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WOMENSINC.NET

WINC. AUGUST 2017

WOMEN MEAN BUSINESS

ANDREA

Woods Moving from a Successful Legal Career into Public Service

Food Feature: A G irl &

Her G ril KITCHEN WITH A VIEW KIM & DON SILVESTRI

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CONTENTS 7 ANDREA WOODS

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A U G U S T 2 017 WOM EN ’ S IN C .

Editor Lori Quinn

FOOD: GRILLING

Moving from a Successful Legal Career into Public Service

A Girl & Her Grill: Favorite recipes for outdoor cooking

17 WOMEN IN BUSINESS Spotlighting Faulkner County’s Remarkable Women in Business

42 KITCHEN WITH A VIEW

The Kitchen of Kim & Don Silvestri

Chief Photographer Brandy Strain Advertising Sales Director Betsey Barham Art Director Robin Stauffer Advertising Sales Executives Crystal Geraldson Sara Grady Leigh Anne Gray Cortney Askins

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Advertising Artists Jay Prince Lauren Morgenstern Amanda Loggins

48 SHOPPING

Take a peek into Lori Quinn’s makeup bag for her favorite go-to products

AGING PETS

Caring for pets as they get older

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BACK TO SCHOOL

Remind children to always consider safety for back-to-school time

IMATTER

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Treece Ealy: Writing Prodigy

columns 56. book review The Nightingale Susan O’Keefe review

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Contributing Writers Jeanette Anderton Leah Ashby Cindy Beckman Detra Clark Marisa Hicks Colleen Holt Nancy Jackson Andrea Lennon Jill McCollum Susan O’Keefe Jennifer Stanley Jenny Strange Kelly Sublett

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Love & Good Deeds

by Andrea Lennon

Editorial Advisory Board Leah Ashby Jenny Cabantac Ayisha Canant Detra Clark Alyson Fish Nicolle Fletcher Haley Crafton Fowler Sarah Frost Mary Harlan Nancy Jackson Cate Ketcheside Leslie Kostecky Caroline LaVan Velda Lueders Christina Munoz Madsen Candace Meeks Misty Morse Carol Patty Amy Reed Lanette Rogers Mary Margaret Satterfield Jennifer Stanley Katherine Thomason Stefanie Holt Vann

Questions or Comments?

Call (501) 327-6621, e-mail: WINC@thecabin.net or write to P.O. Box 969, Conway, AR, 72033 • www.womensinc.net

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ANDREA WOODS

“There’s no greater challenge and there is no greater honor than to be in public service.”

—Condoleezza Rice

ANDREA

Woods

Armed with a successful legal career and a penchant for public service, Conway resident Andrea Woods recently announced her candidacy for circuit judge.

By Jennifer Stanley Photos by Brandy Strain Armed with a successful legal career and a penchant for public service, Conway resident Andrea Woods recently announced her candidacy for circuit judge.

Andrea and her husband, Jeff, have been married 23 years this August. The couple has two children: Cullen, 18, will attend the University of Arkansas Honors College this fall. He graduated from Conway High School in spring 2017. Abby, 14, attends Conway Junior High School. Andrea grew up in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where her father served as city manager for almost 18 years. Her mother started a small business once Andrea and her siblings began school.

“I wanted to spread my wings, so I chose to attend the University of Kansas. My parents met at the University of Kansas, and my maternal grandmother had a farm about 30 minutes away from the campus,” Andrea shares of her post-high school life. She completed a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1992 and entered law school at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville in 1993 after taking a year off to work. “When I returned to Fayetteville to begin law school, I ran into Jeff downtown. We dated off-and-on in high school and college, and that time it stuck,” she says. They married in 1994 and moved to Ohio two weeks later.

“As newlyweds, we lived in Ohio where Jeff earned his Ph.D. in History. I completed law school at Capital University School of Law in Columbus, Ohio and graduated with a Juris Doctorate degree, with honors, in 1996.” The Woods remained in Ohio upon their respective graduations. “My first job after law school was working as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in Fairfield County, Ohio, which is about 30 minutes southeast of Columbus. It was an amazing experience and reinforced my confidence in our judicial system,” shares Andrea.

About 17 years ago, Jeff had a job opportunity at Arkansas Tech University, and the Woods made their home in Conway. “Our son was just shy of turning a year old when we moved back home to Arkansas,” she says. Andrea now serves as Executive Vice President and Corporate Counsel for The Nabholz Group, Inc. She attributes her role to, “The Faulkner County Leadership Institute (FCLI), a good friend, and luck. I met my current boss, Greg Williams, during the FCLI business day program. The timing of meeting him was amazing. Greg called me the next day to set up an interview,” she explains. Prior to this serendipitous meeting, she considered opening a law practice in Conway. “My

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experience as an attorney has been amazing. A law degree is very flexible because you can pursue so many different careers. There are opportunities in non-traditional legal roles in addition to a traditional law practice.”

When asked to name some career highlights, Andrea responds, “One of my most memorable experiences was serving as second chair as a young attorney on a two-week murder trial. Another is being approved as a board member at The Nabholz Group, Inc. It was a true honor to be nominated and approved by the shareholders to serve in this role.”

Regarding practicing law, she says, “I went to law school because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. It is a rewarding profession in many ways, and I believe I’ve been able to have a positive impact in people’s lives regardless of what job I’ve held. I remain passionate about our judicial system and what it can do for individuals and communities.”

Andrea has certainly invested in her community. She currently serves as chair-elect of the Conway Regional Health System and as chair of the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce. “After taking about two years off due to my work schedule, I am a member of the Conway Kiwanis Club. The passing of Senator Stanley Russ caused me to reflect on how I was losing touch with some of the wonderful friends I made through Kiwanis and the Toad Suck Daze Run event,” she says.

Despite her accomplished career and a number of philanthropic commitments, Andrea relishes her spare time. “I like to take our dogs on short runs on weekends. I enjoy reading and being with my family. Sunday night dinners or just hanging out, eating popcorn and 8 WOMEN’S INC. / AUGUST 2017

A friend dared Andrea and Jeff to participate in the Tough Mudder event. Challenge accepted!

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Photo caption

watching a movie with them is still one of my favorite things to do,” she says. The family also loves vacationing. “We all enjoy traveling and exploring new places. Last year’s spring break was a road trip through Nashville and Chapel Hill to visit colleges. We do our best to build in days to enjoy each location in addition to touring the campuses.”

When asked to share something personal that might surprise people, Andrea says, “A few years ago, Jeff and I decided that we needed to get into better shape. A friend dared us to do a Tough Mudder event, so we did. The training was rough, but the event was so much fun. You help each other through the course, but you also help complete strangers, and they help you.”

Much like those strangers helped Andrea through her race, she approaches public service in a similar manner by placing her desire to serve others at the forefront. She says of recently announcing her candidacy for circuit judge, “My father was in public service. It’s in my blood. We chose to live and raise our family in Faulkner County, and I am invested in this community and this state. I would be honored to serve in any way I can. I also believe the people who live in our judicial district can trust I’ll have the temperament to serve in an honest, fair, and courteous way.”

Andrea Woods with her husband, Jeff, and their children in their home.

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“I remain passionate about our judicial system and what it can do for individuals and communities.”

—Andrea Woods

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food

A

G irl & Her G ril

By Leah Ashby and Linda Mars Photos by Brandy Strain

When the weather heats up, Linda prefers to keep the heat outside rather than in her kitchen. What better way to entertain than with a variety of recipes prepared on the grill? From skewers to foil packets, there are so many inspiring recipes to make for family and friends. Round out the meal with fresh grilled pineapple topped with ice cream. Here are a few of Linda’s favorite mouthwatering grilled main dishes.

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A GIRL AND HER GRILL

Shrimp Boil Foil Packets Foil packets are easy to make ahead of time, and it’s a full meal with zero clean-up. Throw your favorite veggies in a separate foil packet for the perfect side dish!

