Women's Inc. June 2015

WINC JUNE 2015

WOMENSINC.NET Father’s Day Issue

PRAY. FIGHT. WIN. GREG HUNT’S MESSAGE ON COLON CANCER:

2 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

Fa the r ’ s D a y Is s u e LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Greg Hunt: Pray, Fight, Win. Greg is a husband, father, business man and friend to many. He is also fighting stage-four colon cancer. Check out our cover story on page 6 of this issue and see how Greg Hunt is courageously fighting and raising awareness for colon cancer. His story is one of hope and inspiration to us all.

Kordsmeier Remodeling Service has been in business in Conway 50 years. Bob Kordsmeier started the company, and his son, Ronnie, and grandson, Michael, are both now running this company. Three generations of quality and success.

Two other feature stories this month: Jerrell’s Pools and Conway Collision are both companies that have made their mark in Conway. Jerrell’s Pools’ owners Matthew and Melissa Jerrell, are third-generation owners of this company founded in 1962. Conway Collision, purchased by brothers Chad and Todd Beene in 2004, is in the business of handling and repairing anything involved in a vehicle collision.

Finally, check out our special Men of Distinction section. These men are a reflection of Faulkner County’s outstanding business leaders in 2015.

Until Next Month, Lori Quinn

WINC. Publisher Zach Ahrens Editor Lori Quinn Contributing Writers Jeanette Anderton Leah Ashby Detra Clark Rachel Dickerson Jessica Hauser Andrea Lennon Jill McCollum Susan O’Keefe Brandon Riddle Jennifer Stanley Kelly Sublett Chief Photographer Brandy Strain

Contributing Photographers Lindsey Faith Watson Advertising Sales Director Betsey Barham

Advertising Coordinator Molly May Advertising Sales Executives Sarah Allen Crystal Geraldson Tara Mallett Lisa Licht Leigh Anne Shapard Advertising Artists Lauren Crimes Jay Prince Ashley Turnage

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: womensinc@womensinc.net or write to P.O. Box 969, Conway, AR, 72033 www.womensinc.net 4 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

J U N E 2 015 / / W O M E N ’ S I N C .

CONTENTS

6 on the cover

FAMILY BUSINESS

Greg Hunt: Bringing awareness to colon cancer

18

Conway Collision’s Beene Bros.

42

LODGE-ESQUE LIVING Rook’s Centennial Valley retreat

SPECIAL FEATURE: MEN OF DISTINCTION, 23

12 LOCAL LEGACY columns Kordsmeier Remodeling

14 BACK YARD GETAWAY Jerrell’s Pools

46. spiritual

50. art scene

52. book review

54. cooking tips

Lessons from the life of Ruth

by Andrea Lennon Summer reads

by Susan O’Keefe

Art around town

by Jennie Strange

The taste of summer

by Chef Jill McCollum

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 5

cover stor y

The Hunt family: Greg, Kendra, Caleb and Hanna 6 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

GREG AND KENDRA HUNT

With no symptoms, Greg Hunt was diagnosed with stage-four colon cancer

Taking one day at a time How he, his family and a community of supporters faced the diagnosis has made a world of difference

By Jennifer Stanley Photos by Brandy Strain The story of Greg and Kendra Hunt began when both moved to Conway to attend the University of Central Arkansas, he from Lonoke and she from Monticello. Kendra earned her Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and her Master of Arts in School Counseling, and Greg earned his Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications. The college sweethearts married and had two children, Caleb, 8, and Hannah, 6. Greg is an executive broker/owner at Sandstone Real Estate Group. Kendra works as a counselor at Maumelle Middle School.

Greg is a member of the UCA alumni association board, is a Conway Chamber of Commerce board member, and is a past president of the Faulkner County Board of Realtors. The family attends Menifee Church of Christ. Upon meeting both Greg and Kendra, they clearly have a knack for conversation and exude happiness. Greg never met a stranger; he is incredibly easy to talk with. Kendra is kind and obviously caring. In an unfair twist on their story, Greg was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer in December 2014.

So many words seem appropriate to this situation: unfair, unjust, cruel. However, these are not strong enough to convey the harshness of a 37-yearold father of two young children who faces such a diagnosis.

“I actually went to the doctor for what I thought were cold or allergy symptoms. I had some chest congestion and difficulty breathing, which later turned out to be a diagnosis of pneumonia. From there we went backward to find out what was

causing the pneumonia,” explains Greg. A little over four weeks and six physician visits later, the doctor discovered spots on Greg’s lungs and liver and drained fluid from his lungs. At this time, the cancer was discovered.

“I had no symptoms associated with colon cancer,” says Greg. Additionally, he did not have a family history consistent with colon cancer; his mother is a breast cancer survivor, but the two are unrelated types.

Adds Kendra, “We went to Walt Disney World the week before Thanksgiving. The Friday before we were to leave, Greg became very ill, which is when they had to drain the fluid from his lungs. We went on the trip, and he knew that something was wrong at that point.

After we went through the shock of [his diagnosis], we realized how ignorant we were about cancer in general.”

Prior to initiating treatment, Greg asked his doctor what would happen if he did not seek treatment; he was told he would have six to 12 months to live.

Despite this grim statement, Kendra says, “Never did we feel that way. You have to find a doctor that fits well with your needs. We had to switch doctors once.” The Hunts feel strongly that patients find the physician who is right for them. Greg’s second doctor helped assuage their panic over the initial diagnosis and prognosis. Their new doctor prescribed chemotherapy once every three weeks. Greg also takes a daily chemotherapy pill.

“Once I started treatment, my doctor was optimistic that it is working. Chemo treatments are tough overall, but in talking with people who are going through what I am going through, my chemo symptoms have been really good [comparatively].

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 7

Usually, about 24 to 48 hours after the treatments are my worst days, but it only lasts that long,” says Greg.

“We have been very fortunate that he hasn’t had to have surgery, and he doesn’t have any cancer symptoms. His only symptoms are from the chemo,” states Kendra. In addition, Greg has no physical limitations from the cancer. Also, Kendra has done a great deal of research into supplements and essential oils, which they use in addition to Greg’s treatments. She routinely visits Pinterest to find recipes using cancer-fighting foods, such as broccoli, turmeric and ginger. “You never know, so you hate not to try something.”

