Womens Inc - 11/23/2016

WOMENSINC.NET

WINC. DECEMBER 2016

A Lakeside Christmas

INSIDE:

Festive flavors Holiday gift ideas

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WINC.

CONTENTS

D E C E M B E R 2 016 WOM EN ’ S IN C .

Editor Lori Quinn

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

6

Lakeside Christmas

Kim Silvestri home

Chief Photographer Brandy Strain Advertising Sales Director Betsey Barham Advertising Sales Executives Sarah Allen Sara Grady Rusty Hunnicutt Tara Mallett

SHOPPING

18

Local holiday gift ideas

12

Joy of Christmas

Lenett and Steve Thrasher home

28

FOOD

Festive flavors

Advertising Artists Jay Prince Lauren Morgenstern Editorial Advisory Board Leah Ashby Detra Clark Nicolle Fletcher Haley Crafton Fowler Sarah Frost Mary Harlan Nancy Jackson Cate Ketcheside Leslie Kostecky Caroline LaVan Velda Lueders Candace Meeks Misty Morse Carol Patty Amy Reed Lori Ross 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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ARTS

From Small Town Arkansas to the Broadway Stage

iMatter

50

Conway’s Swindle captures national title

columns 34. spiritual

Christmas Peace

by Andrea Lennon

38. book review Books for Christmas Susan O’Keefe review

45. events Blackbird Academy Presents The Alchemy Songwriting Competition Children’s Advocacy Alliance Festival of Chairs United Way Pillar Party WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 5

feature story

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A Lakeside Christmas

By Jennifer Stanley Photos by Brandy Strain Kim Silvestri of Conway extends the characteristic clean lines and brightness of her home to her holiday dĂŠcor. The four bedroom threeand-a-half bath home is located at Spencer Mountain at the Lake in West Conway.

Kim’s family includes her husband Don and three grown children. Cassie, one of their twin daughters, is married to Michael McCullough, and they live in Rogers with son, Miles. Their other daughter, Chelsea, is married to Matthew McShane, and they live in Fayetteville with children Arden and William. Their son, Connor, is in his last year of dental school in Memphis.

After stints at the central coast of California, WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 7

where her girls were born, and Texarkana, Texas, where her son was born, the Silvestri’s have called Conway home for 23 years. Each of their children graduated from Conway Public Schools. Her daughters attended the University of Central Arkansas, and her son attended Hendrix College. “We feel very fortunate to have made this our home,” says Kim. And what a home they have made! “Shortly after moving here, I learned our daughters were friends with the children of the owners of the land [at Spencer Lake]. It was their family farm. My question every time I saw them was, ‘When will your family divide up that beautiful land and let the rest of us enjoy it?’” she says. The landowners eventually did, and Kim’s was the first name on the consideration list.

Her home is designed to be open, airy, and modern and is filled with whites and clean lines. The wreath on the wooden front door provides a sneak peak of the inside decor with its natural wood and shades of gold and green.

Kim’s dear friend, Kathy Scharff, has always helped with her home design. “I realized very soon after building our house that red is very garish with the muted shades in my home. I hosted a bridal luncheon and attempted to use the bride’s wedding colors, red and white.

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“I remember when my children were little – the twinkle in their eyes when they would look at the tree. Now, to capture that same twinkle in my precious grandbabies’ eyes with completely different décor is very satisfying.”

Kim Silvestri

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We had to nix the red! I have chosen to keep with the natural, outdoorsy, and metallics,” says Kim. The living room carries on the colors of the front door wreath with the addition of whites and metallics. Kim’s ornaments feature natural elements such as birds, nests with eggs, feathers, berries, and pine cones. The tree’s color scheme blends with the home’s usual décor, offering a streamlined look. She also uses greenery and candles on the mantel.

The dining room is also decorated in 10 WOMEN’S INC. / DECEMBER 2016

whites, creams, greens, and golds and features large lanterns. Different ornaments and figures are displayed throughout the holiday decorations and include Santas, small trees, and crosses. Kim says, “I love Haynes Ace Hardware and keep my eyes open year round for cool additions to my tree, living areas, and porches. Kathy and I have been known to go outside and find some of our decorating ideas as well.”

The screened-in back porch offers a heavenly view and a wonderful gathering place. Kim

decorates this area with wreaths and snowflakes. She also adds holiday-themed pillow covers to her large porch swing for a whimsical holiday touch.

Kim says her goals for her Christmas decorations are “simple, nature-inspired, and interesting. I remember when my children were little – the twinkle in their eyes when they would look at the tree. Now, to capture that same twinkle in my precious grandbabies’ eyes with completely different décor is very satisfying.”

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feature story

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The Joy of Christmas

By Colleen Holt Photos by Brandy Strain

Lenett and Steve Thrasher of Greenbrier celebrate Christmas surrounded by family and friends — and wonderful décor that speaks volumes about their love for the holiday.

The Thrashers put their 2016 decorations out on Oct. 28 so they can enjoy the holiday feel for a few extra weeks. “I don’t usually have a theme. We love the classic Christmas feel that is simple and not overly decorated.

We change it up every year with a few new items, but we have so many different decorations from years past that we can make it look fresh every year without spending a tremendous amount of money. Although we used most of the same things as last year, it is swapped around enough that it doesn’t WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 13

look the same as last year, especially, with the new pieces we have added.”

Each room has different décor for the holiday. “Our living room and dining room are usually more traditional and our kitchen tree holds the boys’ ornaments they made when they were little and the ones they picked out each year to represent their interests.

The tree in the master bedroom is our favorite because it looks more like a real tree with more naturalstyle ornaments,” she said.

Steve and Lenett have been married for 28 years and have twin sons, Hayden and Hunter.

Hayden is a senior at the U of A in Fayetteville. Hunter, 14 WOMEN’S INC. / DECEMBER 2016

after graduating in May, now serves on the ministry team at the Greenbrier Church of the Nazarene and is working on his Master of Arts in Theology degree. Lenett is the Teacher Center Coordinator at Arch Ford Education Service Cooperative in Plumerville.

