Searcy Living Issue 2 2015

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2 Your Hometown Magazine

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4 Your Hometown Magazine

6 Your Hometown Magazine

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issue 2 2015

Quail, Causes & Concerns 22 Roo, You & Searcy Living, Too! 38 A Special Celebration 42 6 Things To Do With Your Kids This Summer 52 BrainCore Therapy 54 Golf Tournament Pictures 62 Camp Quality USA 66 Playing Through: The Course At River Oaks 70 Living To Fullest Potential 76 Moving To Searcy 84 The Bridge 85 A Calling To Serve 86 Putting On The Ritz Pictures 88

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Publisher’s Note 11 Hope Believe 12 Fashion Fun 18 We The People 24 Living In Searcy 56

“Be somebody that makes everybody

Over The Counter 64

feel like somebody.”

We The People 82

–Anonymous

Fab Do It Yourself 92 Dinner & A Magazine 94 Games & Puzzles 96

On the Cover

66

Roger Devore, Bruce McLarty, Ross Ridout, David Morris, Steve Hernandez, McKinley Moise, Phillip Miller

Photo by

T.J. Boarman tjboarmanphotography.com

(501) 416-7034 SearcyLiving.com 9

Publisher Christine Walker Art Director & Webmaster Garrett Johnson Graphic Assistant Ikey Ray Editorial Assistant Cherie Sewell Makeover Coordinator Christine Locke Office Manager Chasity Thomas Contributing Independent Photographers TJ Boarman (501) 416-7034 Kimberly Brackins (501)279-1515 George Dillin (501)268-9304 Cassie Jones (501)230-0539 Candace Skarda (501)281-6297 Taylor Howard Photography (870)917-8012 Feature Writer Cecelia Wilson

Searcy Living Locally Owned and Operated 812 South Main Street Searcy, AR 72143 searcyliving@yahoo.com (501) 368-0095 SearcyLiving.com For subscription information go to SearcyLiving.com

Copyright 2015 Shark Promotions LLC. Searcy Living, Cabot Living, and Your Hometown Magazine are trademarks of Shark Promotions. All rights reserved. Ownership, rights, and logos are property of their respected businesses. No part may be reproduced without written permission. Shark Promotions LLC is not responsible for claims, misprints, discrepancies, advice of any kind, or content in advertisements or editorials, but will rectify errors in forthcoming issues.

Copyright Š 2015 Shark Promotions LLC

Searcy Living Magazine is a subsidiary of Shark Promotions LLC.

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Thank you as always for reading Searcy Living. I hope this issue not only meets but exceeds your expectations!

~Christine

“Nobody trips over mountains. It is the small pebble that causes you to stumble.

Pass all the pebbles in your path and you will find you have crossed the mountain.” ~Author Unknown

“When you walk in purpose, you collide with destiny.” ~Ralph Buchanan

“Let the refining and improving of your own life keep you so busy that you have little time to criticize others.” ~H. Jackson Brown Sr.

Find Us On Follow Us On

Remember The Extras On

A Special Celebration

Hope Believe

The Bridge

“When we play unified, there is no separation.”

“It truly does take a village to give these children the love and care that they deserve, so please join our village in some small or big way.”

“The bumble bee, being ignorant of all these scientific facts, flies anyway.”

Page 12

Page 85

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Hope Believe

Fact: Children enter foster care through no fault of their own. Most are in care due to abuse or extreme neglect.

*

The Searcy Living Foster Care and Adoption Boutique is simply a room in the Searcy Living business office that we have dedicated for use in helping foster, adoptive families and sometimes emergency situations. Our awesome Searcy Living readers bring in donations, and DHS case workers and foster parents are able to “shop� for what they need for foster, adopted and disadvantaged children, at no cost. Our office is located at 812 S. Main Street in Searcy. We welcome gently used or new items.

Thank you, Searcy, for your generosity and time spent to support the Foster Care Boutique!

A Big Thank You! Searcy Elks Lodge Pictured: Danny Hobbs ER Pam Boggan Martha Hayes Michelle Rodgers Blake Kent Tammy Phillips

Thank you to Lighthouse Pentecostal Church in Beebe!

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“ It was such a blessing to be able to give back to the community by helping a family. I have long wanted to be able to help families who are making a difference in the lives of children in need, and being a consultant for ThirtyOne Gifts has given me a means to do that in a small way. Thank you to my Thirty-One sisters who gave their time to help with this project. I couldn’t have done it without you!” ~Heather Kilgore • Volunteer

From bottom left to right: Jenny Ross, Carly Bokker, Heather Kilgore and Kourtney McIntosh.

A Winning Team!

These ladies helped a single mother of five get her home back in order. The single mother (not pictured) had just one child of her own, until she volunteered to take in 4 more children who were not her own. The children had already been in foster care twice before, and the biological family was still unable to take care of them. This prompted the court in a neighboring county to give her guardianship; but with no extra resources to support these four new babies that arrived all at once.

The children were all under the age of five when she first took them in, and three were in diapers. The children are still under the age of seven and this mother holds down a full time job, even with all the extra responsibility.

Thank you to these sweet ladies for calling Searcy Living and asking, “Where can we help?” Because we sure know of a lot of needs...

u!

Thank Yo

Thanks!

Thanks!

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Hope Believe “Foster kids need the Church as much as the Church needs foster kids.

One gets rescued from tragedy, the other awakened from complacency.”

“So few would not take on helping so many, if so many would just take care of a few...” ~ Christine Walker

~ Jason Johnson

: s d e e N t n e r r u C

• Under clothes • Flip flops • Diapers and wipes (always!)

• Volunteers to sort (Mon. - Fri. between 1pm and 5pm)

C

harles Dickens said, “No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.” We have been a foster family for over five years and have had almost 30 children pass through our home and touch our lives. As a foster mom, I cannot say enough about The Searcy Living Boutique.

When children come, they often come with little or nothing to call their own…no clothes, no shoes, no toys, no books, etc. The Boutique collects donations of clothes, toys, car seats, diapers, wipes, and other needed items, and they offer those items free of charge to ALL foster and adoptive families. They also accept monetary donations to purchase high-need items. When a little one comes into care without anything, it is a huge blessing to know that you can stop by and grab all that you need to get started and help them settle in. Children need the security of having items that are their own when everything else is suddenly out of control in their world, and this is a great way to provide that for them. I love picking up a book and a stuffed animal for them while I am getting “necessities,” because to them those are so important. Mother Teresa in her wisdom said, “Love is not patronizing and charity isn’t about pity, it is about love. Charity and love are the same -- with charity you give love, so don’t just give money but reach 14 Your Hometown Magazine

out your hand instead.” If you have ever felt called to help with foster care, but just aren’t in the situation where you can open your home, this is a great way to be involved. You can make donations or you can go offer a few hours to help sort the donations. It really is a wonderful service to the children and the families. There are also other ways to be a blessing to these children and families.

Searcy Children’s Home (SCH) operates The Sharing Shoppe on Spring St. in downtown Searcy. When you shop at The Sharing Shoppe, all proceeds go to SCH and help with needs of children in their care. If you want to offer your time or money to bless the little children of White County, don’t hesitate to contact Searcy Living (the Boutique) or Searcy Children’s Home. They will be happy to help you get involved! It truly does take a village to give these children the love and care that they deserve, so please join our village in some small or big way. Thank you Searcy Living for providing this amazing resource to foster and adoptive families!

The amazing author, Maya Angelou sums it up well, “When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.” Be blessed!

Things You Can Do To Help a Foster Family You Know • Pray for the children AND for the strength of the adoptive/ foster families. It is not always easy helping children who may have never had healthy boundaries and have experienced trauma.

• *Pray that God would heal the wounds of rejection, abandonment, fear and mistrust in the children.

• Offer to help transport a child to an appointment.

(Note: DHS rules change quite frequently. Check to see if you need certification.)

• Ask them what clothing size they need for a child and come to the Foster Care Boutique and pack a bag for them. (Let the FC Boutique know which family you are helping.)

• Offer to come over and clean a closet or organize drawers.

• Cook a meal.

• Babysit.

• Help with yard work.

• Mentor a child.

• Cook or do a craft with a child.

• Write a special encouraging note to a child.

• Laundry. Need we say more? “There was a woman who just folded socks for me every week for about a year or so.

That one act of kindness was so important and helpful. I didn’t have so many foster children because I had always dreamed of a large family; I had so many children that year because there was simply no place else for them to go and God put it on my heart. I was willing, so I needed to step up. But the laundry was overwhelming, and I was so grateful for that help. Folding socks.

Who would have thought that could be such a huge blessing!”

~WC Foster Parent • Teach your children to be kind. Sometimes children in foster care disclose some of their circumstances to peers and then get picked on.

• Be aware. Be understanding. Don’t gossip.

• Just ask the family what they may need help with. But realize that foster families are used to helping, not receiving help. You may have to be persistent.

“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”

— James 1:22

*From icareaboutorphans.org SearcyLiving.com 15

Hope Believe

A BIG Difference!

Class from Liberty Christian

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“I gladly love how you collect stuff for kids.”

“When you care for others it makes a BIG difference.”

- Kayle

- Ann

Photo by Zoë Portrait Art

Thank You To Rhea Lana’s for the donation made to the Foster Care Boutique. A lot of children have and will benefit from your generosity!

“Only by giving are you able to receive more than you already have.” ~Jim Rohn

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toni Our Spring makeover Toni Livy enjoyed a day of pampering thanks to our generous sponsors. Doris Yates of The Cosmetic Studio did her makeup, and Melissa Prince of Hays styled Toni’s new outfit. Sheena Jackson of Bliss Salon provided Toni’s nails. Robin Brock of Bliss Salon styled her hair.

Photographer Kimberly Brackins commemorated the day with pictures.

