Future 40

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The Courier’s

st e b e h gt n i r he o Hon ghtest in t ey ri all b V d r n e a iv R s a s Arkan

Jan. 23, 2011

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Welcome to the future From the board room to the classroom, the honorees that make up a part of The Courier’s second-annual Future 40 make an impact on our community each and every day. And they’re all age 40 or under.

Culled from nominations submitted by readers, The Courier’s Future 40 run the gamut from stay-at-home mom to executive vice president. Some were nominated primarily on the basis of their excellence in business practices, while others earned recognition as a result of their spirit of community.

All are a part of the Arkansas River Valley’s future.

One of the possibilities we at The Courier considered in committing to bring you The Future 40 was the possibility it might not be sustainable over a period of years. Would it be a one-shot wonder, possible to compile only once every decade or so?

We’re happy to report the answer appears to be no, as it was a monumental task to choose just 40 honorees from all the worthy candidates our editorial board considered.

The existence of The Future 40 is a barometer, really, of the health and vitality of a community, in our opinion. Show us a city where it’s difficult to identify a wide range of up-and-coming leaders, and we’ll show you a city facing major stasis as the older generation retires from daily involvement.

We hope you enjoy reading the profiles of the group we, with your help, assembled this year, and we encourage you to start thinking about next year’s nominations.

After all, as these men and women prove, it’s never too early to start investing in the future.

— The Courier

Photography Joshua Mashon Editorial Mary Kincy Michael Ford Sean Ingram Cindi Nobles Kevin Hill Adam Sweeney Whitney Snipes

Publisher David Meadows Advertising Michelle Harris Judy Manning Jim Kelley Lauren Lampkin Marie Norris Cover design Mary Kincy

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Cass Capen-Housley Place of employment Arkansas Tech University Small Business and Technology Development Center; Four Dogs Bakery • Occupation Training coordinator for the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center.

Owner, Four Dog’s Bakery, and baking tasty, wholesome treats with love for people's dogs.

• Professional life Before moving to Arkansas, Capen-Housley was the store manager for a cafe/bakery in Flagstaff, Ariz., Late for the Train. Her goal was to give customers the best service by offering them homemade baked goods and lunch items, including coffee roasted on-site at a good price. In addition to quality, she taught the staff to know their customers and engage in conversation with them while they waited. The staff was an integral part of their customers’ morning routine, she said, so it was a goal of hers to treat them like family members.

Capen-Housley previously was the circulation department manager at Arkansas Tech’s Ross Pendergraft Library, responsible for managing the department and assisting students and faculty with library services. She currently helps small businesses in the community by training business owners about marketing their business at a low cost, learning about e-mail techniques to promote their business, what social media can do for their business, get speakers in that can train entrepreneurs on business planning, financing and how to start a business in Arkansas.

• Public and community service Capen-Housley is chair for the Tour De Pumpkin Bicycle Ride in conjunction with Russellville’s Fall Festival. She and her husband chaired this event for the last six years and recently turned it over to a friend so she could dedicate more time to other events. Their goal was to get all costs paid by sponsors so entry fees would go 100 percent to Main Street Russellville.

She also volunteered and handled registration for mountain bike races, cyclocross races and helped with Tri Peaks when the race was in the River Valley area.

• As quoted Capen-Housley on the aspects of her career growth: “When we moved here eight years ago, it was a big adjustment for me. My husband is from the area and I decided that I needed to get out and meet people and volunteer.

I joined the gym, took classes and helped out with local events.

“This networking and my job at the library and involvement with my husband’s business, Poppa Wheelies, connected me with great people. People started to recognize me for my hard work, dedication, passion and enthusiasm to name a few things I loved about Russellville.”

• Plan to save the world Capen-Housley stressed the importance of getting involved and listening to people.

“It is necessary for a leader to be there in the trenches and understand what people in the town are going through. A leader needs to understand the daily struggles and joys so that when it comes to the future of the town, they can work toward making it a better place to live.”

Blake Tarpley

• Place of employment River Town Bank

• Occupation Senior vice president; serves on the bank’s board of directors • Professional life Tarpley graduated from Russellville High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Arkansas Tech University. After graduation, he started working in the banking industry, ultimately moving into commercial lending.

• Public & community service Tarpley has been a volunteer at the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Arkansas River Valley since 1995, and helped implement Mistletoe Market as a fund-raiser for the club. He has served as chairman of the board since 2010.

In addition, Tarpley is a member of Russellville Kiwanis Club, the Pope County Community

Foundation, River Valley Ducks Unlimited, Arkansas Ducks Unlimited, the city of Russellville’s Board of Adjustments and the Baker’s Creek Baptist Church finance committee.

• As quoted Tarpley on his involvement with the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Arkansas River Valley: “I became involved in ValleyFest through friends and co-workers that were working on the event, and getting involved in the event seemed like the right thing to do. But, ultimately I have remained a volunteer for the simple reason that I have seen the things the club has done for the children of the River Valley area and believe that it will continue to support families and remain a safe place for kids to be active and learn skills needed to achieve their dreams.”

• Plan to save the world For Tarpley, community service and leadership is about making the Arkansas River Valley an even better place for future generations.

“As leaders, we must be vocal and active in the positions we serve and keep our eyes on the future to maintain and advance our community to new levels,” he said.

Kristy Bayer • Place of employment Arkansas Tech University • Occupation Assistant athletic director, senior women’s administrator, head volleyball coach • Professional Life Two years removed from earning her master’s degree in higher education from Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Mich., Bayer took the head volleyball coaching job at Arkansas Tech University. Uncertain of her long-term goals at the university, she turned the school’s volleyball program into a winner. That success, along with her background, prompted the school to giver her more responsibilities and job titles.

• Public and community service Bayer’s professional duties coincide with her service to the community. As an administrator at Arkansas Tech, she has been afforded the opportunity to work with many community-based charitable programs.

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

• As quoted Davis on community service: “A lot of my administrative duties are engaging the community, not only with Arkansas Tech and our athletes, but with volunteer activities as well.”

• Plan to save the world Bayer said she feels sports are valuable in the development of young women, and added she feels honored to be able to provide volleyball training for young girls to help them become better players and get them involved in the sport.

“Studies have shown that sports participation for young girls is really important for the quality of their development,” she said. “So providing these opportunities for these young girls not only helps them become better athletes, but better people as well.”

