from the human race in an obviously stupid way,” according to the website. You really should read some of the dumb stunts people pull. It actually might make you feel a little bit better about yourself.

Statistics confirm that males are more likely to be admitted to an emergency

38 WINC. | June 2018

department after accidental injuries, Testosterone is the primary male including sports injuries, and are more likely hormone, of course, but it is not the only to be involved in a fatal traffic accident. one produced in men’s’ bodies. We make Why is that? According to www.bmj.com, several more including estrogen. When some of these differences may be due to males reach puberty, the testosterone cultural and socioeconomic factors. Males “factory” goes into hyperdrive and continues may be more likely to engage in contact to produce testosterone at a steady rate and high-risk sports and may be more likely until about the age of 30, at which time to be employed in higher risk occupations. levels begin to decline. Adult men need However, even from an early age, riskadequate testosterone production in order seeking behavior is higher in boys than in to maintain muscle and bones. And, of girls. course, testosterone also affects men’s sex There is a class of risk – the “idiotic” drive. (Reference the preceding paragraph risk – that is totally different from risks for testosterone makes men stupid). associated with contact sports or adventure Here’s the good news, ladies. As pursuits. Idiotic risks are defined as testosterone levels naturally decline, senseless risks, where the apparent payoff is the man in your life should become less negligible or non-existent, and the outcome aggressive, more rational, and generally nicer. will likely be extremely negative and often Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it? fatal.

Seriously though fellas, in addition to a Mind you, I’m not picking on us guys decreased sex drive and erectile dysfunction, just to entertain a predominantly female low testosterone levels can lead to weight readership, but that is what guys do – try gain, low energy levels, increased body fat, to entertain or impress the ladies – isn’t it? reduced muscle mass, and can even lead Why is that? For better or worse, we men to osteoporosis. Low-T, as it is commonly must now face up to our own fluctuating known, has also been associated with chemistry. We may not routinely bloat and depression and difficulty in concentrating. bleed, but a new study makes it clear that So, guys, if some of these symptoms describe we too are at the mercy of our hormones! you, do yourself a favor and get a checkup.

To put it bluntly, and to answer the “why” There could be more at stake than your sex question, testosterone makes men stupid, life. and we have the audacity to make jokes about David Smith is the owner and chief pharmacist at Smith you ladies and your Family Pharmacy where he works with his wife Shirley and hormones! You staff. He graduated from the UAMS College of Pharmacy in 1974 and has been taking care of people in the Conway and can read about that surrounding areas for more than 43 years. He loves spending study on www. time with family and is No1POP to 5 wonderful grandchildren. theguardian.com.

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Designed for success Dapper, dressed, directed and determined describe Conway native Erik Sellers and define his creative journey.

“I was a creative kid,” Sellers says. “I always drew. I was an art guy. My dream was to become an artist for comic books.”

Sellers was encouraged through his childhood by other family members who had artistic gifts.

Before he was 10 years old, Sellers remembers hand sewing garments alongside his grandmother who made clothing for her own children and passed down the skill to her grandson.

His mother, Sally, was a single mother and served in the U.S. Navy. Sellers depended on his extended family for support.

“My mother is incredible, the matriarch of our family,” he says. “And we’re (Erik is married to Catherine Sellers) about to have her first grandbaby in November, so I am so excited about that!”

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Sellers started his own business, J.M. Gentry’s, in 2016, and credits so much of his success to influential people in his life.

“The name pays homage to my Godparents,” Sellers explains. “He was a very dapper, elderly man and poured into me. I had a core of people around me in support.”

by Kelly Sublett He fostered that gift of creativity through high school, eventually ending up at the University of Central Arkansas as an art major.

“I was an art major — the exact opposite of a math major,” he laughs with a wide smile. “I failed math. I had my work at the Baum Gallery and did well in my art classes, but I was terrible in algebra.

“I ended up graduating from Central Baptist College with a degree in Christian counseling and psychology. While at CBC, I started designing clothes, and I really felt like that was from God.” With help from an advisor on campus, the 6-foot, 1-inch aspiring clothing designer secured an internship designing and sewing costumes for the college choir.

“It’s really where I got my base in learning to sew patterns,” he says. “It really pushed me into fashion.”

After college, Sellers went to work for Dillard’s in the tailored goods department selling suits. He constructed a portfolio of

work, but after much effort, he was told he needed a degree to be a designer.

“I learned some hard lessons about the fashion industry,” he says.