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 (12.8-ounce) package smoked andouille sausage, thinly sliced 2 ears corn, each cut crosswise into 4 pieces 1 pound baby red potatoes, halved 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 teaspoons cajun seasoning Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

Directions

Preheat a gas or charcoal grill over high heat.

Cut four sheets of foil, about 12-inches long.

Divide shrimp, sausage, corn and potatoes into 4 equal portions and add to the center of each foil in a single layer.

Fold up all 4 sides of each foil packet. Add olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt and pepper, to taste; gently toss to combine. Fold the sides of the foil over the shrimp, covering completely and sealing the packets closed.

Place foil packets on the grill and cook until just cooked through, about 12-15 minutes.

Served immediately, garnished with parsley, if desired.

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Grilled Asian Garlic Steak Skewers The marinade adds an Asian flair to the dish and is grilled to perfection.

Ingredients

1½ pounds top sirloin steak 1 red onion ⅔ cup soy sauce 6 garlic cloves, minced ¼ cup sesame oil ½ cup vegetable oil ½ cup sugar 1 tablespoon grated ginger 2 tablespoons sesame seeds Sliced green onions, for garnish Skewers

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Instructions

Cut steak into one inch cubes. Cut the red onion into large chunks and set aside.

In a large bowl whisk together soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, vegetable oil, sugar, ginger and sesame seeds. Add the steak and toss to coat in marinade. Marinate for 3 hours or overnight.

Preheat the grill to medium high heat.

Thread the meat and the red onion onto the skewers. Grill for 8-10 minutes until the meat is done to desired liking.

Grilled Pineapple with Ice Cream Conway residents Leah and Linda are longtime friends who love entertaining family and friends. Leah is a business analyst at Acxiom Corporation, and Linda is a Registered Nurse at Circle of Friends Clinic at Arkansas Children’s Hospital.

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Sriracha Pineapple Grilled Chicken Kick it up a notch with this spicy chicken recipe that can be served as a main dish or chopped in your favorite salad recipe.

Ingredients

1/4 cup BBQ sauce 1/4 cup Sriracha 1/4 cup honey 1/4 cup Dijon mustard 1/4 cup pineapple juice 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

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Instructions

Whisk together BBQ sauce, Sriracha, honey, mustard and pineapple juice.

Place chicken in a gallon Ziploc bag and pour marinade over chicken.

Refrigerate a few hours to overnight.

Remove chicken from marinade and grill for approximately 15 minutes, until done.

SPOTLIGHTING FAULKNER COUNTY’S REMARKABLE

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Lauren Elenbaas The Shaw Firm, PLLC

As managing attorney at a Conway law firm, Lauren M. Elenbaas counts a win as being more than just a victory in the courtroom. A true win-win situation also includes a holistic approach to fixing a client’s underlying legal issues. The Shaw Firm, PLLC, is a multi-service law firm providing aggressive legal representation throughout Arkansas, said Lauren. “We provide a broad array of legal services in a variety of areas including, but not limited to, criminal defense, administrative law, family law, probate law, and appellate litigation. I focus the majority of my practice in the areas of criminal defense and administrative law, and I love every second of it.”

Lauren has worked in Conway for nearly three years after leaving a position as an insurance defense attorney at a mid-size firm in Little Rock. Prior to that, she didn’t know much about Faulkner County, but has ruled in its favor. “Since establishing a practice here, I have fallen in love with the area. Faulkner County is home to some of the most genuine, kind, and caring people that I have met since first moving to Arkansas in 2010,” she said. “It is also one of the fastest growing communities in Arkansas with an even more rapidly expanding business community. I am so very thankful to be here and am also thankful to have been so readily accepted by the community.”

A native of Knoxville, Tenn., Lauren was a collegiate athlete and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in political science from Grand Valley State University outside Grand Rapids, Mich. “From there, I briefly relocated to Houston, Texas, where I served as a community development director at the Home Place of Texas, a faith-based non-profit organization that works with adults with disabilities. It was this time at Home Place that truly solidified that I wanted to become an attorney and advocate for individuals that could not always effectively do so for themselves.” Continuing her studies at the William H. Bowen School of Law in Little Rock, Lauren received academic awards for achievements in appellate advocacy and disability law, was selected as a member of the school’s Moot Court Board, was twice elected to represent the interests of fellow students as a SBA Senator, and graduated with Honors. “Currently, I serve as an at-large board member for the Arkansas Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys, the preeminent criminal law bar association in Arkansas with the ultimate goal of ensuring justice and due process to individuals accused of crimes or other forms of misconduct.”

Lauren has also learned how to build a legal career based on the overall well-being of a client. “What I have learned from Frank Shaw and from the people of the Conway community, is that the best thing about a legal career is having a holistic approach to your legal counsel. When individuals come in to see us at The Shaw Firm, they are usually coming in during one of the most difficult times in their lives. Often our clients are facing the possibility of losing many of the things that they hold dear such as their livelihoods, families, and even their freedom. So, if we can provide counsel that assists them in obtaining a good outcome for their legal woes, then that it is wonderful and obviously our goal,” she said. “However, our job is even better if our counsel goes above and beyond and assists our clients in remedying the underlying issues that have led to the development of a legal problem. Those are the cases that make what we do matter, because, ultimately, you have to fix yourself to fix your situation.”

Plans for the future are always in the works at The Shaw Firm. “We have a strategic growth plan in place that will allow for us to continue to grow, improve, and offer an even wider array of legal services to the area. In fact, we have some very exciting additions to our firm coming soon. As for the industry in general and its next generation of women, the practice of law has come a long way in a short amount of time. Today, we see more and more women enrolling in law school, starting their own practices, and rising to great professional heights. Arkansas is a great example of this as four of the seven Justice positions on the Supreme Court of Arkansas are filled with distinguished and respected women. “However, we still have a long way to go in shattering the ‘glass ceiling,’ and I look forward to being part of a generation of women lawyers and business women that will accomplish this goal.”

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Tobi Taylor

Conway Psychological Assessment Center Tobi Taylor’s life has a definite focus on educating others about mental health care and empowering those who have mental health needs.

A licensed professional counselor for Conway Psychological Assessment Center (CPAC), Tobi provides individual, family, and marriage counseling. “CPAC provides psychological testing and therapy services. There is a lot of collaboration at the clinic. If we feel a therapy client needs testing to better define the problem, we have the resources to manage it. The diagnostic information is valuable when developing a treatment plan.”

The clinic opened in 2012 and Tobi joined the team. Prior to 2012, she was a school-based therapist for Methodist Family Health. A graduate of the UCA, Tobi has a Master of Science degree in community counseling. “I came to Conway for college in 1990 and it has been my home ever since. My husband and I are proud alumni of UCA and our daughter is a junior there.” The Taylors also have a 14-year-old son.

Empowerment of her clients is a big part of Tobi’s modus operandi. “I teach my clients that it is a sign of strength to seek help and everyone can benefit from counseling (including counselors). While this job can be demanding and draining at times, it is a joy to hear a client say that his life is better or a parent tell me that her child has achieved a goal because of the work we have done together.

To see a client become empowered to live a healthier and more functional life makes every hard day worth it.”

Tobi is active in the Conway community. The Taylors attend First United Methodist Church, where she and her husband teach Sunday school. She is a member of the Mental Health Counseling Association, along with being a therapist for Daily Bread Counseling.

“I have been involved or volunteered in several organizations over the years; however, I could not counsel my clients to focus on wellness and self-care when I was not practicing it myself. Therefore, many of those obligations have been set aside for a while, at least until mama duties decrease.”

