DR. LAURA HARDIN HAS JOINED DR. JOSIAH ONYENEKWE AT CENTRAL ARKANSAS FAMILY PRACTICE. Saline Health System is proud to welcome Dr. Laura Hardin, Family Practice Physician to Central Arkansas Family Practice. Dr. Hardin is board certified with 15 years of clinical experience. She graduated from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and completed her residency at Northwest Arkansas AHEC. She is now accepting new patients!
(501) 574-7237 Building B | Suite 308
EDITOR’S LETTER
Duck hunting, for some, isn’t just a recreational sport—it’s a religion. With that being said, some would say that going duck hunting in Arkansas borders on going to heaven. The Natural State is arguably one of the country’s top waterfowling destinations. With over 1,000 wildlife management areas, no matter where you go in the state, you aren’t ever far from good duck hunting. Whether you hunt rice fields or flooded timber, we are right in the middle of a duck hunter’s dream. Sounds amazing, right? Well, I never would have known, because over the years I would never go. At the age of 37, and having lived only 65 miles from the proclaimed “duck capital of the world” for my entire life, I finally experienced duck hunting for the first time. Let me set the story up. It’s the final weekend of duck season when my friend and neighbor Dexter, an avid hunter, invites me to tag along. So I set my alarm for 4:30 AM as we prep to head out to the hallowed ground of flooded rice fields. Dressed from head-to-toe in borrowed waders from my buddy, we had our butts in the blind with 15 minutes to spare before sunrise. The morning came and went. I enjoyed a crash course of Duck Hunting for Dummies, as I held on to high aspirations of bagging my first mallard, wood duck, or pintail. We saw thousands of ducks, but I guess they were all smarter than our duck calls and decoys, because they stayed a safe distance from any range my bullets could travel. I fired my gun twice, just for the sake of shooting. Sadly the only thing I had to show for it was a bruise the size of a baseball on my bicep. I guess I’ve still got a lot to learn when it comes the art of the hunt. Better yet, maybe I should just stick to one of my favorite childhood Nintendo games, Duck Hunt. That iconic “zapper” video game was released in 1985 and was the first of its kind. I loved Mario Bros. and Mike Tyson Punch-Out as much as the next guy, but there was always something so alluring about the opportunity to shoot those virtual ducks. This was a monumental game that every kid in the 80’s has almost certainly played. Whether you find yourself in a duck blind or a Barcalounger, we are all just big kids at heart! We live in a beautiful state and the time for more fun is upon us. While we start getting into warmer months of spring and summer, the possibility for entertainment increases! That is why in the “Go Play” Edition of Saline County Lifestyles, we want to show our community ways to optimize their opportunities. Your town. Your life. Your magazine.
JOSH ELROD Publisher & Editor
2021 Volume 14, Issue 1
PUBLISHER & EDITOR Josh Elrod
jelrod@ignite-mediagroup.com
ART DIRECTOR Krystal Neuhofel krystal@salinecountylifestyles.com
CONTRIBUTORS Contributing Writers
Carrie Amox Dennia Beard Carolyn Buckner Cody Calhoun Charles Crowson Justin Elrod Jillian Jacuzzi Marietta McClure Nate Olson Gina Simpson Dr. Sam Taggart IDEAS/COMMENTS If you have a story idea or comment, please email us at: feedback@salinecountylifestyles.com
ADVERTISING If you are interested in advertising in Saline County Lifestyles please email us at: info@ignite-mediagroup.com Saline County Lifestyles is published by:
Ignite Media Group P.O. Box 861 Bryant, AR 72089 www.salinecountylifestyles.com Articles should not be considered specific advice as circumstances vary per individual. Advertised products and/or services are not necessarily endorsed by Ignite Media Group.
2 • Saline County Lifestyles
CONTENTS
A NEW Farmers Bank & Trust Branch SERVING BENTON & BRYANT NOW OPEN ON HIGHWAY 5
BENTON PARKS & REC
NOTES FROM DR SAM
FITNESS TIPS
HEALTH UPDATE
+MyFarmers iTeller ITM with expanded weekday and Saturday hours. BODIDDLE’S THE BARBER BODIDDLE’S WINE & SPIRITS
04 07 08 10 38 12 16 22 26 32 36 38 40 42
SECOND CHANCE YOUTH RANCH FAMILY CHURCH BRYANT KIDSOURCE THERAPY REACH BEHAVIORAL HEALTH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HABITAT RESTORE RIVERSIDE GROCERY RIVERSIDE CATERING
INSURANCE INSIGHT
FAITH FOCUS
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
MyFarmers.Bank
BUILDING A LEGACY
Saline County Lifestyles • 3
When it comes to significant weather events, years from now Arkansans will be saying, “Remember February of 2021?” During that month the arctic climate moved south and broke record lows and snowfall totals that had been in place for over a century. Saline County’s low was a brutal minus six degrees, and certain areas received more than 12 inches of fine powdery snow on top of a thin layer of
ice. While the 2021 Snowmageddon was a beautiful sight and provided hours of fun sledding and building snow statues, it also caused major disruptions to electrical and water services here in Saline County. According to David Vondran, General Manager of Benton Utilities, approximately 16,000 households or 40,000 people were without water
for roughly eight full days; from noon on Thursday, February 18, until noon on Friday, February 25. “The initial, damaged fire hydrant leak was repaired by 3 PM on the first day; however, this leak was on a large, 16” water main. There was a lot of water lost in a short amount of time that first morning. Ensuing leaks continued to occur throughout the next 48 hours. These leaks were in
various locations throughout the city, which broadened and compounded the effects on our water system and our consecutive water customers.” The leaks caused a loss of water pressure whose effect was twofold. First, it prevented public and private restroom facilities from functioning properly. Second, it resulted in an advisory boil order that interfered with operations of school cafeterias and restricted the use of commercial ice machines and soda fountains in local restaurants. Mayor Tom Farmer reached out to Dwight Everett and other local businesses for help. “We realized there was a crisis when the mayor of Benton reached out to Dwight and said the city needed water and he was having a hard time finding available water,” recalls Susie Everett. The Everett dealerships immediately responded to the call for help and donated water to the city. It wasn’t long before the schools also contacted Everett to ask for assistance with water needed for every student in order to reopen for classes. “Everett Buick GMC and Everett Chevrolet had already stockpiled water for the schools to be available during the pandemic for students. When the crisis for water became known we
“We’re aware of what the pandemic will require in terms of our attentiveness, and we’re ready to make changes if and when they arise.” already had the resources, and instead of slowly and steadily giving water to the schools, we gave it all at once!” After the water was donated, it took an amazing team effort to coordinate and distribute water to those in need. “Allison Drennon, our marketing manager at Everett Infiniti, coordinated the event. Our marketing managers, Lacy Brooks from Everett Buick GMC, Keeleigh Pitchford from Everett Chevrolet, and Olivia O’Neil, continued to supervise and make this distribution happen,”
adds Susie. The Benton football team and coaches worked with many members of the Everett sales team to load 19,200 bottles of water at the dealership and unload at each school location. “We believe in giving back and try to be proactive as much as possible. If a need arises, we want to step up and help if at all possible. Our community is important and all of us need to work together and do what we can and give where we are able.” In addition to this tremendous display of teamwork, Benton Utilities was able to set up two water distribution stations for our citizens with a lot of help from others. “Saline County Judge Jeff Arey and Mr. Brandon Guillot, with the Saline County Office of Emergency Management, assisted with the deployment of the Army National Guard. Water tankers referred to as ‘buffaloes’ were used to make potable water available to those who could make it out to the locations,” says David Vondran. Mayor Farmer had this to say about the combined efforts of so many to get through the emergency caused by unpredictable Arkansas weather: “Our utilities were completely outstanding in responding to the crisis from all aspects. As soon as they were made aware of the situation they began work and did not stop working until everything was up to par for citizens. The water department, even though the weather temperatures
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501-316-4113
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@TheFrameMakerAR 6 • Saline County Lifestyles
Good Day,
this ride did much the same.