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Amber Smith •Place of employment Allstate Insurance •Occupation Agency owner •Professional life Smith purchased an existing Allstate agency and continues to service that agency’s existing customers. Her agency provides personal and commercial services.

•Public and Community service Since purchasing the agency, Smith has made an effort to raise awareness on the dangers of texting while driving. She was asked to address teens invited to the Teen Leadership Summit at Lake Point Conference Center. At the summit, a select group of leaders from area high schools heard presentations on various topics and could choose what topics to pass on to their respective schools.

•As quoted On her message being heeded by young people: “They’re not all going to pay attention, but if one kid heard me then my job was done. We all tried. You can’t reach them all, but if you reach one, you feel like you’ve accomplished something.”

•Plan to save the world “It’s very important for our leaders — whether they be councilmen, elected officials or business owners — to have one voice. We can make this a better place to live and a safer place to live, but it’s important to band together because there is power in numbers.”

Beau Dollar • Place of employment Wells Fargo Advisors • Occupation Financial advisor • Professional life Dollar said he has the ability to listen to people and determine what is important to them to help provide steps for achieving financial goals.

He develops financial solutions that make sense for people’s financial situation.

• Public and community service River Park Church of Christ, Russellville Chamber of Commerce, Russellville Country Club MGA and Hollabend Bowhunters Association.

• As quoted Dollar on the little things to remember: “Promptly returning phone calls, being on time, doing what I say that I am going to do, honesty and having a little fun in the process — these practices would seem to be habitual for most professionals,” Dollar said. “I am surprised daily of the little things most have forgotten.”

• Plan to save the world Dollar said the exchange of ideas is the key to success.

“Communication!,” Dollar said. “Open and nonpartisan communication is vital for the community to grow in a healthy and positive direction.”

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Aaron Thomas • Place of employment River Valley Radio • Occupation Operations manager • Professional life With the exception of studying music for a brief time during his college years, Thomas has spent the majority of his career behind a microphone. When he was only 15 years old, he started working weekends at a gospel station.

While music is a big part of his life, Thomas said his love is for broadcasting.

• Public and community service Currently serving as a volunteer coach with Upward basketball, Thomas loves getting involved and helping others.

He recently helped coordinate a Christmas fund-raising event for the Main Street Mission.

• As quoted Thomas on choosing radio: “My Dad is a minister and has been on radio since the mid-1970s. As a child, I worked behind the scenes engineering his weekly, sometimes daily, radio broadcast. I was on the air for the first time at age 4 ... I consider some of the great people I have had the privilege to work with through the years as a big part of where and who I am today.”

• Plan to save the world Thomas encouraged the importance of mentoring. He said if people through the years hadn’t taken him under their wings, he wouldn’t be where he is today.

“Regardless of your age, you should never stop learning or teaching,” he said.

Jodi Kusturin • Place of employment Equestrian Zone • Occupation Physical therapy director • Professional life Kusturin graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a bachelor’s degree in health sciences with an emphasis in physical therapy. She also holds a master of science in physical therapy and is a doctor of physical therapy.

• Public and community service Kusturin serves as the executive director of Equestrian Zone — Riding for a Reason. She is also a volunteer for Shooting for Success and Field of Angels and attends First Assembly of God church.

She previously held an appointment to the University Affiliated Programs Board through the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences as well as a membership chair and public relations chair for the Arkansas Physical Therapy Association.

• As quoted Kusturin on the impact of equine therapy: “Horses are so powerful. To see the joy of our riders when they mount the horse is life changing. The experience is something you take with you and it helps you to have purpose. I knew as a high school student, after volunteering at a similar program outside of Dover, that equine therapy was my calling and made a decision to pursue physical therapy. What was once a dream is now a reality, and I am humbled by our gracious community.”

• Plan to save the world Kusturin, who said her faith has helped her more than anything else along her career path, said leaders should work to remain positive and humble.

“Always exemplify the fruits of the Spirit, motivate others and have a servant’s heart,” she said.

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Carnell Green

• Place of employment U.S. Postal Service • Occupation Postmaster

• Professional life Green is the postmaster for both stations in Russellville and also processes and dispatches all mail for the 728 zip code area.

• Public and community service Green coaches youth basketball, football and baseball, is a member of the Russellville Chamber of Commerce, participates in fund-raisers for Muscular Dystrophy of Russellville and is a part of the Schlagle Alumni Association, which helps provide college scholarships to inner-city kids who are less fortunate. He is an active member of New Prospect Baptist Church in Cleveland.

He also donates time and money to different charities.

• As quoted Green on success: “God, hard work and dedication also having great mentors who trained me the right way to do things on a daily basis, attention to detail has been a contributing factor to my success.”

• Plan to save the world Green said he believes in reaching out to the community, asking questions and getting ideas from the public on what the people of the Arkansas River Valley would like to see happen in the area.

“We also need to help in any way possible. As leaders we need to lead by example,” Green said. “After graduating from high school, I joined the military and got blessed to start out as a temporary employee with the post office and through hard work and dedication I’m blessed to be the postmaster of Russellville. It hasn’t been easy, but I truly want the younger adults and kids to know hard work does pay off.”

Blaine Rogers

• Place of employment First Free Will Baptist Church in Russellville • Occupation Lead pastor • Professional life Rogers’ primary responsibility is to help people, to “be the hands, feet, mind and heart of Jesus in the River Valley and ultimately the world,” he said.

• Public and community service Rogers serves as the chairman of the executive committee of the local association of churches.

He is on the State Mission Board, and helps the River Valley Christian Clinic as needed. He volunteers with Choices Pregnancy Clinic and Main Street Mission. He is a member of the Chamber of Commerce and through church ministries facilitates the distribution of numerous volunteers into the Arkansas River Valley.

• As quoted Rogers on faith: “Many people struggle needlessly trying to figure out what God wants of them. I struggled for a while trying to figure out God’s plan for me as well. However, once I became convinced, I have not looked back, although I constantly evaluate myself. Whatever I am, it is because He has equipped me to be. The hard days as well as the good days define who we are. I thank Him for both.”

• Plan to save the world Rogers said he believes God is what leaders need to make the Arkansas River Valley a better place and said that, through God, a strong family foundation can make that endeavor succeed.

“The single most important thing I think a leader in the River Valley can do is … invest in families,” Rogers said. “Families are the hope of any and every community.”

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Burke Larkin • Place of employment Real Practices Inc. • Occupation Vice president of real estate development • Professional life Larkin works in Real estate development, developing, buying, owning and leasing medical office buildings. He also develops residential subdivisions and builds houses to sell and lease.