The Hunts call their post-diagnosis life the new normal. “January was a very difficult month. When people hear stage-four colon cancer, they think ‘death.’” As such, they had many visitors in a short period of time, which was touching but overwhelming at times. “We have been overwhelmed by the outreach from people.

We still receive cards in the mail.”

Greg and Kendra waited to tell Caleb and Hannah as long as possible. “But with so many visitors, we had to. We are going through different phases with the kids all the time,” says Kendra. They bought journals for them to record their feelings about their father’s cancer. “Hannah is six, so she writes ‘I love my daddy, I love my family.’ Caleb is very intelligent, so he writes about his struggles…” They feel the journals have been positive for the children.

They express gratitude to the community as well.

“For all my time in Conway, I have volunteered and helped raise money for many causes. For the first time, I am on the other side of the table; you never imagine yourself on the receiving end of those efforts. It has been very encouraging,” says Greg, who has received support from both business and personal relationships.

People have offered to help with the yard and bring meals, particularly during Greg’s treatment weeks. “It has made it easier to cope. I have some bad days. I am not going to deny that, but it is kind of hard to have too many bad days when you’ve got people in your corner pushing and supporting you.” The Hunts have

8 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

‘For all my time in Conway, I have volunteered and helped raise money for many causes. For the first time, I am on the other side of the table; you never imagine yourself on the receiving end of those efforts. It has been very encouraging.’

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 9

also found solace in their small, familyoriented church, where members often invite them for Sunday dinner. “We are so blessed right now; we don’t really need a lot. People always ask what they can do. We ask them to pray for us,” says Kendra. Greg still teaches Bible study, and the family attends church each week.

In a true testament to Greg’s and Kendra’s character, in the midst of their own trials, they have started a colon cancer awareness campaign. Indeed, despite the dire nature of stage-four colon cancer, Greg and Kendra are turning their proverbial lemons to lemonade through their ghprayfightwin charity.

By visiting www.ghprayfightwin.org, site visitors can read Greg’s blog, which he aspires to update around once per month. You can also purchase a T-shirt, for which the proceeds go to raise awareness. Their current campaign is “Fight Food,” which is an effort to raise meals for colon cancer patients and their families during their treatment week.

It is a gift card campaign where donors can purchase gift cards for distribution to those in need. The site also features a donation option.

“In a four-month period, I have learned of about one person per week who has been touched personally by colon cancer,” says Greg. Kendra encouraged him to start the blog in an effort to reach and update people broadly. Greg’s blogs are honest and personal; he is open about all aspects of his cancer.

Kendra also came up with the hashtag #ghprayfightwin, which quickly gained momentum on social media.

“For me, the big shocker was, one, I had no symptoms, and two, I am only 37 years old. That goes to show you that cancer doesn’t discriminate. The more people we

10 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

can educate and talk to about early detection, the better. There is a drastic difference in detection and treatment at stage one versus stage four,” says Greg. “This is why we decided to go public in an effort to make others think about it.” As Kendra says, “He was a nonsmoker, healthy, young. That was the biggest part, not knowing a thing about cancer.” The Hunts want to raise awareness for others to look for signs or symptoms, even at younger ages.

For now, they take life one day and one issue at a time. “I have learned a lot about

myself and what I can and can’t balance,” says Kendra. “Greg is also learning his limitations. At first he was trying hard to maintain a normal schedule. He had to find a balance at work and at home. We are at a point now where we do have a really good balance.” Adds Greg, “I will sit down and take breaks and work an adjusted schedule when I need to. We aren’t always doing so great. Some days are good; some days are not.” For now, the Hunt family will continue to adapt to their new normal and will keep fighting for themselves and others.

feature story

12 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

k o rd s m e i er 5 0 th ann i v er s ar y

Kordsmeier a local legacy Story and photos by Brandon Riddle With 50th anniversary window decals displayed prominently across its building front, a Kordsmeier family business reflects this year on its legacy and continued significance.

Kordsmeier Remodeling Service Inc., founded by Robert “Bob” Kordsmeier in 1965 shortly before an EF4 tornado struck Conway that year, maintains three generations of family leadership.

A family business, the remodeling company began with humble beginnings — a two-man crew and one other employee. Bob said the company started with no dump trucks and was willing to take on any project that came its way.

Kordsmeier Remodeling soon found its niche, with the customer being the top priority. To this day, the company credits its success to the support and repeat business of customers in the area — some of which are now into their second and third generations.

Bob said his desire to leave inside office work drove him to a career change in the direction of remodeling.

“The need was here for what we were doing,” he said, adding that the company incorporated in the early 1970s and family members were appointed to a board to help the business grow.

Bob’s son, Ronnie Kordsmeier, owns the business now after his father’s years of service to Kordsmeier Remodeling.

“Being a second-generation business, that’s pretty fortunate right there,” Ronnie said. “I’ve had some good people behind me for sure – my dad and Philip, and the rest of them. It wouldn’t be the way it is today without them.”

For Ronnie, the decision to work for the family business was a move that “just fit.”

Michael Kordsmeier, Ronnie’s son who works as a member of Kordsmeier Remodeling’s sales team, said, “I like watching it evolve and change because it has changed a lot since my grandpa started it — the way he does things and the way my dad does things.”

Michael said he has a lot to learn before he could really think about the long-term future of

possibly taking control of the business one day.

Over the years, the company has expanded beyond just having family members as employees, though Kordsmeier Remodeling still views them as family.

“If it wasn’t for all of the employees, we wouldn’t have all that [success],” Ronnie said.

Bob said generations of customers have used the services of Kordsmeier Remodeling and that he hopes to continue that for generations to come.

“As long as we’re kicking,” he said, adding that the customers are the “bread and butter” of continued growth.

Ronnie said the 50-year mark is a milestone, especially being in the same community after all the company’s years in business.

Bob said the company has endured its share of changes to accommodate a changing market.

“We didn’t have our own plumbers [early

on] and we did remodeling work for plumbing and electrical. We bought a company out here that a lot of people did business with – Lachowsky Plumbing.”

Kordsmeier Remodeling later bought out Hoyt Electric, boosting the company’s portfolio for electrical work.