Kim Slaughter Owner/Graphic Designer - The Blue Focus

Central Arkansan Kim Slaughter returned home in 2014 with a business goal centered around growth and potential in Conway, and maybe a little childhood magic for good measure. Kim Slaughter established The Blue Focus, unofficially in 2008, while working as a business consultant. She officially launched the full-service marketing firm in 2010 while living in Dallas. The Blue Focus offers marketing consulting, Facebook marketing, graphic design, videos, printing, apparel, and promotional products. “I decided to move back to the state I love so much to be close to my aging parents and childhood friends,” Kim says. “I first chose the city of Conway because of the rapid growth the city has experienced over the last decade.

When I looked at homes here I soon fell in love with the people and the beauty of Conway, especially downtown.” The Blue Focus is a product of Kim’s education, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in business administration with a focus on marketing, and her experience in the field. But maybe there’s something in that childhood magic that made sense, too.

“I would say what makes me the happiest is when I was little, I would watch ‘Bewitched’ and say to my mother that someday I wanted to work for an ad agency,” Kim says. “Starting The Blue Focus has made it possible for me to live out my childhood dream. (wiggles nose) “In 1998 I started my first business, Prism Marketing and Management, a consulting firm focused on medical practices,” she says. Over the years, she has been published in many trade journals including Optometric Management, 20/20, Dentistry Today, Veterinary Practice, and Women’s INC. She is also the organizer of the upcoming networking event “Conway The Road Ahead” and is very involved in Conway’s business networking scene.

As for her strategy in business, Kim points to creativity and a unique way of thinking outside the box with a strong feminine influence. “My instinct to be nurturing pushes me to constantly strive for perfect and flawless customer service skills,” she says. “However, I can waste some time being a little too ‘chatty’ with customers, but I love to help people even if they don’t do business with me.”

But Kim’s people-loving personality is also a driving force behind her involvement in special causes and really, everything she does. “I am the founder of Blue Mercy a charity that’s helps the elderly in nursing homes,” she says. “I have worked with the Bethlehem House, Deliver Hope and teach Facebook Marketing at UCA.” “My goal is to build more relationships here in Conway, grow my business and help others grow their business. I feel Marketing is a great industry for the imagination a women can offer. I love mentoring college students studying marketing and hope to pass on the thumbs up button some day.”

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Mona Colvin Mona Colvin Designs

Mona Colvin has built her dream business from the ground up, and can help you create your dream home in the same way!

The owner of Mona Colvin Designs, Mona has been in business for 19 years and has owned her business in several states – including New Jersey, Texas, and Arkansas. The main focus of Mona Colvin Design is on interior design and custom in-house drapery.

“I can help you make your dream home from the ground up or a spruce up. There is no such thing as a job too small or too big!,” she said. “I am continuing to do what I love to do -- helping people feel great about their homes.”

Mona came to Conway when her husband, Skip, was transferred here with his job. She attended college at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith. The Colvins have three children -- Cole, 28, Hunter, 25, and Kyl’Lee, 19 -- and a beautiful granddaughter.

“As a woman, growing up in the custom home building business, I understand the construction side as well as the design side. For many years, the construction business was typically a male industry. I think women today can change that role and use their creativity to deliver a different perspective on this industry,” Mona says. “This industry is ever changing with internet, social media, etc. So keeping up with trends but still intertwining the classics takes a special eye, and I feel like that is what I do.”

She also feels that her gift for design is from a higher power. “I feel God has given me a special gift and I would like to continue to share it with my clients. My husband says when you love your job it’s not a job. I really love my job!”

Mona’s excitement for her design work is contagious, and she is ready to take on any task. “I have been allowed to work on some very special projects, but when I make someone’s home a reflection of what they envisioned but better, then I have complete satisfaction of knowing I have done my job.”

For more information about Mona Colvin Designs, email Mona_colvin@yahoo.com or call 501-762-1477.

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MEET THE WINC TEAM Job Title:

Multi-Media Account Executive at the Log Cabin Democrat

How long have you been at the Log Cabin Democrat?

10 months

What was your first job (of any nature)?

Working part time at a gas station in Roland, AR during high school

Tell us what you enjoy doing in your free time?

My life was forever changed when I became a mother, and free time usually revolves around my children, which I wouldn’t change for anything. My oldest, Eric (15), is heavily involved in sports so I can usually be found at sporting event throughout the year. My middle child, Hayley (12), is my bookworm, and has a love for all things educational.

She sees to it that I’m learning something new each day and is a joy to be around. My youngest, Karson (18 mos), keeps us all on our toes as he learns and grows and continues to give us all the joy of seeing things through the eyes of a toddler.

SARA GRADY “My ideal evening?

I get my greatest joy from watching my two oldest children interact with the youngest.”

What music have you downloaded lately?

Thanks to the wonderful technology of music apps I can enjoy a wide variety of music. I listen to just about everything, but my son Karson usually wins the music-choice battle and we end up listening to something upbeat that we can all dance around the house to.

What is something people would never know about you without asking?

For almost five years I served in the Arkansas Army National Guard as a Signals Intelligence Analyst. Although I never deployed, I enjoyed my time in the service before I discharged in August of 2014. While serving, I had the honor of being the recipient of the Army Accommodation Medal for graduating first in my Basic Training class ahead of 197 other service men and women.

Tell us one thing you have bragging rights to (What’s one thing you’re really good at)?

Making people smile comes naturally to me. I love getting to know new people and listening to their stories. This played largely into my decision to build a career in the newspaper industry. Getting to visit with clients and learn about their businesses and how they got there really interests me and I find myself making life-long friends along the way.

How would you spend your ideal evening?

The ideal evening for me would be spent cooking out with my family and spending time with my children. I get my greatest joy from watching my two oldest children interact with the youngest. We make the best memories together and thoroughly enjoy each other’s company.

What product does the Log Cabin Democrat offer that you enjoy telling the clients about and why?

I absolutely love selling digital advertising! There are so many different avenues to go with digital advertising; whether it be targeting a specific audience or redirecting potential customers from simple searches

to a website where they can find those goods and services—the possibilities are endless! My favorite aspect of digital advertising is the ability we now have to track viewers and then report back to the customer just how well their digital advertising is saturating their targeted audience.

Are there other products that the LCD offers that others may not know about?

When I first approach a business owner, most think that we can only offer newspaper advertising. On the contrary, we offer SO MUCH MORE! From digital advertising to creating websites and even social media management, we really can offer a host of services that reach far beyond the print readership.

Additional Information:

Children: Eric, 15; Hayley, 12; Karson 18 months WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 41

homes

KITCHEN WITH

THE SILVESTRI KITCHEN IN SPENCER MOUNTAIN AT THE LAKE

Home owners:

Don and Kim Silvestri

Neighborhood:

Spencer Mountain at the Lake

Year built: 2012 Builder: Stewart McConnell Local subcontractors:

Johnny Wells and Wayne Lilly-painters Sherman Williams-paint Erik Menzie-trim Hambuchen Lighting-lighting Ridout Lumber-flooring and windows David Grant-cabinets

What do you love about your kitchen?

The open concept of my kitchen allows me to be a part of everything going on in my home while we gather in the living areas. That was very important to me, I love to have my family and friends together and be a part of everything that goes on before, during and after the meal.

What is one of your favorite features in your kitchen?

I chose the farmhouse sink, thinking ahead to be able to bathe my grand babies. Less than three years after we built the house, I was bathing my grandson and granddaughter in that sink.

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Photos by Brandy Strain

KIM & DON SILVESTRI

A VIEW

“The open concept of my kitchen allows me to be a part of everything going on in my home while we gather in the living areas.”

—Kim Silvestri

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How does your home’s design work for your family?

I love the openness of the whole upstairs of my house because it allows my 2 1/2 year old grandson, who has to walk with a walker, a lot of freedom to chase my granddaughter around and around the big island. Their laughter and screams assure me I had them in mind before they were ever a glimmer in their parents’ eyes.