• Public and community service Larkin is involved at First Baptist Church as a deacon. He is a personnel committee member, and Sunday school teacher. He coached third and fourth grade girls’ basketball in the Upward basketball league. He is also a basketball coach for Shooting for Success basketball league.

Larkin serves as an alderman for Ward 2 on the Russellville City Council.

• As quoted Larkin on life: “Work hard,” Larkin said. “Trust God. And try to find enjoyment in everything I do.”

• Plan to save the world Larkin said it all starts with communication.

“It would all start with open, honest communication,” said Larkin.

Dr. David Nelson • Place of employment Millard-Henry Clinic, Russellville • Occupation Obstetrician/gynecologist • Professional life Nelson graduated with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Ouachita Baptist University in 2002. He attended medical school at UAMS in Little Rock from 2002-06, and received his medical degree (M.D.) in May 2006.

Nelson did his residency training on obstetrics and gynecology at UAMS from 2006-10 and began his practice at Millard-Henry Clinic in August 2010.

• Public and community service Nelson is on the steering committee of The CALL (Children of Arkansas Loved for a Lifetime) of Pope County. The CALL’s mission is to educate, equip and encourage the Christian

community to provide a future and a hope for the children in foster care.

He also recently spoke to the Saint Mary’s Vintage Group about breast cancer screening and prevention. Before moving to Russellville, Nelson was involved in various community outreach ministries through Geyer Springs First Baptist Church in Little Rock.

• As quoted Nelson on becoming an ob-gyn: “Obstetrics and gynecology offers a unique blend of medicine and surgery, as well as the opportunity to treat a wide variety of medical conditions. It was just a really good fit for me.”

• Plan to save the world Nelson on staying at the top of one’s game: “Always look for ways to improve, regardless of your chosen field.”

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Cody Mann

• Place of employment Russellville High School

• Occupation History teacher, assistant boys’ basketball coach • Professional Life A graduate of Van Buren High School, Mann graduated from Arkansas Tech University with a degree in history education in 2002 and began his career with the Russellville School District in 2003 at the junior high school.

After a year teaching and coaching at RJHS, he moved to the high school as a history teacher and assistant boys basketball coach, the position he fills today.

• As quoted Davis on the Boys and Girls Clubs: “The B&GC has always been a big thing to me. It’s a great way to develop young men and women, it teaches them a lot of them about life and it’s a great way to keep some kids who are in a lot of trouble out of trouble.”

• Plan to save the world Mann believes that steering our children in the right direction is essential to community growth. With his work in the BG&C he hopes to help create the young leaders of tomorrow to take over a community he has grown to love.

“This is a great community,” he said. “Not too • Public and community service big and not too small. You can make great friends and can have great friendships with Mann spends a lot of time with the Boys and the life.”

Girls Clubs and serves on the athletic commission. He’s been involved with the B&GC since he was young and his children play for B&GC teams.

Dr. Corry Key

• Place of employment Southwind Animal Hospital, Russellville • Occupation Veterinarian

• Professional life Key graduated in 1997 from the University of Missouri’s Veterinary School, moved to Alma/ Van Buren where she worked in small general practice, then worked in a large small animal and equine referral hospital in Missouri.

She decided Arkansas was where she wanted to be, so she moved back and worked for the Animal Emergency Clinic in Fort Smith until she decided to open her own clinic in Russellville.

• Public & community service Key and her husband decided there was a need for obedience/behavior classes in the area, so they conduct 6- to 8week classes several times a year. They are involved in dog rescue, including

the recent case of 123 dogs that were seized by the ASPCA and housed and treated at their clinic.

She hopes to be able to integrate a program into the schools to educate on animal care, socialization and behavior.

• As quoted Key said, like many little girls, she always wanted to work with animals: (The detailed account will hopefully be released this year as a published work). “I had a strong interest in science, and was good at school, so it seemed like the logical choice.

“Had it not been for my husband believing we could turn a tire shop into a veterinary hospital, I would never have done it. He always seems to find the positive in everything and see ‘what could be.’”

• Plan to save the world Key believes youth in the Arkansas River Valley are, well, key: “I think we need to reach out to the youth in the area and encourage them to achieve their goals, and help them believe anything is possible.

Because it is.”

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Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Christie Graham

• Place of employment Russellville Advertising and Promotion Commission • Occupation Executive director

• Professional life Graham graduated from Russellville High School in 1994 and from Arkansas Tech in 1998 with a degree in speech communication. She has served as executive director of the Advertising and Promotion Commission since 2004.

• Public and community service In college, Graham was a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. Currently, she is a member of Junior Auxiliary and served on the Tri Peaks board and on the board of the Arkansas Association of Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Graham and her husband, Heath, attend First Assembly of God church, and she is very active in the Chi Alpha campus ministry, of which her husband is the campus pastor.

• As quoted Graham on why she loves promoting Russellville for a living: “I love a challenge. I do not need a job that does the same things over and over, and I love Russellville. I was born and raised here and plan on raising my children here, and I want Russellville to be all that it can be for them. I absolutely believe that Russellville is a wonderful city and will continue to be better.”

• Plan to save the world Graham stressed communication and teamwork as the best way to help Russellville reach its full potential.

“I believe that the single most important thing city leaders must do to make Russellville a better place is to lay down our own agendas and look at the big picture. Most of the time we get the ‘wewant syndrome’ and forget that that might not be what is best for the city as a whole,” she said.

Todd Meimerstorf

• Place of employment Arvest Bank

its Red Coat Committee. He also serves on the board of directors for Building Young Readers in Russellville.

• Occupation Vice president, commercial relationship manager

• As quoted On what has helped him reach this point in his career: “My first thought would be my faith in and relationship with God. He has given his blessings on many decisions in my life that have led me to where I am now. I can’t wait to see where he leads me from here. Secondly would be the faith or belief in me from those that surround me.

The support and encouragement from my family, friends and co-workers are a blessing. These relationships are what drive me on a daily basis.”

• Professional life Meimerstorf manages and develops banking relationships, primarily with businesses.

“I enjoy working with all types of clients and enjoy helping them find solutions for their financial life,” he said. “I try to be their contact for banking needs ranging from loans to deposits.”