The company now uses in-house electricians and plumbers, while also working with specialty contractors.

“They depend on us and we depend on them,” Bob said. “You can’t be a master of all those trades. It’s got to be specialized. People expect more nowadays.”

Among the company’s biggest projects, Bob said a few are defining for Kordsmeier Remodeling — a remodel of the American Management Corporation building and former Acxiom CEO Charles Morgan’s house. Others that stood out included Lewis Livestock Auction.

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 13

feature story

Wanna get away?

Jerrell’s Pools serving customers since 1962

By Leah Ashby Photos by Brandy Strain Jerrell’s Pools has come a long way since its beginning in 1962 as a pool maintenance and repair company. Take a look around Faulkner County today, and you will find a multitude of beautiful pools thanks to the craftsmanship of the Jerrell family.

Matthew and Melissa Jerrell are thirdgeneration owners of Conway’s Jerrell’s Pools. The Jerrell family actually began installing pools in 1976, with just a few pools.

The business, which began in Mayflower, moved to Conway in 2002 and is now in its current location at 4106 Prince St. Today, Jerrell’s Pools provides a variety of offerings, including swimming pool installation and maintenance, supplies and chemicals. Melissa and her mother-in-law, Sherry, operate the retail store. It began as a family business and truly remains one today.

Jerrell’s Pools installed a pool for Katherine and Derrek Thomason in 2004. Today, they still use the services provided. “When Jerrell’s Pools built our pool, they gave us a start date and were here on that day. They gave us a timeframe of when they would finish and how soon we would be swimming, and they were spot on. Anytime we’ve had a need for a service call, they are quick to respond. Jerrell’s has been very consistent over the years with prompt service,” Katherine said.

Matt and Melissa can’t imagine doing anything else. “What a privilege it is for us to work with the great people of Faulkner County,” Melissa said. They both love helping people design the backdrop of their dreams. “Seeing the project go from thoughts to drawings to actual completion is awesome. We feel very blessed to have such good customers,” she said.

Over time the business has seen several 14 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

J E R R E L L’ S P O O L S

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 15

new trends. While they install and service both regular chemical and saltwater pools, the current trend is moving toward saltwater.

“Saltwater is a really big thing for today’s customer. It helps ease the care of your pool.

In both gunite and vinyl pools, sun ledges and tanning ledges seem to be very popular, along with the custom pool benches.” Melissa said.

Praise abounds for the expertise that Jerrell’s Pools provides. Traci and Josh Smith, who recently added a pool to their new home in Centennial Valley, couldn’t be more thrilled with the results. Says Traci, “Matt’s grandfather built the swimming pool at the house where I grew up in Conway. We loved Jerrell’s Pools then and love them now. The best part of building with Jerrell’s Pools was that we knew exactly what to expect throughout the process. More importantly, we loved the staff.

They were simply the best.”

16 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

The homeowners of the pool featured in this issue cannot wait to enjoy their new outdoor oasis this summer. “Throughout the entire process of building our pool, Matt and Melissa helped us with every step. They explained details, provided us with information we needed to make decisions, and trained us in proper pool maintenance. They provide excellent, trustworthy customer service, and we could not be happier with the outcome.

Our backyard is now a place to relax, rest and enjoy our family time together!”

The Jerrell family has been in business in Faulkner County for more than 50 years, and Jerrell’s Pools continues to grow along with Conway and the surrounding area. Says Melissa, “We give all the glory to God for our success in the pool industry and really look forward to continuing to serve Faulkner County.”

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 17

feature story

18 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

conway collision

Like a well-oiled machine Conway Collision builds success by taking care of customers, local vendors

By Jessica Hauser Photos by Brandy Strain When he and his brother, Chad, were teenagers working on cars with their father, Todd Beene knew they would work together one day as adults.

At Conway Collision, they do just that, and they’ve created a team they say is unrivaled.

“We’ve been blessed with some of the best guys,” Todd said of the staff of about 15, twice the number of employees the business had when they purchased it in 2004.

“They enjoy coming to work, they don’t miss and they care about what they’re doing. They all have families, so that’s 15 livelihoods at work here. Our thought process was to grow the business and make it better, and it takes all of us.”

He calls the business a machine, an accurate description of the carefully situated establishment located on North Creek Drive in Conway.

Each employee has been placed precisely where he excels, including two who recently graduated from a new apprenticeship program the brothers created for students.

“We restore the vehicles to new condition,” Todd said. “We do everything from body repairs, alignment, suspension, air conditioning, paint – anything related to a collision.”

They also do custom work on motorcycles, and Chad Beene’s first-class paint jobs have been featured in Baggers magazine.

If you choose to visit Conway Collision for repairs, you’ll be greeted by Antifreeze, the family’s grinning English bulldog.

He’s a quiet, friendly fellow who may lie at your feet and will certainly welcome your attention.

If the business’ reviews are any indicator of the quality of service, you’ll probably also be among a large pool of satisfied customers who take their vehicles to only one place.

Todd said 76 percent of their customers are repeat customers. One man spends $2,500 to transport his vehicle to Conway Collision from out of state.

“If you do good work, you take care of the customers, they’re going to come back,” Chad said. “Our people want to come back.”

Todd said the secret to the family’s success is two-fold – faith and relationships.

“We’ve been blessed to be able to make a living and provide a living for 15 other people,” Chad said. Todd said it was God who opened the door for them to buy the business and drive its success.

“It comes back to treating others like you want to be treated,” Todd said, adding that the relationships they have with their predominantly local vendors are as important as their ties to the customers.

The brothers’ strengths are very different, but they’ve used their differences to enhance the company’s services.

Chad always wanted to be a “paint guy,” and in two short months, he worked his way from the paint shop at Jones Nissan in North Little Rock to a manager position in the body shop.

Now, he ensures the quality and timeliness of all hands-on work performed at Conway Collision.

Todd was eight hours short of a bachelor’s degree in nursing when he met his wife and started a family. He prefers the administration, coordination and negotiation, and he spends more time developing those relationships.

“I’ve never laid it all out like that,” Todd said. “It’s weird, the different roads everyone takes to wind up in one good place.”