I hope this note finds you well.
We generally followed the main thoroughfares around the state but seldom ventured onto the busy highways. Part of our time was spent in small towns like South Lead Hill, Hackett, Horatio, and Kirby but most of the time was spent out in the country, deep in the mountains, the Delta, Crowley’s Ridge, river crossings, cotton and rice fields.
Between COVID and the winter weather, we have all had a good deal to contend with this year. I would guess that many of you are beginning to think longingly of a “staycation” that would be fun and wouldn’t overwhelm your pocketbook. I have a great trip for you. Last fall, Ms. Annette and I, along with eight of our biking buddies, took a four-week trip riding the Four Corners of Arkansas. We left Hot Springs on our bicycles, headed west toward Y-City, then north to Bentonville. We then turned east to Piggott in the northeast corner of the state, then south to Lake Village, where we aimed west to Texarkana. At Texarkana we rode north to De Queen and then back to Hot Springs. It took us twenty-four days and 1200 miles, in what we have called the Four Corners Bicycle Ride of Arkansas. Back in the 1960s, Charles Kuralt created a series of reports for CBS called “On the Road.” In one of his first shows, he remarked that it was hard to get a real-life view of America from the freeway; he spent his time on small backroads and out-of-theway places. Those of us who rode
We stayed in small motor courts like the Southern Nights Motel in Waldron and the Carlton-Marion Inn in Yellville. These small inns were a favorite among our riders. They were clean, inexpensive and the people were delightful. Another of our favorites was the Piggott Inn, an old bank converted into a B&B on the square in Piggott. Ms. Annette was successful in acquiring reservations at Village Creek State Park on Crowley’s Ridge and Lake Chicot State Park outside of Lake Village. On the last night of our trip we stayed at Self Creek Resort on Lake Greeson. The cabins there are magnificent. All of these places are worth a visit. One of the highlights of the trip was each of our midday lunch stops. The Main Street Café in Hackett, Arkansas fixes a great cheeseburger.
Big Daddy’s Pigalicious BBQ in Corning serves a wonderful pulledpork sandwich. The Nest in Cherry Valley fixes a mean fried bologna sandwich. L.J.s Café and Bait Shop in Lake Village does a great breakfast. The Wooden Spoon in Foreman serves a delightful noon special. Whether you go by bicycle, motorcycle, RV or car, I would encourage you to get re-acquainted with small-town Arkansas. Get a copy of the Deloorme Atlas of Arkansas. For those who are interested, I have included my email address. (samtaggart@att.net) If you will email me, I will send you an electronic version of our turn-byturn trip route with tips on places to stay and places to eat. Whatever you do, take your photographic eye and be ready to be amazed. Have a good journey and stay safe. Sam Dr. Sam Taggart is a retired doctor/ writer/ marathon runner in practice in Benton for the last 35 years. He recently published The Public’s Health: A narrative history of health and disease in Arkansas, published by the Arkansas Times. His two other books, With a Heavy Heart and We All Hear Voices are available at your local booksellers or online at Amazon.com.
Saline County Lifestyles • 7
ACTIVE
Lifestyle
FITNESS TIPS Getting Started (again)
By Marietta McClure, Head Trainer, McClure Fitness
Low-impact exercises are great ways to keep your muscles working while you’re pregnant, dealing with an injury, getting over a sickness or surgery or you’re just getting started on your fitness journey. Or maybe your body is starting to age and you need to take your workouts down a notch. Most everyone has fallen into one or more of these categories before, myself included. No matter your current physical state, I want to encourage you to pick one or two low-impact exercises to slowly get your body moving (again). It’s important to get uncomfortable while working out (your body can’t change unless you get out of your comfort zone). But you can do too much too soon, so let’s cover some great ways to get in a heart-pumping workout without worrying about injury or pain. Trainers define low-impact as any exercise where one foot stays grounded at all times. Here are my top picks: 1. Strength Training You’ll build muscle with bodyweight and free-weight exercises like pushups, squats, bicep curls, and chest presses. The older you get, the more important it is to work on keeping your muscles strong. 2. Cycling 8 • Saline County Lifestyles
Whether you’re on a stationary bike or road bike, cycling takes all the pressure off your knees, hips and back. You’ll get a heart-pumping, calorieburning workout without stressing your joints. (I switched to cycling while pregnant.) 3. Rowing You’ll work your arms, back, legs, and core while seated, and definitely benefit from breaking your muscles down while getting your heart rate up. 4. Yoga It’s been around for hundreds of years for good reasons: the slowmoving practice stretches your muscles while working flexibility and balance. I highly recommend getting in 30-45 minutes of yoga every week; this is something everyone can and should do. 5. Barre You’ll use the ballet barre for balance as you work small muscle groups with resistance bands and two-pound weights. Expect a full-body resistancetraining workout as you strengthen your core, legs, and arms. 6. Swimming If you have access to a pool, use it! This form of exercise is the exception to the low-impact definition where “one foot is grounded” because your
body composition is different in the water. Start with swimming laps, and add two laps each time. 7. Walking This stress-free exercise is one you can do anywhere, anytime. It’s a nonintimidating way for beginners to get started. To get out of your comfort zone, add ankle weights, distance, or find hills to walk. You’ll be breathless in no time. Be proud of that progress! Why do we NEED to exercise? The non-scale benefits of exercise are undeniably important: you will feel better, have more energy, be more productive during the day, increase your metabolism and simply be friendlier. One of the trainers at McClure Fitness said it best: “Our bodies were made to move and the more we move, the more we WANT to move.” - Kari Sterling There are more unfit people than fit people, which is why this particular article is so important. I want those of you who have been putting off exercising to pick one of these options and start moving your body. Your future self will thank you for taking action!