• Public & Community service Meimerstorf is a member of the First Baptist Church. He also serves as president of the Dover Area Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Fund and the Russellville Lions Club. He serves on the board of directors of the Russellville Chamber of Commerce and is a member of

• Plan to save the world “In a word, volunteer. I have had the opportunity to volunteer for several organizations in our community and have witnessed that many needs in our community will not be met without someone filling the gap.

“Russellville is a great place to live and work, and we have a responsibility to give back our time, money and talents to those people and organizations that have needs.”

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Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Dr. Ernie Enchelmayer • Place of employment Arkansas Tech University

as acting president of the club from 2007 to 2008, and continued as club president for a regular term through 2009. Enchelmayer is in his second year as assistant governor for District 6170 in Rotary.

• Occupation Assistant professor of English • Professional life Enchelmayer teaches undergraduate courses on technical writing, world literature and film. He also teaches graduate level courses in rhetoric, composition theory and practice and occasionally a linguistics course or one on the Brothers Grimm.

“My job at Tech entails helping students learn to think critically and express themselves effectively, mainly through written communication,” Enchelmayer said. “I hope that students in my classes develop a deeper understanding of our language and language choices as well as increase their awareness of and appreciation for a diverse world.”

• Public and Community service Enchelmayer has participated in Rotary International at the club level since 1997 and has been involved with the Rotary Club of Russellville since 2005. He served

• As quoted On public involvement and his occupation: “I think teaching, successful teaching, requires 'involvement' not unlike 'involvement' in one's community ... so along those lines, I would say that I get a great sense of satisfaction in seeing improvement — whether that's improvement in one's education or in one's way of life.”

• Plan to save the world “We should model what being a servant to our communities looks like, much the same way it was probably modeled for us. But, we should also try to help figure out ways for others to serve because our ways of serving or our perceptions of serving may differ.”

Danya Day

• Place of employment Main Street Russellville

• Professional life Day said the nature of nonprofit work requires a jack-of-all-trades, so she has a broad job description.

“I help plan, organize, and execute all our community events; oversee special event rentals of our facility; assist with the marketing efforts of our organization; answer phones; greet visitors; give tours of the Depot; prepare agendas and minutes for committee meetings; help maintain the building; and basically help (director) Betsy McGuire in anything she needs.”

• Public and community service Outside of the public and community services Day is involved in at Main Street Russellville, she is a member of Central Presbyterian Church and has recently become involved with the Age to Age program.

• As quoted Day said being surrounded by talent has helped in her success, thus far.

“I have been fortunate to receive the advice and encouragement of talented people — like my graduate advisor who helped me develop more confidence in my abilities, my parents who have been continually supportive, former colleagues who were willing to share what they knew, and my former and current supervisors who have led by example,” she said.

• Plan to save the world Day said progressive minds encourage a greater community.

“Although I’m a newcomer to the area, I believe that any successful community needs progressive-minded individuals and organizations with a willingness to work together,” she said. “The River Valley can be a better place with a truly cooperative effort from its leaders.”

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Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Ira Wimer

• Place of employment Crafton Tull Sparks, Russellville • Occupation Architect

• Professional life After graduating from the University School of Architecture in Fayetteville in 1998, Wimer moved to Fort Smith and worked for Architecture Plus for two years as an intern architect. In 2000, he moved back to Fayetteville to work for Hight Jackson in Rogers. While there, Wimer received his architecture license.

In 2005, he began working for Crafton Tull in Rogers and in 2008 moved to Russellville and became the director of architecture for Russellville for Crafton Tull.

• Public and community service Wimer has done work for Habitat for Humanity.

• As quoted Wimer on pursuing a career in architecture: “I chose to pursue a career in architecture because I have always enjoyed being creative. As a child and through high school, I always enjoyed drawing and painting. I had considered going to art school, but decided that I would rather be involved with the creation of buildings.

“I have always had good mentorship from my employers which has helped me excel in my profession.”

• Plan to save the world Wimer said he strives every day to do the best job he can for his clients.

“I believe that being passionate about your chosen career is the most important element that community leaders can do to improve the Arkansas River Valley.”

Dusti Yarber • Place of employment La Quinta Inn & Suites • Occupation General manager • Professional life After graduating from Arkansas Tech University with a cosmetology administration degree, Yarber went to work at Mount Magazine State Park, where she worked as a restaurant manager and then director of activities. About 20 months ago, she was offered her current position at La Quinta and happily accepted.

• Public and community service Yarber’s profession requires she constantly interact with the public and be active in community service. However, when she’s not on the job, she also serves as chairman of Russellville’s Advertising and Promotion Commission.

• As quoted Yarber on choosing to work at a hotel: “I like the idea of being on vacation and being in that atmosphere every day. I love the people and it seemed like the right thing for me. I think because it requires you to just be open to anything is the reason this was the right job for me.”

• Plan to save the world Yarber said one of the most important things someone can do for their community is to be involved.

“It’s so easy to come and go and be in your own little world,” she said. “By getting involved, you see what’s needed, shows what the needs are and you see where you can fill those needs.

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Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Andrea Pitts • Place of employment Dardanelle Chamber of Commerce • Position Executive director • Professional life Pitts recruits new chamber members, continues membership maintenance, executes directives from the executive board and provides community relations and communications. She takes care of event planning and represents the chamber with community organizations and groups.

• Public and community service Pitts is involved with the Single Parent Scholarship Foundation, Toys for Tots, Yell County Wildlife Federation, Chamber of Commerce and the Miss Mount Nebo pageant committee.

• As quoted Pitts said her parents were instrumental in helping her attain her professional goals.

“The emphasis that my parents placed on education and staying true to myself and beliefs (was vital),” Pitts said.

• Plan to save the world Pitts said, in her opinion, the single most important thing our leaders can do to make the Arkansas River Valley a better place is to put a higher emphasis on education.

“Today’s kids will be the River Valley’s future leaders, and we need to instill in them the importance of higher education and what it can accomplish,” she said.

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Matt Cooper

• Place of employment Shelter Insurance • Occupation Insurance agent • Professional Life Cooper earned a degree in agricultural business at Arkansas Tech in 1998. After college, he worked for Industrial Safety Source in sales before joining Shelter Insurance as an adjuster.

“I did that for a couple of years and an agency came open here in town I was able to apply for, actually the one I’m at now, and I’ve been an agent with Shelter Insurance since October of 2001.”

• Public and community service Cooper spent six years on the board of directors for the United Way. He is currently on the board of directors for the Age To Age program with the Wesley Foundation at Arkansas Tech. Age To Age matches atrisk youths with college mentors to help them excel in their schoolwork.