Before

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Livy

Christine Locke Makeover Coordinator

Nails by sheena jackson at

3005 E. Race St. • Searcy (501) 268-0800

Bliss Salon

Makeup by Doris Yates at

By Doris

Cosmetic Studio Outfit from

Yates at

In the Heart & Soul Plaza 1623 E. Beebe-Capps • Searcy (501) 279-2526

Hays

Hair by Robin

hair & nails

Hair by robin brock at

Bliss Salon

Brock & Nails by Sheena Jackson at

219 W. Market Ave. Downtown Searcy 501-279-2544

Photography by

kimberly brackins Turn the page for more fashion & beauty retailers.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

119 N. Spring St. • Searcy (501) 279-1515 www.kbrackins.com SearcyLiving.com 19

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By Jean Ann Bell

T

hree Searcy men, three unique stories, and one quail dinner have made quite a difference in the quality of life for thousands and thousands of White Countians. The collective efforts of Floyd “Zeke” Chronister, Albert R. Yarnell, and Dr. Jimmy Carr form the solid foundation on which the successful campaigns of the United Way of White County, a non-profit, philanthropic organization, is built.

After completing three years in the U.S. Army stationed in the China-Burma-India Theater during World War II and four years at the University of Missouri where he earned a B.S. degree in agriculture, Albert Yarnell returned home to Searcy in 1948. He joined his father Ray Yarnell in the production of ice cream at Yarnell’s Ice Cream Company, which was located on Spring Street.

Mr. Yarnell right away became involved in the volunteer opportunities that Searcy had to offer. The Searcy Chamber of Commerce, the Lions Club, and the Searcy High School Band provided an abundance of fund-raising possibilities. It was sometimes a fore-gone conclusion that he was the logical solicitor for worthy causes, as his office was located on Spring Street in the heart of downtown with access to where so many businesses were located. Having youth on his side and desiring to be a responsible citizen of his community, he accepted these challenges with gusto.

He has been quoted as saying however, “Sometimes I made so many charity-seeking trips downtown, I noticed the managers and owners of businesses sometimes had ‘pressing’ appointments or disappeared out the back door when they saw me coming!”

Fast-forward to the early 1960’s: A Little Rock resident, Zeke Chronister, the manager of a large laundry in the capital city, learned there was a wealth of quail to be hunted in White County.

He made numerous trips to the area during hunting season, and as fate would have it, he learned that Mrs. J.W. Howle, whose late husband had owned the Searcy Laundry, was ready to sell the business. Mr. Chronister and another Little Rock man, Buddy Allison, decided to partner in buying the thriving laundry and to move to Searcy.

Interestingly enough, Zeke Chronister was an avid fundraiser like Albert Yarnell. Mr. Chronister had several favorite charities, chief of which were the Boy Scouts of America and the American Red Cross, and to say he was a tenacious petitioner is an understatement!

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After getting acquainted with Yarnell and learning he was a quailhunting enthusiast, Chronister started inviting him to an annual quail dinner, complete with birds on the menu he had personally hunted. There was one small stipulation, however. Yarnell was required to bring a one hundred dollar bill to support Chronister’s pet projects. At one point he even extended the invitation to Rogers Yarnell, Albert’s son who had joined the ice cream company, on the condition that an extra hundred dollar bill accompanied them as well.

One day in 1979, Chronister, who was an excellent idea man, approached Yarnell and made this suggestion: if they were to merge their charity fund-raising efforts into a United Way chapter, they would not only make a single fund-raising effort, but their time would be conserved by doing a combined drive. He further noted that a central organization allows people to make a one-time donation that distributes money to a variety of causes, and that is an attractive opportunity for donors. They could also prevent friends dreading to see them at their doors!

Yarnell was highly in favor of the idea for obvious reasons, so they invited United Way staff from Little Rock to come to Searcy and advise them on how to form the United Way of White County.

They learned from United Way officials that United Way envisions a world where all individuals and families achieve their human potential through education, income stability, and healthy lives. Additionally, United Way improves lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world to advance the common good.

Enter a third party! Dr. Jimmy Carr, Sr., who had moved to Searcy from Florida to be an assistant to the President of Harding College (now Harding University), learned of the newly-formed United Way chapter and became an enthusiastic worker. Dr. Carr was the type of volunteer every organization needs: he was truly a “people person” who knew how to motivate those around him.

His personality and public relations skills proved to be an immense boost to the charity campaign.

With Chronister, Yarnell, Carr, and a host of other volunteers, the United Way of White County was defined. An individual mission statement, “to increase the organized capacity of people in White County to care for one another” was adopted. Jim Baugh Jones served as the 1979 campaign chairman, and Dick Hatfield was the

“The collective efforts of Floyd “Zeke” Chronister, Albert R. Yarnell, and Dr. Jimmy Carr form the solid foundation on which the successful campaigns of the United Way of White County, a non-profit, philanthropic organization, is built.” first president of the organization. The initial goal was $75,000, and the campaign exceeded expectations with a first-year tally of $125,000.

Today, there are 30 members on the board of directors, and the board is made up of men and women representing a wide variety of careers and backgrounds from all over White County. They bring the expertise of their professions along with their life experiences.

Betsy Bailey has served as the president in 2014-15, and Glen Metheny has chaired the campaign.

Over the nearly thirty-six year history, the monetary goals and the supported agencies have steadily increased. The goal for 2015 is $460,000, and sixteen agencies benefit from the dedicated service of Pat Downs, executive director; Marcia Cole, administrative assistant; and a host of volunteers who ‘beat the pavement,’ man the phones, and make the presentations to raise funds in support of county residents and organizations.

Additionally, numerous activities and events have accompanied the fund-raising. One is the Bonnie Schaaf Victory Luncheon held annually at the end of the campaign. The Victory Luncheon was named in memory of Mrs. Schaaf, the first executive director, who worked tirelessly to see that United Way of White County would enjoy success.

Another hallmark of the organization, which was recently added, is the Albert R. Yarnell Spirit Award. This recognizes the donor organization that goes above and beyond expectations in gift-giving and moral support. Recent recipients have been Regions Bank and Eaton Corporation, and this year’s recipient is Unity Health (formerly White County Medical Center).

The agencies of the United Way of White County are American Red Cross, Boy Scouts of America, Court Appointed Special Advocates of White County (CASA), Child Safety Center, Girl Scouts of the U.S.A., Jacob’s Place, Literacy Council of White County, Newhope Specialized Industries, Special Olympics, Sunshine School, White County 4-H Foundation, White County Aging, White County Domestic Violence Prevention and Rape Crisis, White County Group Homes, White County Single Parent Scholarship Fund, and Wilbur D. Mills Center.

Out of the ‘triumvirate’ of the United Way of White County, Zeke Chronister, Albert Yarnell, and Dr. Jimmy Carr, only Yarnell is left residing on this earth. Likely, none of them could ever have imagined how their care and concern for the welfare of White Countians could have exploded into such ambitious and lucrative campaigns. If you ask Albert Yarnell today, he would probably say, “And to think: it all began with a quail dinner!”

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Compassion In Action: Veterans Outreach Ministries Veterans Outreach Ministries offers assistance to Veterans and Veterans’ dependents in the benefits search and application process. We have claims agents accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs ready to serve you and your family.

We are Veterans, and family members of Veterans. We have fought and struggled through the Veteran benefits jungle, and we have learned how to make the process easier for others. We can help you apply for your earned benefits, and benefits for Veterans’ dependents. We can help you find benefits you didn’t even know you qualified for. We are here to serve.

“Paul Bunn and Benji Rook have really built this by theirselves and are doing their very best to help Veterans in their area. I have to say that Paul and Benji have worked really hard for me and have helped me out of some really dark spots in my life. They are really the only reason I am still here. God bless them both. If you have the means to donate to this great organization, please do so.”

- Josh Wright OEF-OIF Veteran We are not service officers for any County or Veterans Organization. We are Accredited Claims Agents, we research and develop the claim before it is submitted. We are in it to win it for you!

1308 E Race Ave Searcy, AR 72143 501-203-4088 Vetcenters.org voc2222@gmail.com

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250 E Club Rd Pleasant Plains, AR 72568 501-345-0222

240 Skyline Dr Ste. 205 Conway, AR 72032 501-581-3179

Iraq and Afghanistan

Veterans Day of Recognition The signing of a Proclamation for the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans Day of Recognition on March 14, 2015.

Group Pic, Sitting: Paul Bunn, Mayor David Morris, Benjy Rook. Standing (L-R): Bill Morton, Ron Mallonee (Land O Frost), Cherry Pigg, RN, Terry Webb, Miranda Presley, Doug U-Turn Wagner, Tanya Webb, BSW.

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Faculty Members Perform at

International Conference

Arkansas State University-Beebe Department of Music faculty members, Dr. Brent Bristow on saxophone and Mary Jo Parker on piano, performed this past summer at the United States Navy Band 37th International Saxophone Symposium. The duo performed Sonata for Alto Saxophone and Piano (2001) by John Cheetham. The event was held at Shenandoah University in Wincher, VA, outside of Washington, D.C. This was the fourth year for Dr. Bristow to be featured as a presenter at this conference, and Parker’s second year.

Dr. Bristow is an associate professor of music and Yamaha Performing Artist and Clinician, and Parker is an ASU-Beebe instructor of music.

ASU-Beebe is the only two-year college in the state of Arkansas that offers an Associate of Fine Arts (AFA). The AFA emphasis can be in either vocal music or instrumental music with a focus on wind instrument, percussion, piano, or guitar. The AFA degree consists of a comprehensive, two-year curriculum designed specifically for transfer toward a bachelor’s degree in fine arts. For more information, call (501) 882-3600 or visit the ASU-Beebe website at www.asub.edu.

 Diann Reagan (center) was recently nominated by fellow associates of White County Medical Center (now Unity Health) as the first 2015 Associate of the Quarter.

WCMC Announces Associate of the Quarter White County Medical Center (now Unity Health) associates recently selected Diann Reagan as the Associate of the Quarter for the first quarter of 2015. Reagan has been with the hospital for 21 years and works in the Materials Management Department.