Sellers served 10 years at Men’s Warehouse, honing skills that helped cultivate his passion for design. Then, he took a job at Greenhaw’s Men’s Wear in Little Rock that got him even closer to his desire to design.

“It was a really good opportunity,” he says. “I got more information about the business side of things, including how markets and dealing with vendors worked industrywide.”

But when the business slowed down, Sellers was let go and he officially started his own business.

“I really felt like it was time to branch out,” he says.

He signed up for help from the U.S. Small Business Administration SCORE program at UCA, researched and found local help for the mechanics of taxes and legal aspects of the business.

“When my CPA wanted a suit, that set me at ease,” he says.

“She was my absolute first customer and that meant a lot. That meant, to me, she believed in what I was doing.”

Sellers began designing neckties and bowties before his business hit the ground. He said he was proud of the first bowtie he ever purchased, a Ralph Lauren, but realized commercial ties didn’t fit him well.

“I made the first one bigger, so it fit me,” he says. “It wasn’t long before I started doing custom orders for weddings and pastors.”

J.M.Gentry’s is about more than boweties, though. Sellers designs custom, tailored suits for men and women, even down to the lining. Dresses, slacks, luxury bags and even made-to-fit shoes with options for soles and leathers are in his arsenal now. He also does alterations.

“I have made suits for pastors and politicians who normally buy off the rack,” Sellers says. “But they’re happy when they have something that fits well and when they have some exclusivity in clothing. I can design and construct a suit for $600 or a suit for $6,000.”

He has a degree from the Arkansas Fashion School and has developed relationships with men’s stores in the region, including Greenhaw’s. He has vendors across the globe and has participated in a number of runway shows highlighting his talents.

“I like the classic side of things,” Sellers says. “My favorite designers are Ralph Lauren and Tom Ford. I like things tailored.

I enjoy the complicated things and the simple things. Because of the work I do, customers sometimes don’t know exactly what they want, but they trust me to do it, and that means a lot.”

Follow J.M. Gentry’s on social media on Facebook at www. facebook.com/JMGentrys and Instagram at www.instagram.com/ jmgentleman.

womensinc.net 41

by Kelly Sublett

Two dudes and a microphone It’s an afternoon in downtown Conway and two friends walk into a coffee shop … no, it’s not the setup for a good joke, but Todd Cate and Leo Cummings III will, indeed, make you laugh.

The two good friends have known each other since junior high school, but reconnected eight years ago working out at Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center.

Spending time together, the banter was easy, Todd says.

“We’ve been pretty connected since that time,” he says. “We just have a lot in common.”

Both men grew up in Conway, have many mutual friends and knew each other from church. They are both husbands and fathers.

Being an outsider to the two-man team, it is obvious the pair never runs out of topics to unpack, and it’s fascinating to watch. One stream of conversation might go on for a long while over an afternoon with some caffeine.

Two years ago, an idea to package their energy and conversation into a podcast seemed like the most natural thing in the world, and “Black Dude, White Dude” was born.

“I feel like I got Leo into podcasts,” Todd laughs. “Remember, Leo? You listened to ‘How Did This Get Made.’ It’s a podcast about old movies from the ‘80s.”

Leo brightens up, “Oh yeah! That’s a good one.”

Their first podcast episode, they admit, was rough. One computer, one microphone, two dudes and a garage studio.

“Todd brings the technology,” Leo says. “I put on the headphones and start talking.”

Since that first podcast, though, the format has some basic elements. They also have upgraded equipment and have a semipermanent studio in Leo’s home.

“We had some things we wanted to cover,” Todd says. “I think we have done that. We’re both parents, husbands, into fitness, we like talking about sports. We talk about race.”

The name of the show wasn’t originally meant to send any real message, other than the idea that some topics of discussion were ripe for social commentary from both a black dude and a white dude.

“There’s something to be gleaned from having certain conversations face to face,” Leo says. “Todd and I are good friends. And we’re such good friends, we can talk about things sometimes that make other people nervous.

“Sometimes, we take the opportunity to take opposing views just to talk through stuff we think is relevant. Two different

“Laura had a very impacting story,” perspectives. And, we’re in the South.

And, there’s nothing else out there, really, Todd says. “It was cool on a couple of like this.” levels. First, we actually interviewed Not all discussions are controversial. someone who this happened to and Much of the show’s content is fun and that was compelling. We had a number uplifting. But if there is an issue on the of people respond to her story. And, it table, the two dudes will work it out on was the first time she publicly told that the air. story.”