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Saline County Lifestyles • 9
HEALTHY
Lifestyle
HEALTH UPDATE By Jeannie Otts R.T. (R) (CV) (ARRT), Cardiac Cath Lab Director, SMH
Looking around my office at the pictures I’ve displayed, I have had an epiphany: Essentially all these are pictures of me during play! I failed to post a single picture of myself after a car wreck. Also missing is a picture of me mowing the lawn. How could I have forgotten to display the picture of myself paying bills last week? Those kinds of pictures don’t get taken, let alone make it to display, because those aren’t the essential activities in our life. Play, defined broadly as engaging in activity purely for enjoyment or recreation, takes center stage in our life even before we master the ability to walk as an infant. When we examine what it means to be healthy, we find that a central characteristic of healthy adults is play. So, what are the scientific foundations of play in a healthy lifestyle? The medical literature regarding play is so broad that finding a starting point is a monumental task. Play is discussed in neurodevelopment as well as in neuropathology of addiction. Play is a focus of research in neuroendocrinology, but also in neuroanatomical remodeling after injury and nearly everywhere in between. But regardless of which branch of literature you examine, two recurring themes become apparent in research about play: neural plasticity and neurotransmitters. Your nervous system consists of 10 • Saline County Lifestyles
two categories of cells: the supporting cells and the functioning cells. The supporting cells actually make up the bulk of the nervous system. These are fat cells, fiber cells, immune cells, blood vessels, and special cells that nourish and repair the functioning cells. The functioning cells are called neurons. These are the cells that connect with each other in certain areas of your brain to initiate a wide range of phenomena like hand movements and memories. Neurons also form the chain of connections that carry the initiation signal throughout the body to where that intention is expressed. Therefore, the interconnection of neurons is the essence of brain function. Neural plasticity encompasses the nervous system’s ability to form and reform connections between neurons. It was Aristotle that said, “The energy of the mind is the essence of life,” and without neural plasticity, there can be no energy of the mind. From a baby’s first cry after birth to a dying grandmother’s last breath, the nervous system constantly remakes itself, and play drives that remodeling. When hamsters are isolated from social play, the structure of their neuron connections in the brain area named the prefrontal cortex is altered in such a way that they exhibit social defeat stress. What this means in plain English is, if you prevent a young hamster from playing with his hamster friends, he quits and turns into
a mentally unhealthy adult hamster. But further, the foundation of the unhealthy change is the anatomical structure of his brain! This is what is meant with phrases like “scarred for life.” On the positive side, neural plasticity is the foundation of a growing field of addiction treatment called Adventure Therapy. Because play and reward, pain and addiction all share the same brain chemicals, Adventure Therapy uses play and the brain chemicals it generates to restructure the brain toward rewarding bursts of those brain chemicals. Forms of play therapy are also showing promise in recovery from neurologic injury such as traumatic brain injury and stroke. The other recurring theme mentioned above is neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are the brain chemicals neurons use at their connections to carry certain signals from one neuron to the next. It turns out that play stimulates production of many different neurotransmitters, and generation of neurotransmitters helps explain some of the benefits of play. For instance, a neuroscience group in 2011 found that laughter correlated with increased pain tolerance. This matters because previous groups had demonstrated that pain tolerance equates to generation of endorphins within the brain, because endorphins do not cross in or out of the brain.
Endorphin generation has long been held to help explain reported reductions in pain (Runners High) from athletes and people who exercise regularly. Other forms of play generate endorphins as well as other positive neurotransmitters such as met-enkephalin and Insulin-like growth factor 1. Scientists in 2010 demonstrated that rough-and-tumble play generated ILGF-1 and that its production correlated with positive emotional states in rats. They postulated that targeting ILGF-1 might provide a therapeutic intervention for depression and anxiety.
IF YOU DO MISS THE EARLY SIGNS AND SOMEONE COLLAPSES, IT’S IMPORTANT TO STAY CALM, CALL 9-1-1 AND BEGIN HANDS-ONLY CPR. Finally, what about singing? Is singing a form of play? By our definition above, if you engage in singing purely for enjoyment or recreation then yes, singing is a form of play. Have you ever heard a bird singing so vigorously that you thought to yourself: “That little guy must be happy!”? There is evidence to suggest part of birdsong is driven by happiness! Birdsong comes in different forms; most of it is directed singing (attracting a mate), but undirected singing is also recognized. Song directed at a mate receives clear positive reinforcement from obtaining a mate. But even undirected singing stimulates dopamine release in the reward centers of the birdbrain and is intrinsically reinforced by immediate release of opioids induced by the act of singing itself. This means that for birds, their song is its own reward. For us humans, play is its own reward. There is no doubt that continued play marks the healthy life. With spring around the corner, I encourage you to follow the birds’ lead. Get out and play!
Saline County Lifestyles • 11
Arkansas Marine proudly says they ‘sell fun on the water,’ and Arkansans looking forward to summer and quality time with friends and family in the great outdoors are in luck—the Natural State has a plethora of water play available. With so many truly awesome lakes in the central Arkansas area, there is a lot of fun to be had in 2021. Lake Ouachita, Lake Hamilton, Greers Ferry Lake, Lake Catherine and Beaver Lake are some of the most well known in the state for water fun. Tubing, skiing, jetskiing, wakeboarding, cruising and swimming are just a few of
the water activities that await. Fishing in the Natural State is also another great way to have fun. Norfork Lake, the White River, Buffalo River, Bull Shoals Lake and the Arkansas River are known for their consistent beauty and fishing bounty. Popular game fish in Arkansas include largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill and trout. But anglers can enjoy the challenge of many often-overlooked species as well, such as the bowfin, gar, carp, paddlefish and pickerel. If you are wondering where to look to get in on all the action, Arkansas Marine is your first stop. Ronnie and
MERRY & BRIGHT
Michele Hudson have been residents of Bryant for 26 years and own Arkansas Marine on Interstate 30 in Bryant. The busy dealership has a staff of six, with the Hudsons’ adult children, Robert and Ashley working there as well as two mechanics. To say the dealership is thriving is an understatement. With their vast inventory and promise of outstanding customer service, Saline County shoppers do not need to look far for their next watercraft. Arkansas Marine offers all varieties of new and used boats—fishing boats, party barges, and wake boats—as well as small personal watercrafts like the Lift electric eFoil surf board and the Radinn electric jet-powered surfboard that are the latest craze to hit the United States. And the always-classic Paddleboards are also now available. “One thing that sets us apart, at least according to our reviews, is our service after the sale. We are proud of how we take care of our customers. If you buy a new boat from us and need service, you get pushed to the front of the line. We make sure to take care of needs big and small,” said Michele. “We take care of financing here in-house, making it as seamless as possible for our customers to get the boat of their dreams,” said Michele. “We take care of our customers from start to finish.” Michele has been in Arkansas for over 50 years and is a graduate of Mills High School; Ronnie was born in Little Rock and graduated from McClellan High School. “Ronnie started out doing boat propeller repair
in North Little Rock, then later made the move to Saline County. From there we had a marina in Hot Springs on Lake Hamilton and added our previous store location off county line. In 2017 we moved to our current site in the heart of Bryant right off Interstate 30. It’s a lot of fun and we love what we do!” said Michele. When asked what they love about living and working in Saline County, Michele was quick to state, “We love our location, and our customers come from all over the state, and a lot are from central Arkansas. We love Arkansas—the people, the lakes; we are in a great location for all of it. The fact is, we have just about everything we need around us; the schools and so many great small businesses have started here in Saline County,” said Michele. “We also support two local nonprofits here in Saline County. Women’s Own Worth is an organization focused on empowering women and victims of domestic violence, many of whom are survivors of violent crime. We also really appreciate the work that Harmony In Hooves in Benton does. They are an equinetherapy provider for adults and children with mobility issues.” It is going to be a great summer to shake off the coronavirus lockdown blues, and Arkansas Marine has a lot to share about what you’ll see on the water in 2021. The team at Arkansas Marine is always looking to find the latest and greatest innovations, which is how they learned about electric surfboards. “We have two
electric-powered personal watercraft that are super-hot on the market right now,” said Robert Hudson. Made by Radinn and Lift E-Foil, these electric surfboards run off of batteries, not requiring gas and oil. “We are one of the only dealers of the Radinn brand in the United States. These personal watercraft were originally popular with yachtowners in Europe, and we heard about it and wanted to try it out and offer it to our customers. We ship anywhere in the country. We have watched these take off in popularity in the last year. You can surf and don’t need a wave pushing you.” Robert said. “The great thing about the water is that if you have a pretty day, you will have fun.” At Arkansas Marine, there is no shortage of opportunities for fun in the sun!