“All three of them are Christmas fanatics. The boys insisted on having a full-size tree in their tiny dorm room when they were college freshmen. … Steve and I have always loved decorating our house but when our twins were born 21 years ago, they loved the lights so much that it just kept expanding into other rooms. It became a tradition that we all

I cook dinner for everyone and my sister helps me decorate all the tables to match the house. We get to spend the evening visiting as we eat together. It is a simple way to show our appreciation for the love they have shown us.”

Lenett Thrasher love and some of our greatest family memories revolve around the Christmas season.”

A complete design plan “is seldom in mind” when the Thrasher family begins decorating. “It’s more like an idea. We like the simple cottage style and try to reflect this in our Christmas décor. When it is time to put everything up, I get the decorations out and start with the living room tree. Once that is completed, I decorate the rest of the living and dining room to match. Even though each room is different, I want it to all flow together,” she said.

Steve is in charge of the outside décor, “but he helps me put the trees up on the inside as well.” Lenett said her favorite

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part of decorating is the “creative aspect.”

Their favorite part of the finished product?

Sitting with all the Christmas lights on at night. “This is especially great when our boys are both at home with us,” she said.

“The boys used to help me decorate the trees on the inside but they have outgrown this now. They are most helpful in carrying things up and down from the attic but I can’t say that it is a job they love. They are really good at telling me how it looks as I decorate the rooms. They all have a good sense of style and know what looks good and what doesn’t.”

Christmas is the favorite holiday, by far, for Steve Thrasher. “Steve starts the countdown to Christmas in August and we put up our Christmas decorations at the end of October. We swap out decorations each season but we do not put nearly as much effort into the other holidays as we do Christmas.”

Steve has been the pastor of the Greenbrier Nazarene Church for five years. “His love for Christmas is well known by all of our church family and it spills over into the church décor. Our church is even more decorated than our house, thanks to Connie and Cliff Ferguson. Christmas truly is a cel16 WOMEN’S INC. / DECEMBER 2016

ebration of the birth of Christ for our family and we try to show that in the way we decorate our house. When our guests enter our home we want it to be apparent why we are celebrating this holiday. Several of the items on display are actual gifts from the church or church family members. Those are some of the ones that are most special to us.”

The Thrashers love to entertain, especially during the holidays. “God blessed us with a home that we could use to bring people together for times of fellowship and we use it to share His love. We hope it is a place people look forward to visiting during the Christmas season as well as the rest of the year. We have stained concrete floors and our living room, dining room, and breakfast room make one large room,” she said.

For entertaining groups such as the church board and their spouses, Lenett said they “move all of the living room furniture into the corner of the dining room and set up enough tables and chairs to seat 35-40 people. I cook dinner for everyone and my sister helps me decorate all the tables to match the house. We get to spend the evening visiting as we eat together. It is a simple

way to show our appreciation for the love they have shown us.”

Lenett grew up on a farm in Quitman, and learned to love Christmas from her own family. “My dad could never wait to give us our gifts until Christmas morning. We had ‘Christmas’ whenever they got all the gifts to the house. It might be a day or two before Christmas and it might be in the middle of the afternoon. Dad would say, ‘Go hide in your bedroom, girls, I think I hear Santa coming!’ His explanation was that Santa had too hard of a time delivering all the gifts in one night so he dropped some off a little early for some really good boys and girls. He made everything fun, especially Christmas.

My mom didn’t have a lot of decorations but she put everything up each year and all the ornaments became very special to us.”

A treasured activity was going with her parents and sister into the woods to choose a Christmas tree. “Every time we cut one down, we would come upon another one that looked better. We would cut a tree for our house, both sets of grandparents, and all the elderly neighbors. Cutting the trees and helping deliver them are great memories!”

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shopping

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feature story

Tribute Tree lighting fun for families, funds scholarships Submitted Choir music, selfies with Santa and his elvish helpers, hot chocolate and special treats for the kids will be a part of this year’s family-oriented Conway Regional Tribute Tree lighting event on Thursday, December 1.

The Conway Regional Gift Shop will be open for holiday shopping and a gingerbread house decorating display will be available for viewing and houses will be for sale. The ceremony will be located at the east entrance of Conway Regional Medical Center by the Fountain.

The event is conducted annually by the Conway Regional Health Foundation as a way for the community to honor and remember friends and loved ones. The lights that adorn the tree will be lit at 6 pm and will remain lit until the end of the year.

The tree lighting has become a holiday tradition for families and Tribute Tree also contributes to the community by helping fund scholarships for area students who dream of working in the health care field.

Meghan Mallett of Conway, an APRN who currently works at Conway Regional Medical Clinic-Prince St. and at Conway Regional Medical Clinic-Pottsville, is one of those who benefitted from a health care scholarship. “I will always be grateful to the generous donors for what their gifts allowed me to accomplish,” said Mallett. “Receiving a scholarship from Conway Regional meant more to me than just a monetary reward.

It was a confirmation that this organization supported my efforts in furthering my career.”

“The scholarship meant a lot because nursing school is very demanding. I had very little time to work and being newly-married, our finances were tight,” said Mallori Kunkle of Greenbrier, a registered nurse who cares for oncology patients at Conway Regional. “This scholarship allowed me to pursue my dream of becom-

ing a nurse.”

The Conway Regional Health Foundation has awarded more than $254,000 to area students since 1996, relying on funds from Tribute Tree, physicians, nurses, Dazzle Daze and other private individuals.

Tributes and donations are being accepted throughout December. Names of donors and their loved ones will be displayed in the East Lobby of the medical center and online at www.conwayregional.org. For more information about honoring a special person this holiday season, call 501.513.5778 or visit www.conwayregional.org/TributeTree

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health

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Untreated hearing loss affects brain structure and function Sooner is always better than later when considering treatment

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hearing loss also has a noted link to brain shrinkage. Although the brain naturally becomes smaller with age, the shrinkage seems

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

Those with impaired hearing also had significantly more shrinkage in particular regions, including the superior, middle and

inferior temporal gyri, brain structures also responsible for processing sound and speech.

When a person is affected by untreated hearing loss, their auditory cortex becomes “impoverished” due to the lack of sound stimulation. Treating hearing loss in a timely matter, however, can help offset this.