“It’s similar to Big Brothers, Big Sisters program, but they match at-risk youth with college mentors. It’s kind of unique because they have a time set up every week and everybody comes together. It’s all done at the First United Methodist Church in town.”

• As quoted Cooper on insuring Russellville: “We try to go through all the aspects of the insured’s life and business, just to make sure we have all the bases covered. We try to get as much information as possible about a potential client and try to formulate the best plan based on their needs and different circumstances in their life. Everybody is unique. It’s not a one-size-fits-all kind of business.”

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

• Plan to save the world Cooper said the biggest reason he got into insurance was the opportunity to help people. Most people don’t really know what to do in the event of a disaster, and Cooper said it’s his job to prepare people “for life’s unexpected events. And then to come through those events in the same financial position afterward as they were before.”

He added he believes providing insurance provides piece of mind.

With the right insurance plan, unexpected events can be taken care of — including financially — with little hassle to the consumer.

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Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Shawn Bates

• Place of employment Liberty Bank

• Public and Community Bates is active in the Lions Club and serves as vice president of the Dover Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Fund.

• Occupation Assistant vice president of lending • Professional life Bates serves as a loan officer for everything from commercial to consumer loans.

“I enjoy the interaction with customers and helping people achieve their needs through lending, whether it be a home loan or whatever else,” Bates said.

We’re Drivers Too!

• As quoted On helping customers: “People come in needing a loan, and anytime you can make that work for them and get them up and going, it just feels good.”

• Plan to save the world “As leaders, we need to continue our efforts in growing and improving the local community.”

Andrea Pitts

Congratulations Andrea & Scott

229-2232

2nd & Union • Dardanelle

WE CONGRATULATE ANDREA & SCOTT

Congratulations Andrea & Scott

Congratulations!

Post-Dispatch

218 N. Front • 479-229-2250

Scott Moore

Congratulations!

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Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Dr. Jeff Woods • Place of employment Arkansas Tech University • Occupation History and political science department head • Professional life As a department head, Woods teaches two courses per semester along with managing all of the faculty and staff of the department. Other aspects of his job include proposing curriculum, making schedules for classes and advising students.

“If there’s ever any conflict between student and faculty, or faculty and faculty or students and students, I’m part of that mediation process,” Woods said. “There’s a lot of different things involved.”

Woods has also written two books: “Richard Russell, Southern Nationalism, and American Foreign Policy” and “Black Struggle, Red Scare: Segregation and Anticommunism in the South, 1948-1968.”

“Now I’m writing a book on Vietnam, on pacification efforts there — sort of the nature of building counterinsurgence there,” Woods said.

“I’ve been working on that for about four years. I had planned to have a draft this year or next, but given the new job, I don’t know. I still get up to write at 5:30 every day, but any other time I have to write gets cut into. But I’m still working on it. It’ll just take a little longer.”

• Public and Community service Woods has served on the Vestry as senior warden at Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church in Conway. He and his wife are also active with the United Way, and the Shakespeare Board in Conway.

• As quoted On the environment at Arkansas Tech: “I think there’s a sense of purpose and growth. It’s an exciting place to be. I grew up in Fayetteville and I remember Tech. I knew people that came to Tech, but they were usually going to play football. This was a small rural place, and now it’s growing. It’s starting to compete on a state level, a national level and even an international level. I love being a part of that. I very much like the idea of helping Arkansas students. I was one of those kids. The greatest thing we can do is give Arkansas kids opportunities that maybe they hadn’t expected for themselves. That’s incredibly rewarding.”

• Plan to save the world “(Helping a student succeed) is the greatest thing you can do. This job is not like other jobs. It doesn’t pay a whole lot.

It’s a public service. I’ve always approached what I’ve done as an professor and now as an administrator as part of the public service. If I can help one of those kids, it helps the state. It helps the community. It helps the world. They have the opportunity to go on and do remarkable things with their lives. If I can just play a small part in helping with that, I’ve done something really worthwhile with my life.”

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Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Meredith Martin-Moats • Place of employment Dardanelle • Occupation Stay-at-home mom of twins, part-time freelance research writer and orator • Professional life Martin-Moats has conducted research on oral history and cultural traditions for various publications and KUAF public radio in Fayetteville.

• Public and community service In addition to volunteering with the American Cancer Society, the majority of Martin-Moats’ research is centered around human rights and cultural environment sustainability issues.

• As quoted Martin-Moats believes her research is all connected: “I really feel like cultural issues and traditions are really important to who we are — not just the past, but also the future, who we want to become as a com-

munity, as individual people. It’s really important to have a sustainable community and individuals to understand the individuals and the history that make up the area. We don’t really understand where we’re going if we don’t understand where we’ve been or what we’ve done. I love to study oral history and traditions, but I don’t think they’re important to document the past. I think it’s important to use that knowledge to make our future better for everyone.

We’re a diverse community — young and old, whatever economic group.”

• Plan to save the world Martin-Moats uses the skills she has to pay attention to all the different voices in the community. “Listen to the stories they have to tell. Listen to the stories of the past as well as the present — listening to the diverse voices of the community, understanding the community in such a way that it helps us toward the future of the community.

Matt Duffield

• Place of employment BIG River Materials, Duffield Gravel Materials, Traditional Championship Wrestling • Occupation President, Big River Materials and TCW; Vice president, Duffield Gravel

• Professional Life Duffield attended Harding University and graduated with a degree in broadcast journalism in 2006. In 2008, he started a professional wrestling company and named it Traditional Championship Wrestling. From 2009-10, Duffield was under contract with 51 Minds/VH1 and appeared on the VH1 reality hit “Megan Wants a Millionaire.” In August 2009, Duffield purchased Robinson Inc., a sand and gravel company, and renamed it BIG River Materials.

• Public and community service Duffield has been a big hit in the Russellville community with his wrestling shows. Since 2008, TCW wrestling events have generated more than

$10,000 for local nonprofit groups like the Boys and Girls Clubs, Pope County Sheriff Reserves and Shriners. In October 2009, TCW set an attendance record at the LV Williamson Boys and Girls Clubs with more than 700 fans in attendance.

• As quoted Duffield on honesty: “A wise man once said that telling the truth in a world of universal deceit is a revolutionary act. Telling the truth and doing what you say you are going to do is of utmost importance to me.”

• Plan to save the world Duffield strongly believes that the “children are our future. Regionally, promoting family-oriented wrestling shows gives families a positive activity to do together and make lasting memories in a fast-paced world,” he said.