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What was your design inspiration for your kitchen?

The granite on the island was the inspiration for the colors and materials. The granite is an exotic granite named Vintage. We pulled out the faint blue green color in the granite as the color to paint the cabinets.

“I chose the farmhouse sink, thinking ahead to be able to bathe my grand babies. Less than three years after we built the house, I was bathing my grandson and granddaughter in that sink.”

—Kim Silvestri

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shopping

What’s In My Makeup Bag? WINC readers take a peek at my go-to beauty products. All of these items can be purchased locally from some of my favorite stores and companies.

—Lori Quinn, Editor

UNDER $ 15

$5 R E D N U

ACCESSORIES

Illuminated magnification mirror.

Available at local discount and department stores.

Cosmetic bags. Available at TJ Maxx.

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LimeLight by Alcone signature jeweled lipgloss.

Available from a LimeLight sales rep.

Clinique chubby stick moisturizing lip color balm.

Available at Lefler’s, downtown Conway .

Aquaphor lip repair (under $5). Available at Walgreens.

BEAUTY PRODUCTS

$32

$108

FACE

Estée Lauder perfecting loose powder. Available at Lefler’s, downtown Conway.

Smashbox photo finish primer water. Available at Ulta in Lewis Crossing, east Conway.

ANTI-AGING & CORRECTING

Rodan+Fields active hydration serum. Available from a Rodan+Fields sales rep.

SkinCeuticals blemish + age defense salicylic acid and acne treatment. Available at Studio Skin, downtown Conway.

$5 R E D N U EYES

Almay eye make-up remover pads.

Available at Walgreens.

Rodan+Fields Redefine multifunction eye cream. Available from a Rodan+Fields sales rep.

$16 HAIR

$22

Rusk smooth foam. Available at Boogaerts Salon.

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day dry shampoo. Available at Ulta in Lewis Crossing, east Conway.

Big Sexy Hair spray and play volumizing hairspray travel size. Available at drug stores and discount stores.

Wet Brush. Available at Target, and discount and department stores.

SKIN

Nivea skin firming hydration body lotion.

Available at Target, Walgreens, and Kroger.

Sun Bum SPF 30 spray sunscreen. Available at Ulta in Lewis Crossing in east Conway.

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health

ADVERTISEMENT

Stay Active — Stay Sharp No matter what age you happen to be right now, like the lyrics say in a song by the Swedish electro-pop recording artist Seinabo Sey, “You ain’t getting any younger, are ya?” Fact is, the older I get the more obvious – and frankly – frustrating that is. I was recently working on cleaning up along a fence and weeding some flower beds and simply hit the wall, so I quit for the day. But I didn’t let that keep me from finishing the job the next day. Why, you might ask, did I tackle that task myself? Well, at least in part, I did it to keep my mind sharp – and that’s a real concern for me. To be sure, we will all eventually age – both body and mind – but growing older does not necessarily mean that our mental abilities will be reduced.

There are numerous articles that one can read about the benefits of brain exercises to help you stay mentally sharp, but I found a really interesting article online at www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au about the mental benefits of staying physically active. According to that article, researchers now believe that many of the supposed age-related changes that affect the mind, such as memory loss, may actually be lifestyle related. So, keeping an active body is also important if you want to have an active mind.

Whatever form it takes, a really good goal for physical activity should be 30 minutes a day. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, three 10-minute sessions are just as beneficial as one longer session. But if you haven’t been active in several years, start

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out slowly – maybe with sessions of 5-10 minutes, and work up from there. Always get approval from your doctor before starting an exercise program, and don’t forget to stretch before and after your workout. Stretching improves flexibility and range of motion, improves circulation, and may reduce the risk of injury and muscle cramps.

Physically active living can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. It also helps you to maintain a healthy weight, assists in proper balance and posture, and helps keep healthy bones and strong muscles. Additionally, it can help reduce stress levels and minimize health related medical costs. The trick to staying active is finding something you enjoy doing. When we were a little younger – okay a lot younger – Shirley (my wife) and I played church league softball, tennis, and loved snow skiing. For me now, it’s playing golf, and yes, I actually enjoy working in the yard and getting my hands dirty. For you, it might be Pilates, yoga, a nice run or walk, or going to the gym.

Speaking of staying active, almost on a weekly basis I get asked the same question, “David, when are you going to retire?” Truthfully, I just don’t see retirement any time soon.

As Shirley puts it, “David will never retire – they’ll have to take him out of the pharmacy on a gurney.” That might be a bit extreme, but I do love taking care of my patients in the pharmacy, and really enjoy the interaction with each person who comes through our front

door. Those interactions stimulate my mind.

As I think through each individual situation to come up with the best treatment plan, I’m helping myself while I’m helping my patients.

Speaking of staying active, you may have already heard that Smith Family Pharmacy will be moving to a new location later on this summer. We were recently presented with an awesome opportunity to double our space by moving less than a quarter of a mile up the street. In late September or early October, our pharmacy will be moving into the Daniel building at the corner of Dave Ward Drive and Nutter’s Chapel Road. It’ll be like “going home” for us because we’ll be in the same parking lot with my brother, Dr. John Smith, and a host of other great medical providers.

We will have easier in-and-out access, better parking, a better drive through window, and a lot more room to expand patient care services.

“Like” Smith Family Pharmacy on Facebook to keep up with our remodeling and relocation progress. All of us here are going to be really active until then!

David Smith is the owner and chief pharmacist at Smith Family Pharmacy where he works with his wife Shirley and staff. He graduated from the UAMS College of Pharmacy in 1974 and has been a pharmacist in Conway for over 41 years. He loves spending time with family and is NO1POP to 5 wonderful grandchildren.

pet care

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How to Care for Aging Dogs Dogs and cats may not live as long as their human companions, but they age just like other living creatures. Cats’ and dogs’ rate of growth and maturity is accelerated compared to human beings’, and pet owners should know it’s never too soon to make plans for keeping pets comfortable as they grow older.

Pet owners may find signs of aging more noticeable in dogs than cats, as cats tend to be less active in the daytime than dogs. Canines that were once rambunctious and energetic can sometimes lose their zeal as the years tick by. Knowing what to expect of aging dogs can help owners prepare for the years ahead.

Nutrition

Aging dogs need vitamins, minerals, fats, and fuel. The right pet diet can help dogs remain active and playful as long as possible.

Take the time to speak with your dog’s veterinarian about brands or food formulations that may help your dog live with certain conditions.

Vets may suggest foods that are easily digestible or that include essential fatty acids for cognition and a healthy coat. Foods may need to be low in calories to help prevent weight gain from reduced activity.

Veterinary Care

Geriatric dogs may require more frequent veterinary visits than younger animals so any potential health conditions can be discovered before they escalate. Expect senior pet exams,

which may include bloodwork, to be more indepth, says the American Veterinary Medical Foundation.

Discuss any mental and behavioral issues your dog has exhibited with the vet, as dogs can show signs of senility as they get older. The AVMA says studies conducted in the early 1990s were the first to identify brain changes in older dogs that were similar to brain changes seen in humans with Alzheimer’s disease. The doctor may recommend tasks to keep dogs engaged and more cognizant.

Arthritis

Aging dogs may suffer the aches and pains associated with arthritis. Large dog breeds are especially vulnerable to joint diseases. Take note if your pet seems to be walking stiffly or having difficulty sitting down. Increased irritability may also be a sign your pet is in pain.

The vet may suggest nutritional supplementation with glucosamine and chondroitin, as well as pain relief medication to help. An orthopedic bed, frequent rub downs of stiff joints, and cozy spots to stretch out can help, too.

Dental Cleanings

Dental care is important throughout a pet’s life, but even more so as he or she ages. Tartar buildup can lead to gingivitis, which can cause bacteria to get into the dog’s bloodstream, potentially leading to internal illness. Brushing

your dog’s teeth and providing teeth-cleaning chews and toys can help. You also may need to schedule thorough teeth cleanings at the vet’s office.