A PASSION FOR FASHION
14 • Saline County Lifestyles
My freshman year of college, I wrote an essay for a composition class, titled, “A Watermelon Goat Ride”. The theme of the paper was based on my early childhood memories of long summer days spent playing at my grandparents’ small farm. Waking up early to the smell of bacon in the kitchen. Excitedly leaving the house to head down the road to catch crawdads with my cousin. Sitting under a shade tree eating fresh, salted watermelon from my grandfather’s garden. Catching a ride on one of the few goats who called the farm home. These are some of my earliest memories of enjoying summer outdoors. I have always loved the outdoors. During college and graduate school, I owned a small fishing boat. I attended dental school in Memphis and lived feet from the Mississippi River. When time allowed, my
buddies and I took full advantage of that boat. We crappie fished the nearby oxbow lakes. Made a frog-gigging trip to the St. Francis. We ran trot lines on the Wolf River where it flowed into the Mississippi.I also remember a time when my dental school roommate and two other friends launched a new to him, older to the rest of the world, bass boat that his grandfather had gifted him. At night. On the Missisippi River. Only to discover the outboard engine didn’t run well. In fact, sometimes it didn’t run at all. We realized this as we were drifting under the lights of the I-40 bridge.While this does sound crazy, it’s probably not the craziest thing that happened to me in Memphis.
my own, much of my outdoor play involves and revolves around them. I love watching them find joy from some of the same things that delighted me as a child. We love to fish together, explore the woods, and even find an occasional crawdad in the creek that flows into our pond. It’s been a long twelve months, capped off by a late winter freeze. I am ready for a warm summer outside. Be it with your grandparents, your friends, or your kids, I am hopeful you find those you enjoy and are able to get outside and play in these coming months. Play is best enjoyed with the ones you love! And don’t forget to floss!
Now that I have three young boys of
Saline County Lifestyles • 15
If you’re ready to enjoy warmer weather in a safe outdoor environment, put Big Rock Mini Golf & Fun Park on your activity list. The venue provides something for everyone on 7.5 acres of pure entertainment, from bumper boats and go-karts to mini-golf and ropes obstacles. With a master’s degree in recreation, Big Rock owner Marci Hugg Hall reimagined the theme park (formerly Gator Park) and opened it several years ago. She says she always wanted to facilitate a way for others to pursue beneficial leisure activities. In 2012 and 2013, she discovered she finally
had time to devote to this lifelong dream with her three children grown. Marci set out with hopes of building a miniature golf park, but her dreams turned into much more. “Miniature golf is a pastime that everyone can enjoy,” she says, “and I wanted to give back to my community.” The land had so much potential that Marci decided to expand her vision. Big Rock features a 36-hole mini-golf course with water features. 18 of these holes are handicapped-accessible. The original metal building was fine for an arcade, but without any windows, it was not very welcoming as an area to host parties. Architect Larry Kirchner
MERRY & BRIGHT
and Marci put their heads together and the result is the big and bright new lobby, workspaces, and cheerful large party house surrounded by covered verandas with views of the park! Since 2013, Marci has added many new attractions and improved all the ones previously on the property. The Amazing Maze was added in 2017 along with the Aerial Adventure high ropes course. Early in 2020, the ultimate pitching machines were added to the batting cages, making it possible for every batter to choose the type of ball, and the speed and height of the pitch at the control box. Marci says she loves the fact that Big Rock is “homegrown” and 100 percent operated by employees and herself. “If anyone has a suggestion of changes or purchases that we could add to improve the place, and make the experience even better for our guests, we are able to implement them immediately. We do not have to follow corporate mandates as franchises do. We feel proud that we have a unique, one-of-a-kind place.” Big Rock is open seven days a week, all year round. During the time schools are in session, hours of operation are shortened. In order to give her managers work, Marci assigns them to improvement projects as funds allow, such as recently retrofitting the high ropes course to a continuous belay system that makes it easier to maneuver from obstacle to obstacle without ever clipping out of the harness!
“At the end of the day, we hope that our customers have an increased connection with whomever they came with, or if they came alone, that they feel good about their choice to take some time to get active and do something that makes them feel better and feel happy. It’s proven that getting outdoors and participating in recreational activities is good for people’s health, body and soul.” Like most businesses, Big Rock has not been immune to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. “COVID-19 was devastating to Big Rock Fun Park in the spring months last year,” Marci says. “All of our hard work and preparation in hiring, training new staff for spring break felt wasted. We had to refund all the deposits for our parties and group events that were planned then canceled because of the pandemic.” Thankfully, the businesses received the Payroll Protection Plan and business picked up last summer while following health and safety protocols set forth by the Arkansas Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Enhanced cleaning measures are in place and hand-sanitizing stations are available throughout the park for guests. Big Rock allows Arkansans to remain mindful of COVID-19 while enjoying recreational fun. With more restrictions being lifted this spring, Marci says she is hopeful to be able to start hosting groups again, such as corporate outings, family reunions, church youth groups, charity events and birthday
parties for all ages. Everyone likes “friendly competition” and many businesses use our attractions as a fun way for team building. We are happy to help them plan their events to take the stress off the designated company events planner. “People want to get out and do something, and we’re grateful we can provide an outlet,” she says. “It’s all part of the great outdoors and it’s beautiful. It’s really unlike most recreational facilities in the area. It’s a much-needed place in the central Arkansas region.” Other attractions to round out the experience include the Amazing Maze, which provides a fun way to get lost and find your way out while finding checkpoints along the way. A bonus is that the maze is wheelchair accessible. The Aerial Adventure includes rope bridges and swinging planks. Big Rock Family Entertainment Center also features more than 50 arcade games, including classics like Ice-ball, air hockey and basketball and newer games like Ticket Time, Dance Dance Revolution and Space Invaders. The arcade has a ninja style
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Lazer Frenzy attraction, and a large prize wall. Rain or shine, you can enjoy a good time at Big Rock Fun Park, where everyone is a winner! Right now, hours of operation are 1:00 to 7:00 PM Monday-Thursday; noon to 10 PM Friday; 10 AM to 10 PM Saturday; and noon to 8 PM Sunday. Hours will be extended during spring break, holidays, and the summer months. Admission and parking are free and there are attraction discounts for military personnel and first responders.