“Speaking and interacting with elementary school kids in the River Valley and showing them that there is much more to life than entertainment is of great importance to me.”

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Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Doug Karleskint

• Place of employment Arkansas Tech University • Occupation Head men’s basketball coach

• Professional Life After he graduated from Mid-America Nazarene University in Olathe, Kan., with a degree in sports management, Karleskint began his coaching career as a volunteer coach at Fort Scott Community College in Pittsburg, Kan. After two-year stints at Northwest Missouri State University (Maryville, Mo.) and Stephen F. Austin State University (Nagodoches, Texas), Karleskint took a job as an assistant men’s basketball coach at Arkansas Tech. After his first season, then-head coach Mark Downey left to coach at his alma mater and Karleskint was elevated to head coach, his current position.

• Public and community service Through his position as head coach of the Arkansas Tech Wonder Boys basketball team, Karleskint puts on multiple basketball camps and some free clinics to help young men and women succeed in basketball. Also, his teams visit local elementary schools to read to the students.

“A lot of those kids, you don’t realize how much they look up to the players,” he said. “They recognize the Willie Sanders’, the Johnie Davis’, the James Causey’s.

The players, they’re role models. Whenever we go into a classroom or whenever they see us out in public, that’s a big deal to them. And if we can relate to them in that sort of way — one-on-one, reading a book — that’s a huge deal.”

• As quoted Davis on coaching: “You’re given an opportunity (as a coach) to shape young men’s lives. Not only in the game of basketball but in life — the decisions you make on a day-to-day basis. Hopefully you instill a work ethic that they can build upon, not only in basketball, but just as much to make each person better day-by-day.”

• Plan to save the world Karleskint said one of the most satisfying parts of his job occurs off the basketball court.

“It’s really fulfilling when you recruit a young man and he hasn’t been given much in his life, and in four years he’s walking across the stage receiving a diploma,” he said. “It just really makes your job that much more fulfilling.”

He added that the opportunity afforded

him as a basketball coach at the collegiate level is the ability to shape young men’s lives, not only on the basketball court.

Teaching respect and honor is just as important as teaching a crossover dribble or a layup.

“We try and teach them the right and the wrong way of how you do things,” he continued. “When you walk into a restaurant, you pick up after yourself, you don’t leave trash on the table.

When you walk into a building, you take your hat off. Those sort of things where a lot of people don’t teach that anymore.”

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Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Scott Moore

• Place of employment Yell County Sheriff’s Department

• Occupation: Lieutenant of Criminal Investigation Division • Professional life Moore graduated from Dardanelle High School in 1995, and began working for the Yell County Sheriff’s Department in 2001 as a dispatcher. He became a deputy sheriff in June 2001, and attended the State Law Enforcement Training Academy in 2002. He was promoted to the rank of corporal in 2004 and then to the rank of patrol sergeant in 2006. In January 2007, Moore was promoted to the Criminal Investigation Division as a criminal investigator. In December 2010, he was again promoted, this time to lieutenant of the Criminal Investigation Division.

• Public and community service Currently, Moore is the liaison officer between the Yell County Sheriff’s Department and the Yell County Mounted Patrol, president of the 15th Judicial Meth Coalition and alderman for the city of Dardanelle.

• As quoted Moore on being an alderman: “I think the most important thing that has helped me reach the point in my career is my family and the support of the community,” Moore said. “I grew up in Dardanelle and would like to see it grow and move forward for the youth of the community.”

• Plan to save the world Moore said the most important thing area leaders could do is bring jobs to the area.

“If we can bring more jobs and businesses into the area, I feel that community could grow in a whole,” he said.

Sasha Bowles

• Place of employment Lake Dardanelle State Park • Occupation Park interpreter

• Professional life Bowles received a bachelor’s of science degree in fisheries and wildlife biology from Arkansas Tech University. She began working at Lake Dardanelle State Park in 2004 as the aquarist, taking care of the aquarium displays and animals used for education. She also worked all the fishing tournaments held at the park’s tournament weigh-in pavilion.

In 2007, Bowles took over one of the park’s two interpreter positions, at which time she began working with local schools, providing educational experiences dealing with the nature, history and culture of the area. She also began talking with civic groups, clubs and other organizations, hosting day camps during the summer for children in the community, offering day care programming and providing park visitors with educational experiences.

• Public and community service Bowles spends her day educating people of all ages, from pre-school to the elderly. She also helps with the United Way Day of Caring and National Public Lands Day. • As quoted Bowles on being a park interpreter: “I want to make a difference in people’s lives, even if it is just to get them to hold a turtle for the first time, to show them where the big dipper is, or get them in a kayak out on the lake and spark a new hobby. I have always had a love of the outdoors and all of nature’s creatures.”

• Plan to save the world Bowles said area leaders should keep the area fresh by offering the community new opportunities, as well as keeping it clean and wellmaintained. “Keeping things fresh makes being here enjoyable for the residents and the visitors,” she said. “It creates a better sense of community, I think, when people enjoy where they are.”

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Micah Williams • Place of employment Dover Church of Christ • Occupation Minister

participated in several community events such as Ozark Memories Day, and participates with his local school and city council activities.

• Professional life Williams said every day is different depending on the needs of his church and family. Some days are devoted to prayer and study while others may consist of visiting the sick and elderly. He provides his services in marriage counseling, evangelism, funerals, sermons and weddings. He said ministry has a lot of diversity.

• As quoted Williams on life strategies: “What has helped me the most to be where I am is knowing where I was, and not wanting to go back,” Williams said. “God is my strength and my refuge. I have had tremendous support from my loving church family, my parents, my grandparents, my extended family, and my wife and children. I am truly blessed.”

• Public and community service Williams has three children and is involved in coaching pee wee events such as softball, baseball, basketball and football. He believes it is important to his kids and the kids in our community to have Christian role models. Williams has also

• Plan to save the world Williams said there is much to be done in order to becoming a successful leader.

“Invest time in people,” Williams said. “Being a leader is more than just recognizing that improvements can be made, it is the willingness to do your part.”

Robin Trafford • Place of employment Big Brothers, Big Sisters of North Central Arkansas • Occupation Development director in Conway and Russellville • Professional life Trafford graduated from Arkansas Tech with a bachelor’s degree in speech communication. In 2008, she joined Big Brothers, Big Sisters as a program coordinator. She then transitioned to fund development for the region and now focuses on Russellville and Conway.