“I would like to express my gratitude to everyone for being honored with Associate of the Quarter,” Reagan said. “I am humbled by this recognition and feel blessed to work with such wonderful people on a daily basis.”

Attributes of the Associate of the Quarter include high values, a positive attitude and sense of professionalism.

Reagan reflects the core values of the hospital: integrity, teamwork, compassion, excellence, stewardship, innovation and a heart of service.

“Diann is a great example of a servant; she strives for excellence in everything she does,” said David Wilson, Director of Materials Management. “She is selfless in answering others’ needs before her own. I personally have witnessed her abilities and know that she demonstrates characteristics that make her one of our top-valued associates. She is a true team player.”

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SDA Gives Kids

Tips for Healthy Teeth  Riverview Judsonia Elementary School 4th Grade students Tehya Rogers, Mika Hawkins and Harley Sawtelle assist Anne Marie Cason, D.D.S., and Dental Assistant Lori Kendrick, with Searcy Dental Associates, in demonstrating the best way to floss. The presentation was part of a special unit for National Children’s Dental Health Month.

Searcy High School National Honor Society

Food Drive  The Searcy High School National Honor Society recently held a food drive at SHS. Students raised over 700 canned food items to donate to The Good Samaritan Center. NHS members delivered the canned good items at the end of the collection. Shown are Abigail Rains, Tucker Windley, Adrianna Pruitt, Rivers Ridout, Rhett Joyner, Trace Laffoon, Julia Day, and Sydney Smith with a Center volunteer.

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John Deere Agriculture Equipment Technology scholarship recipients are pictured, from left, as follows: Justin Butler, Patrick Owen, Austin Stephens, Richard Conrad, Hunter Nash, Jared Condor, Jeremiah Richard, Brandon Keck and Anthony Key.





John Deere Agriculture Technology Scholarships Awarded





Several students were awarded John Deere Agriculture Equipment Technology scholarships to attend Arkansas State University-Beebe. Funding for the scholarships were provided by John Deere Company through the John Deere College Partnership Managers Office.

Construction on the expansion of the John Deere Ag Tech building at ASU-Beebe will provide lab space and six equipment bays. The completion date is set for mid-April.

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ď ˝ď ˝WCMC Graduates CNA Class The White County Medical Center (now Unity Health) Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program graduated 13 students in January. WCMC offers the CNA training program through a partnership with ASU-Beebe. Curriculum for the three-week program includes classroom and clinical instruction, which prepares students to take the state certification exam to become a CNA. The group includes the following: (first row) Brittany Long from Lonoke, Maisel Haile from Pangburn, Ana Ruiz from Searcy, Trisha Smith from Batesville, Courtney Caroll and Allison Glidewell from Searcy; (second row) Leslie Luttrell from Judsonia, Cindy Parker from Searcy, Megan Shepherd from Searcy, Evan Peeler from Heber Springs, Janet Rensing from Cabot, Whitney Woodard from Heber Springs and Sandy Walker from Cabot.

For more information about the CNA program, please contact Outreach Education Coordinator Dee DeLoach at (501) 2783189.

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 Tara & Co. in Searcy recently presented the White County Medical Foundation a check for $3,265.28 to go toward the “Miracles Happen Every Day” campaign.

Front row (left to right): Natalie Horton, White County Medical Foundation Specialist; Sherry Burkett, Samantha Veazey, Rosa Allen of Tara & Co. and Cassandra Feltrop, Foundation Executive Director. Back row (left to right): Rick Castleman, Philip Simpson, Kay Simpson, Van Simpson and Rachel Simpson, all of Tara & Co.

1st Searcy

Kid’s Triathlon

The Searcy Kid’s Triathlon will allow children ages 6-15 to learn about, and participate in, this growing and exciting sport. Triathlon is a very family friendly sport, which promotes an extremely healthy lifestyle. All proceeds will benefit a local child wellness effort, and Searcy Children’s Homes has been selected as this year’s charity. Our pool will be staffed with Certified Lifeguards and Medical professionals. Our bike and run courses will be patrolled by the Searcy Police Department, Harding University Public Safety, and at least 50 volunteers. iCor Fitness, who specializes in helping kids meet all sorts of fitness challenges, is the Title Sponsor for this year’s new event in Searcy.

WHO: 100 children, ages 6-13 (and their families) WHAT: 1st Searcy Kid’s Triathlon (swimming, biking, and running) WHERE: In and around the Ganus Athletic Center, Harding University WHEN: Saturday, June 6 at 9:00 AM WHY: Introduce another healthy family activity to the community, AND raise funds for a local child wellness effort.

HOW: Provide 3 different distances of swimming, cycling, and running, in a controlled environment.

CONTACT: Chris Adams, Triathlon Director, 501-388-3365, cody201@yahoo.com

Trusted sources say... this really wasn’t planned!

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You’re invited to the

Spring Craft Fair at Harding University!

Where: Inside the Hammon Student Center, Harding University Campus, 915 East Center Street, Searcy, Arkansas When: Friday, April 17 from 10 am to 5 pm / Saturday, April 18 from 10 am to 3 pm What: Over 25 vendors! Free parking. Concessions available. Clean restrooms. The craft fair is sponsored by Women for Harding. ALL proceeds from the craft fair will benefit the Women for Harding need-based scholarship fund.

Many will remember the Fall Craft Fair held last November. We will again have at least 25 vendors who will be here to sell their crafts, most of them handmade, and just in time for Mother’s Day, Graduation, and Spring decorating!

Some of the vendors are: Sara VanHorn from Monette, Missouri. Many people know her as the ‘snowman lady,’ but for Springtime Sara will be here with a vast array of her whimsical artwork of crows, birdhouses, sunflowers, and inspirational quotes and scriptures.

Another vendor is Miriam Quagliato, “The Gypsy Phoenix.” She will be selling her one of a kind copper art, all handmade.

Local Searcy artist, Deb Johnson, whose business is called ‘Red Suit Studios,’ will be here on both days to showcase her brand new handpainted football players. If anyone has a football player in the family, they will definitely want to be here to order one!

For the shopper who wants to be first in line for fashion, then Candice Moore who owns “Magnolia Jae,” will be happy to show you the latest in spring fashion. Her clothes are both affordable and stylish.

Danita Jackson will be here with her handmade jewelry.

There are many other vendors who will be present. All the exhibitors do top quality work and are looking forward to this fun springtime event!

Sara’s Old Country Porch

Jelly Madness 32 Your Hometown Magazine

Handmade Jewelry

Magnolia Jae

Pee Wee Riverview Raider Cheerleaders ď ž Breanna Pool, Adisyn Havener and Hallie Havener.

3 v 3 National Soccer Tour Saturday Aug. 2nd at Burns Park, North Little Rock, AR Searcy Teams

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45 Searcy Students Earn All-Region Band Honors

Forty-five Searcy Band members were honored by being selected to participate in the 2015 ASBOA Region IV All-Region bands. The clinic was held at Harding University and Searcy High School on Friday and Saturday, January 23 and 24, 2015, culminating in concerts held on Saturday afternoon in the Searcy High School Performing Arts Center.

Band members pictured are: (Front Row L-R) Margaret Lim, Crystal Neill, Abby Hamby, Tyler Roberson, David Evans, and Peyton Gilmore. (Row 2 L-R) Aubrey Little, Lauren Brown, Kathryn Baker, Aaron Isom, Abby Rains, Ben Oden, Casey Hammons, Brooke Hill, Zach Smith and Issy Harwell. (Row 3 L-R) Kylie Trudeau, Trey Newton, Sophia Eads, Jewell Duncan, Katie Fitts, Bethany Corkran, Anna Roussel, Zachary Rogers, and Ashton Stafford. (Row 4 L-R) Hope Walker, Raeanne Kiihnl, Kristin Walker, Sierra Marsh, Cameron Duke, Joseph Lim, Nicholas Garrett, Jesse Paslay, Elizabeth Corbin, Lauren Ramey (Row 5 L-R) Zach Oden, Zach Mahaffey, Tiffany Baker, Victoria Brown, Matthew Swann, Kevin Felton, Jarod Smith, David Crowley, and Niko Chaney.

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Favorite Facebook Quotes

 Fourth graders at Harding Academy

celebrate Presidents Day by dressing up as various Presidents and First Ladies of the past.

“Some people wait for things to happen; love, life, change, happiness. They wait for it to fall from the sky they wait for someone to hand it to them for God to intervene. But the truth is it’s never that easy for most of us. We have to go get it and search for it. And sometimes we just need to stop and listen. It’s not that God or the universe is cruel just the opposite actually if it’s easy it won’t be appreciated. God puts things in our lives all the time and it’s up to us to see these things and then the courage to act on them and sometimes unanswered prayers are the answer!”

~Jimmy Brown

“Go out and be adventurous today! If you keep saying you are going to, when will you? Just do it today! It will make you feel good!”

~Jennifer Pannell

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 Alivia Neal with her momma, Sara Neal.

So excited for the day off of school playing in the snow!

Favorite Facebook Quotes

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Press On

Seasons of Life

There's a small town in Nevada that is literally on the map because of its gold mine. When they were mining and taking huge chunks of earth away at a time using huge machinery, a mine shaft was discovered that was a mile long! Who knows how old this mine shaft was. It stopped exactly 75 yards from one of the biggest gold mines in America...only 75 yards away from the pay off.

How often do we plug along in life, and we stop just before “the moment”? He begins something in you, He’s going to complete it. There’s a gold mine there, just press on. You don’t want to be the one that stopped...and you get to heaven and you SEE, you were only 75 yards away from the gold mine and you quit. The cares of life overtook you. The burdens of dealing with grief, and sickness, and work, and never having enough money (ever), and relational issues with spouse and significant others.

Spring is so close. Sometimes we get bogged down in the winter season of our lives and it feels like spring and summer is never going to get here! You think it’s here then it SNOWS again. This is life. It’s a tactic of the enemy. Discouragement.