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

health

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Nutrient Depletion with Prescription Meds

By David Smith

About this time of year most of us are getting in the Holiday mood. At the Smith house, Thanksgiving and Christmas usually bring our children and grandchildren back together – at least for a few hours. It gets loud and a little bit chaotic but seeing them all together makes us happy and reminds us how much God has blessed us. On Christmas Eve, there is at least one of the (way too many) TVs playing the old classic, A Christmas Story. I always loved Ralphie in that movie. You probably remember him for dreaming of getting an “Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action Two-Hundred-Shot Range Model Air Rifle – with a compass in the stock and this thing that tells time.” You may also remember, early in the movie Ralphie is anxiously awaiting a special decoder ring so he can interpret the secret message from Little Orphan Annie. When it finally comes in the mail he is bitterly disappointed to discover that the message says, “Be sure to drink your Ovaltine.” To quote Ralphie, the message is just “a crummy commercial.”

What in the world does that have to do with nutrient depletion? Not a whole lot actually, but it sent a message that Ovaltine was a good way to get your kids to get some vitamins while drinking their chocolate milk, and who doesn’t like a nice cold glass of chocolate milk? The other thing is, after waiting for a month for this article, I hope you don’t put it down and think “a crummy commercial.” This

time of year typically marks the beginning of the cough and cold season and since pharmacies generally start to fill more prescriptions for antibiotics, that’s probably a good place to start talking about nutrient depletion. But before we actually talk about that, I want to give you a quick refresher on antibiotics.

I personally feel that antibiotics are overutilized in the United States. They are of no benefit whatsoever for viral infections such as the flu or the common cold and sometimes we don’t give our body’s immune system a chance to fight off minor bacterial infections.

This has created a tremendous problem with bacterial resistance, which can make antibiotics less effective when they are actually needed.

Antibiotics basically work in 2 different ways. Bactericidal antibiotics like penicillin, quinolones (Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, etc.), and cephalosporins (Cephalexin, Cefdinir, etc.) actually kill the bacteria, and bacteriostatic antibiotics like sulfonamides (Bactrim) and macrolides (Azithromycin and Clarithromycin) work in conjunction with your body’s immune system to stop the bacteria from multiplying. However, along with helping our bodies to fight off infections, antibiotics also destroy a good portion of the healthy bacteria in the small intestines. This normal flora, as the healthy bacteria are called (approximately 100 trillion of them), help our bodies extract energy from food, help to strengthen our immune system, and try to help us to maintain a healthy body weight.

As a general rule, antibiotics wreak havoc on this healthy balance, often resulting in diarrhea, bloating, low energy levels, and a greater incidence of oral fungal infections as well as vaginal yeast infections. The body can take several weeks to regenerate enough of these useful bacteria to reach a proper balance.

The old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” certainly applies here.

By simply taking a good quality probiotic supplement while on antibiotic therapy, one can generally avoid these unpleasant side effects. Point of emphasis, though, don’t just pick one off the shelf because most do not do an adequate job. Call us at 501-336-8188 for advice on the right one.

Commonly prescribed antibiotics are also known to deplete most of the B vitamin group and vitamin K (which may require warfarin dose adjustments). Some also deplete vitamin C, calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc, so a good B-complex supplement or multivitamin-mineral is definitely appropriate. Just be sure to separate these from the time you take the antibiotic by at least 2 hours so as not to interfere with absorption of the antibiotic. I’m out of space so I’ll continue this topic next month.

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.

food

Festive Flavors

By Leah Ashby and Linda Mars Photos by Brandy Strain

There’s no better time than the holiday season to eat, drink and be merry. Beyond the traditional Christmas dinner with family, there are many ways to share the joy of the season with friends, co-workers, and neighbors. Why not host a wine and cheese party? A wine and cheese party requires very little preparation, making it the perfect holiday gathering. Your guests sample a variety of delicious cheeses and other goodies while they mingle. It’s an effortless, yet festive gathering.

If you are unsure what belongs on your tray, just search Pinterest for great ideas. Also, Murray’s inside Kroger Marketplace has a fabulous selection of cheeses and accompaniments. They have several associates on staff to assist you that have trained at Murray’s in New York City. An easy rule of thumb is to choose one soft, one semi-soft, one hard, and one semi-hard cheese.

Fill your tray with other things you love such as olives, honey, marcona almonds, and prosciutto. The possibilities are endless!

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Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie Ingredients • 1 8-ounce wheel Brie Cheese • 2 tablespoons + ¼ cup butter • 1 tablespoon dark rum • ½ cup water • ½ cup dried cranberries • 1 cup finely chopped pecan halves • 1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Instructions 1. Heat 2 tablespoons butter in large skillet.

2. Add rum, stir over medium-high heat. When rum evaporates, add water. Continue cooking until the liquid is absorbed.

3. Add ¼ cup butter, pecans, cranberries and brown sugar.

Saute 1 minute.

4. Add vanilla.

5. Cook 6 minutes over medium heat, stirring frequently. Set aside to cool.

6. You can store in refrigerator for up to one week.

7. Before serving, soften in the microwave at medium power for about 30 seconds, or let it sit at room temperature for about an hour.

8. For the brie, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (with the rack in the center of the oven).

Cut the top off of the brie, using a serrated knife.

9. Spread the chutney on the brie and place on a baking sheet.

10. Bake approximately 10 minutes, until soft in the middle.

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Holiday décor provided by Conway’s Classic Touch.

All cheeses and accompaniments purchased at Murray’s inside Kroger Marketplace on Salem Road.

Thyme and Garlic Baked Camembert

Thyme and Garlic Baked Camembert Ingredients • 1 8-ounce wheel Camembert Cheese (it comes with the wooden box).

• 1 clove garlic, sliced • 1 sprig fresh thyme • 2 tablespoons olive oil • Toasted crostini Instructions 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. 2. Unwrap the cheese and discard the plastic wrap. Place the cheese back into its box. Score the top in a crosshatch pattern.