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18 • Saline County Lifestyles
Saline County Lifestyles • 19
For many families, summer is a great time to vacation, be outside more often and offer a respite from the hectic pace of the school year. For kids looking to stay busy and get more playtime under their belts, summer camp may be just what they need. And there is an awesome summer camp option close by! Brookhill Ranch is a rare local gem. Nestled close to beautiful Hot Springs Village, it is a stone’s throw away for Saline County residents who want to give their kids a meaningful summer camp experience. And if the location and its natural, scenic beauty are not enough, the Ranch is a true family affair. It is owned and operated by the founder’s third generation family, with the fourth-generation children closely involved as well. Originally founded by Don and Hettie Brooks in the summer of 1964 with seven campers, the ranch has steadily grown over the years and now accommodates over 2,500 campers each summer. The Ranch’s executive director is Lynlee McMillan, and her husband Mike is the chief operations officer. David Pate serves as the CEO, and is married to Lynlee’s sister, Melisa, the executive creative director for the ranch. Both families have a combined four children who are also very active with summer camp and the Ranch’s special events. Studies show the benefits of attending summer camp include building independence, providing a structured opportunity for growth and socialization, and a chance to learn new skills in an electronics-free zone. And to top it all off, it is an excellent way to make new and meaningful friendships. “Kids need summer camp and connection now more than ever,” said Lynlee. “They are not meant to be isolated—summer camp is a time to make the best summertime memories!” There is no time like the present to shake up your child’s summer and sign up for a one-week camp session. The camp is currently registering children for summer 2021 sessions. On the heels of a very successful 2020 camp season (not one case of COVID was present at camp, where they conducted
four temperature checks per day on over 2,000 campers!), the Brookhill Ranch staff is looking forward to a very fun 2021. Children leaving 2nd grade through children leaving 9th grade are invited to sign up and experience all the fun that camp has to offer. There is one two-week session available as well. Brookhill Ranch camp offers a complete list of over 30 outdoor and indoor activities that may seem impossible to get through in a oneweek stay. Horseback riding, archery, art, basketball, beach volleyball, fishing, swimming, go-carts, laser tag, music, nature, riflery, tumbling, wakeboarding, tennis, woodworking, and fun on the big lake are a sample of the camp offerings.
MAKING A STATEMENT
20 • Saline County Lifestyles
While the activities offered are sure to bring joy to anyone’s day, it is the human connection with other kids and the counselors and instructors that the Brookhill Ranch staff hopes has a lasting impact on the campers. “Camp counselors, youth pastors and teachers have tremendous influence,” said Lynlee. “When adults are asked who shaped their lives, it all goes back to those three influences.”
“To be in a place where kids are encouraged to be kids and the pressures they feel can be removed and they can be free to play, laugh and be themselves is some of the best medicine that can’t ever be prescribed!” said Lynlee. Brookhill Ranch is primarily used for summer camp, but it can also be rented for special events, retreats, conferences or single-day use. The space is a popular wedding, photo shoots, and family reunion destination. With over 10,000 square feet of event space, including a pavilion, it can accommodate events of all sizes like youth, business, and church conferences. The property boasts the only rentable wakeboard tower in Arkansas, and also offers a laser-tag experience rental option. The property hosts two annual signature events, the Brookhill Market and a Christmas Light Drive Through. The Brookhill Market is a familyfriendly event with a playground, live music, picnic tables, shopping and plenty of sweet tea. The 2021 event is slated for October 22-23, and will showcase vendors with home décor,
personal care, clothing, toys and specialty food items. The annual Brookhill Christmas Light Drive-Thru displays over 30,000 bulbs in varying arrangements over a 1.5-mile driving route. A perfect event for the whole family, the light display also includes Santa’s workshop, a winter wonderland and many places to take great pictures with the kids. And to top off the festive evening, there is also a stunning reminder of the real reason for the season guaranteed to bring the Christmas spirit alive in a fresh way. Whether you are looking to introduce your child to the wonders of summer camp or need to rent an event space, Brookhill Ranch offers something for everyone throughout the year. Register for camp today! Visit brookhillanch.com or call 501-6235983.
Saline County Lifestyles • 21
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Saline County Lifestyles • 23
One thousand acres of mud, trails and hilly terrain, perfect for off-road vehicles of all shapes and sizes. That’s what you get when you make your way to Carter Off-Road Park in Alexander. “As I was looking at the area, I decided this would be a great spot for people to bring their Jeeps, fourwheelers and side-by-sides for mud and fun, and they’ve eaten it up ever since,” said owner Mark Carter. “This is the single biggest tract of land of its kind, positioned perfectly between Benton and Little Rock.” And as Carter will tell you, his park has everything enthusiasts could ask for when it comes to outdoor, off-road, mud-slinging fun. “We’ve got plenty of bottomland out here where people can come out, give it a shot and get as muddy as they want,” he said. “There are several hundred acres of hills for those Jeeps and rides that don’t want to get so muddy. This terrain is perfect for whatever you want and has plenty for everyone.” A longtime lover of the outdoors, Carter shares a personal connection with the land he now owns and offers as a year-round destination spot for his fellow high-end hobbyists. But as he recalls, his exploration of the land started when he was younger and when things were much different. “My dad didn’t live very far from here, so when we were kids, we rode our four wheelers through these same woods and areas we use today,” he said. “Granted, it didn’t look like it does now, but I have a lot of memories of exploring this area and some great times spent at the creek that runs through the property now.” An entrepreneur with close to a dozen businesses to his credit, Carter, 46, first got the idea for his unique park after conversations with friends turned from ideas to something more serious. “About 15 years ago, I bought 500 acres and made a deal with myself that when this tract grew to 1,000
Saline County Lifestyles • 25
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Saline County Lifestyles • 27
MAGIC SPRINGS THEME & WATER PARK Arkansas has only one amusement park. Luckily for Saline County residents, it’s only minutes away. Magic Springs Theme and Water Park continues to be a popular entertainment destination for local and regional visitors alike. For more than 40 years, families have been making magic memories at this beloved attraction. “I think Magic Springs is very popular [in Saline County] because it’s a short drive to enjoy a full day of entertainment for the entire family,” said Michelle Keeney, Magic Springs Director of Sales and Marketing. “The season pass is a real value when you live so close and can utilize both the theme and water park all summer, along with the special events. It also enables you to drive to just come for a short visit or for an evening concert.” Magic Springs has seen many changes since it opened on July 22, 1978. There have been many rides added throughout the years, and in 2000, the water park was added. The Summer Concert Series came to Magic Springs in 2003, and has offered patrons a variety of musical acts from an array of genres. This year is no different, offering wellknown favorites and new talent in its list of nearly ten acts. “We are constantly looking for ways to innovate and better serve our guests, including searching for new attractions that would offer something unique to the region,” Keeney said. The pandemic has changed how Magic Springs operates, but even last summer, patrons visited with safety protocols in place. The park will continue to adhere to Arkansas Department of Health guidelines this season to ensure the safety of both guests and employees. “Like every individual and business, we have made many changes due to the pandemic,” Keeney said. “We immediately instituted new safety protocols at the park following all local and federal guidelines, and will continue to do so during this 28 • Saline County Lifestyles