Pets’ needs change as they get older. Dog owners should keep watchful eyes on their aging pooches to ensure man’s best friend stays happy through his or her golden years.

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news & events

Conway Regional Health System named among Best Places to Work Conway Regional Health System has been named among 36 companies as one of the Best Places to Work in Arkansas. The fifth annual recognition program was created by Arkansas Business and Best Companies Group as a way of identifying, recognizing and honoring the best employers in Arkansas as well as how they benefit the state’s economy, workforce and businesses.

Conway Regional Health System employs more than 1,400 physicians, nurses, technologists, pharmacists, therapists, technicians and support staff from a variety of professions and is one of the largest employers in Conway.

“This is a huge honor and a validation of our culture at Conway Regional,” said Matt Troup, President and CEO of Conway Regional Health System. “This independent survey process confirms the high quality of our team and the exceptional work that they do every day.

I could not be more proud of the passion and commitment that they show to our patients and our community and how that calling is boldly reflected in their work.”

Companies from across the state entered the two-part survey process to determine the Best Places to Work in Arkansas. The first part consisted of evaluating each nominated company’s workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics, while the second consisted of an employee survey to measure the employee experience.

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The Employee Engagement and Satisfaction Survey (employee survey) consisted of approximately 78 statements that employees respond to on a five-point agreement scale.

The survey also includes open-ended questions and demographic questions.

The results were analyzed and categorized according to eight areas of focus including leadership and planning, corporate culture and communications, role satisfaction, work environment, relationship with supervisor, training development and resources, pay and benefits and overall engagement.

To be considered for participation, companies had to fulfill the following eligibility requirements: • Be a for-profit, not-for-profit business or government entity • Be a publicly or privately held business • Have a facility in Arkansas • Have at least 15 employees in Arkansas • Be in business a minimum of one year

Conway Regional provides complete health care services to the growing communities of north Central Arkansas, centered on a 150bed acute care medical center.

The not-for-profit medical center serves patients with comprehensive care including cardiovascular surgery, cancer diagnosis and treatment, women’s services, and rehabilitation

therapy services. Additional components of the health system include Conway Regional Rehabilitation Hospital, a home health agency, an all-digital outpatient imaging center, an outpatient surgery center, senior mental health services, eight primary care clinics, an after-hours clinic and one of the largest hospital-owned fitness centers in the nation.

Nearly 1,800 babies were born last year at Conway Regional, and the Emergency Department is one of the busiest in Arkansas with more than 40,000 visits in 2016.

Conway Regional is an independent health system governed by a local volunteer board and managed by CHI St. Vincent. Learn more at www.ConwayRegional.org.

IN THE NEWS

Ribbon Cuttings

Urban Air Trampoline Park opened with several features for the entire family. Employees and the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the grand opening with a ribbon-cutting July 7.

City of Hope Outreach Founder and Director Phil Fletcher (left) cuts a ribbon July 13 with CoHO Academy kids with the opening of the Brookside Academy.

Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway staff celebrates the opening of its new building facility July 18 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

First Service Bank employees celebrate the grand opening of the bank’s second Conway location June 28 with a ribbon-cutting at the new location at 540 United Drive.

Conway Alignment staff and family, along with Conway Area Chamber of Commerce ambassadors celebrate the grand opening of Conway Alignment July 14. The shop specializes in heavy-duty trucks.

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news & events

54 WOMEN’S INC. / AUGUST 2017

SPENCER HAWKS CAMPAIGN KICKOFF: HAWKS FOR HOUSE

Photos by Soho Photography

IN THE NEWS

Conway Area Chamber Receives National Communications Excellence Awards The Conway Area Chamber of Commerce has been named a winner of two industry awards that recognize communications and marketing work. Presented annually by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, the Communications Excellence awards program is designed to celebrate exceptional work in the areas of advertising and marketing, campaigns, digital, and publications.

The Conway Area Chamber received a Grand Award for the first edition of its “Off Campus” college guide, a publication that helps new and prospective students and their families navigate their way through the “City of Colleges.” The guide included information about the University of Central Arkansas, the city of Conway, and the North Metro region.

The Chamber also received an Award for Excellence for its 125th anniversary video. Centered around a locomotive, the video explained how the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce helped catapult a sleepy railroad town to a bustling small city of nearly 65,000. It provided a look back to the Conway that was while setting the stage for what the city can become.

A panel of industry peers — communications and marketing executives from chambers of commerce around North America — evaluated submissions and selected top entries to receive recognition.

Award-winning entries represent the work of 41 organizations in 23 U.S. states and the

Cayman Islands. Of the 49 award-winning entries in 2017, 12 were chosen as Grand Award winners and 37 earned an Award of Excellence.

The Conway Area Chamber and the other 11 Grand Award winners were recognized on stage at a special event on Tuesday, July 18, in Nashville, Tennessee.

Adena White, director of communications at the Conway Area Chamber, said Off Campus is a mutually beneficial partnership between the Chamber, its member businesses, and the city’s participating institutions of higher learning.

“It was an honor to be recognized nationally for Off Campus, the latest addition to our suite of publications,” White said. “The guide allows us to serve as a resource for our higher education institutions while giving our members another avenue to reach potential customers, making it a win-win solution. Receiving a national award is an added bonus.”

About the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce

For more than 125 years, the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce has served as the voice of the Conway, Arkansas, business community.

It represents the interests of more than 1,200 members by promoting economic development in Conway and Faulkner County, advocating a pro-business climate at all levels of government, supporting the county’s educational institutions, and establishing and executing a vision

Conway Symphony Orchestra Guild Presents the Jazz It Up Fundraiser

The Conway Symphony Orchestra Guild invites the community to the Jazz It Up fundraiser on September 14 at Centennial Valley Event Center from 6:00-9:00 P.M. Advance tickets are $45 per person and $50 per person the night of the event. Advance tickets are available at www.conwaysymphonyorchestra.org or by calling Event Chair Pam Strassle at (501)-827-2638 or Guild President Margaret Palmer at (501)-626-5931.

Jazz It Up will feature live music by Shannon Boshears Band, which plays soul, blues, and rock music. The event also will feature dancing, food, and cocktails as well as live and silent auctions.

The auction items are divided into categories which include: Adventures for Kids, Home Sweet Home, What a Man Wants, Oh What a Night, Girls Just Wanna’ Have Fun, and It’s All About That Pet. There will be a drawing for several items, and cost of this “Take a Chance” will be $5 each or five tickets for $20. Some of the live auction items include: One night’s stay and a round of golf for two at Eden Isle; First Service Penthouse catered dinner in downtown Little Rock; First Security backyard grilling party for 20; 501 Life Magazine makeover; Sound the Alarm children’s dinner and party with the Conway Fire Department.

A wide array of live and silent bidding items, good food, great music, and other activities will make this an event “not to be missed.” Save the date. Hope to see you on September 14, 2017.

The Conway Area Chamber of Commerce has been named a winner of an industry award that recognizes communications and marketing work. As a Grand Award winner, the Chamber was recognized on stage at a special event ACCE hosted on Tuesday, July 18, in Nashville, Tennessee.

for the community. To learn more about the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce, visit ConwayChamber.org.

About the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives

The Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, founded in 1914, uniquely serves nearly 8,000 individuals who manage chambers of commerce. The mission of the Alexandria, Va.-based organization is to support and develop chamber professionals to lead businesses and their communities. Learn more at ACCE.org.

Conway: The Road Ahead

Conway’s biggest MOST IMPORTANT networking/charity event of the year!

Discover what lies ahead for the city of Conway and the impact on business owners. It is sure to be a GREAT event.