We must keep our eyes on the goal. “And press on toward the goal for the prize of the call...” Phil 3:4

~Kim Mote

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and Searcy Living, Too!

by Rudy Roo Roo the Kangaroo It was a blustery spring day in Searcy. Everyone thought it was a normal day early that morning, but they would soon find out that it was far from normal... it was Kangaroo Day with Searcy Living Magazine!

I drove here for a special purpose that I would like to share with you, just in case you didn’t see me that day. I want to bring my message to not be a bully to you, too!

I pointed out to the kids that I am different than other kangaroos. I’m pretty sure I would get laughed at in Australia by other kangaroos for wearing a sweater. Or maybe teased for not looking like my mom. Maybe nobody would play with me on the playground because I am different.

And that is why I came to Searcy that chilly spring day: to remind others to not bully. Everyone was so nice here and I can’t wait to come and visit you again with my friends from Searcy Living Magazine!

Turn the page and you can find out how to have your own special “Roo & You” picture! I can’t wait!

And of course a visit at Homer’s Ace Hardware was a must! Thanks Ralph and Jay for the popcorn treat!

I drove to Searcy that blustery day.

Ran into some friends.

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Go to SearcyLiving.com to download Roo & You pictures!

All pictures shown are available for download on SearcyLiving.com Some restrictions apply.

Since our goal for the day was to educate against bullying, I thought it would be a nice surprise to hop in and visit the folks who are on the board for White County Domestic Violence Prevention. What a great cause. It’s just like mine!

Kangaroo kiss!

My mom Janice.

She is a great mom, but she does not look like me.

I stay pretty busy, but after getting a few tips from golf pro Bruce Baxley, I might just take up the sport.

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Cover Contest!

You could be on our fall cover with Roo!

How to enter:

Email 1 (only one please) photo to SearcyLivingPhotos@yahoo.com.

Make sure you put on the subject line Roo & You Contest.

Searcy Living will post all entries received by contest date on our FaceBook page. First come, first posted. So send your entry today! Dates of entry deadlines and rules are posted on SearcyLiving.com

Then rally all your friends and neighbors to support you in your effort to spread the word about not being a bully by “Liking� your picture.

The contestant that rallies the most support will win a spot on the fall edition of Searcy Living.

More details and rules available on SearcyLiving.com. Deadline will be on SearcyLiving.com.

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Stop Bullying!

My name is Rudy Roo Roo the Kangaroo I am not your normal kangaroo from Australia.

I live in a big house on a farm and have lots of different friends.

My best friends are Humphery the camel and Slowpoke the turtle. The farm has a lot more animals like rabbits, ducks, chickens, pigs, cows & horses.

We even have this long-legged thing called a llama.

I have the best mommy in the world but she is not like other kangaroo moms.

She is a human mom. She lets me wear clothes, diapers, and pants.

We go everywhere together. I even have my own personal handmade pouch that I get in when I’m scared. She loves me and takes very good care of me.

But I am different from all the other kangaroos. They don’t wear clothes and get to do all the things I do. I’m afraid that they will make fun of me. And I don’t want them to make fun of me or hurt my feelings. I’m a really cool little dude! You just have to get to know me. Do you think they will play with me? Do you think I’ll fit in?

My mission in life is to hop to help keep bullying out of our schools and communities. There is no need to hurt feelings or make fun of another. Let’s all pull together and put a stop to bullying! If you see a boy or girl getting bullied... hop to help!

Go to SearcyLiving.com for Roo & You pictures!

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Photo by T.J. Boarman • tjboarmanphotography.com

Photo by TJ Boarman

of the Harding community. It appeals to the very best in us and provides us with hundreds of avenues for selfless service. Special Olympics reminds us of what is truly important and always leaves us feeling better about ourselves and our community.

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By Terri Weir, CEO Special Olympics Arkansas Special Olympics Arkansas has proudly hosted Summer Games in Searcy, Arkansas for the past twenty years. This May we will celebrate our 21st Summer Games in the City of Searcy and Harding University.

Harding University, the City of Searcy, Mayor David Morris, Searcy Police Department and Searcy Fire Department, among many other citizens, corporations and volunteers, welcome over 2000 athletes, 1000 coaches and their families with open arms each May for competition in 7 different Olympic type sports.

This year we are hosting a community Unified Experience on May 21, 2015. We want all members of the Searcy community, including corporate and civic leaders, traditional Special Olympics volunteers, Church members, civic organizations, and the community at large to be a part of this unique opportunity. The Unified Experience is an exclusive opportunity where you play alongside our gold medalist athletes for an hour during the day before Opening Ceremonies in typical festive lawn games. We welcome all to come to this event held for the first time in conjunction with Summer Games 2015.

Opening Ceremonies are always a favorite moment for the athletes, when fans and families from across the State of Arkansas as well as the community of Searcy welcome each and every athlete into the stadium during the prideful March of the Athletes. We welcome everyone to attend Opening Ceremonies on May 21.

Competition begins on May 22 and continues through May 23 with athletes competing in athletics (Track and Field), powerlifting, softball, unified sports, bocce, golf individual skills, and flag football. Special Olympics Arkansas also started a premiere new initiative called Young Athletes in Searcy 3 years ago, where athletes from the ages of 2.5-7 compete in developmental lead-up challenges, leading the path to their future competition opportunities through Special Olympics Arkansas.

Special Olympics Arkansas Summer Games has been part of the Searcy community for a long time; we want you all to be part of Special Olympics Arkansas. Please come out and volunteer, present awards, be part of the inaugural Unified Experience and be a fan of the athletes that trek their way through diligent and determined hours of training and competition to advance to Summer Games 2015.

We need you, Searcy Citizens, to be a part of the vision of Special Olympics Arkansas. The Vision of Special Olympics Arkansas is to transform Communities by changing lives through sports.

On a very personal note, I am a White County girl. Born in Searcy and raised on Arch Street until the age of 5. It gives me great pleasure every year to bring the passion, soul and determination of these athletes to the City of Searcy. Please mark your calendars now, be a part of a weekend filled with Sport, Spirit and Splendor. You will walk away from any moment you can capture during the weekend a transformed individual, transforming your community. That is one promise a White County girl can give to all of you!

present awards, be part of the inaugural Unified Experience and be a fan of the athletes that trek their way through diligent and determined hours of training and competition to advance to Summer Games 2015.

INCORPORATED: 1970 MISSION STATEMENT: The mission of Special Olympics Arkansas is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic type sports for all children and adults with intellectual disabilities giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community.

VISION: The Vision of Special Olympics Arkansas is to transform communities by changing lives through sports.

ATHLETE OATH: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

PARTICIPANTS: 15,000 registered athletes, unified partners and young athletes VOLUNTEERS: Over 5,000 include Class A volunteers, Board Members, LETR, day of event, Coaches, etc.

To volunteer please visit our website at specialolympicsarkansas.org and click on GET INVOLVED. SPORTS OFFERED: 20 different Sports and 240 competitions throughout the state COST TO PARTICIPATE: FREE of charge for all registered athletes including food, lodging, uniforms & training LOCAL PROGRAM: Programs offered in 17 areas, all counties participating EMPLOYED ATHLETES: 52% of Special Olympics athletes are employed, while only 10% of people with Intellectual disabilities who do not participate in Special Olympics are employed.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS IMPACT ON ATHLETE: • Gain Self Confidence • Have more opportunities to socialize with non-disabled peers • Know what it is like to be part of a social network • Most athletes compete for 10 plus years • SO Athletes are 5 times more likely to hold a job or be gainfully employed than their peers who do not participate

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and we love to see how our daughter has a special glow on her face when she stands on the podium as a winner.

Parent of a Special Olympics Athlete Chief Deputy, White County Sheriff’s Department

Photo by T.J. Boarman • tjboarmanphotography.com

Our Impact It is through advancing sports excellence for all, building communities,

transformative education, and athlete health that we are challenging mindsets and smashing stereotypes; thus leaving not only a positive impact but changing attitudes in Arkansas for life.

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By Micah Webb

Micah is a student at Harding University, Unified Softball Player with Special Olympics Arkansas, and a Youth Leader in the Statewide Youth Activation Council. Micah’s experience with Special Olympics Arkansas has shaped who she is as a person through perspective and understanding. These experiences have helped her navigate life more successfully! Changing the world is a contact sport…..Game on!

To me, playing unified is more than just getting people together to play games. It’s about taking away the boundaries people place on those with special needs. When we play unified, there is no separation.

Last summer I was given the opportunity to go to the USA Games in New Jersey and play on the unified softball team. This was such a great experience for me because I got to see all of the teams come together and cheer each other on, regardless of whether or not the player had special needs. In New Jersey, I grew closer to the athletes and partners both on and off the field. We also got to know the teams from other states. This event just goes to show that regardless of what “disabilities” someone might have, that doesn’t mean that person doesn’t have abilities. In the softball games, there were no special privileges or adjustments made for an athlete or a partner. We all had an equal playing field, and we just played softball.

I have also been given the opportunity to be a part of the Youth Activation Committee this year. The committee is made up of people both with and without disabilities. We aim to encourage youth engagement in Special Olympics, and we do that through being involved ourselves. We have volunteered at a Young Athletes softball clinic, attended a unified basketball tournament at Hendrix, and participated in a polar plunge so far this year and we have more things planned for the next few months. It’s cool to be a part of this because at our meetings, we just throw out ideas for how we could get our high schools and college campuses involved. Each person on the committee is different, so we get some really great ideas across the board. Everyone is involved, and we get to put our ideas into action. We all have something to offer, and we get to work together to get others involved.

and we get to work together to get others involved.