• Public and community service Currently, Trafford is a mentor at Big Brothers, Big Sisters, a Sunday school teacher at Fellowship of Christians and a volunteer at Main Street Mission and More than Manna.

In the past, she has served as a board member for Main Street Russellville, as a volunteer with the Special Olympics and has served on the Risk Reduction Committee for the Arkansas Board of Realtors. She is a graduate of the Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Russellville program and of Russellville’s Citizen’s Police Academy.

• As quoted Trafford on why she loves working for Big Brothers, Big Sisters: “I am not motivated by money; I am motivated by helping people. The vision of Big Brothers, Big Sisters is that all children achieve success in life ... I chose to work for Big Brothers, Big Sisters because I believe that every child deserves the right to feel loved, accepted and have the chance to achieve greatness.”

• Plan to save the world Trafford said the best thing people can do to help their community is to become active participants of positive change. “What would our world look like if every child had someone in their life telling them they believed in them, helping hem make positive life decisions?” she asked.

“Russellville would see that more kids would graduate from high school and go to college, crime would go down and domestic violence would decrease. The list goes on and on with positive changes.”

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Robb McCormick

• Place of employment some guy named robb; teaches music lessons at Keith’s Music Store in downtown Russellville two days a week.

• Occupation Self-employed touring musician, voice guitar teacher, singer/songwriter, founder and owner of KRP Records, independent record label; worship director at Fellowship of Christians • Professional life McCormick started playing piano when he was 5 years old, and has been a professional musician for more than 22 years and a full-time musician the last 12.

• Public & community service McCormick is worship director and leader for Fellowship of Christians and guest worship leader for Grace Fellowship Church. As an entertainer, McCormick gets the pleasure of playing fund-raisers and benefits throughout the Arkansas River Valley.

• As quoted McCormick on leadership: “I believe we lead by example. and while we have success and failures ... it’s important to have a sense of excellence in performing our duties in the workplace (wherever our workplace may happen to be) as well as a measure of grace. Without both, success might come, but at what cost?”

• Plan to save the world McCormick is excited to see the next generation of leaders rising as the Arkansas River Valley comes into a new era in both commerce and community.

“I hope that while innovative in their ideas for this community, they maintain a traditional sense of values — love, respect, compassion, honor; showing confidence with humility in making laws and decisions that will govern this area; qualities that my wife and I are trying to instill in our children. These are the attributes that will go far in making the River Valley a better place.”

Dr. Owen L. Kelly • Place of employment River Valley Orthopaedics, outpatient surgery at Central Arkansas Surgical Center, inpatient surgery at Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center • Occupation Orthopaedic surgeon • Professional life Kelly has worked as an orthopaedic surgeon since August 2003. He attended the University of Arkansas from 1988 to 1992 on a football scholarship and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in science. He then attended medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock from 1994-98. Then he worked at UAMS, Arkansas Children’s Hospital and the VA Hospital Residency in Orthopaedic Surgery before coming to the Arkansas River Valley.

• Public and community service Kelley is a volunteer team physician for Arkansas Tech University’s Women’s Athletics, a Cyclone Turf Project donor for Russellville High School and a member of First United Methodist Church.

• As quoted Kelly on choosing orthopaedics: “I always had the desire to become a physician.

I chose orthopaedics because it is a ‘hands-on,’ physical specialty. The ‘team concept’ — family, friends and coaches have helped me the most in reaching my goals. I believe success is a team sport!”

• Plan to save the world “The single most important thing an area leader can do is work hard, and be disciplined and tenacious in your community support,” Kelly said.

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Jerry Terrell

• Place of employment Bob Hiegel, Architect, P.A.

• Occupation Architectural design, soon-to-be architect in training • Professional life Terrell began working for Bob Hiegel, Architect, P.A., in 2004. Currently enrolled at Arkansas Tech University, Terrell will graduate in May with a bachelor’s of science in mechanical engineering with a minor in mathematics. After graduation, he plans to obtain a professional engineers license from the state of Arkansas.

Terrell said his wife Sara and two sons, Nathan and Noah, have been patient with him as he follows his dream of being an architect, and added the help he receives from Bob Hiegel and Don Johnston has been instrumental in his understanding of the construction industry and the practice of engineering.

• Public and community service Terrell currently is the assistant boys basketball coach for Community Christian School and actively participates in community outreach programs at his church.

• As quoted Terrell on his desire to be an architect: “From the time I was small, I have always had an inquisitive nature, always wanting to know how and why things work as they do, so engineering was a natural occupational choice.”

• Plan to save the world Terrell believes above all else that people need to consider others before themselves and believes it is his responsibility to give thought to how his decisions affect those around him.

Kara Cobb • Place of employment Sonic Drive-In • Occupation General manager • Professional life Cobb has worked at Sonic on Fourth Street for two years. She was a partner at the Dardanelle Sonic for five years and sold out but stayed on to run the store for two additional years.

• Public and Community Service Cobb tries to get her employees at Sonic involved with a variety of different causes. She has spearheaded fundraising efforts that benefited the Arkansas State Police K-9 unit, Arkansas State Police picnics, STAR Industries, Battered Women’s Shelter and Special Olympics.

“I try to emphasize to my employees that it’s important to give back to the people who don’t have the resources to help themselves,” Cobb said. “It’s very important to me to get my employees involved.”

•As quoted On getting employees involved with helping the community: “Some may be headed down the wrong road, but sometimes getting involved helps to lead them in the right direction. And I’m so proud to see what they’ve done.”

•Plan to save the world “Everybody should give of their time and be a good influence to the younger generation and also lead by example.”

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

John-Paul Davis • Place of employment Consigli Wealth Management • Occupation Financial advisor • Professional Life After attending Arkansas Tech University and majoring in speech communications, Davis chased his dream of playing professional baseball. He spent six years playing for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays (now just the Rays) and the St. Louis Cardinals organizations before returning to Russellville to begin his second career. He started with Consigli Wealth Management in 2007 and said he works hard at providing sound financial planning for residents of Russellville, and specializes in retirement accounts.

• Public & Community service Davis has spent time assisting with the Veterans Parade and is very active

at the First Baptist Church. Not only a leader in bible studies, he is also involved in the Crossing Paths ministry.

• As quoted Davis on sound financial planning: “The main thing that we do is we try to assess what people want and what they need, and we try to put together a plan to make them feel confident those things are being met — that their tolerance plus their goals and objectives come together in a plan that they feel comfortable with.”