3. Wedge pieces of the garlic into the top of the cheese and sprinkle with fresh thyme. Drizzle with the olive oil and transfer onto a baking sheet.

4. Place the baking sheet into the oven for 20 minutes. Remove and let set for 2-3 minutes before serving with crostini.

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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M eet t h e W I N C T eam

Sarah Allen Multi-Media Account Executive at the Log Cabin Democrat How long have you been at the Log Cabin Democrat?

5 Years What was your first job (of any nature)?

My first job was at Prestige Dry Cleaners in Helena, AR. It was one of the most fun jobs!

Tell us what you enjoy doing in your free time.

Most of my free time is spent with my husband, Billy, and 3 year old daughter, Bailey. I love spending time with family and going to the Lake together.

What music have you downloaded lately?

The Way I Do by Bishop Briggs & Parachute by Chris Stapleton. I have just about every genre of music, from classical to Jazz to Rock to Pop and Rap. What is something people would never know about you without asking?

There are quite a few but I would have to choose that I LOVE to cook and bake! I love to challenge myself with new recipes.

Ya’ll there is truth to cooking with love and anything I make has a ton of love poured in. When I hear that someone likes what I made, it is like winning the Olympic Gold Medal to me. Having a busy schedule and a 3 year old makes it hard to do often but I try when I can.

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

I make THE BEST Oatmeal raisin cookies. Ya’ll, I am not lying. Come to the Log Cabin, I’ll make you some!

How would you spend your ideal evening?

I would be in May and we would be outdoors with a long table filled with family.

We would have spent all day on the lake and now we are eating fresh gulf shrimp, catfish, crab legs & smoked salmon with a fire pit.

All the cousins running and playing in the yard. Adults talking about memories and playing card game or board games until the wee hours!

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

That’s easy! It is our Engine 212 program with Geo Fencing. We can send your ad to the cell phone of a potential customer that is in a competitors business. If someone visited 32 WOMEN’S INC. / DECEMBER 2016

your site or is interested in your type of business, we make sure that they remember you.

The best part, the results are trackable and I whole heartedly believe in this program. I have seen it work!

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

Most definitely! Did you know that we

can build a website for your business?

We can even help you with your social media and manage your digital reputation!

Additional Information Husband, Billy of 5 ½ years (been together over 10 years total!), And my daughter is Bailey and she is 3.

feature story

J ESSICA CLA W SON

Baptist Health offers ideal opportunity Jessica Clawson would only go back to work for the right job.

After making the choice to stay home with her two young children, Emory, 4, and Pate, 2, beginning a new 9 to 5 would have to be an ideal fit close to home.

“When Baptist Health announced they were coming to Conway, I thought about an opportunity,” Clawson said. “It was really important to me that whatever I did that it had a good mission and that I could make a difference in my community.”

Clawson, a 2003 University of Central Arkansas business management grad, began in August as Special Events Development Officer for the Baptist Health Foundation. She is based in Conway and is excited to help work on programs that benefit her friends, family and overall community.

Clawson pointed to the Foundation’s Charity Food Box program that soon will be implemented in Conway. She also knows the importance of quality healthcare meeting needs here.

“I enjoy being able to raise money, to identify when healthcare needs arise and providing access [for my community] to the best healthcare.”

Clawson, along with Major Gifts Officer Carrie Teeter and others with the Baptist Health Foundation are continually meeting with civic and community leaders in Faulkner County to create those opportunities.

“I feel like the people at Baptist are really good listeners,” Clawson said. “They are working to find out what the needs of the community are.”

Clawson is currently working on developing a tournament-style clay shoot as a local fundraiser set for Fall 2017 to benefit the hospital and the Foundation, both nonprofits.

The Charity Food Box program will debut this summer at Baptist Health Conway, along with the BHealthy Farmers Market, both successful at other Baptist Health locations and supported by the Foundation.

The farmer’s market will be open to employees, patients and the public each Wednesday at Baptist Health Conway.

Teeter said the Foundation is working with community partners and details will be

Blaklee Tinkler with H & H Photography

forthcoming.

Each week during the summer at the farmers market, volunteers will work to assemble food boxes of fresh Arkansas produce for distribution through the Charity Food Box program. Distribution will be aimed at high-needs neighborhoods and communities. The goal is to educate recipients on affordability, preparation of foods and overall health and wellness.

“Troy Wells, our Baptist Health CEO, is a huge backer of this program,” Teeter said.

“We want the community to have tools and education and the access for overall health.”

Clawson echoed, “Baptist cares about communities they serve.”

In its first year, the Charity Food Box program distributed more than 1,000 boxes to Arkansas families.

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spiritual

Christmas Peace

By Andrea Lennon

Jesus came to bring peace on earth. I think we can all agree that we need a good dose of peace in our lives. The world we live in is divided. The things that divide us are as diverse as the divisions that we face.

Politics, religion, preferences, and beliefs--the list goes on and on.

This Christmas season we have the chance to refocus. Jesus came and our lives were forever changed. You are probably familiar with the story. Mary was approached by an angel and told that she would give birth to the long awaited Messiah. Mary embraced this call even though it was dangerous to her reputation as well as her life.

God worked in the heart of Joseph, Mary’s fiancé, and he embraced the call to be the earthly father of Jesus. The day came for Mary and Joseph to travel to Bethlehem in order to be counted in a census. Let’s be honest. God was putting Mary and Joseph in the right place at the right time to fulfill His perfect plan. (Never forget that God is faithful to do the same for you and me!)

The couple made the long journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem and scripture records what happened next. “The time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”

34 WOMEN’S INC. / DECEMBER 2016

(Luke 2:6-7, New International Version) A baby boy, a Son, a Savior---He was finally here. Everything on God’s Kingdom calendar had been preparing the way for this moment in time.

Why did Jesus come to this earth? The angels, who were present at His birth, proclaimed the answer to this important question. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:14) Jesus came to bring peace. Peace in our hearts. Peace in our lives. Peace in our homes. Peace in our relationships. Peace in the midst of our differences.

How do we experience God’s peace? The answer to this question is simple. In fact, it can be answered with a single word---Jesus.