It’ll be held on September 14, 2017 at 5-7pm at Crain Buick GMC Conway, 710 S. Amity Rd. Tickets are just $5 sold on Eventbrite, The Blue Focus Facebook page, and at the door. Keynote Speaker: Bart Castleberry, Mayor of Conway.

GuestSpeakers: Rik Sowell, Rik Sowell’s Architects, and Bret Carroll, CEO of Conway Corp. Raffle for a 55” Samsung Curve HD TV, and catered by five local restaurants. All proceeds donated to Bethlehem House and Deliver Hope.

Also, a SWAG BAG full of goodies.

For more info text or call Kim Slaughter (972) 322-4887 CELL. WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 55

book review

The Nightingale In love we f ind out who we want to be.

In war we f ind out who we are.

Authored by Kristin Hannah Reviewed by Susan O’Keefe The horrors and heroes of World War II produce remarkable stories. Even though The Nightingale is fiction, it is based on fact. In a sense, it’s the women’s side of the war.

The French women who remained behind as their husbands moved to the front lines in 1939 were women of unspeakable courage. They were wives, mothers, teachers, bakers, and friends.

They became silent experts at talking with their eyes. They escorted downed Allied pilots to safety. They stretched meager rations of food for days, and made clothes for their still growing children from curtains and quilts. They became survivors and prayed to forget the terrible things they had endured and even done under the guise of survival. They walked with their heads bowed, hid in the shadows, outwitted guards, held their breath and even sacrificed their beds. It makes one question which is worse, to die in battle, or to live and battle repulsive memories for the rest of one’s life.

The Nightingale primarily follows two French sisters, who are nearly always at odds with one another. Separated as girls after

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SUSAN O’KEEFE

their mother’s death, and their father’s refusal to care for them as he battled demons from the first World War, the two grow up distant and detached.

Cautiously, Vianne settles into a quiet, demure, and gracious personality. She’s content living in the countryside with her husband Antoine and their young daughter. Isabelle, on the other hand, is a rebel, and takes pride in losing count at the number of finishing schools from which she has been dismissed. It seems that the two sisters are destined to be dynamically different until war brings them together.

When Vianne’s husband departs to fight against Hitler, Isabelle sweeps in from Paris to offer aid to her estranged sister. But her aid is unwanted, unwelcomed, and unsolicited. Within hours of her arrival, there’s an argument. Eventually, a German soldier commandeering Vianne’s house is at the middle of the argument. Never one to be silent, Isabelle warns her sister about allowing the enemy to bed down in her farm house. Vianne vehemently replies that she has no choice. It is the first of hundreds of choices that are simply eradicated as the war continues.

As the novel opens, the reader is uncertain of the storyteller’s identity. But the opening line is tremendously captivating, and therefore, readers are attracted. “If I have learned anything in this long life of mine, it is this: In

love, we find out who we want to be; in war, we find out who we are.”

As the war continues, the sisters part ways.

There is too much animosity in a household already brimming with tension. On two separate fronts, however, the women work underground for the same end result. Vianne summons the strength to save orphaned Jewish children. There’s a ruse, a few hideouts, and a miraculous amount of help from a charitable orphanage. Isabelle keeps her distance from her sister. It’s a matter of protection, as if anyone was safe. Isabelle joined the Resistance.

She passed papers from one unknown hand to another. Land led dozens of injured pilots across the Pyrenees to rejoin their units.

Heroic is an understatement.

The constant weight of life-and-death choices take their toll on the differing sisters in similar ways. Aside from the usual consequences of physical exhaustion, hunger, and fright, there is a war experience that is unbearably lonely.

Under the dark sky, Vianne accompanies her Jewish neighbor to the border in an attempt to cross with forged papers. Before there is time to think, there is gunfire. A girl is dead. A surviving toddler screams for his mother, who must flee immediately or lose her chance to live. There, on that atrocious night, the idea of saving the children is birthed. Vianne is weary.

How can she even put one foot in front of the other? With blood caked to her threadbare dress, she buries her best friend’s daughter. She adopts her best friend’s sister. And she speaks to no one. Keeping secrets is exhausting.

Baring secrets is deadly.

Author Kristin Hannah poignantly writes that “Grief, like regret, settles into our DNA, and remains forever a part of us.” The New York Times bestselling author nails her words with biting precision. For readers, there’s a post-read discussion regarding which sister acts in the most heroic fashion. Yet both lay claim to valiant bravery. Meek and mild carry just as much credence as bold and brawny.

The Nightingale is full of wartime desperation as well as determination. With countless stories still to be told, surely there are an equal amount of lessons to be learned. In the end, as the author writes, “Wounds heal. Love lasts.

We remain.”

Susan lives in Augusta, Georgia, where her husband, Jack, is the Augusta University Men’s Golf Coach. Susan originally hails from Kentucky and graduated from the University of Louisville with a major study in Communication and a minor study in Health and Wellness. Susan enjoys the adventures of motherhood as she parents Lucy, John-Freeman, Henry, and Hogan (plus Oxford, the family’s black Labrador).

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art scene

SONGWRITING COMPETITION ACCEPTING SUBMISSIONS

2016 Winner Jasper Logan (center) with guest judges

The Alchemy Songwriting Competition is kicking off it’s 2017 submission period on August 9, accepting original songs in seven genres and two age categories (Youth 13-17 and Adult).

Founded in 2011 with the help of recording artist and American Idol winner Kris Allen, the competition serves to get the work of up and coming songwriters in front of industry professionals. “As a young songwriter I would have loved an opportunity to be a part of something like this. I think it’s a great venue to have your songs heard,” Allen said.

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Submissions will be accepted from August 9 – September 9, at which point the top 40-50 songs will be sent to the guest judging panel for review. The panel, which includes Allen, chart-topping songwriter Adam Hambrick, and Grammy nominated producer Jonathan Smith, will hone in on the top 10 submissions.

These finalists will be invited to perform at a showcase here in Conway on October 14.

As the focus of the competition is primarily on songwriting, the writers have the option of having their songs performed by other musicians.

2015 Winner Jessica Roadcap

While the competition has an international draw—previous finalists have come from as far away as Malta, Canada, and Mexico to participate—it has also been a source of inspiration and encouragement for many Arkansas based songwriters.

The grand prize winner will receive a songwriting session with one of the guest judges, an artist branding session with Zinepak, 2 tickets to the NAMM conference, a $500 Southwest gift card, $250 Airbnb gift card, 30 days of radio airplay and more.

Prizes for the runner up, youth winner, fan favorite and genre winners will also be awarded, ranging from guitars, amps, free studio services with FretMonkey Records, and more.

The competition and showcase are being hosted by Blackbird Academy of Arts, a non-profit that works to provide quality arts education to the Central Arkansas area. All proceeds will be used to help the organization continue to provide classes and scholarships for both visual and performing arts.

This year’s presenting sponsor for the Alchemy is Crain Automotive, with FretMonkey Records and Palmer Music Co. offering support for prizes.

Guidelines, contest rules, full judges’ bios, showcase information and links to previous competition winners can be found online at www.alchemycompetition.org .

EVENTS

ARTS CALENDAR: August 2017 Events Please check out the event website for more information and pricing.

AUGUST 6: Summer Concert Series with John Murphy @ Faulkner County Library; 2:00 p.m.

Nancy@fcl.org (G)

AUGUST 20: Summer Concert Series with Wyatt Jones @ Faulkner County Library; 2:00 p.m.

Nancy@fcl.org (G)

AUGUST 9, 10: Intro to Colored Pencils with Mary Ann Stafford @ Art on the Green; 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (501) 205-1922 (PG13)

AUGUST 21: Open Auditions for Beauty and the Beast the Musical @ Blackbird Academy of Arts; 5:30 p.m. www.blackbirdacademy.org (Ages 8-18)

AUGUST 12: Eclipse Countdown with Kaye Clanton @ Faulkner County Library; 2:00 p.m.