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 19

20 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

beauty

s u m m er s t y l e s

You Bought the Hot Pink Shorts!

Summer is the time to brighten up! Sweet and tangy, this season’s brights look mouth-watering good...so dive in and get your fix!

Whether you call it hot pink, fuchsia or strawberry ice you can almost taste this hue. It has the fun Popsicle quality that you crave when the weather turns warm. Now, back to your hot pink shorts... what colors do you pair with them? Of course you could choose white or black, but we are not going for boring. The trick is to make it cool by adding muted neutrals or zesty brights. For a neutral look, think grey, almond or beige. When going bright consider tangerine and buttery yellow. Picture your hot pink shorts paired with a crisp tangerine tee and beige strappy sandals.

When life gives you lemons make citron. It’s time to turn heads in an outfit that’s got plenty of zeal. Punch up your citron with turquoise to add an offbeat jolt of energy. Dove grey and peachy pink can temper this high-octane hue. If these colors are too far out of your comfort zone, consider indigo. Think

about a swingy citron top over a pair of dark jean skinnies accented by a turquoise tote.

Tangerine or mandarin, the name choice is yours.

Everyone has already turned to this saturated orange for their statement-making lip color. It’s now ready to invade your closet.

Match vivid shades of navy, blush and green to bring out your wild side. Soften this hue with khaki, dove grey or copper.

Pair a tangerine shift with a blush gladiator sandal then add a copper hoop earring and you are headed for the door.

Color is the new black, so pick your favorite hue this summer. Strong colors are not only for fashion risk takers this season; they are for everyone. Get on board and find the shade that makes you shine.

Renee Notto, owner of French Lily, has worked retail her entire life. She managed The Limited, American Eagle Outfitters and Gymboree. Before opening French Lily, she was office manager for Notto Chiropractic Health until she realized a desk job was not a good fit for her.

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 21

Men of

Distinction These men are a reflection of Faulkner County’s outstanding business leaders in 2015.

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 23

28 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

shopping

Items on this page available at Bell & Sward 38 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

FATHER’S DAY

Find the perfect gift for Dad Available at Hogman’s Gameday Superstore

Available at Landers Toad Suck Harley-Davidson

Available at Ace Haynes Hardware

Available at C2 Powersports

Available at C2 Powersports

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 39

shopping

Available at Landers Toad Suck Harley-Davidson

FATHER’S DAY

Available at DeBoard Electronics

Available at Ace Haynes Hardware

Available at Landers Toad Suck Harley-Davidson

Available at Ace Haynes Hardware

Available at Ace Haynes Hardware

Available at DeBoard Electronics

40 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

Available at Fragrances Unlimited

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 41

homes

‘Lodge-esque’ living CENTENNIAL VALLEY HOME REFLECTS ROOK’S PASTIMES

By Jennifer Stanley Photos by Brandy Strain Conway resident Carter Rook desired to create a comfortable, masculine space when he purchased his home. The Vice President of Institutional Sales at Crews and Associates moved into his Eric Priester-built Centennial Valley home three years ago. It is approximately 3,000 square feet and has four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths.

Carter chose the house for its proximity to one of his favorite sports: golfing. Of his goals for the home’s aesthetic, he says, “I wanted it to feel warm and ‘lodge-esque.’” He accomplished this by utilizing natural wood elements and by incorporating outdoor themes in his art, as he is also an avid hunter.

He enlisted the help of local artists Steve Griffith and Vivian Noe when it came to acquiring pieces for his walls. “I 42 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

c arter R OO K H OM E

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 43

completely trust Steve and Vivian. They are great, sweet people; I enjoy working with them. I started by asking their advice years ago, now I have more than 20 pieces.”

Carter’s step-mother, Lynnette Rook, served as the designer. The formal living room doubles as a pool table room. Some of Carter’s favorite art is in this area, including

44 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

a prized hunting-themed piece and abstract Plexiglas pieces. The chairs are from Grand on Oak, and other furnishings are from Hambuchen Home Furnishings in Conway.

He spends most of his time in the hearth area, which features a rock wall with a fireplace. The television is displayed over the fireplace. Several of Carter’s mounted game

are displayed in the hearth room as well. Two oversized couches, both from Hambuchen, also feature prominently. “I probably spend 90 percent of my time in here,” he says.

The bedroom furniture, in cherry wood, is also from Hambuchen. An antique piece from Jenifer’s Antiques holds the television. The room is painted in shades of taupe. The home

‘I wanted a place I could go that would remind me of the things I love to do, like golfing and hunting...’

features hardwood floors throughout, other than in wet areas, such as the kitchen. The dark wood kitchen cabinets are one of Carter’s favorite features of the home. The countertops are granite, and the floor is ceramic tile.

Of the finished product, Carter says, “It is what I really wanted. I wanted a place I could go that would remind me of the things I love to do, like golfing and hunting, which I have been doing for over 20 years. I couldn’t be happier.”

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 45

spiritual

Lessons from the Life of Ruth

T

By Andrea Lennon

he barley harvest took place during the spring, marking a time of renewal. It is not a coincidence that Naomi and Ruth returned to Bethlehem at the beginning of the harvest.

Even though Naomi and Ruth were at a low point in life, God was at work. He was positioning them for healing and restoration.

Life-changing hope was never out of reach.

As Naomi and Ruth returned to Bethlehem, they returned to a place that was full of life and activity. Harvest time was a busy time. Everyone in the community took part in the process. Gathering, threshing, winnowing, and storing the barley were familiar activities for the people of Bethlehem.

As the barley harvest began, Naomi and Ruth settled into life in Bethlehem. Scripture is quiet about the details; we are not told where they lived or how the people treated them once the shock of their return faded.

What we do know is that the barley harvest provided a chance for them to collect grain, whether to store up for later or to meet their current needs. Maybe both! According to the Jewish laws, found in Leviticus 19 and Deuteronomy 24, widows, foreigners, and the poor were entitled to collect whatever was left over after the bulk of the harvesting had been done. (In fact, landowners were instructed to not gather the gleanings but to leave them for others.) These laws provided a glimpse into God’s heart for the unlikely. They were never forgotten by their Heavenly Father.