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Special Olympics:

The Reach

Our Reach: • Entire State of Arkansas • 15,000 Athletes (and families) • 5,500 Volunteers • 1 in every 6 families is touched by Special Olympics through Athletes, Donors, and Volunteers • Ages 2.5 and up • 5068 Facebook Fans • 1046 Twitter Followers • 1100 Subscribers to ENewsletter Our Extended Reach Opportunities: • • • •

Special Olympics programs in all 50 States Special Olympics programs in 170 Countries 220 different programs Servicing 4.2 million Athletes

IN ADDITION TO SPORTS: Athlete Leadership Program: Athletes as coaches, officials, team captains, spokespeople, Board and committee members.

Healthy Athletes®: Special Smiles, Healthy Hearing, Fit Feet, FUNFitness, Opening Eyes, and Health Promotion Unified Sports®: Inclusive sports.

Young Athletes Program™: Motor skill building for 2 to 7 year olds.

Special Olympics Project Unify: education-based project that uses sports and education programs to activate young people

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By Dr. Airiell Schwab Searcy Eye Care and Vision Therapy Center

Dr. Schwab is the Clinical Director for the Healthy Athletes Opening Eyes program for Special Olympics Arkansas. She is in charge of the Opening Eyes Screening that takes place every May at Harding University. Her team was a part of the record breaking 1100 unique screenings the Healthy Athletes program was able to complete May 2014.

I have been truly honored to work with a special group of volunteers and pioneers in the Optometric community over the last 5 years with the Opening Eyes program of Special Olympics Arkansas. A group of 3 compassionate Optometrists began the program in the 1990s when they saw a need for Special Olympic athletes competing in their annual games for vision care. They partnered with the International Lions Club and have provided eye screenings, prescription glasses or sunglasses and referral to specialists to athletes across the world. It’s been a special opportunity to give back to the community for me. Last year we were able to screen 272 athletes and prescribed 164 pairs of glasses, 108 pairs of sunglasses and made 18 referrals for extra care to specialists. We had 4 doctors and 16 technicians and opticians that volunteered to make this possible. I think they would agree with me that the event is so rewarding because of the athletes.

They are having fun participating in their particular events, and they are proud to show us their medals. They also are so excited about getting new glasses, and show us by their countless hugs they give throughout the day.

It’s definitely a special opportunity to give back to our community that I enjoy every year.

About Opening Eyes: With eyes wide open to the needs of people with intellectual disabilities, Special Olympics – Lions Clubs International Opening Eyes®, was created to provide free vision screening for Special Olympics athletes.

Opening Eyes also works to educate athletes, parents and coaches about the importance of regular eye care, and enlightens and alters the attitudes of eye care professionals about the vision care needs of people with intellectual disabilities. Professionals can also earn continuing education credits. to give back to the community...

Athlete Leadership Program

By Scarlett Handley

Scarlet is a member of the Athlete Leadership Program. Through sports training and competitions, Special Olympics helps people with intellectual disabilities achieve joy, acceptance and success. They gain the confidence that comes with achievement.

They feel empowered. Our Athlete Leadership Programs can take athletes even farther -- as leaders and spokespeople respected in their communities.

My name is Scarlett Handley. I am part of the Athlete Leadership Program for Special Olympics Arkansas. I get to represent Special Olympics. I get to tell people all about it. I like to do this because I go to Little Rock for meetings. At these meetings, I make new friends, practice writing and giving speeches, and learn something new.

The first speech I gave was at Harding University to kick off State Summer games last May. At first I was nervous, but I felt great at the end. It was amazing! I think everyone learned something about Special Olympics and they felt encouraged. I plan to make other speeches encouraging people to get involved in Special Olympics.

I hope other athletes will want to compete. I hope we will have lots of volunteers!

About the Program

“I think everyone learned something

about Special Olympics and they felt encouraged. I plan to make other speeches encouraging people to get involved in Special Olympics.”

Scarlett Handley

Special Olympics Athlete Leadership Programs allow athletes to explore opportunities for greater participation in our movement beyond sports training and competition: as coaches, officials, team captains, spokespeople and board and committee members. These roles give athletes a voice in shaping the Special Olympics movement, and a chance to spread the word about the transformations Special Olympics can bring to individuals and families. The Athlete Leadership Programs also provides a way for athletes to showcase talents and interests that may have gone unnoticed.

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Law Enforcement Torch Run In 2004, Steve Hernandez had just started with the Searcy Police Department and was invited to a local Cops on Top event. Since that day he has never missed an opportunity to volunteer his time and service.

Shortly after his first experience volunteering with Special Olympics Arkansas he participated in the Final Leg of the Torch Run leading up to Special Olympics Arkansas’ Summer Games. He found himself extremely moved by the entire weekend, everything from Opening Ceremonies to the competitions. He recalls the last lap around the track as one of the most impactful moments of his life. This impact is why he is a key volunteer in the Law Enforcement Torch Run movement today. Over the past ten years he has participated in every Summer Games Final Leg, presented awards, Cops on Top, Boots and Badges and LETR events in and out of his area.

In 2015, Steve knew he wanted to do more for the program, so he, along with his department, created Searcy’s first Polar Plunge. On March 7th, the Plunge brought in over $12,000 and had over forty participants.

When asked why this is important to him, he recalled this moment: “I will never forget the year we had a Super Plunge in Central Arkansas.

We were on hour twenty-two and it was about 6 am; we were freezing and did not want to get back in the water again. It was time for us to start all of our Media Plunges, and we knew we would have to get in the freezing cold water extra times this hour. Next to me, a local news outlet was interviewing an athlete and asked him what he thought about all these crazy cops jumping in the water. His response, ‘They are my best friends and I just love them!’”

This year Sgt. Hernandez was selected to represent Arkansas in the Final Leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics leading up to the LA2015 Special Olympics World Games in July. The Final Leg Team, comprised of law enforcement officers representing 36 countries, along with 10 Special Olympics athletes, will accept the torches from the three legs of the Unified Relay Across America and continue the Flame of Hope’s journey to communities throughout California, including Host Towns where Special Olympics World Games delegations from more than 170 countries will participate in pre-Games cultural exchanges. This will be the first time that the World Games have been held in the United States since the 1999 Games in Raleigh, North Carolina. Los Angeles will host 7,000 athletes from 177 countries competing in 25 sports.

“He found himself extremely moved by the entire weekend, everything from Opening Ceremonies to the competitions.”

LA2015 World Games Torch Run

Stats

Photo by T.J. Boarman • tjboarmanphotography.com

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78 LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUNNERS were selected from around the world. (Sgt. Hernandez will be the only person from the State of Arkansas.)

23 NATIONS & 96 LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES from around the world will be involved with running the “Final Leg.” Sgt. Hernandez will be the first Law Enforcement Officer from the Searcy area to be selected.

Photo by T.J. Boarman • tjboarmanphotography.com

Mayor David Morris

Special Olympics Arkansas Board Member,

Ross Ridout

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s g n i h 6 Tith Your s This Summer To Do W Kid More on SearcyLiving.com

1

3 Check out the programs at the Searcy Public Library. ~Betsy Bailey

2

kidsbibledebjackson.blogspot.com This site has some really unique ways to help your children learn the Bible.

Our family loves to garden! It’s our happy place outside: Flowers, herbs, vegetables, fruit. We’re raising Savannah to love it, too, from planting seeds to pulling weeds.

One of her favorite activities in the summer are our weekly farmer’s market trips! She’s loved it since she was little. We go locally, and sometimes for a treat we go to the Big market in downtown Little Rock. I love when she helps me pick new things to try! As a result, she has a wonderful veggie loving palate at age 3! ~Emily Boyd

4 Make a Boredom Jar This one is for parents! Have a jar with simple chores. Every time a child says, “I’m bored!” They get to pick a chore from the chore jar. Really great for those days when quiet play and learning to entertain yourself is on your teaching list.

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5

6 Use M&Ms, Skittles, or another colorful candy.

As your children pick one, they get to answer a question that is on the color chart. Example: Red: What is a song you listen to?

Yellow: What is a favorite thing you would hate to live without?

Blue: What is something new you learned last week?

Orange: What is something you do really well?

Red: Name something you did yesterday.

Summer Activities

By Amy Heck

Growing up in rural White County, livestock have always been a part of our lives.

However, when our son, age 6 at the time, came to us after church one night and asked if he could start rodeoing, I assumed this would be like all the other times and he would soon forget about it and move on to something else. So, I answered him with, “we will talk to Daddy about it,” and forgot about it. Needless to say, he did not. My husband team roped and rodeoed some growing up, but I had not. As time passed, he continued to stay on us until we finally agreed. Soon we were going to a Jr. rodeo every other weekend. Then we were joining multiple rodeo associations. Then our second child started getting involved at the age of three. It was a bit overwhelming at first. But, as we continued to get involved, I realized that every time we went to a rodeo, we went as a family except for when my husband had to work. In that case, I would take the boys, and sometimes my dad would go with us. It also occurred to me that I knew every kid, and their family, that my kids were friends with. (And yes, I tend to be one of those “helicopter” moms that hover over my children as much as possible). We feel like, in today’s society, we have to know who our kids are with at all times, and besides we want to be involved in everything our kids do. We have created so many fond memories while traveling up and down the road. We have been to Pueblo, Colorado three years in a row for the National Little Britches Rodeo Finals. If you really want to bond as a family, try camping for 10 days in a horse trailer with 91 sq. feet of living quarters. Last year my parents and aunt joined us for the first time. It is truly an amazing thing to see 900 contestants and their families taking part in the event. The atmosphere is one that is family friendly. We have met people from Utah, Louisiana, Colorado, Texas and many other states.

Rodeoing is just one of the things that our family does together. The boys, now 10 and 6, are involved in sports, 4-H, and church activities, as well. Both of our children are officers in the 4-H clubs that they are involved in. However, rodeoing is how we spend a large part of our time, not only in the summer, but year round. I know there will be a day when I look back and I will treasure these days of craziness, but in the meantime my husband and I plan to continue taking our boys and spending time rodeoing as long as they want to do it. And if they decide not to, that is ok, too, as long as we are all together. That is what really matters.