Nancy@fcl.org (G) AUGUST 13: Summer Concert Series with The Fat Soul Band @ Faulkner County Library; 2:00 p.m. Nancy@fcl.org (G) AUGUST 15: Eclipse Countdown with Kaye Clanton @ Faulkner County Library; 7:00 p.m.

Nancy@fcl.org (G) AUGUST 17: Sofia Talvik in Concert @ Faulkner County Library; 7:00 p.m. Nancy@fcl.org (G) AUGUST 19: Open House @ Blackbird Academy of Arts; 9:00-11:00 a.m. www.blackbirdacademy.org (G) AUGUST 20: Open Auditions for Peter Pan the Ballet @ Blackbird Academy of Arts; 2:00-5:00 p.m. www.blackbirdacademy.org (Ages 8-Adult)

AUGUST 21: Eclipse Watch Party @ Faulkner County Library; 2:00 p.m. Nancy@fcl.org (G) THURSDAYS IN AUGUST: Crafts with Ann Linton @ Faulkner County Library; 5:00 p.m.

Nancy@fcl.org (A) RATING KEY G – Suitable for all ages PG – Suggested for ages 7+ PG13 – Suggested for ages 13+ A – Suggested for Adults 18+ Jennie Strange is the founder and Executive Director of Blackbird Academy of Arts, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing quality performing and visual arts education. She lives in Conway with her husband, Statler, and a random assortment of dogs, goats, and chickens. To submit your Arts Calendar events, email Jennie@blackbirdacademy.org

spiritual

Love and Good Deeds

By Andrea Lennon

“I am not doing this anymore.”

Jake looked at me and pointed at the hill and then he used my words against me, “Mom, it’s not what you say that matters. It’s what you do that counts.”

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One day I was sitting on my couch and talking about my need to exercise. My oldest son Jake said, “Put on your shoes.” I was surprised and asked him, “Why?” He said, “Stop talking about it. Let’s do it.”

I put on my shoes and we headed out the front door. I asked Jake, “Where are we going?” He said, “For a run.”

We started to run and I did really great... at first. We ran from our house to a big hill located about two miles away. I was excited when I made it to the hill without stopping.

Jake told me the plan. “We are going to run up the hill and then walk down it. We are going to do this five times.” I was like, “Hello, if you expect me to run up the hill five times, we should have driven the car over here.” Jake did not listen to me and instead he started running.

I am competitive and I like a challenge; so I took off and conquered the hill. I knew that I could not run up the hill four more times. I tried to tell Jake, “I can’t do this.”

ANDREA LENNON

“Pray and actively look for a friend who will encourage you.

Be vulnerable and be willing to be this type of friend to others.”

—Andrea Lennon He did not listen to me. He simply said, “No excuses, Mom.” So I ran up the hill and walked down it one more time. By the third time, I was hurting and I wanted to quit. I told Jake, “I am not doing this anymore.”

Jake looked at me and pointed at the hill and then he used my words against me, “Mom, it’s not what you say that matters.

It’s what you do that counts.” I took a deep breath and kept running. I will admit that when Jake was not looking, I walked when I was supposed to be running; but somehow, I made it.

I knew that I could not run back to our house. I wanted a drink of water, and if my phone had been with me, I would have called my husband for a ride.

As I walked, I thought about the experience and what I could learn from it. Jake pushed me. He really did. If I had been by myself, I would have quit long before I reached the hill. Why? Because the hill was hard, really hard. I never would have believed that I could run up it once, much less five times. Instead of the hill, I would

have taken a nice easy run or walk and then felt good about my exercise program. Jake’s plan was much different than mine. Jake was going to challenge me and he was not going to let me quit.

Do you have a person in your life who challenges you? I am thankful that God’s Word teaches us the value of inviting others into our lives so that they can encourage us in our spiritual walk with God. “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:23-24, NIV) In these verses we see a connection between holding on to the hope that we have in Jesus and the need to invite others into our faith journey. God created us to be in relationship with Him and others. We were not designed to walk through life on our own. We need people who push us to live a life that is full of God’s love and displays Christ-honoring actions towards others.

When we do, we no longer settle for simply

talking about our faith. We start to live it out in practical ways. (Much like Jake did when he moved me from the couch to the hill even though I did not really want to go!)

The million dollar question is this. “Who is challenging you?” If you do not have this type of person in your life, know that you serve a faithful God and He will provide.

Pray and actively look for a friend who will encourage you. Be vulnerable and be willing to be this type of friend to others.

I always say that the body of Christ is a beautiful thing. We are connected by the blood of Jesus; and when we are living in authentic community with each other, our lives and the lives of others are impacted and changed.

Andrea Lennon lives in Conway, Arkansas, with her husband, Jay, and sons, Jake and Andrew. Andrea ministers to the women of Arkansas through a speaking and writing ministry called True Vine Ministry. To learn more about this ministry, access Andrea’s website at www.andrealennon.net.

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real estate

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Back-To-School Safety As summer draws to a close, back-to-school season is in full effect. Remember to safely share the roads with school buses, pedestrians and bicyclists, and provide children with the necessary knowledge to stay safe at school.

Whether children walk, ride their bicycle or take the bus to school, it is extremely important that they–and the motorists around them–take proper safety precautions​.

CELL PHONE: According to a study by SafeKids.org, 61 children are hit by cars every day in the United States, most often during the hours before and after school, and peaking in September. There has been a noticeable demographic shift. It’s now much more likely a teenager will be hit by a car than his younger counterpart, as teenagers are likely to be looking at their cell phone.

YEAR-ROUND SAFETY TIPS: • Never walk while texting/talking on the phone • If texting, move out of the way of others and stop on the sidewalk • Never cross the street while using an electronic device • Do not walk with headphones on • Be aware of the surroundings • Always walk on the sidewalk if one is available; if a child must walk on the street, he or she should face oncoming traffic • Look left, right, then left again before crossing the street • Cross only at crosswalks

NOT ONLY KIDS ARE DISTRACTED: Drivers have a lot to pay attention to in school zones, and there is never an occasion that justifies using a phone while driving. One call or text can change everything.

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BACK PACKS: When you move your child’s backpack, does it feel like it contains 40 pounds of rocks? Have you noticed your child struggling to put it on, bending forward while carrying it, or complaining of tingling or numbness? If you’ve been concerned about the effects that extra weight might have on your child’s still-growing body, your instincts are correct. When selecting a backpack, look for: • An ergonomic design • The correct size: never wider or longer than your child’s torso and never hanging more than 4 inches below the waist • Padded back/shoulder straps; hip/chest belts to transfer some of the weight to hips and torso • Multiple compartments to distribute weight • Compression straps on the sides or bottom to stabilize the contents • Reflective material Remember: A roomy backpack may seem like a good idea, but the more space there is to fill, the more likely your child will fill it. Make sure your child uses both straps–using only one strap shifts the weight to one side and causes muscle pain and posture problems.

SCHOOL BUS: School buses are the safest way for students to travel. National Safety Council urges parents to teach their children the following safety rules for the school bus.

Getting on the Bus: • When waiting for the bus, stay away from traffic and avoid roughhousing or other behavior that can lead to carelessness • Do not stray onto the street, alleys or private property

• Line up away from the street or road • Wait until the bus has stopped and the door opens before approaching the bus • Use the handrail when boarding

Behavior on the Bus: • If seat belts are available on the bus, buckle up • Don’t distract the driver • Stay in your seat; Wait for the bus to stop completely before getting up from your seat • Don’t put your head, arms or hands out the window • Keep aisles clear of books and bags • Get your belongings together before reaching your stop

Getting Off the Bus: • Use the handrail when exiting • If you have to cross in front of the bus, first walk at least 10 feet ahead until you can see the driver; make sure the driver can see you • Wait for a signal from the driver before crossing; when the driver signals, look left, right, then left again. Walk across the road and keep an eye out for sudden traffic changes • If your vision is blocked, move to an area where you can see other drivers and they can see you • Do not cross the center line of the road until the driver signals it is safe • Stay away from the rear wheels of the bus The Tobey Team at Crye-Leike Realtors Conway are full time agents with the knowledge, dedication, customer focus, and commitment to all aspects of your Real Estate needs. Call us today with your real estate questions 501-358-0023

Sources: National Safety Council, SafeKids.org

skincare

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Facelift Without a Knife?