season as the situation evolves.” “You’ll see our processes adapted at all levels, including opportunities for drive-through Season Pass processing, social distancing throughout the park and especially in lines, hand sanitizer stations available, employee temperature checks, and various other protocols for safe family fun. We are dedicated to keeping our employees and guests safe and ensuring they have the best time in the park.” Keeney, who is a veteran of the amusement park business and came to Magic Springs last fall, said no new rides have been added at the park, but she’s excited for patrons who haven’t ridden Brain Drain, the park’s most recent ride addition which debuted in 2018, to try it. The ride takes patrons, who are seated, up slowly to a height of 120 feet, and then drops them suddenly, reaching a maximum speed of 47 mph before entering a magnetic braking area. “Brain Drain remains the hottest
new attraction at our park,” she said. “As we monitor the ongoing pandemic, we look forward to offering additional attractions.” Magic Springs continued its Summer Concert Series in 2020 with social distance guidelines enforced. A slate of nine concerts is again offered this season with an eye on the changing guidelines for 2021. General admission seating on the lawn (blankets and lawn chairs are allowed) and reserved seating upgrades are available. Keeney said the park is waiting on releasing reserved seating options until it becomes clear how many seats can be used and still maintain social distance standards. Among the notable acts of 2021 are ‘90s hip hop artist Vanilla Ice kicking the season off June 19, country artists John Michael Montgomery and Lone Star June 26, Arkansas native country artist Matt Stell July 17, and alternative rock group Sevendust July 24. “We are pleased to offer an incredible new lineup of outdoor
concerts in our 2021 Summer Concert Series,” Keeney said. “With so many live shows canceled, it means a lot to us to offer safe, outdoor, sociallydistanced live music for all types of music fans. I wasn’t here for last year’s Concert Series, so I am really excited to take part this year.” Keeney said special events that have been featured favorites in the past and continued during the pandemic are scheduled for this season. “In 2020, our dedicated team was able to continue to offer these safe outdoor events during the pandemic and we are looking forward to more this season. Magic Springs will continue to celebrate corporate and small group parties, and offer unique family-friendly events such as DiveIn Movies, Mermaid Mondays, and Cooler Sundays. We work hard to create unique experiences that are high quality and high value for our guests. Our fall-themed program called Halloweekends is the perfect example of this, with special weekends designed with all-day family-friendly activities.” Halloweekends was introduced last year as an alternative to the Magic Screams Halloween festival that featured haunted houses the pandemic prevented. Instead, the park presented Halloweekends, which was set during the day and great for families, featuring costume contests, face painting and more. Another family option introduced this year is a Celebration Package, where families can gather for birthdays graduations and other special occasions. There is always something happening at Magic Springs from concerts and thrilling rides and slides. There’s something for everyone to enjoy! For more information on Magic Springs visit magicsprings.com. Saline County Lifestyles • 29
30 • Saline County Lifestyles
News & Community for Saline County Since 2007 Email with news or events or ask about advertising: info@mysaline.com
OPEN Saline County Lifestyles • 31
RIVER CENTER POOL & SPLASH PAD Take a minute and think of your fondest childhood memories of summer. You probably spent plenty of time outside. You likely had a core group of neighborhood friends, always around and able to get away with just enough to keep from getting into trouble with your parents. Maybe you were a member of a summer baseball, softball or soccer league. And you had water, lots of it. Whether in yard activities powered by a water hose or an area creek or pond, or your community pool, water was as much a part of your summer fun as almost anything else you did. Today, achieving that same level of enjoyment for people of all ages is one of the goals at the Benton Aquatic Center. “We are incredibly blessed with what we have to offer the people of Saline County,” says Adam Nelsen, Benton Parks and Rec Aquatics Director. “When people who have never seen the Center or maybe didn’t know it was here see it, their immediate reaction is, ‘Wow.’” Nelsen (who began competitive swimming in Little Rock more than 40 years ago) and the Benton Parks and Rec team expect more wows as they prepare for their fifth summer in Saline County. “I believe we have the best and most perfectly balanced facility in the state of Arkansas,” he said. “We have an eightlane competition pool, a separate leisure pool with a splash pad, a vortex pool and a two-story slide that moves in and out of the building. “Throughout the year, we’ll bring in a climbing wall and put inflatables in the pool. The kids absolutely love that,” he added. “And because we have a diverse selection of amenities, we are able to strike a great balance between hosting competitive events like the Arkansas State Championships and summer recreational time like our pool party weekends, where families can come and enjoy the day.” Opened in April of 2017, the Benton 32 • Saline County Lifestyles
Aquatics Center sits on the site of the former Benton Airport. Each year, attendance and membership numbers have risen, a result Nelsen credits to both community outreach and the necessity of learning proper swimming technique. “The heartbeat of any good pool is its swimming program,” he said. “It doesn’t matter whether a kid is a non-competitive swimmer or wants to be the next Michael Phelps. I think it’s important that every child understand the very basics of being able to swim.” To help educate young swimmers on those basic principles, the Aquatics Center offers free introductory lessons. Nelsen says it’s something a lot of families are taking advantage of. “It’s great for the kids to get the pool time, learn general safety and learn how to swim. Afterward, it’s not unusual for us to see families get a membership or even do group swim lessons.” Pool safety among swimmers isn’t the only priority when considering the overall health of the Aquatics Center. With so much attention still being paid to COVID-19 and a continued adherence to proper protocols, the facility has in place several practices to keep the water and the facility sanitized.
“Considering that the Center has multiple layers of sanitation and filtration, we have one of the safest pools in the U.S.,” Nelsen said. “In addition to chlorine, which is known to kill coronavirus in less than a minute, we also have UV sanitizing for the water to keep it cycling and extremely clean. We’ve also installed sanitizing dehumidifiers for purifying the air inside the building. “I think we’re to make a real effort toward getting things back to the way they used to be,” he added. “We’ll still do a great job with social distancing, and as the guidelines change, we’ll be able to relax and free up our customers and swimmers a bit more and increase capacity.” In addition to the growing popularity of the Aquatics Center, Benton Parks and Rec has also improved its splash pad access in South Benton’s Tyndall Park area. The area has expanded parking, is free to the public and is slated to open on May 15.
“It’s a really cool expansion because it incorporates some nice sustainable technology,” Nelsen said. “Now the system allows us to conserve water because much of it will be pushed back through a recirculation pump. We’ve also upgraded the filtration system to include UV, which makes it safer with even cleaner water. “If you want a place to come out, get wet, splash around and have fun with your friends, the Tyndall Park splash pad will certainly be the place to go, especially on those hot summer days,” he added. Nelsen says the splash pad will likely remain open beyond Labor Day this year. For information on classes, competitions, and event reservations at the Benton Aquatics Center, visit www.bentonar.org/aquaticscenter or give them a call at 501-776-5994.
Saline County Lifestyles • 33
Vaccinated The COVID-19 vaccination was recently offered to all staff and residents; we are excited to announce the majority were vaccinated.
We are open for visitation,
93% of eligible residents received the COVID vaccine.
Our team at Evergreen is committed to the continued safety and protection of our residents, family members and team of caregivers. As a safeguard against COVID-19 we will continue to offer the vaccine on a routine basis.
For more information call 501-213-0547* *
Visitation may be discontinued and visitation guidelines are subject to change.