There is only one way to experience God’s peace in our lives. It is through a personal relationship with Jesus. Jesus came to this earth and lived a perfect life. He died on the cross to provide peace. As Jesus hung on the cross, He paid for our sins and provided the only way for us to have a relationship with God. If you long to have real peace in your life, confess your sins and ask Jesus to forgive you. Invite Jesus to come into your life and save you. You can be sure of the fact that He will. Jesus came to bring peace to you and your family. Your life can be forever changed.

AN D REA LENNON

If you already have a relationship with Jesus but find yourself in the middle of a challenging situation that feels less than peaceful, remember that peace is not the absence of problems but rather an assurance that God is with us.

In the midst of your challenging situation, remember that God is willing and able to help you. He will meet your need.

He will take care of your heart. He will use your challenging circumstance for good.

These truths certainly provide a sense of peace during hard times.

Not long after Jesus’ birth, a small group of shepherds set out to find Jesus so that they could worship Him. “When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. The shepherds returned glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.” (Luke 2:17-20) On that first Christmas night, lives were forever changed. Thousands of years later, the same opportunity exists. This Christmas season you can worship Jesus and experience the peace that He freely provides.

Jesus came and brought peace to this world.

His peace heals the divisions that we face in our culture and in our lives. Jesus, He Himself, is our peace!

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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A Christmas Message The Tobey Team has enjoyed sharing Real Estate and Safety tips with you this past year. We want to thank our past, current, and future clients and wish you all a Blessed Christmas. Please enjoy this modified poem originally from Helen Steiner Rice.

The Tobey Team has a list of clients we know all written in a book And every year when Christmas comes we go and take a look And that is when we realize that these names are a part

Not of the book they are written in, but really of our hearts.

For each name stands for someone who has crossed our path at sometime.

And in the meeting they’ve become the rhythm in each rhyme And while it sounds fantastic for us to make this claim,

We feel that we are composed of each remembered name.

And while you may not be aware of any special link

Just meeting you has changed our lives a lot more than you think For once we’ve met somebody, the years cannot erase The memory of a pleasant word or of a friendly face.

So never think our Christmas wishes are just a mere routine Of names upon a Christmas wish, forgotten in between,

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For when we send a Christmas wish that is addressed to you, It is because you’re on the list that we are indebted to.

For we are a total of the many folks we’ve met, And you happen to be one of those we prefer not to forget And whether We have known you for many years or just a few, In some ways you have been a part in shaping things we do.

And every year when Christmas comes, we realize anew, The best gifts life can offer is meeting folks like you And may the spirit of Christmas that forever endures Leave its richest blessings in the hearts of you and yours!

Merry Christmas from our home to yours Janet, Bill, Kathy, Cindy The Tobey Team Crye-Leike Realtors Conway

beauty

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The popularity of oxygen facials

By Angela Jackson Oxygen facials are becoming more and more popular in the spa industry, you will see this rejuvenating service on many spa menus. These types of facials particularly began to gain popularity when celebrities such as Madonna endorsed the skincare service for its ability to create a plumper and smoother surface, hiding imperfections and resulting in a more youthful appearance. The oxygen facial is a popular treatment to indulge in prior to a big event, and it can be performed on all skin types.

In addition to being a relaxing way to pamper yourself, oxygen facials provide the following key benefits: • Promotes collagen production — The infusion of oxygen and vitamins into the skin encourages the production of collagen, which helps plump up facial features and restore volume and firmness to skin that has lost elasticity.

• Helps detox the skin — Everyday toxins like air pollution and cigarette smoke rob the skin of much-needed oxygen. An oxygen facial helps reverse the effects of environmental pollutants and rejuvenates oxygen-starved skin.

• Speeds cell turnover — Medical re-

searchers believe that the infusion of oxygen into the skin may help the skin create new cells at a faster pace. This increased cell regeneration helps speed the healing of facial scars, acne and blemishes • No side effects — Unlike other more invasive anti-aging treatments, oxygen facials do not cause any uncomfortable side effects like stinging, burning or redness.

The process of delivering the oxygen and serum is quite gentle, which makes oxygen facials suitable for individuals with sensitive skin and for those who would rather avoid injections or chemical treatments.

After an oxygen facial, you can resume normal activities immediately, even apply-

ing makeup and using your normal facial products. You can also expect to see a more refreshed and rejuvenated complexion. One that makes you look well-rested with a just-back-from-vacation glow.

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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book review

On Your Christmas List ... Books!

By Susan O’Keefe As the hustle and bustle of holiday cheer is near, shoppers find themselves asking the age-old question “What should I buy for that particular young one on my list?” Here’s

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a suggestion. Scrap the electronics and grab a gift that starts with a “b”. It’s always in style. It’s always the right size. And parents rarely ask their offspring to put it away. You guessed it … books.

With Christmas traditions varying from family to family, here are a few simple ideas to share the gift of reading with those you love. Take a risk and do something different.

Consider giving the book before Christmas so the recipient can appreciate it leading up to the special day.

Younger children will ask for this story to be read again and again. One Wintry Night is the tale of a mountain boy injured and lost during a snowstorm. He seeks shelter in a warm and cozy cabin, only to eventually realize that the shelter he has found carries long-term significance. Ruth Bell Graham is the author of this warm Christmas classic.

As the cabin owner tenderly shares the accounts of Christmas long ago, the young boy begins to realize how little he knows about the babe born in Bethlehem.

For the little one enamored with all things sparkling and twinkly, Fancy Nancy has a story to share. There are priceless presents to wrap and only the paper that glitters and glistens will suffice. Fancy Nancy: Splendiforous Christmas finds Nancy in need of baking cookies complete with sprinkles. And don’t forget the tree! Who has the tinsel and topper? As usual, in Nancy’s world, as in our own, plans go awry. How will Nancy handle her setbacks when Plan B must be introduced?

Most of us have either been in a Christmas pageant or been to a Christmas pageant.

But perhaps the most memorable pageant of all was performed in 1972 by the Herdman clan. Remember The Best Christmas Pageant Ever? The six mischievous ram-

SUSAN O’KEEFE bunctious kids are labeled as “the worst kids in the entire history of the world”! The comment seems harsh but the story softens and melts hearts. There’s a hilarious mix of humor, outrage and surprise as the siblings attempt to put their own spin on that starry night long ago.