 Carter Heck, age 6, competing in Little Wrangler Pole Bending at the National Little Britches Rodeo Finals in Pueblo, Colorado.  Caden Heck, age 10, competing in Jr. Boys goat tying at the National Little Britches Rodeo Finals in Pueblo, Colorado.

More tips and ideas in the next issue and on SearcyLiving.com

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B

rainCore therapy is a unique painless approach to treating brainwaves that are not performing correctly.

Depending on what you are doing, your brain produces four distinct brainwaves. There is an accepted normal pattern of brainwave activity for any given circumstance you are in.

For example, if you are going to sleep, you should produce certain types of brainwaves. If you are trying to focus, you would need a different brainwave pattern. All of these brain waves are working all the time, but sometimes certain brain waves are overactive and some are under active. This can then cause your body and mind to think, act and perform in a certain way. BrainCore therapy helps to correct the underlying brainwave dysregulation.

Many different conditions have responded well to neurofeedback, including ADHD. In fact, recently the American Academy of Pediatrics placed neurofeedback as a level I “Best Support” intervention for ADHD. “Best support” indicates that the American Academy of Pediatrics found that neurofeedback is an effective treatment for ADHD and should be recommended as a primary option. Dr. Frank H. Duffy, a professor and pediatric neurologist at Harvard Medical School, stated, “Neurofeedback should play a major therapeutic role in many difficult areas. In my opinion, if any medication had demonstrated such a wide spectrum of efficacy, it would be universally accepted and widely used.”

BrainCore neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback that allows the person to train their brain waves to work correctly.

Here is an example of how it works: Have you ever stopped to

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wonder how you learned to walk or ride a bicycle? Basically, your brain taught you how to do those activities. Of course, your parents or someone else may have encouraged you or coaxed you, but when it’s all said and done your brain was the one that assessed how to move your feet or to maneuver the bicycle.

Neurofeedback works the same way. After you are hooked to a computer to determine any areas of dysregulating brain waves, we then use the computer to monitor how the brain waves are responding to a game, puzzle or movie. The computer feeds the information back to the person and changes the sound or brightness of the picture when the brain waves are not correct and encourages the brain to produce the correct brain waves.

When this is done consistently, a permanent correction is made and the ability to produce the right brainwave at an appropriate time is learned. Of course, it takes time, just like learning to walk or ride a bicycle. You don’t learn to do those things in one day or one week, but once you learn them they are permanent.

We are excited to be the first clinic in Arkansas to provide BrainCore neurofeedback. The results have been amazing.

Although a lot of research has been done on ADHD and neurofeedback, many other conditions respond favorably as well. These conditions include autism, Asperger’s syndrome, panic attacks, migraines, fibromyalgia, PTSD, insomnia, memory loss, traumatic brain injury, learning disorders, anxiety, and depression. In fact, just by going to pubmed.com you will find close to 600 published research articles alone.

It’s been rewarding to see progress in difficult cases like 17 month old McKenna and 23 year old Elisha. Both have been

diagnosed as being developmentally delayed. McKenna has gone from having 30 seizures per day to zero, and has maintained that for 10 weeks. Her last EEG at Children’s Hospital was normal after having two previous abnormal tests. It’s like her computer has just been restarted and she is now on track for more appropriate development. She has rolled over on both sides, which she had never done, has started to clap and say new sounds, and is holding her bottle on her own. Elisha’s parents are excited that she is now talking to them in conversations instead of just one or two words at a time. She is observing things around her and discussing them now. Of course, these cases seem almost miraculous, but the truth of the matter is that most people have some degree of brain wave dysregulation that can be helped. It is very gratifying to hear a parent say that their child is paying closer attention in the classroom and is acting more appropriate with less anger and frustration.

Many people that come to our educational workshops to learn more about neurofeedback ask why they had not heard about this before. Neurofeedback has been used in the University research labs for the last several decades, but with the advances in computer technology is now able to be used more efficiently in a clinic setting. Just think about how phone technology has advanced from a land line to the smart phones we have today in just the last two decades. Or how cars have remote access, backup cameras, and heated seats. I did not have those features in the car when I was growing up.

There certainly are a lot of theories as to why there is so much more ADHD in our world today. However, it is neat to know that with all the contributing factors to this common disorder, you now have new technology to help improve and correct the symptoms of ADHD and many other conditions.

To find out more about brain core therapy, go to www.braincoretherapy.com or call my office at 501-268-2273 to set up a free consultation or to schedule for a free informational workshop.

is located at the Chiropractic Care Clinic at 2924 Hawkins Drive in Searcy. For more information call 501-268-2273 or visit www.searcychiropractor.com.

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IN SEARCY

Inside

By Carla Billings

life of many travels brought me to Arkansas. My newest reminder of my love for this state came by way of a woman named Beverly Soucy, the Vice President of Operations for Southwest Resources Group Incorporated Management Company, which has been operating since 1975. She has been a part of the Southwest Resources family since 2002. Southwest Resources Group has properties in Arkadelphia, Ft. Smith, Greenwood, Van Buren, Russellville, Beebe, and, of course, right here in Searcy.

While talking to Beverly, it became obvious this corporation proves family and employee contentment is as important as being a profitable business. Beverly humbly said, “I really want everyone to know about the people who work here, because they are the heart of this company. They are good people with outgoing personalities, and we just could not be successful without them.”

She continued painting the picture of these dedicated employees, “We are here for each other, and I really can’t say enough about them. I love them.” Beverly really piqued my interest, so I set out to learn more about these employees and the properties. Were they as special and close-knit as she had depicted?

A

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T h e f l at s

Although Beverly had portrayed The Flats and the employees so positively, I wanted to discover more about The Flats, a beautiful apartment complex on Rand Drive in Searcy, and the men and women who work there. This would be my first visit, so I was fairly uncertain what might be found on these quiet grounds. I was immediately struck with the warmth, not only of the decor in the common area, but also of the two women who greeted me. It took only seconds to see these two women were more than co-workers and I wanted to know more about them, especially after hearing Beverly’s sweet words, “These employees are more like family.”

Some may want to know about The Flats and what they offer, and for those who do, you won’t be disappointed. Carolyn Deeter took me on a nice tour as we discussed the one and two bedroom apartments. After seeing all the lovely amenities, I was pleasantly surprised at the cost to live in this community. It’s got a modern appeal with the tasteful coziness of home. When you choose to live here you are fortunate to have access to an in ground pool and a workout room which looks brand new. Furthermore, the clubhouse is a place I would be proud to have an event. Around the corner, a billiard room as well as a conference room awaits those who have

 The clubhouse contains amenities such as a billiard room, a conference room, a workout room, a pool and more. made The Flats their home. In addition to these sweet luxuries, you are walking into a turn-key home, because waiting for you in each apartment are washer and dryer, garbage disposal, a microwave, stove/oven, refrigerator, and last, but not least, a dishwasher. Did I mention there is a fabulous stand-up tanning booth? What a great location, within walking distance of shopping and a variety of restaurants, and a short drive from the only private university in the state, Harding University.

A jaunt into Carolyn’s office set a relaxing atmosphere as we got acquainted. Soon after, Donna Howell joined our visit. Donna, with her sweet smile, is usually the first person you see when you walk into the office and common grounds. She pulled up a chair, and slid right into the conversation. Carolyn used to work in Beebe at Crestwood Apartments, from 2005, until she was asked to come and begin the set-up of phase one for The Flats, in 2009. A time Carolyn fondly recalls. During her time at Crestwood, Carolyn had become acquainted with a young lady seeking employment, who would pop in from time to time.

Once Carolyn began the process of all that goes into building, opening, and leasing new apartments, she and her boss realized a capable co-worker needed to be hired.

“ I really want everyone to know about the people who work here, because they are the heart of this company.

They are good people with outgoing personalities, and we just could not be successful without them.”

— Beverly Soucy

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“ my hope is that this article will... inspire people to slow down and really hear people because, no matter where we go or who we meet, we all have something in common.”

 The clubhouse.

Consequently, Donna Howell had experience in this line of work, and Carolyn knew she wanted Donna to fill that position.

I got the impression she wouldn’t rest until Donna was hired.

So here I sat with two women who could complete each other’s sentences, look at each other through laughter, knowing exactly what the other was thinking. I was amused, and wanted to know anything and everything they would be willing to share with me.

Carolyn, whom Donna views as a mother figure, loves small town living. She enjoys knowing people wherever she goes in White County; from the bank to the grocery store, and places in between.

Carolyn’s eyes sparkled as she spoke of her 87 year old mother, Mary Lou, who still lives on the old home place in Denmark, Arkansas. She was equally proud of her daughter Tonia and her two grandchildren who are both in college.

Donna’s story is an example of just how small the world can be sometimes. I happen to believe her story is proof that there simply are no accidents in life. Donna is from this area and some years back she went to Destin, Florida on vacation. That vacation proved to give her one of the greatest gifts in life, her “seashell.” You see, Donna went to Florida for a break and came home after meeting this particular man in Destin, her now husband, Jerry, who is from

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Rosebud, Arkansas. That’s right, Jerry is, and will always be, Donna’s seashell. Together they have a blended family, because when Donna married Jerry, she brought into their marriage her son, John Henry, who is thirteen, and daughter, Jessica, who recently turned eleven years old.

When I asked the ladies about their relationships with the people who live in The Flats, they agreed that they get to know the people who make up this community by way of packages. When Fed Ex, UPS, or any deliveries are made, they drop them at the office. When the recipients come to retrieve their deliveries, conversations strike up. What a blessing, to pick up something you’ve ordered and while doing so, you get to talk to these two very sweet, intelligent women.

Deeper into our visit, the name of another employee came up, Seth Mobley. Carolyn called him to join our quaint conversation. Seth is a tall, thin man with a perfectly groomed beard and a solid, sure look about him. I understood that familiar look when he shared that he had served in the United States Navy. We military folks can pick out each other most of the time. Carolyn said of Seth’s hiring that she immediately wrote “Top” on his application, because he had no criminal record. This was clearly not the first time Donna, Carolyn, and Seth had chuckled about how his employment came to be.