Both admit they use caution but are Leo says the interview with Mustain never dishonest about how they perceive created some initial anxiety because the world around them. neither host had ever “Our friendship is met him before. such that it’s often “People in the sports no-holds-barred off the world or who follow air, but we do hold back sports know this guy,” a little bit when we’re recording,” Leo says.

Leo explains. “But he “We use some caution got to tell his side and because we still live and he was so forthcoming. work in this community It was great!” and the people we The future, according know and see every day, to the dudes, should be whether at work or at more format evolution, the [grocery store], will gaining sponsors and hold us accountable.” reaching a larger Black Dude, White audience. Several “Black Dude, White Dude” Dude is always evolving, strategic partnerships, is available at thecabin.net/ Todd and Leo explain. with the Log Cabin entertainment/podcasts, But for the most part, Democrat, Palmer www.stitcher.com, there are two formats.

One is a guest-interview SoundCloud.com or itunes.com. Music Company and Rock City Outfitters, format, while the other is just two dudes talking. are among those who “We like the guest shows because we have helped the dudes go the distance. hear from people with life experiences “We’ve come a long way since that we don’t have,” Todd says. “When it’s the first podcast,” Todd says. “We want to two of us, we deal with social issues, and set realistic goals and generate more of a every time we do it, we get a little more following.” comfortable. We’ve had a lot of success Leo echos, “Sometimes, we will get with our guest shows.” a text or a message telling us people Two most notable guests were Laura are listening. Other times, people will Davis, a kidnapping survivor, and Mitch recognize the logo. It’s a good feeling. We Mustain, a beleaguered former football plan on growing from here.” star.

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by Kelly Sublett 44 WINC. | June 2018

M

anAlive Expedition is just that. It’s a sojourn of the soul just for men in the spirit of men.

It’s a gathering, a happening and many times a changing of the heart.

“ManAlive is based on the themes of the book ‘Wild at Heart’ by John Eldredge,” explains Darrell Amy, a founding board member. “That book really resonated with me, and in the back of the book, there was information on an event in the Rocky Mountains. [I tried for three years to go] but they were overbooked, and in 2009, I went to that place. It was very much a life-changing experience for me. And I thought, ‘I can’t be the only person. …’”

In the fall of 2009, Amy found a related event in East Texas to attend. There, he met other men with similar experiences.

“When I came home from the first trip, one of my biggest challenges was that I realized I didn’t want to do life alone, without a band of brothers — that was not a good thing,” he says.

The trip to East Texas bonded Amy with other men — real stories, real situations and real desire to grow as people.

“For almost 10 years now, we’ve gotten to know each other and we’ve been through all kinds of life situations together.

Out of that, in the fall of 2011, we developed ManAlive Expedition in Arkansas based on the way John Eldredge does it in Colorado,” Amy says.

But it’s not a Biblical study. It’s not a design of checkpoints.

Manalive is a wandering through the mind and possibly the heart of a man, giving each participant a place to explore who he is and in his own words and on his own terms with some guidance by men who have wandered down that path before.

It’s about finding like-minded men who might just develop a lasting friend or many in the experience.

“Eight guys put on our first event together,” Amy says. “We had 50 or 60 men that first year. We wrapped our 12th event this spring and had over 90. Through the years, we’ve seen over 600 men go through ManAlive.”

The Expedition is held twice a year in Solgohachia, north of Russellville. The next event is set September 13-16.

But what happens on the mountain is still a mystery in many ways. The nonprofit doesn’t advertise and organizers don’t do media interviews. An exception was made exclusively for WINC. Magazine.

Wives will tell you their men come back changed but in ways that are hard to define. It’s about opening a dialogue in a safe space.

“The heart of men is really tricky,” Amy says. “They don’t respond to gimmicks. This isn’t a church event. They usually find out about ManAlive from their friends, and men’s wives tell other wives. It is very personal.

“I guess, ManAlive helped me understand what the story of my life did to my identity.”

Board member Bryan Henry echos, “The men who come just are who we are. Men show up from all over the country.

In our society, the value of a man is just to put our heads down and keep going, but in reality, it doesn’t work that way.

Having a group or a team helps them along.”

ManAlive is meant to provide something of a brotherhood, honing in on what is loving, protective and supportive without expectation.

“The goal is to create irreversible change,” Henry says.