For the child (and adult) who enjoy being totally immersed in the moment of a story, then this is the book to choose. Jotham’s Journey is written to accompany the Advent season. It follows ten-year-old Jotham across his home country of Israel. Set during ancient days, Jotham is traveling with his family to pay the taxes due to Caesar. The journey is dangerous. Evil lies in cavernous crevices. Thieves threaten. Ruthless robbers seize the roads. Cliff hangers end each chapter which leaves the children begging for just a few more pages. Tabitha’s Travels, Ishtar’s Odyssey and Bartholomew’s Passage continue the adventure series. One fan and mother of five boys gave it high praise and recommended it as a family read aloud, complete with hot chocolate and whipped cream, of course.

If the young one receiving your gift enjoys music, consider the timeless favorite, The Twelve Days of Christmas. There are dozens of versions to fit a myriad of desires. For the one who wants to know the basis for the story set to verse, consider that this English carol was written during a period of time when Roman Catholics could not openly practice their faith. The “True Love” in the song is not an enamored boy or girl, but simply refers to the Love that was born on

Christmas Day. Historians say each verse carries remarkable significance referring to a religious reality.

While Mom always taught it is better to give than to receive, it isn’t necessarily easy to do. That’s especially true for children. The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving demonstrates this concept in true bear-iffic style. Brother and Sister Bear can hardly wait for Christmas morning to open presents and see what they get! But at the Christmas program, the cubs are abruptly reminded about the importance of giving.

While the popular bears are game for any age, the book’s life lessons primarily target children who are four-years-old to eightyears-old.

As you shop this season, may you be drawn to the bookstores, bookshelves, and online sites that deliver this good oldfashioned gift. And to borrow a line from one of those merry manuscripts of days gone by, Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

Susan resides in Augusta, Georgia, where her husband, Jack, is the Augusta University Director of Golf. 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 homeschools Lucy, John-Freeman, Henry, and Hogan. Life is rich with family and friends plus the delights of a dog. Oxford is the family’s black Labrador.

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 39

arts

From Small Town Arkansas to the Broadway Stage

By Jennie Strange Submitted photos It’s not uncommon for kids growing up in small towns to have visions of packing their bags, heading to the Big Apple and pursuing their passion on the Broadway stage. It’s much less common for it to actually happen. But for Wynne, Arkansas native Jacob Watson, his story is unfolding in just that way.

Growing up as the son of a football coach and a teacher, Watson initially found his heart in football. It wasn’t until high school when he discovered choir and theatre that his goal of being a professional football player began to change. After graduation, he headed to Ouachita Baptist University where he discovered he enjoyed every aspect of performing – drama, plays, musicals, Shakespeare - and he left OBU with a degree in Musical Theatre and a renewed focus on the art of acting.

Watson moved to New York City in May of 2012, started auditioning, and was thrilled to make his Broadway debut in Violet just a day shy of his one year anniversary in the city.

And now, a few short years later, Watson is still on Broadway, currently finishing up a stint performing the role of Joseph Buquet in The Phantom of the Opera. While performing eight shows a week in Phantom, he is also in rehearsals for a new production of the stage version of Amelie. While initial rehearsals are taking place in New York City, the show will then move to Los Angeles for an out-of-town trial run.

Between performing, rehearsing, and preparing to head to LA in December, Watson’s schedule is a bit out of the ordinary. He leaves the house at 9:00 a.m., gets home at 11:30 p.m., is in bed around 1:00, and back up at 7:00 a.m. to start all over. Luckily his wife understands – she studied opera and then switched her focus to musical theatre as well. “There aren’t many people that work a 9 to 5 job that would be patient with my schedule- but since we are both in the theatre world, she gets it,” Watson said.

When asked what he loves most about being in that world, Watson was quick to respond, “Definitely the aspect of loving to entertain and to take people’s minds off what’s happening- the ability it has to affect change in people, 40 WOMEN’S INC. / DECEMBER 2016

in the world. Think of how big a deal the show Hamilton was this past year – this incredible retelling of Alexander Hamilton through hip hop and with a multicultural cast – it speaks volumes of where our country is now.”

Watson’s long term goal is to be able to make that kind of change as more than a performer: “I would love to add directing and writing into my future. I want to be as impactful and effective a theatre artist as I can.” In fact, if he could go back and give his high school self any advice

it would be to “try directing, writing scripts and plays. That’s how things get done here. When you are auditioning other people’s work you are at their mercy. But if you’re making your own stuff you’re always fulfilling that part of you.”

And while Watson loves the culture of New York – “Any day of the week you can see a show, go to a free gallery, find a play that’s doing it on any level of professionalism and go to it,” - he says what he misses most about Arkansas is the nature. “Everything here is concrete. My wife

and I try to get out of the city every weekend.”

This January, Watson will have a chance to take in the beauty of Arkansas once more, as he heads back to Arkansas to teach a round of master classes with Conway based Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre. He interned with the company one summer during college, and he is excited to be able to contribute back to the organization in a new way.

After that he plans to keep doing what he’s doing- auditioning, rehearsing, performing. “I love it and want to do it forever as long as I can. They’ll have to create roles for me where I’m in a wheelchair and they have to roll me onstage,” Watson laughed. “I may not always be a performer, but I definitely think I’ll be involved in theatre the rest of my life.”

ARTS CALENDAR December Arts Events – Please check out the event website for more information and pricing.

December 1-3: Hendrix College Candlelight Carol Service @ Hendrix College, Greene Chapel; Dec 1-3, 7:30 p.m. and Dec 4, 4:00 p.m. morgan@hendrix. edu (PG) December 2: Student Music Recital presented by Blackbird Academy of Arts @ One Church; 6:00 p.m. www.blackbirdacademy.org (G) December 2-4; 8-11: Wrong Turn at Lungfish @ The Lantern Theatre; www. thelanterntheatre.com (PG) December 3, 4: A Christmas Double Feature! (Amahl and the Night Visitors and excerpts of The Nutcracker) Presented by The Conway Symphony Orchestra and the UCA Opera Theater @ Reynolds Performance Hall; Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m., and Dec. 4, 3:00 p.m. www.ConwaySymphony.org (G) December 5: Pinnacle Brass @ Faulkner County Library; 7:00 p.m. Nancy@fcl. org (G) December 17: Preston Palmer Studios: Christmas Recital @ Fellowship Baptist Church; 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. (501)513-9459 (G) December 18: Fire and Brimstone @ Faulkner County Library; 2:00 p.m.