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 The exercise room.

“ This day was about people, family, success, hope, and the gifts we have in others, if only we take the time to hear them.”

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Seth grew up in West Point, Arkansas and came back home after his military service, for which I am grateful. He had never been a maintenance man before, but like most country and small town men, Seth knew a lot about a lot when it comes to repairs. This is a very busy man, and one could only hope every married man smiles as Seth did while talking about his wife and his twentyone month old daughter, Lillian, who is described as being quite a combination of loving bling, clothes, and jewelry, to being outdoors and around any farm animal you can name. I would say she is one well-rounded little doll. The other apple of this family man’s eye is his step-son, Braiden, who is a student at The Sunshine School. He is a champion of a little man, who fights Cerebral Palsy every moment of his life. This does not keep Braiden from having a large sense of humor. Even though he is considered non-verbal, he knows exactly how to communicate when it is time for his favorite show, “The Wheel of Fortune.”

Seth explained that they have several episodes taped so Braiden can watch that wheel whenever he pleases. Braiden’s step-dad said it all, when describing Braiden and Lillian he used the powerful word, “blessings.”

Carolyn and Donna brought up the fact that Seth has been building a new home for his family. So, in addition to being a full time employee, a dutiful and loving husband and father, he is in the final stages of finishing the family’s home. When I say he has been building, that doesn’t mean he sits down with contractors and sub-contractors. Seth is building this home with his own hands, his own heart, and his own dreams of the years that lay ahead for his young family. Just as I thought I was wrapping up my visit with Seth, Carolyn, and Donna, I saw a woman walking up to the office. Her yellow plaid hat and matching scarf caught my eye. She gracefully joined us in Carolyn’s office. This woman is a walking piece of White County, Arkansas history at its finest.

Her name is Deborah Hardin and her family is seven generations strong in White County. She grew up here, then went away to college at ASU Jonesboro. It took only seconds for me to realize no grass grows under this woman’s feet. She happily and humbly shared with me her travels after college. She has lived in Chicago, Atlanta, and Philadelphia. While in Philly, she joyfully helped her daughter and son-in-law with her grandchildren. Her travels and adventures have come full circle, bringing Deborah Hardin home to Searcy, Arkansas. The day I met her, she had just gotten word she had been hired by a local corporation. So her reason for revisiting Carolyn and Donna was to make sure her apartment was ready and waiting for her. It was obvious she was excited about becoming a member of The Flats community.

Perhaps my story was to be about The Flats and apartment living. But on this day, so much more was revealed to me than the color of the carpet in a bedroom, the location of a mailbox, or whether the oven was gas or electric. Oh no! This day was about people, family, success, hope, and the gifts we have in others if only we take the time to hear them.

In conclusion, my hope is that this article will coax and inspire people to slow down and really hear people, because, no matter where we go or who we meet, we all have something in common. Furthermore, when we take that time, it allows us to grow and perhaps even live vicariously through other’s adventures in life. After all, we only get one shot because there is no dress rehearsal.

Could The Flats be your new home? Stop by and enjoy a tour with Carolyn or Donna. I suspect you just may like it as much as I liked it.

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More golf tournament pictures on

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Searcy Living Office 501.368.0095 y o u r

h o m e t o w n

m a g a z ine

What Businesses Are Saying “ Searcy Living has done wonders for Renu.

It is most definitely the best advertising to help grow my business. I am very satisfied with the great print quality and friendly customer service.”

– Lesli Hudelson, Owner Renu Skincare & Tanning Spa

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Over the Counter Rodney G. Richmond, RPh, MS, CGP, FASCP Harding University College of Pharmacy

Shining the Spotlight on Diabetes

By Krystal Frossard and Misty McRae 2016 Doctor of Pharmacy Candidates and Rodney Richmond, RPh, MS, CGP, FASCP

D

iabetes has reached epidemic proportions in Arkansas, with the prevalence either equaling or exceeding the national average each of the past 15 years, and is now the 6th leading cause of death among all Arkansans.

The most recent estimates show that an estimated 372,000 adult Arkansans have diabetes, but of those 124,000 remained undiagnosed and untreated.

Diabetes mellitus is a condition where the body cannot properly process food for use as energy. Our bodies turn the food we eat into sugar, also called glucose, and then turn the sugar into energy using a hormone called insulin. When you have diabetes, your body either does not make enough insulin or it cannot use your insulin correctly. This can cause a buildup of sugar in your blood. Uncontrolled diabetes can cause many different health problems including blindness, lower-extremity amputations, kidney failure, and heart disease. This is why it is very important if you have diabetes to take your medication properly.

Some medications (glimepiride and Prandin™) promote the natural production of more insulin, in order to break down the body’s sugars for energy use. Newer medications make the body more sensitive to the insulin produced by the body (Actos®). Normally, the body’s cells are like a locked door, and insulin acts as a key to open the door, allowing sugar to come in and give the body energy. But, with diabetes, insulin can no longer unlock the door, so these medications act like the key and unlock it so that sugar can go in like normal. Another

group of medications helps lower sugar levels in the blood (also known as blood glucose). They either block sugar from coming into the body from the digestive system (acarbose), after a person has eaten a meal or snack. Or, if the person has not eaten in a while, the liver will normally create its own sugar to send to the body, but these medications will help stop that (metformin). Lastly, if your body can no longer produce insulin at all, there are several different forms of man-made insulin that can be injected throughout the day to take the place of the body’s insulin.

If you have diabetes you need to monitor your blood glucose levels throughout the day to make sure your sugar does not go too high or too low. This may require you to prick your fingers up to several times a day to get a sample of blood that can be placed into a blood glucose monitor that tells you how much sugar is in your blood. Then, based on your levels, you will be able to determine whether you should eat a snack (if your sugar is too low) or seek medical attention (if your sugar is too high).

In order to avoid complications that occur with uncontrolled diabetes, it is important to take your medications properly and follow your physicians’ and pharmacists’ instructions very closely. Here are some tips from the American Heart Association that might help you remember to take your medications as directed: •

Take your medicine consistently as directed every day

•

Keep a “medicine calendar” and note every time you take your dose

•

Ask family or friend to help remind you

•

Put a reminder note on your medicine cabinet or refrigerator

If you have questions regarding your medication, please contact your pharmacist. You can also visit the Harding University College of Pharmacy Script Your Future Facebook page at www.facebook.com/HUCOPSYF. 64 Your Hometown Magazine

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 Camper Brooks of Jonesboro and companion Joseph.

Camp Quality is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization for children with cancer and their families. It doesn’t matter what stage they are in as long as they are physically able, and their doctor signs off on their attendance. In Arkansas, we are still small enough that we are also able to allow siblings to attend camp. While our first priority is to cancer patients/survivors, we love being able to bring in all of the children and give each of them equal treatment and equal fun. This also allows us to give the parents a break for a week.

Camp Quality Arkansas is one of 15 camps in the United States. This will be our 27th year of camps in Arkansas. We strive to provide hope and experiences that the children may otherwise not be able to enjoy. We have a wide range of volunteer staff including: RNs, cooks, photographers, crafters, lifeguards, etc.

One concept that I think is extremely important to the success of our camp is our companions. While many other camps have a set of counselors that are in charge of groups of children, we have companions that are paired up one on one with the children. The role of companion is one focused on keeping the children safe and building a strong friendship with one child in particular. Companions bunk above the campers and stay with them 24/7 for the week. This, along with keeping in touch with their campers year round, allows the companions to develop deep and long lasting friendships with the children.

In addition to the week of summer camp, we have a reunion weekend for the whole family and the volunteers as well. We are always looking for more events to have for the kids which will allow our kids to participate.

All of these events and activities are provided to the families at no cost. We rely on individuals, businesses and especially civic organizations to provide not only money, but many provide a meal or an activity at camp. This year, our camp will fall on June 14-19th and will be themed around the Wizard of Oz. In addition to funds and volunteers for the whole week, we are also looking for many groups to plan a small festival or carnival style game for the afternoon of Sunday, June 14th to help kick off the week.

Those with questions or interest in getting involved can contact me, Chris Jennings, at 870-931-2844 or our Volunteer Coordinator, Amber Dovel, at 806-290-2914.

 Camper Taryn of Searcy her companion, Priscilla of Judsonia, and another companion Ken of Jonesboro.

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As a parent, I have to say that I have loved having our family involved with Camp Quality. Both of the kids have fallen in love with it; Elijah as a camper and Hannah as a volunteer. The staff has become like family to us and we are so thankful for what you do for the kids.

Going to camp gives Elijah the opportunity to be “normal” and not feel like he is so different from the other kids. No one cares that he is bald because, truth be told, they have all either been bald or had a sibling that has, so it’s nothing strange for them. He gets the opportunity to be a little boy at camp, and as a parent I have the added security of knowing that he is so well taken care of. We love Camp Quality. I would be happy to speak to any families that are considering sending their kiddos to camp. I think we made a great decision when we sent Elijah to Camp Quality. He is making memories and friends that will last an eternity.

God Bless, and thanks again for all you do for our kiddos.

How To Get Involved If you would like to help with funds or volunteering contact Chris at 870-9312844 or Amber at 806-290-2914

With Great Belief,

Mom to Elijah, Stage IV Neuroblastoma

 The camper is young Trevor, a Searcy native and his companion Nick from Jonesboro.

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By Cecelia Wilson hen Jim House was first approached in 2008

about purchasing The Golf Course at River Oaks, he was hesitant. After all, he had already spent 40 years in the insurance industry in a career he loved and he was ready to enjoy retirement, take it easy and follow his grandchildren’s activities. As a matter of fact, his initial reaction was, “I want to play golf; I don’t want to run a golf course!” But, the more he looked at it, the more he decided it was a viable option. That was seven years ago.