“How that plays out is that men are encouraged to be engaged in their lives. It’s about heart, not emotions. We want men to realize what God created them to be and to live it out.”

For more information on ManAlive Expedition, log onto http://manaliveexpedition.com.

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Reynolds Performance Hall Announces 2018-19 Mainstage Education Series

by Cindy Beckman Reynolds Performance Hall has a great line-up scheduled for the 2018-19 Mainstage Education Series. Starting its fourth year, the series brings international and national professional touring companies to UCA, introducing Arkansas students of all ages to the performing arts, many for the first time.

Up first, on Tuesday, October 30, at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., is “Diary of a Worm, a Spider, & a Fly,” an upbeat musical based on the three books by Doreen Cronin. Best friends, Worm, Spider and Fly, learn lessons about the earth and its eco-system as well as tolerance for others. Students will learn a lot about insects and will be wiggling in their seats to the beat of the rap, hip-hop and boogie-woogie musical numbers.

On Monday, November 12, “The Science of Magic with Bill Blagg” comes to the Reynolds stage, taking students on a rare, never-before-seen journey “behind the scenes” of the magic world. With school performances at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., students will discover firsthand how magicians use science to create the impossible during this comedy-filled, action-packed interactive presentation.

Reynolds rings in Christmas with “Junie B. Jones Jingle Bells Batman Smells,” produced by Wally Jones & Casa Manana Theatre. Everyone’s favorite first grader and the students in Room One create the perfect holiday party. And as a special treat, there will be an evening performance on Tuesday, December 18, at 6 p.m. in addition to the school performances at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 19.

The performance hall kicks off Black History Month with a production of “Freedom Bound,” a one-act play about Addison White, an escaped slave, and the Underground Railroad, on Monday January 28. “Freedom Bound,” with school performances at 10 a.m.

46 WINC. | June 2018

and 12:30 p.m., brings history to life through original songs and an array of characters.

“Pete the Cat,” based on the popular book series by Kimberly and James Dean, will be at Reynolds for three performances on Friday, March 15. In addition to the school performances at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., there will be a special evening performance at 6 p.m. Join Jimmy Biddle and Pete in a new adventure of friendship and inspiration!

Wrapping up a year of stellar events will be “Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium” on Monday, April 29 at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

From the creators of “Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo Live” comes a new adventure at the bottom of the ocean. Students will be immersed in oceans where prehistoric marine reptiles lived eons ago – and may still live today. Using actors, technology, puppets, science and imagination, Erth shows are fun for the whole family.

That’s why there will also be a Sunday matinee performance, April 28 at 3 p.m.

Tickets for the evening performances, $5 for students and $10 for adults, go on sale August 6. Reservations for school performances begin August 7 and will be made on a first come, first serve basis.

Teachers are encouraged to make reservations early because Reynolds expects 11,000 students to attend this year’s performances.

Forms will be available on the website, http://uca.edu/ publicappearances/mainstage/ and may be emailed to Reynolds@uca.edu or faxed to 501852-2375.

Tickets for the school performances are $5 per student, thanks to the contributions of sponsors and donors, grants, and fundraising efforts of Reynolds Performance Hall to keep ticket prices low.

“In 2016, Dan Dipert read an article about Mainstage and the Dan Dipert

Foundation paid for all the sixth-graders from Southside Bee Branch, his hometown, to come to see “Rosa Parks,” said Amanda Horton, director of Reynolds Performance Hall, “That’s just one of many stories of contributions from people who believe in the importance of exposing young people to the performing arts.”

If you would like to help sponsor the Mainstage Education series, contact Amanda Horton at ahorton@uca.edu or 501450-3682 for more information. There are various levels of sponsorship available.

Schools may apply for a limited number of ticket vouchers for low-income students. School groups receive one free adult chaperone ticket per 10 student tickets purchased. Additional adult tickets may be purchased through the school’s order for only $10. There is also an option for students to eat lunch in the UCA cafeteria at a cost of $6 per student. Lunch reservations need to be made a week in advance with Nancy Fulmer at 501450-5981.

Guidelines for age appropriateness are provided on the website as well as study guides which will assist with connecting the production to curriculum standards. Almost all the curriculum guides are already available for review. Just click on the name of the production for details on each performance.

Also, thanks to a grant from the MidAmerica Arts Alliance, there is a social story available on the website to help prepare very young students, as well as students with special needs, for their visit to Reynolds Performance Hall.

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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.