Nancy@fcl.org (G) Rating key: G – Suitable for all ages PG-Suggested for ages 7+ PG13- Suggested for ages 13+ A- Suggested for Adults 18+ WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 41

real estate

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The 7 Best Home Improvements You’ll Ever Make

By Xochilt Hawks

A few years ago Spencer and I purchased our current home. While the price was right, the home was in need of various updates. Some updates were done soon after the purchase, and we are currently working on some others. It can be exciting and/or stressful updating a home, but if done correctly updates can create more enjoyment and possibly greater value. Here is an article that I found on Realtor.com that you might enjoy about updating your home.

1. A new deck “My personal favorite and the favorite of my customers over the years, hands down, is wood decks,” says Mark Clement, co-host of MyFixItUpLife. According to his experience as a builder, homeowners are so happy that their “eyes light up” when they can finally walk out to a new deck.

So decks can not only thrill you, but also provide a solid return on investment. With an estimated 75% ROI, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2016 Cost vs. Value report, an updated deck makes for a cost-effective home improvement.

2. Basement Fixing up the basement will add a whole new level of living space to your house and get you over 70% ROI, higher than a rehabbed kitchen or bathroom. Just be sure you know what you’re doing.

“Done poorly—and that is easy to do—they’re drab,” Clement says. “Tricked out with some

42 WOMEN’S INC. / DECEMBER 2016

panache, people literally stop using rooms in their regular house to go hang in the basement.”

Before adding all that panache, you’ll want to make sure to deal with mold and dampness, and pick out the right type of flooring.

3. Attic insulation No, it’s not the most glam project, but it does make a difference. Scoring the highest ROI of 116.9%, a fiberglass attic insulation actually pays for itself and delivers a small profit whenever you decide to sell.

Plus, relatively speaking, this project is “easily DIY-able,” Clement says. “From a building science standpoint, it keeps the heat and cold on the outside of the roof while still letting air pass inside the rafter bays.” In short, it enables you to add a layer of insulation without sacrificing ventilation or much space.

As for the best type of insulation to use, Clement recommends stone wool from Roxul, which costs about $50 per 30 square feet.

4. A new front door A new front door is one of the best home improvements you can do. “It’s near instant gratification,” Clement says.

A new front door can also save you money on energy costs, while keeping your house that much more quiet and impervious to criminals.

“I love saving money and energy. I love curb appeal. But I triple love nothearing the school bus or dog barking or delivery truck backing up,” Clement says. Plus, front door replacements have a high ROI, with 91.1% for steel

doors and 82.3% for fiberglass doors.

5. Small kitchen renovations Let’s be honest: A total kitchen renovation is really expensive. But you don’t have to empty your bank account to make your kitchen that much better. Instead, try one or two of the following: adding new stainless-steel appliances, refacing cabinetry, or installing a new countertop, flooring, or charging stations—each one on its own can elevate this area without siphoning off too much money.

6. New siding Replacing your siding can not only protect your home, but also make your exterior pop.

Replacing the bottom vinyl siding of your house with manufactured stone veneer has an ROI of 92.9%; adding all new siding has an ROI of 77%.

Just remember that siding is rarely a small project, Clement says. So you’ll want to devote more than one weekend for this home improvement. If that’s too big of an undertaking, check out how to paint aluminum siding or stain wood siding.

7. Landscaping and trees Think about it: Planting a tree costs you next to nothing. Yet down the road, a mature tree can add $1,000 to $10,000 to the value of your home, according to the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers. Plus, foliage and flowers lend a lush, vibrant look to your lawn that increases your curb appeal in spades. *The tips included in this article were from contributors to the site, realtor.com.

in the news

How you can be an amazing Bell Ringer

From Black Friday through Christmas Eve each year, The Salvation Army rings bells outside local stores as part of our largest fundraiser of the year. The Red Kettle Campaign provides food and shelter for the homeless, assists with utilities and medicines for needy families, and supports our Christmas programs for the Central Arkansas area.

The Salvation Army seeks volunteers (individuals and teams) to adopt our kettle locations each year. It’s never too early to start organizing your bell ringing team! In fact, our Kettle Committee meets year-round.

Feel free to contact David or Joanna Robinson, David.Robinson@uss.salvationarmy.org; Joanna.Robinson@uss.salvationarmy.org, to express interest in adopting a kettle location.

This volunteer opportunity works most smoothly when a team or a family adopts a minimum of four consecutive hours at a

kettle, and team members take turns relieving each other in shifts. At the beginning of your shift, a Salvation Army representative will meet you on location with the bell, apron, and kettle. The representative will also relieve the team member ringing the last shift in order to collect the kettle and other materials. Please feel free to bring a friend…

Sing carols… Have fun!!!

Don’t forget to set up your Online Red Kettle: The Salvation Army’s Online Red Kettle is available from November through January each year. This tool is easily integrated into blogs and Facebook pages and also allows participants to manage their virtual kettle through a free iPhone application. This is a great way to promote your team’s bell ringing activities. When you announce to your friends on Facebook or any other social network that you are ringing the bell for The Salvation Army, you can also include a link to your virtual kettle where your friends can support your team.

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in the news Freezin’ for a Reason Race to benefit Children’s Hospital

The Faulkner County Circle of Friends chapter, a group of individuals working to raise funds and awareness for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, will be having their 4th Annual Freezin’ for a Reason 2K Family Run, 5K and 10K on Saturday, Feb. 6 at Conway High School.

The race was initiated by the chapter as a way to honor the memories of Charlotte and Stella Mulhearn, two children from Conway who received treatment at Arkansas Children’s Hospital.