501-213-0547
6907 AR Hwy. 5 Bryant, AR 72022 EvergreenHealthAndRehab.com
34 • Saline County Lifestyles
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FAMILY
Lifestyle
INSURANCE INSIGHT By Dennia Beard, State Farm Insurance
A few nights ago my daughter was in tears sitting next to me on the couch, crumbling under the weight of an awful situation that had split her heart open into shattered, painful pieces. I told her how I felt her pain and I really meant it. More than she will ever know, I felt her pain. “I know, Mom,“ She whispered through her tears. But she does not know. She won’t truly know until she has children of her own. She couldn’t possibly understand the depths of emotions that come from millions of moments filling days upon days of raising a
36 • Saline County Lifestyles
child. She doesn’t see the expanse of the years spent watching the baby you held in your arms begin to walk and talk and grow into this person they have become. From the moment we become parents, we begin building new grooves in our hearts that deepen with time. The parenting journey is long, worrisome and wonderful. The intensity of my need to protect my children goes far beyond anything I have ever experienced. The thought of my passing away before they become independent adults makes my stomach ache. They need me. They need my income. This profound protective passion is what drives me to do what I do in my agency every day. People want to protect their loved ones and one of the best ways to do that financially is life insurance. I remember when I first updated my life insurance after my family grew. As soon as that policy issued, it was like a massive relief fell over every cell in my body—like 100 pounds had lifted off my shoulders. I “geek out” on the topic of life insurance. I have been protecting lives for over 20 years. One memory involves one of the nicest people I have ever met. A few (many) years ago, I sold a gentleman a $1,000,000
10-Year Term policy to protect his ever-growing family. Over the years, we developed a friendship. Anytime he would call about billing or changing vehicles, he would always say hello to me. I would always wish him a Happy Birthday. He was such a cool guy. In the ninth year of his policy, I got a phone call I would never forget. He called to tell me that he had just been diagnosed with terminal cancer and was dying. The doctor had given him 12 months to live. Whoa. I called him back about a month later and he sounded worse than he had before. The experimental treatments were having a negative effect on him. I asked him if he needed money. I told him about a terminal illness rider that would allow him to get $250,000 as long as he provided me with a letter from his doctor indicating he was terminal. He was not aware of this feature of the policy. He provided what we needed and nine days later he had a check for $250,000. A few months later, I received a call from his son that he had passed away. Three weeks after that, I got a call from his wife. She described how much this policy meant to her and her family and how she wasn’t sure what their life would have been like
FAMILY
Lifestyles
From the moment we become parents, we begin building new grooves in our hearts that deepen with time. if he hadn’t taken out the policy. As hard as this story hurts me to relive, it validates the importance of what I do. Do this for me: Take a moment to appreciate all of the little things we do and those everyday moments that shape our lives and give them meaning. Our days are often filled with simple acts of love, one followed by another, that over time create a better tomorrow. Life insurance is like that. It’s a simple act you can take today to ensure your loved ones are protected financially tomorrow. It is time for you to protect those moments with life insurance. This can seem like an overwhelming endeavor if you do not take the time to determine your needs. This part is crucial. Shopping around can be another gift of love to ensure you are getting top-notch benefits for a fair price. So, this Valentine’s Day, consider giving your family a true gift of love by ensuring they will be kept financially safe in case something happens to you unexpectedly. (Flowers never hurt, either.)
Dennia Beard, Agent 501-778-6066 www.insurebenton.com BENTON LOCATION
1408 Military Road Benton, AR 72015 FORDYCE LOCATION
1112 W. 3rd. St. Fordyce, AR 71742 SERVICES: Auto Insurance Home and Property Insurance Life Insurance Health Insurance
Saline County Lifestyles • 37
FAMILY
Lifestyle
By Cody Calhoun, Pastor at Fellowship Bible Church
We’ve kicked off the New Year and I have to confess: I don’t make resolutions. I should. I know I should. By February, I find myself disappointed and feeling guilty. What’s the best way to avoid that? Don’t do it. Ok, I know that’s the wrong attitude, but allow me to give you—if you’ll receive it—the best New Year’s Resolution you can make. Spend time on the most important relationship you can possible have, your walk with your Lord. There is no other relationship you and I have that is greater, more fulfilling and transforming than our relationship with Christ. When we spend time with and grow in our knowledge of Jesus, it changes us like nothing and no one else. 2 Corinthians 3:18 says, “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.” The work of growth comes as God shapes us to look more like Christ. So how do I dedicate myself this year to growing in my relationship with Christ? We start with the Word. God gave us His Word, not primarily for information, but for transformation. And what I may say now may hit you wrong, but I’m describing a level of depth deeper than a devotional book. 38 • Saline County Lifestyles
Devotionals are important, but there’s meat that we can’t get to over coffee. We can get deep into God’s Word for the promise of blessing to our souls and how it teaches us to treasure Christ. Some will start with reading plans. Those are great, but if you are like me, sometimes you may have to get help by Leviticus. Need another way to start? Go through a book of the Bible you’ve always wanted to read and know more about. Need help? Get a trusted commentary or ask your pastor for a recommended commentary. As we read any passage of Scripture, it’s important that we are reading through a lens that declares the greatness and beauty of Jesus Himself, even in the Old Testament. Relationships need communication, and while Scripture grounds us in truth, truth will come out in our prayers. The believer must not neglect prayer. To do so, as Jonathan Edwards put it, is to “live as if there were no God.” Prayer (through the example of Matthew 6) centers around worship, asking for God’s will, the needs of life, repentance/deliverance and in some manuscripts, again worship. Communion with Jesus in our prayer life brings joy, not obligation. It’s the joy of bringing our requests
It’s the joy of praying for the needs of others and sharing your prayers with them. Prayer is such a gift of grace to us that we should never get tired of talking with our Father. to a Father who loves to hear them and will never be pestered by them. It’s the joy of praying for the needs of others and sharing your prayers with them. Prayer is such a gift of grace to us that we should never get tired of talking with our Father. There are other ways that help grow our affection for Jesus. But there is one I would encourage you with in parting: If you are able to be in church, be in church. I know there are those who must be careful and we as churches ought to take pride in caring for those who come into our building with guidelines and protections. But you and I were saved into a family. That family will teach you, encourage you and support you as you grow in your faith. Your growing to look like Christ is a team sport! God bless you as you pursue Him this year!
Saline County Lifestyles • 39
FAMILY
Lifestyle
By Gina Simpson, Gina’s Catering/Grab & Go
The longer you’ve been with your significant other, the more challenging it becomes to find a creative way to tell that special someone that you love them. Add COVID and all the social distancing coming along with it, and you have a situation only Cupid himself could conquer. If he were to give advice for how to woo your sweetheart on Valentine’s Day during a pandemic, it might include some of the following ideas:
1. Write a love letter to each other In this day of text and PM, handwritten letters tend to mean more. Take the time to write your darling a love letter pointing out all the things you love about them.
2. Provide a private massage for your partner With all the stress and uncertainty that we’ve been dealing with for almost year now, who wouldn’t love a get a good back rub from the one they love? Massage tables can be rented or bought at reasonable prices online.
5. Go on a virtual tour
3. Send the love of your life on a scavenger hunt Write clues leading him/her to the first gift, then to the next and so on, until they reach the final token of your love for them.