• Plan to save the world Davis believes to create growth in the Arkansas River Valley, local companies need to work on cultivating trust with the area’s consumers.

“If the community feels like there’s a group of professionals that has our best interest in mind, and they trust that our business will grow as our reputation grows that we want their best interest, not just the bottom line,” he said.

By cultivating growth in the River Valley, Davis believes, we will leave behind a community that will provide more opportunities for the next generation.

Jamie Jackson • Place of employment Pope County Sheriff’s Department • Occupation Sergeant, law enforcement; father • Professional life Jackson has been at the Pope County Sheriff’s Department since 1993.

• Public and community service Jackson is a member of the Russellville Lions Club, London Civic Club, Russellville Masonic Lodge, London Masonic Lodge, Salvation Army Board and attends church at Russellville First Assembly of God. • As quoted Jackson has been involved in public safety career programs since he was 12 years old: “Starting in the Explorer Program at the Russellville Fire Department, I gained a vast respect for individuals who would place themselves in harm’s way for complete strangers. I began to emulate their desire for

public service and realized quickly that it takes an ‘inner’ devotion to one’s self and one’s community to do a job for low pay, yet great personal satisfaction which comes at the end of each tour of duty.”

• Plan to save the world Jackson is dedicated to a continual path of education for our children: “Someday, when my child or yours has the opportunity, they will look back and be able to identify with someone in the Arkansas River Valley that made a distinct impression on their life, someone that morally, ethically, or intuitively gave them a personal drive to succeed.

“After all, the most important thing about the River Valley is its people.”

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Kevin Solomon • Place of employment Arkansas Tech University

Army during Thanksgiving periods since the beginning of the program.

• Occupation Assistant director of housing/ assistant dean of students

• As quoted On volunteering: “Sometimes people look at service and volunteerism as a long commitment-type thing, and the time commitment may seem unmanageable. In actuality, there are several opportunities that come up throughout the year that only take a few hours or a day of your time. From food drives to bell ringing to walks/runs and festivals — many of these events will require only a one-time commitment, which is a great way to learn about all that is going on in the River Valley.”

• Professional life Solomon works within the division of Student Services, specifically in the office of Residential Life.

“My main responsibilities are with the dayto-day services we provide to students living in our facilities,” Solomon said.

• Public & Community service Solomon has been involved with the American Heart Association’s River Valley Heart Walk since 2006 and served as the Heart Walk chair in 2008 and 2009. He has also worked with the student-driven Helping Halls program since its inception in fall 2006. The food drive provided 900 sets of food to the Salvation

• Plan to save the world “Being involved in public/community service is an extremely gratifying experience. I think that sometimes my generation does not see themselves fitting into these types of roles. Maybe they feel that they need to be older, or they don’t have the time. (But) there is a spot or role for us in every volunteer organization. Don’t sell yourself short.”

Justin Drittler • Place of employment Pope County Office of Emergency Management • Occupation Assistant director • Professional life As early as junior high school, Drittler was involved in emergency management as a law enforcement explorer with the police department and sheriff’s office. From there, he joined the local search and rescue team, as well as started college at Arkansas Tech University, where he completed the emergency management program.

• Public and community service Drittler often interacts with the public in his profession and focuses on preparing them for emergencies. He is involved in the community through St. John’s Lutheran Church, where he is a member.

• As quoted Drittler on choosing emergency management: “Really, I’ve always been interested in emergency services — fire, EMS, law enforcement. Then I got started in search and rescue as an explorer and was introduced to search and rescue by some people in Fayetteville. From there, I just met a lot of people in the emergency management field.”

• Plan to save the world Having been involved with emergency management from an early age, Drittler knows the importance of preparing. He said one of the top things people in the area can do to improve the community is stay ready.

“With my job being what it is, I would say preparedness is the most important,” he said. “You have to get people prepared in case something happens.”

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Justin Keller • Place of employment Pope and Yell County Single Parent Scholarship Fund • Occupation Executive director • Professional life Keller worked various jobs through college before moving to Fayetteville, where he worked for a nonprofit called Ozark Guidance as well J.B. Hunt. In 2006, he moved to Little Rock to work for Pulaski County government, then began working with another nonprofit called Repower America. Then, he returned to Russellville.

• Public and community service In addition to working with Habitat for Humanity and the Arkansas Food Bank, Keller also volunteers for AVID (Achieve Via Individual Determination, where he assists children who he says “are capable of great things, but may need a little extra attention.”

• As quoted Keller on choosing to work with the Single Parent Scholarship Fund: “It is an organization that does a lot of good. It contributes a lot back into the community and helps a group that really does need a hand to help themselves up. So I saw not only a chance to come back home but continue working in a nonprofit service and work back into education.”

• Plan to save the world Keller stressed the importance of giving back to the community, adding it sets a good example for others. “Give your time back, because it’s not only through working together than you’re able to build things within the community and make things better, but it’s by other people seeing people getting involved that may prompt them to get involved,” he said. “It’s important to make sure that you give back more than you get from the community in any way you can.”

Jeff Black • Place of employment ABF Freight • Occupation Driver • Professional life Black graduated from Ola High School in 1991 and then attended Arkansas Tech. He became an Ola alderman in 2005, where he served for two years before running for the position of mayor. He is currently serving his second four-year term as mayor.

• Public and community service Black is a 13-year member of the Ola Volunteer Fire Department and is a member of First Baptist Church in Ola. Each year at Christmas, Black and his wife, along with a small group of friends, volunteer their time and resources to bring Santa to the Ola Fire Station and provide free pictures with Santa for children in the community.

• As quoted Black on his time as mayor and on doing the right thing: “I chose to run for mayor because I believe that God gave each person the opportunity to make a difference, and I wanted to make a difference in the community,” he said. “Whether it is being a mayor, a fireman or a truck driver, no matter what field a person is in, we all have the chance to make a difference. I have been blessed to have been given that opportunity to make a difference as the mayor of Ola.” • Plan to save the world Black said setting a good example and making good decisions will help the Arkansas River Valley move in a positive direction.

“We should remember that the choices we make today will determine the future we live tomorrow,” he said. “If we work hard and make the right decisions for our communities today, then it will make a positive difference in the future of the Arkansas River Valley.”

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011

Congratulations,

To all those who were honored as a part of The Courier’s Future 40, we say well done.

Thanks for making the Arkansas River Valley’s future a bright one.

Future 40 The Courier