To register for the race, or for more information, visit www. freezin4areason.org.

Circle of Friends members work to promote children’s health through education, advocacy and fundraising for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, the state’s only pediatric medical facility. There are 10 Circle of Friends chapters statewide. For more information about joining Circle of Friends in Faulkner County, contact Marie Smallwood marie.smallwood@ yahoo.com Arkansas Children’s Hospital is the only pediatric medical center in Arkansas and one of the largest in the United States serving children from birth to age 21. The campus spans 28 city blocks and houses 370 beds, a staff of approximately 500 physicians, 80 residents in pediatrics and pediatric specialties and more than 4,000 employees. The private, nonprofit healthcare facility boasts an internationally renowned reputation for medical breakthroughs and intensive treatments, unique surgical procedures and forward-thinking medical research.

For more information, visit www.archildrens.org.

44 WOMEN’S INC. / DECEMBER 2016

Raffle benefits Helton Spencer Osburn Stanley Scholarship Foundation

The Helton Spencer Osburn Stanley Scholarship Foundation sold tickets to raffle off a UCA White Yeti Cooler. Brooks Ray and Ace Hardware helped with donating the cooler. Proceeds benefited the foundation. The Foundations goal is to raise one million dollars. We are closing in on $250,000 now, a quarter of the way there.

Pictured are, from left, Bill Helton, Verlon Spencer, Harold Helton, Jerry Merritt (winner of the YETI Cooler), Brooks Ray (Brooks and Ace Hardware donated the cooler) and David Mitchel.

Lights of Conway opening night set

gather on the front lawn to witness as the lever drops and the month long show begins. Members of the press are invited to join on this night.

Beginning December 5th, the lights will then be turned on every night through January 1 at 5:30pm.

CFBC would also like to extend an invitation to the entire community to join them on Christmas Eve at 4:00 or 6:00pm or Christmas morning at 10:30am for their Celebration Worship.

In keeping with tradition, the church will continue to accept donations for local charities each week while the lights are on. This year they have chosen to partner with Renewal Ranch, Soaring Wings, and Camp Champion. The ministry staff of CFBC has also expressed their joy in being able to continue this project, as well as their desire to expand the light display over the next several years.

Polar Express presented

by CHDC Volunteer Council

chocolate, and popcorn. Santa will be available for pictures for a donation of at least $5. Our community nights are Wednesday, December 7th, and Thursday December 8th, 2016 from 4-7 pm All donations are greatly appreciated. Donations receipts will be given upon request. All proceeds will benefit the residents of the Conway Human Development Center.

Several months ago, Tony Brighter announced that following his family’s decision to move, they would no longer be hosting their annual Christmas display.

This was disappointing news as driving through Tony Circle has become a holiday tradition for thousands in the Conway community. Shortly after the announcement, a local church approached Tony in the hopes of finding a way to continue the holiday experience he and his family worked so hard to create.

Today that church, Conway First Baptist, announces that on December 4th, the lights will come on for the very first time at their location, 1719 Robinson Avenue, downtown. Concluding their Kids’ Christmas Program, roughly 7:00pm, many will

CHDC Volunteer Council Presents the 2nd Annual Polar Express! The Polar Express is open to the community and will be located on our campus. Please come and enjoy a FREE train ride, hot

events

B l a c kb i r d A c a d e m y P r esen t s T h e A l c h e m y S on g w r i t i n g Co m pe t i t i on

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events

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C h i l d r en ’ s A d v o c a c y A l l i an c e F es t i v a l of C h a i r s

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events

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U N IT E D W A Y P ILL A R P A RTY

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imatter

Conway’s Swindle captures national title

By Kelly Sublett Submitted photos It’s not every day a 14-year-old claims a national title, but this fall, a Conway Junior High School student wrapped up a banner cross country running season as the fastest in his age group.

Cade Swindle earned the title from Milesplit. com, a website that ranks runners across the nation. Each state also has a Milesplit site with 50 WOMEN’S INC. / DECEMBER 2016

statistics and rankings.

“I was No. 1, ranked for the two mile in cross country,” he says. “My fastest time is 10:17.”

Cade first started running at age 7, participating in 5Ks and area fun runs. It wouldn’t take long for him to discover a love for the road, following in the running shoes of his mother, Mary, who ran at the University of Central Arkansas from 1997-2002.

“I ran at UCA, and now I guess I know how my parents felt,” Mary says. I’m just so proud

of him and the whole team. We used to run together, but honestly, I can’t keep up with him!”

Cade has two younger sisters, fifth grader Meg and second grader Addy. Meg already has started running with her mom and brother.

As a seventh-grade runner, Cade broke a record in the mile set 24 years ago at Carl Stewart Middle School by Conway Chamber of Commerce Chief Operating Officer Ed Linck.

The two later met, and Cade says Linck had good advice.

cade swindle

GENERATION

Cade Swindle with younger sisters, Meg and Addy.

In addition to cross country running, Cade runs the 1600, 800 and mile relay during the regular spring track season. He plays basketball and baseball, too.

“I’ve just always loved running,” Cade says.

“I’m a runner.”

Cade says he and his teammates are dedicated to training, often running twice a day, working together to build speed. Sundays, the group of close-knit runners will spend the morning going the distance for 9 or 10 miles. Together, the team of young men went undefeated in 2016.

“They’re a special group of boys that have a big future,” Mary says. “They are friends and encourage each other even though they are

competing with each other, too. It’s a special dynamic that they have.”

Perhaps the most influential friend and mentor to Cade, he says, is 2016 Conway High graduate and record breaker Toler Freyaldenhoven. Freyaldenhoven set high school records and now is a member of the men’s cross country team at Rhodes College.

“He was an inspiration to [Cade} before he even knew him,” Mary says. “But now, he’s the best mentor and example to him.”

Mary says running has sharpened Cade’s focus and drive, not only on the course, but also in the classroom. He takes advanced placement classes and excels.

“I like biology and algebra,” Cade says.

“He is making great grades and just is very disciplined all around, which I totally credit to his drive to reach his goals,” Mary added.

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