Without having to leave your comfy couch, almost any tourist destination now offers virtual tours. Take your beloved anywhere they want to go this year and never even get out of your pajamas.
4. Enjoy a wine and chocolate tasting An online pairing guide will give you the information you need to buy some wines and special chocolates to have your own private event.
6. Play a game to know your sweetie better Games like “Never Have I Ever,” or “Would You Rather” are a great way to learn interesting facts about
Valentine’s Day B lackened Red Snapp er wit DIR ECTION S: Cook the Fish:
ING REDIENTS:
- Blackened Seasoning - 1 teaspoon kosher salt - ½ tsp course ground black pepper - ¼ tsp cayenne pepper - 1 tsp paprika - ½ tsp dried thyme - ½ tsp dried oregano - - ¼ tsp garlic powder - ¼ tsp onion powder - Red Snapper 1lb filet red snapper (can be divided in to individual servings or cooked as one whole piece) - 2 tbsp avocado or olive oil
40 • Saline County Lifestyles
h Strawberry Kiwi Salsa
- Generously coat the flesh side of the fish with the seasoning mixture (you will probably have leftover mix ture) - Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a over medium-high heat. Onc large skillet e the oil is hot, make sure entire pan bottom is coated. - When skillet is very hot, plac e fish flesh side down and cook without touc until a blackened crust has form hing, the fish is almost cooked thro ed and ugh. This should take about 6 minutes . - Flip the fish onto the skin side and press down with a spatula to flatten the fish and the skin is flush with the Continue to cook until the fish skillet. is through or completely opaque cooked and easily flakes. About an additional 3 minutes. - Using your spatula, remove the fish from the skillet and transfer to plate. - Top fish with chilled salsa and lemon slices
Strawberry Kiwi Salsa
- 1 1/2c diced strawberries - 1-2 peeled diced kiwi - ½ medium sized cucumber, peeled & diced - 2 tbsp chopped, fresh cilan tro (if not a cilantro fan, this can be left out) - 2 tsp lemon juice - ¼ c thinly sliced red onion - ¼ seeded, minced jalapeno
(this can also be omitted)
INSTRU CTI ON S Blackened Seasoning: in a bowl, combine all the seasoning mixture ingredients and stir until well mixed Strawberry Kiwi Salsa: mix all ingredients and toss. Chill until serving.
your Valentine’s date. You can make up the questions yourself, cards games are available, or you can find a list online.
7. Slow dance to your favorite song A lot of men (and women) don’t like to dance in a crowd. Get dressed up and turn your living room into a romantic dance floor. Of course, you’ll want all the best love songs on your playlist . . . and after that, have fun flirting in the kitchen.
8. Prepare your favorite meal together You might discuss this with your significant other ahead of time so you will be sure to have all the ingredients you need. Below is one of my favorite “I love you” meals to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
Serve with your favorite rice and salad or vegetable. A perfect Valentine’s Day dinner. Working in the food industry for over 10 years makes suggestion number eight my preferred love language, as cooking comes naturally to me and is a great way to show my love. For me, cooking is love made visible. But if showing off your culinary chops isn’t at the top of your list, hopefully you will be able to find a fun way to connect while in the comforts of your own home. Valentines Day might look a little different to some this year, but that doesn’t mean it can’t still taste delicious! Just remember, the secret ingredient is always LOVE!
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By: Justin S. Elrod, Certified Elder Law Attorney, The Elrod Firm Unless you know someone who has been living in a cave for the past twelve months, you’d be hard-pressed to find a single person who isn’t happy to see 2020 come to a close. Most people would agree that COVID-19 tops the list of horrible things the world faced. The record number of infections, the overwhelming number of hospitalizations, and the staggering number of deaths were bad enough. When you add to that the widespread shutdowns of businesses and restaurants and the devastating economic impact the disease had in America and around the world, it’s hard to imagine how it could have been worse. The world economy shrank more this year than at any point since the Great Depression in the 1930s. Unfortunately, though, the coronavirus was not the only troubling thing to hit in 2020. No matter where your loyalties lie, you’d probably agree that this year brought serious political tension, highlighted by only the third presidential impeachment in the history of our nation. Civil unrest was high, with protests breaking out from coast to coast. Tension was high internationally as well. 42 • Saline County Lifestyles
Across the globe, we saw bombings, terrorist attacks, and plane crashes. Don’t forget the natural disasters. Wildfires in Australia and in the western part of the United States brought severe devastation. Cyclone Amphan in India forced the evacuation of more than 4 million people and caused over $13 billion in damage. Multiple hurricanes ravaged Louisiana, Texas, and Mississippi. There were earthquakes, volcanoes, and floods—and now we have “murder hornets” in the US! With 2020 also came the deaths of several prominent figures that were heroes to many, from Kobe Bryant to Ruth Bader Ginsburg to Chadwick Boseman. Yes, most would agree, 2020 can’t come to an end soon enough. If we didn’t know it already, 2020 should have taught us that we all need a plan. It’s almost impossible to predict the future, but that doesn’t mean we can’t plan for it. First and foremost, 2020 has prompted many to prepare healthcare directives with a sense of urgency, and rightfully so. When it comes to healthcare directives, you need to have
three things: 1) a healthcare power of attorney, 2) a medical records release to deal with HIPAA, and 3) a living will or advance directive. Each of these three documents does something different, so you can’t get by with just one or two. The healthcare power of attorney authorizes a person of your choosing to make healthcare decisions for you (big or small) when you cannot make them for yourself because of age, accident, or illness. But to ensure this person (called an agent) can obtain all the important health information he or she might need to make those decisions, you must have a medical records release of some kind to deal with the HIPAA restrictions your agent may face. And to guide your healthcare agent through the decisions he or she must make when it comes to end-of-life care specifically, you should also have a living will or advance directive. It is in this document that most people choose to state their desire that they not be left on machines if they are ever deemed permanently unconscious with no hope of recovery. Healthcare directives are important—now more than ever— but your planning shouldn’t stop
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there. Another crucial document to have before you need it is a general durable power of attorney. This is the document that will allow a person of your choosing to make business and financial decisions on your behalf when you cannot handle those matters for yourself because of age, accident, or illness. From there, planning can go in different directions based on your age, the make-up of your family, and your mix of assets. Some people need to have a Last Will and Testament to make sure the right person is in place to take care of their minor children. Others need to aggressively plan to stay out of an expensive and time-consuming probate court process through the use of a Living Trust or other estate planning strategies. Still others need more specialized planning because they see the possible need for long-term care around the corner and they don’t want to risk going broke in a nursing home. Every family is different, so every plan is different. But no matter what stage of life you’re in, and no matter what year it is, you need a plan.
Saline County Lifestyles • 43
TOGETHER FOR Better. Arkansans appreciate community. We work and raise families. Care for our neighbors. And come together in good times and bad. At First Security, that local strength is what we love best about our home state. There is commitment here. And heart. And hope. Thank you to everyone who is standing together, learning from one another, and making Arkansas a place we all love to call home.
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Our team at Alcoa Pines is committed to the continued safety and protection of our residents, family members and team of caregivers. As a safeguard against COVID-19 we will continue to offer the vaccine on a routine basis.
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