A microcurrent facial is often referred to as a “natural” facelift. This safe and painless facial helps erase fine lines and wrinkles, while firming your skin and defining your features.

It improves muscle tone, reduces puffiness, increases cellular activity, and tightens pores.

The overall result is healthier and younger looking skin. There is no downtime, and you can immediately go about your day.

A microcurrent facial emits extremely low-voltage electrical currents, which mirror your own body’s electrical currents, on a cellular level to repair damaged skin, and stimulate collagen and elastin production.

The intensity is so slight that it would take one million microcurrent machines to light a 40-watt light bulb. This treatment is often referred to as “facial toning” because it’s like a workout for your face. Skin cells are broken down and then grow back stronger, the same way your muscles do after lifting weights. It

works simultaneously to repair collagen in the dermis, the deepest layer of your skin, while gently erasing signs of aging in the epidermis, the top layer of your skin. According to studies, a microcurrent facial can increase collagen production up to 14% ,while elastin increases 48%, and blood circulation goes up by 38%.

A microcurrent facial is ideal for anyone who wants to improve the appearance of their skin — whether they are more focused on an anti-aging or preventative treatment — because it covers all the bases. It is safe and effective on all skin types and skin colors.

However, pregnant women and people with any kind of heart condition should avoid this treatment.

Results are cumulative, so after a series of sessions there are many improvements and they are longer lasting. For sustained results, the recommended course of treatment is a series of 12-15 treatments within the first 6 weeks followed by a maintenance treatment once a month.

Kate Winslet, Madonna, Jennifer Lopez and Oprah Winfrey are reportedly all fans of microcurrent facials.

Angela Jackson, Licensed Aesthetician, offers microcurrent facials and other anti aging facial treatments at Studio SKIN in downtown Conway, Arkansas.

What are the benefits of Microcurrent treatments?

Diminished appearance of fine lines and wrinkles Improved muscle tone in face and neck Improved circulation Cleared up or reduced acne Lift of jowls and eyebrows Lymphatic drainage Sun damage treatment Skin pigment improvement Product penetration Smoother, firmer skin Hydrated and revitalized skin Improved elasticity

Angela Jackson, owner of studio SKIN has been a licensed aesthetician for 16 years. She currently sits as an appointed member on the Arkansas Dept. Of Health advisory committee.

Angela is a member of Associated Skincare Professionals, an organization dedicated to the promotion of safe, quality skin care. Angela practices in the Fayetteville area, has for over 14 years, under the direct supervision of a board certified plastic surgeon. Angela has been offering skincare in the downtown Conway area for the last 6 years. She offers expertise and certifications in corrective skincare, facials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, airbrush tanning, full body waxing and make-up.

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Ears Ringing, Buzzing, Roaring? It’s Tinnitus 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:

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

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frequencies. Tinnitus is the product of these maladaptive neuroplastic changes. Patients with hearing loss and tinnitus may find relief 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 FDA-approved 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 OtolaryngologyHead 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.

Tinnitus Is Not a Disease.

It’s a Symptom of an Underlying Condition.

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imatter

Treece Ealy: Writing Prodigy

Treece Ealy

By Cindy Beckman Meet Treece Ealy. He’s eleven years old and he’s a writer. He writes poetry, comedies, parodies, nonfiction, and now he’s writing a book.

This young prodigy began writing in the second grade. He is homeschooled, but received some additional writing instruction from former Conway High School English teacher, June Simmons, over the past year at Blackbird Academy. At Blackbird, he has stud66 WOMEN’S INC. / AUGUST 2017

ied different kinds of writing. Most recently, he has been learning about haikus.

He is a member of two local writers’ groups, one at the Faulkner County Library and one at the Conway Senior Citizens Center, where he has been reading portions of his work. His parents, Billie and Amie Ealy, are also part of the writers’ group at the senior center and have read excerpts from their writing as well.

Treece has written up to fifty poems and pieces of prose. His favorite genre to write in is comedy. “I like to write parodies. I enjoy writing comedy the most,” said Treece.

One of Treece’s favorite original comedies that he has written is a story about a man who is terrorized by his wife’s parents when his family goes to their house for a visit. He recently read this to the Writers’ Group at the senior center.

The fantasy fiction book he is currently writing, “The Atomic Firecracker: Little Boy,” is set in India. Jackson Greene, a 12-year-old boy, uses a new, yet illegal, weapon and is hunted down by the government. Treece has already written ten of the thirty chapters he has planned for the book. His dream is for the book to eventually become a movie.

As is the case with most writers, Treece is a voracious reader. “He has piles of books in his room. He has read a wide variety of literature.

Some are old classics like, ‘The Old Man and the Sea.’ He has also read some Hawthorne works. He especially enjoys fantasy, and has read the Percy Jackson books as well as the Harry Potter books,” said his mother, Amie.

His favorite school subject is history. He particularly loves learning about World War II, and is fascinated with music history. He is a huge Elvis fan and has been to Graceland several times. “He celebrates Elvis’ birthday every year!” said Amie.

Treece is developing his talents and skills in other areas of the arts as well. He has been taking guitar lessons from Jack’s Music/ Preston Palmer Studios since last October. He will soon begin learning to play bass. He has also been taking art classes at the Arkansas Art Center.

This summer he attended the three-week Summer Theater Academy at the Arkansas Arts Center where he took classes in movement, voice and diction, focus, improv, and an introduction to technical theater. At the end of the workshop, the students did a public performance of “If the Lonely were Home” to demonstrate what they had learned. Treece had dual roles—he played the mayor as well as a crow.

In addition to developing his creative talents, Treece also finds time to volunteer in his community. He works in the Storehouse at the Conway Ministry Center every Thursday.

There he helps in the client choice food pantry.

He also has helped as a volunteer for Feed the Need, sorting and putting up food.

TREECE EALY

imatter

Young people are often the pulse of a community, as sporting events, school events and activities bring them into the spotlight.

Women’s Inc. wants to showcase these young people in a special feature each month. iMatter will seek to tell the stories of a new generation of community, skill, success and achievement. Do you know a student in Faulkner county who is truly one of a kind? Send youth’s name, school, parents contact information (if under 18) and a brief explanation of why you think your youth or you would make a iMatter candidate to Winc@thecabin.net

Here are a few of his favorite poems that he has written:

THY CALM BLAZE

(Written in Shakespearean) The sun doth shine bright, whilst birds chirpeth. Summertime doth make thy heart pound with glory and chivalry. I hope thy sun doth stayeth that way forevermore. Alas, thy glorious blaze was not made in and for this world to stay ablaze forever, but for us to enjoy whilst it lasts. So I bask in thy glorious rays for thy heat doth radiate me.

UNTITLED POEM

Feel at ease, and hear bread crackling in the oven, for these are the sounds of home.

Hear gunfire all around you, and hear the shouts of battle.

Take heart and look alive, for these are the sounds of war.

Hear cheering and feel relief, for these are the sounds of victory.

Feel a medal around your neck, and hear applause, for these are the sounds of a legend.

RED AND WHITE

I look outside and I see a Cardinal of red.

I see it take off from its cradle of limbs in the tree, snow glancing off its wings. It’ll be back.

It always comes back.

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