At some point Ruth assessed the situation and began to make a plan. Ruth said to Naomi, “Let me go to the fields and pick up the leftover grain behind anyone in whose eyes I find favor.” (Ruth 2:2) Naomi replied, “Go ahead, my daughter.” (Ruth 2:2) Because of the Jewish laws, Ruth had every right to go to the field and ask to glean. Ruth left the place where she and Naomi lived. She came to a field and once again asked permission to pick up the leftover grain, and the foreman agreed.

Scripture notes an important detail here.

“As it turned out, she was working in a field belonging to Boaz.” (Ruth 2:3) The fact that Ruth found herself in Boaz’s field was not an accident. Boaz arrived from Bethlehem and

46 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

greeted his harvesters. Boaz looked around and, seeing Ruth, asked, “Who does that young woman belong to?” (Ruth 2:5) The person in charge replied, “She is the Moabite who came back from Moab with Naomi. She said, ‘Please let me glean and gather among the sheaves behind the harvesters.’ She came into the field and has remained here from morning till now, except for a short rest in the shelter.” (Ruth 2:6-7) For just a moment, put yourself in Ruth’s position. Imagine yourself in an unknown land and surrounded by unknown people. I wonder if Ruth thought, “Will I ever find a place to belong?” “What is going to happen to me?” No matter what questions filled Ruth’s mind, she did not allow them to stop her from engaging in life. In the middle of an uncomfortable situation, Ruth displayed initiative. Ruth recognized the authority of others. And Ruth worked diligently until she completed her task.

Initiative. Ruth displayed initiative when she identified the opportunity to glean. She knew that the barley harvest was taking place and that leftover grain would be available in the field. Ruth knew that she had the ability to pick up the grain and thresh it in order to provide food for herself and Naomi. Ruth did not wait for someone else to collect the grain.

Ruth did not hide behind the excuse that, as a Moabite woman, she had no opportunity in Bethlehem. Instead, Ruth engaged in life.

Authority. Once Ruth had a plan, she included Naomi – her authority figure– in the process. Stop and visualize the moment. Ruth went to Naomi before she left her house to glean. “Let me go to the fields and pick up the leftover grain behind anyone in whose eyes I find favor.” (Ruth 2:2) For many of us the idea of asking permission is difficult to accept or is simply a step that is easily forgotten. We enjoy our independence, and our culture encourages us to do whatever we think is right. This independence becomes a problem when we step outside of God’s line of authority. We do this by ignoring Him or the people that He has placed in positions of authority over us.

Diligence. Once Ruth was in the field, she worked steadily. Ruth’s work ethic caught the attention of the field manager, who commented (maybe even bragged?) to Boaz

about her. “She came into the field and has remained here from morning till now, except for a short rest in the shelter.” (Ruth 2:7) Think of what might have happened to her reputation (and Naomi’s) if the overseer had noticed her napping, flirting with the harvesters, or whining about the hard work!

God was at work in Ruth’s life. Every step of the way, through the decisions and discussions and gleaning, God was providing! Ruth chose to engage in life. She did not give up or decide that all hope was lost. Instead, she set out to make the best of her circumstances and as she did, she discovered that God had orchestrated a beautiful solution. The same can be true for you! Each day God will help you to display godly initiative, establish authority over your life, and work hard to complete the task before you. Do not give up! Do not fall short! Engage in life as you press on with all your God-given might! (Excerpt from Andrea’s new book: On the Road with Ruth: Faith for the Journey) 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.

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 47

in the news

events

Conway High School Student Earns Top Composite Score on ACT

Matt Sweere, son of Daniel and Kathi Sweere, and a Junior at Conway High School, earned a top composite score of 36 on a recent ACT test. Nationally, while the actual number of students earning a composite score of 36 varies from year to year, on average, less than onetenth of 1 percent of students who take the ACT earns the top score. Among test takers in the high school graduating class of 2014, only 1,407 of nearly 1.85 million students earned a composite score of 36.

The ACT consists of tests in English, mathematics, reading and science. Each test is scored on a scale of 1-36, and a student’s composite score is the average of the four test scores. Some students also take ACT’s optional Writing Test, but the score for that test is reported separately and is not included within the ACT composite score.

In a letter recognizing this exceptional achievement, ACT CEO Jon Whitmore said, “While test scores are just one of the many criteria that most colleges consider

when making admission decisions, your exceptional ACT composite score should prove helpful as you pursue your education and career goals.”

ACT test scores are accepted by all major U.S. colleges. Exceptional scores of 36 provide colleges with evidence of student readiness for the academic rigors that lie ahead.

Conway High Quiz Bowl Team wins state tournament The Conway High School Quiz Bowl Team is the 7A High School State Tournament Champions.

The team beat Fort Smith Southside in the State Tournament Saturday.

Pictured are Bethany Starr, Zelda Engeler-Young, Jillian Tang, Monica Choquette, Matt Sweere, Blaine Booher, Tim Ablondi, Ben Coney, and Coach Paula McKee Others who were on the team but had when we practice, as questions come up to be at Footloose: Megan Haase, Joe over curriculum that they’ve had. I just Coker, Peter Grant, Savannah Raup, Kier- facilitate and encourage. The future looks sten and Kaelin Taylor, and Tarek Esaw. bright because of students like these. I Quiz Bowl Team Coach Paula McKee love them!” was also selected as the 2015 7A Quiz Going into Saturday’s competition, the Bowl “Coach of the Year” by her fellow team was without several starters because coaches. of conflicting schedules with the school’s McKee, who has coached the Quiz musical production of “Footloose.” But Bowl team for over a decade, is quick to McKee wasn’t worried. bring the focus back to her students.

“Conway must have the greatest stuCorrection dents and teachers in the world,” McKee In the May issue of WINC we published said. “The students are so hard working Madelyn Roper’s name incorrectly. Our and dedicated that I just facilitate. They apologies to Madelyn from the staff at WINC. regularly give shout outs to teachers 48 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

PONY UP FOR H.A .V.E.N.

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 49

the arts

Arts Scene ART AROUND TOWN

During your drive around Conway, you might have noticed occasional pops of color emblazoned on the sides of buildings or interesting installations rising from the ground. This is one thing I love about Conway- the dedication of our citizens to proactively incorporate collaborative pieces of artwork into our landscape. These pieces take weeks or months of work, sometimes armies of volunteers, and most importantly, a strong creative vision.

It’s easy to get used to these visual images and simply let them become an unnoticed background to your every day. So, next time you drive past these projects, I encourage you to actually look.

Take a moment to see more than just a blur of color or a tangle of twigs- the beautiful thing about art is that the viewer can take from it what they will. Visiting art museums in other cities is wonderful, but don’t forget to appreciate the art right in your own backyard.

Aurora Rising – Located in Simon Park on the south wall of City Hall

The University of Central Arkansas, as part of its centennial celebration of 2007, commissioned Pittsburgh artist and alumnus Morton Brown to create a community mural in partnership with the City of Conway. The inspiration for the mural comes from Conway’s educational institutions. Buildings, that form a children’s model train set, represent the three main colleges in Conway, as well as public schools, a farm, and the old train depot. The children playing dress up wear costumes that represent Conway’s past and present: a child in train conductor’s hat represents the Little Rock & Ft. Smith Railroad of the early 1900’s; a child in Native American clothing references the contributions of indigenous people of the Faulkner County area and Conway’s proximity to the Trail of Tears; a girl dressed as a ballerina, symbolizes the growth of arts and culture in the city. The largest figure is a girl, draped in an Arkansas Traveler quilt cape who, like the Roman goddess of the dawn, Aurora, rises to greet a new day. Three of Conway’s prominent founding figures look out over the scene – Col. Asa Robinson, Florence Mattison, and James John Doyne.

50 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

Simultaneous Streets – Located at Oak and Chestnut

The Conway Community mural at Chestnut was created by Jordan Karpe in 2013 and is about connections – the ties that bind Conway residents to each other, as well as the past, present, and future. The passage of time is organized from left to right with each era being connected by a system of roundabouts. The first section references “old Conway”, the center is dedicated to Conway’s present, and the far right section represents the future. The theme of education is reinforced in the horizontal frieze at the base of the mural. Here, school mascots- all of which are framed by a film strip- pay homage to the building the mural adorns, the 1910 Grand Opera House. Parts of the mural are made up of dynamic abstract shapes and vibrant colors in homage of the artwork, called “Simultanism” of early 20th- century painter Sonia Delaunay. Just as Delaunay’s paintings were meant to evoke the excitement of 1911 Paris, Simultaneous Streets, calls forth a vibrant image of Conway’s past, present, and future.

The Mural of Historic Downtown Conway – Located at 913 Oak Street

In 2010 Jo Claire Dodson, owner of the Art School of Conway, was approached by Becky and Steve Magie about painting a mural on the wall of a building they own on Oak Street.

With the building across from the Art School, the Magies thought it would be the perfect project for art students while also enhancing downtown Conway. Ms. Dodson collaborated with photography professor Maxine Payne on a grant proposal to Hendrix College to fund the cost of the mural; in 2011 The Art School and the Hendrix College Art Club were awarded the grant. Ms. Dodson directed the students of both organizations to submit designs and ideas that would incorporate and celebrate the rich history of Conway. A final design was drafted from these ideas by Hendrix student Kit Landwehr, and the mural was completed in the Fall of 2011.

Blackbirds – Intersection of Spencer and Smith Streets

Created in 2013, this mural was guided by the vision of artist and teacher Amy Ness, with creative input and help from Blackbird art students and volunteers. The mural was created on the outward side of a fence, bringing vibrancy to a once ignored street. The mural represents the dream of Blackbird Academy of Arts coming alive through the silhouettes of students, friends, and faculty who are associated with the academy four years after its initial opening. The background colors represent the wide-ranging spectrum and colorful diversity within the Academy. The basic shapes symbolize that creativity is fostered through simple beginnings; the shapes start out small surrounding the image of founder Jennie Strange in the dark blue field and increase in size as they interact with the students and faculty. The shapes hold the colorful possibilities of the birds, a symbol of the Academy. The Blackbirds are flying high in support of the interactive figures on the mural. The fence project is a visual statement of the mission of Blackbird Academy of Arts- To Educate, To Inspire, and To Encourage.

Snapshot of Toad Suck – Located at 913 Front Street In 2006 Centennial Bank approached artist Tanner Cangelosi about creating a mural that would encompass all of Toad Suck Daze. The painted scenes represent favorite pastimes of the annual Conway festival.

The Big Naturals – Located on the McCastlain Hall Lawn, UCA

Working with more than 200 students and community volunteers, internationally-renowned sculptor Patrick Dougherty wove this large-scale sculpture from ash, willow, and winged elm saplings, sticks and twigs. There are no nails, glues, or other fasteners used in the construction of the sculpture.

The eight conical forms are inspired by the shapes of African granaries, while the swirling arrangement of the stickwork itself references the movement of the Whirling Dervishes. Dougherty and his team of local volunteers gathered the natural materials from wooded property in Faulkner County. This sculptural environment will remain at UCA through 2016.

JUNE EVENTS

Artist Highlight

june Arts Events Please check out the event website for more information and pricing.

June 4, 5, 6, 11, 13 Merry Wives of Windsor presented by the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre @ the Village at Hendrix; 7:30 p.m. www.arkshakes.com (PG)

Chad Bradford

Theatre Artist and Musician; currently with the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre

June 10, 12, 21, 24, 27 Fiddler on the Roof presented by the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre @ Reynolds Performance Hall; 7:30 p.m. www.arkshakes. com (PG) June 12 Conway Community Band concert @ Simon Park; 7:30 p.m. www.ucabands.com (G)

Originally from: Little Rock, AR. Now reside in New York, New York.

Where did you study theatre: I first studied with Youth Theatre of Central Arkansas at UCA. I later got my degree in theatre and music at UCA and then on to grad school at Penn State for my MFA. What inspired you to pursue acting as a career? It’s something I think I secretly always wanted to do growing up, although my 14-year-old-self would’ve sworn I was going to be in the NBA. I would imitate George Reeves in the old black and white Superman TV show and write scripts for my friends in second grade to act out. But I think that my desire was solidified when I went to New York on a high school trip and got to see huge shows in the beautiful Broadway houses. I remember one show in particular, Phantom of the Opera. After the curtain call, I simply sat in my seat in the mezzanine, unable to move. That’s when I decided that I wanted to learn to give others what I had experienced that night.

What are you currently working on? Right

now I’m playing Bassanio in Merchant of Venice and Master Ford in Merry Wives of Windsor with the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre. After that I will go back to New York to do The Tempest with Shake on the Lake Shakespeare Festival and then I go out on my 5th National Tour, this time with a musical version of A Christmas Carol.

What draws you back to Conway each year to act with Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre? The people. I get to make beautiful art with some of my best friends. When I arrived at the first company meeting this year, I realized that I knew almost half of the people in the room. It’s a huge testament to the festival and the people of Arkansas that artists want to come back here year after year.

What’s the best advice you have for aspiring actors? Every day and every situation is an opportunity to learn. French artist Antonin Artaud said that actors must be athletes of the heart. To do this we must become students of the world. Stay interested, keep breathing, and keep an open heart.

June 14, 21, 24 Fiddler on the Roof presented by the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre @ Reynolds Performance Hall; 2:00 p.m. www.arkshakes. com (PG) June 19, 20, 23 Merchant of Venice presented by the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre @ Reynolds Performance Hall; 7:30 p.m. www.arkshakes.com (PG13) June 20, 27, 28 Merchant of Venice presented by the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre @ Reynolds Performance Hall; 2:00 p.m. www.arkshakes.com (PG13) June 23, 25, 26 As You Like It presented by the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre @ Reynolds Performance Hall; 2:00 p.m. www.arkshakes.com (G) June 27 As You Like It presented by the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre @ Reynolds Performance Hall; 10:00 a.m. www.arkshakes.com (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 51

book review

The Pecan Man by Cassie Dandridge Selleck

By Susan O’Keefe

F

or an easy summer beach read, pick up The Pecan Man (pronounced peecan). It’s an engaging mystery that takes place in 1976 in a small, sleepy southern town in northern Florida. A couple of well-meaning women concoct a story to cover up a horrific crime and to protect an innocent little girl. It’s around a hundred pages and offers quick satisfaction of a well told story by Cassie Dandridge Selleck. The first chapter won first place at a prestigious Florida writing competition.

For a more drawn out read, take the thriller The Girl on the Train to a favorite beach spot. Prepare to stay in that spot for hours (maybe days depending on how fast one reads) as the best-selling psychological thriller sucks readers into its dysfunctional tale of sociopaths, infidelities, and darkness.

Although the stories are vastly different, there is one common thread. Both stories’ themes are centered around lies. There are little while lies (if there is such a thing). There are blatant lies. There are lies to protect and help. There are lies to cover up wrong doing. There are lies that beget more lies and finally an explosion of lies where there is trouble telling fact from fiction. Let the reader judge.

The Pecan Man is set in Mayville, a kind of Mayberry of northern Florida. A recently widowed and childless white woman hires a homeless elderly black man to mow her lawn. It’s 1976 and Ora Lee Beckworth recently buried her husband.

Mrs. Beckworth’s maid, Blanche, is also a widow, raising 5 children as a single mother.

When a toothless, elderly black man emerges one day riding a bike on the sidewalk of this sometimes snooty town, well-heeled mothers shoo him away. Children seem frightened. But Mrs. Beckworth offers him a job caring for her yard. Nosey neighbor Dovey Kinkaid is appalled. She shares her sentiments with Mrs. Beckworth and is kindly told to mind her own business!

In the fall of 1976, just as the summer humidity is beginning to offer relief, Blanche’s youngest daughter, Grace, is attacked. Mrs. Beckworth returns from the new Winn Dixie to find Blanche cradling her bloody little girl. There’s reason to believe the white police chief ’s teenage son is responsible.

A police report is out of the question. Thus begins the tangled web of lies to protect, to deceive, to lessen the burden no child should have to bear.

Now, twenty-five years later, Mrs. Ora Lee Beckworth is confessing everything she knows, righting all wrong of the last quarter-of-a-century, even though her initial intentions were pure. She doesn’t want to take any of this baggage to her grave.

“Guilt cloaked me,” said Ora Lee. This work of southern fiction has been described as To Kill a Mockingbird meets The Help. As a short novel, it left the reader wanting more, more knowledge about the characters, more information about the lives they led and how this one event dramatically shaped their lives.

The Girl on the Train authored by Paula Hawkins

“As a people watcher, I can identify with the character Rachel,” offered one reader as she discussed The Girl on the Train, authored by Paula Hawkins.

Rachel is the main narrator of the suspenseful thriller that has everyone talking.

Riding the commuter train to and from London every day, Rachel daydreams as she gazes from her window seat, fixated on the tall dark and handsome man she names Jason, with his beautiful, pale-skinned, blond haired wife she calls Jess. They’re the 52 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

S U MM E R R E A D S

perfect couple, at least that’s Rachel’s observation. She lives vicariously through Jason and Jess, wanting everything they have.

“They’re happy … it’s what I used to be with Tom five years ago.

They’re what I lost … everything I want to be,” muses Rachel. Tom is Rachel’s ex-husband, now remarried to the picture perfect Anna.

They’re modern row houses are only a few doors apart and the back decks can easily be spotted from the train.

When Jess (whose real name is Megan) is reported as missing, Rachel is consumed by the case. Although she’s never met Megan ( Jess) or Scott ( Jason), she feels an awkward connection. She was infatuated with this golden couple.

Rachel convinces herself that she has useful information which could lead to Megan. She saw Megan kiss another man. She offers the information to the police but is deemed an unreliable witness, much in part to her alcoholism, unemployment, and stalking of her ex-husband’s new wife and baby girl.

Rachel lies in order to convince Megan’s husband Scott to meet with her. Scott lies about his relationship with Megan. Meanwhile, a few houses away, Tom is lying to Anna. And at one point, Anna was the mistress, creating her own set of lies.

Refusing defeat, Rachel neurotically continues to hunt for Megan. She’s obsessed with the situation. Rachel’s roommate urges her to seek professional help. Memory lapses prevent Rachel from assembling all the mysterious puzzle pieces. But she perseveres, even in the most chaotic of lifestyles, believing there is a nugget of truth in the mayhem of her memory.

It’s a novel that elicits a love/hate response from readers. One commented how disgusted she was with the “sham relationships, pathetic sociopaths, and doomed relationships.” Another says she found the story “spectacularly irresistible” and had trouble putting it down. Either way, The Girl on the Train offers twists and turns that most readers found surprising. There was a fine line for Rachel between reclaiming her memory and imagining what had happened at key events in her past. Her ex-husband only exacerbated the situation.

“I wanted just one character to grow and mature as a person, to get out of the dysfunctional state they were living,” said one reader.

Redeeming character qualities were few and far between in this novel. And while that provided much material for discussion, it was a letdown to some preferring the fairy tale ending.

Susan O’Keefe is a wife to Jack, mother to four children, and eager to face the crazy, awesome, fun things God delivers daily. She and her family recently moved to Oxford, Mississippi, where Susan will continue to read and review, instruct fitness classes, and embark on this next adventure in life.

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 53

food

54 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

te x - m e x b ur g er w i th c ajun m ayo , g r i lled jalapeno poppers & b ro w n i es

The taste of summer

Summertime is a time of fun and fellowship — letting the kids stay up a little longer as they play outside, making memories.

As a child, we enjoyed putting on “shows” for our guests. I can remember when my grandparents would come to visit and my parents would entertain outside, we always thought it was so fun to create a mini-play, making up stories then acting them out for our audience! Wow, those were the days!

During the summer, everything seems to be a little on the relaxed side, so you may have friends or family who decide to just “pop in!” The brownie recipe I have included in this issue is a perfect, easy recipe to throw together in the kitchen while you are visiting with your guests. All these ingredients are things you will have in your pantry. You may even have some ice cream in the freezer and some chocolate sauce, then you can make a brownie sundae for the kids!

Chef Jill McCollum, CC is the Caterer and Food Service Director for Central Baptist College. Jill is the owner of Jill McCollum Catering in Conway. She can be reached at jmccollum@cbc.edu or (501) 730-4422

WWW.WOMENSINC.NET 55

Tex-Mex Burger with Cajun Mayo Tex-Mex Burger with Cajun Mayo ½ cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning 1 1/3 pounds ground beef sirloin 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped ½ cup diced white onion 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 4 slices pepper jack cheese 4 hamburger buns, split 3 leaves lettuce 4 slices tomato Preheat grill for medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Set aside. In a large bowl, mix together the ground sirloin, jalapeno pepper, onion, garlic, 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning and Worcestershire sauce using your hands. Divide into 4 balls, and flatten into patties. Lightly oil the grilling surface, and place the patties on the grill.

Cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until well done.

During the last 2 minutes, lay a slice of cheese on top of each patty. Spread the seasoned mayonnaise onto the insides of the buns, put burgers in the buns, and top with lettuce and tomato to serve.

56 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

Grilled Jalapeno Poppers 1 (4 ounce) package cream cheese, softened 4 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese 6 ounces fresh corn kernels Salt and ground pepper to taste 8 fresh jalapeno peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded 8 slices bacon, cut in half Toothpicks Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat, and lightly oil the grate. Mix together halves with cream cheese mixture. Wrap each stuffed pepper with bacon, securing it with a toothpick. Be sure the toothpick pokes through the bacon as well as the pepper. Place the poppers face down on the grill over direct heat. Grill until bacon is crispy and brown, about 5 minutes, turn the poppers over and grill until bacon is crisp on other side, 5 more minutes.

Brownies 1 stick butter, melted 1 cup sugar ½ cup flour 2 eggs 2 tablespoons cocoa powder 2 teaspoons vanilla Melt butter and mix with sugar and flour.

Add eggs and mix well. Add cocoa powder and vanilla and mix. Pour in 9x9 baking dish, bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes.

imatter

“I have a really musical family.

My dad’s a music minister, my grandmother does a lot of music, my mom does music, so it was something I always grew up around.”

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, ages 10-23, 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 womensinc@womensinc.com.

58 WOMEN’S INC. / JUNE 2015

GENERATION

t y l er s e l l er s

A family tradition continues in song imatter

By Jeanette Anderton Submitted Photos Tyler Sellers was a born musician.

With his background, it’s no surprise that at just 13 years old, Tyler has already been recognized as an accomplished musician and songwriter.

“I have a really musical family,” he said. “My dad’s a music minister, my grandmother does a lot of music, my mom does music, so it was something I always grew up around.”

His parents, Travis and Caroline Sellers, passed on their love of music to their four children.

“All of them are musicians. They all play multiple instruments,” Travis said. “Our job is just to give them the tools and push them in the right direction. The good thing is that all four of them love music.”

Tyler, who writes songs and sings in addition to playing instruments, has been in the band since sixth grade. He currently plays euphonium for the White Band at Conway Junior High School. Because he is also a kicker and receiver on the CJHS football team, Tyler is really busy on game nights.

“It’s hard because you have to rush,” he said of changing into his band shirt from his uniform in order to perform at halftime.

Tyler has won several music competitions including first-place with his sister in Conway’s The Voice in 2015 and the Alchemy Songwriting Competition.

“That was awesome. Kris Allen was there,” Tyler said of Alchemy. “We got to talk a lot with judges before the show. We got to talk to them and take pictures with them after the show. It was a really cool experience.”

Tyler said he plans to enter Alchemy again in 2016.

“The judges gave me some great tips,” he said. “It was really helpful.”

Tyler said his songwriting came out of the blue. He was playing at Hendrix Village around Christmas time and a local radio sta-

tion wanted him to play. He and his dad wrote a Christmas song, “Joy in my World,” that night that he played on the radio the next day.

“After that, I kind of thought it was a oncein-a-lifetime kind of thing, but my guitar teacher heard that I wrote that song and encouraged me to write another song,” Tyler said. “So, I wrote another song. And then the next week, I wrote another song and it kind of picked up from there.”

In addition to football and band, Tyler also plays soccer and is very involved at church. On Wednesday nights, he is the worship leader for his youth group at Antioch Baptist Church.

Travis said he was proud of Tyler.

“Tyler is very disciplined,” Travis said. “He practices and he works very hard to do what he does.”