Actually, Jim found the change was even better than he thought it would be. “I look at this as sort of a retired hobby,” House shared, “and when you’re doing something that you love, it’s not work, it’s fun.”

With over 265 members (and many of those are family memberships), he interacts with as many as 500 to 600 people regularly. And that means he gets to meet folks from every walk of life. The game of golf is not limited to any one age group, but lends itself well to individuals from eight years old and up. Every Wednesday morning, senior players meet for a weekly tournament; couples play every Tuesday evening and families hit the greens all throughout the year. “And we’ve had some really great young golfers come through here,” House says proudly. “Males, females, both have gone on to become part of their high school or college teams.”

But, before anyone can tee up and hit a drive down the fairway, the Course has to be ready, and that takes a considerable amount of skill and a lot of hard work. “I knew a little about running a golf course just because I had been a golfer for 25 years. But, the fact is, that running a course and operating it is much different than playing it,” House confides. By seeking the advice of others with experience, House saved himself a lot of hard work. “You have to learn how to grow grass, how to maintain grass, how to keep it alive, how to fertilize it and how not to do damage to it while 70 Your Hometown Magazine

“...when you’re doing something that you love, it’s not work, it’s fun.”

– Jim House

you’re maintaining it.” Sound simple? Not quite. “Fortunately, I have good, dedicated employees!”

That lovely green turf doesn’t just happen. It calls for meticulous maintenance. Too much fertilizer can burn and kill the grass.

Improper weeding can quickly overrun greens and can lead to disease. Tractors and mowers can easily transport disease from one green to the next. Bottom line: one catastrophic mistake can mean part or all of the course greens can be lost within 24 – 48 hours. And at a replacement cost of almost $30,000 per green, it is an expense to be avoided.

In addition to making sure the course is maintained in top shape to play on, it is important to Jim House that River Oaks is also a place where families can come together to find good, wholesome entertainment. And part of that entertainment is having a nice restaurant where they can enjoy lunch. The Landing and the Tee Room are both available for banquets or private parties. Also, there is an excellent pro-shop with top brands of clubs and other golf accessories.

Not everyone is as fortunate to find a career they love after retirement, and not everyone begins their working life doing something they like, but House has some sage advice based on his own experiences. Before his 39-year climb from sales representative to Executive Vice President with Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield, and later the President and CEO of USAble Life, a subsidiary life insurance company, Mr. House began with a starter job right out of college. That first job was not his dream job. “After a year of [working that first job], I knew I didn’t want to do that as a lifetime career. However,

The River Oaks Clubhouse

“...Pursue what you have a passion

for by qualifying yourself and being prepared when the opportunity arises.”

– Jim House

the #15 Fairway

I had undergone all of their management programs…learning the products, learning the service, learning the credit end of the business. I learned many things I’ve carried with me and used throughout time, but yet did I like that job? No. But, I must say that I learned a lot of things I knew would be helpful for me in life. I think that’s the case with most people – especially young people and graduates. You may not find the love of your life when you first go to work, but you can find out what you really have a passion for and what you don’t. [Then] pursue what you have a passion for by qualifying yourself and being

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“The game of golf is not limited to any

one age group, but lends itself well to individuals from eight years old and up.”

– Jim House prepared when the opportunity arises. Get jobs, learn from those jobs and then use [what you learn from those jobs] as tools to get you prepared for a bigger, better job or one that you love more.”

It proved to be a winning formula for House. Of course, that means these days he’s probably busier after retirement than he was before. But, loving what he does makes it all worthwhile. Following six grandchildren, running a business, running a golf course, being active in church and community – it’s a lot to handle. But, when you really believe what you’re doing is a “fun thing, not something you have to do - you [will] do it because you care,” Jim says of his busy lifestyle. “And as long as my health is good, I’ll continue to do that.” So, maybe the key is not to slow down too much in life, but to do as Jim does – keep playing through.

the #17 Fairway

Mr. E. D. Yancy “ This profile issue of the Course at River Oaks is a tribute to Mr. E. D. Yancy, the original president and largest stockholder in the golf course and river oaks land development corporation. I believe E. D. would be very pleased to see the maturing of the course and the beauty that he envisioned before his death eight years ago.” ~ Jim House, current owner

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For more information:

The Course at River Oaks

#1 Golf Course Drive Searcy, AR 72143 Pro Shop/Tee Times 501-279-4653 e-mail: golf_riveroaks@hotmail.com

the landing banquet room

“...When you really believe what

you’re doing is a ‘fun thing, not something you have to do - you [will] do it because you care.’”

tee room

– Jim House pro shop

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By George Friedrich This is an article on how Friedrich Enterprises, Double Grass Farms, F&F Partnership, Triple F LLC, and George Friedrich Farming was formed.

I

, George, was born in Ventura, CA in January 1944 while my dad was a POW in Stalag Luft III, Germany, a prison camp for US and British pilots. He flew B-25’s out of the North African Campaign. A German ship shot him down over the boot of Italy. He crashed in the water and most of his crew was killed. He was drafted into the Army Air Corp when he was in college playing football and baseball. After being liberated, he returned to Oxnard, CA and began farming some of the Friedrich land. That’s where I got my first taste of farm/diesel dust riding on the tractor with my dad. With dust in my mouth, nose, and eyes, I was destined to become a 5th generation farmer, except that I took a winding road into farming.

I was not a good student in high school, but I was a decent athlete… good enough to get a scholarship to San Jose State University. When I wasn’t playing sports in college, I would help my dad on weekends, vacations, and summer. By then he farmed 3000 acres of tomatoes, lima beans, vegetables, almonds, walnuts, and apricots in the San Joaquin Valley in Westley, CA. My dad appreciated my “workaholic” attitude and my ability to communicate with our Mexican laborers. When I was 12, I had my own pickup, a 1937 Ford with a ’48 Merc engine, for you car buffs.

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 George Friedrich with soybeans.

In the summer, I would get up at 4:30 every morning and drive to whatever farm that we were working (cops never bothered us then), driving a tractor, moving irrigation pipe, etc.

By the time I was 15, I had 10 guys that I was responsible for. And, yes, I had to fire a couple of them.

It was a given that I was going to farm with my dad after I graduated from college. We were going to become vertically integrated and market a lot of the crops ourselves, but something changed my senior year. My dad remarried, and all of a sudden we had a potential trilogy. Well, as luck would ultimately have it, I told my dad that I wasn’t going to be in a partnership under those circumstances. He was broken hearted and NEVER forgave me for it. When he died, I got a dollar.

I had a college friend who worked for Bank of America the year they implemented the Student Loan Program. I applied and luckily my GPA was barely good enough to get into graduate school. I got my MBA in 1967 and Colgate-Palmolive hired me to work in their product management program in New York City. “Imagine a farm boy, in New York City, working in a three piece suit environment, living in Greenwich Village.” As a part of Colgate’s training program, I was farmed out to a Madison Ave advertising firm for 3 months, a marketing research firm for 2 months and sold a full

book of Colgate-Palmolive products in southern Canada, Montana, and Idaho. I sold to mom and pops and key account buyers from Safeway. My experience was invaluable and I still use it daily.

When Colgate-Palmolive called me back to NYC, they decided to move me to the international headquarters in Toronto, Canada because I could speak some Spanish. From there, I was all over the place until they wanted to transfer me to Hong Kong. I got a job with Mattel Toys, quit Colgate-Palmolive and moved to Manhattan Beach, CA close to their home office where I became a Marketing Director.

One evening about 6:30 I got a call from a very frustrated guy named Jim Faulkner, my link to Arkansas. He had been trying to get a meeting with our Specialty Products Manager but to no avail.

He said that he wanted Mattel to make him a talking cheerleader doll, named Lil’Soo. I told him I’d like to look at it the next time

we go! Not long after that, we started selling sod to K-Mart and Woolco. One day while perusing the garden center at the west Little Rock K-Mart, I noticed how expensive those $24.99 Redwood planters were and how I had seen an old whiskey barrel cut in two in this guy’s yard not too far away. After leaving the store, I made a deal to buy all the barrels the guy had, took them home, cut them in two and took them to K-Mart. The store manager and I had become good friends and I talked him into positioning the whiskey barrel planters against the Redwood Planters for $9.99, on a consignment sale. That weekend they were all gone! The store manager called all of his buddies and I had 100’s on order.

The following week, I went to Kentucky and bought a whole field of whole whiskey barrels for $1.00 a piece and they loaded on rail cars to AR. We started shipping them all over. Now, everybody wanted in on the deal. Frank Fletcher, the best salesman that I’d ever met, called me and wanted to place them in Walmart. I said sure. As it turned out, over a three year period, I sold 10,000’s of them into 100’s of stores in 14 states. During that period, I bought my first sod farm in White County with the money I made on the barrels. Side note: my largest supplier of whiskey barrels was called Double Springs Distillery. Hence the name Double Springs Grass Farms was born! Don’t ever let your targets become your ceilings.

The land was a 400 acre parcel located in the fertile Little Red River bottoms just north of Searcy and west of Judsonia in the Plainveiw community. I needed a lot of water to grow grass, and with the river being the source, I was sure never to run out. My dad always told me, “Water first, and everything will follow.” Sure enough, every inch of every parcel that we own is irrigated today!

you’re in town. He said, I’m here. Where? He said Hermosa Beach.

I said, meet at the Velvet Turtle at 7:30. There, he had some story board mock-ups of a cheerleader doll and cassette with cheers I’d never heard of: Woo Pig Sooie, Go Hogs Go, Beat Texas and several more. Long story short, I made him 35,000 cheerleader dolls with 7 sayings in the tiny voice box. (I still have 2 of them in my Trophy case.) Faulkner used these dolls as a savings account bank premium for Worthen Bank. They sold out in 3 weeks. Under a huge time constraint, I had to get more made in Taiwan.

It was an overwhelming success. So much so that Jim talked me into moving from Manhattan Beach to Little Rock… Probably one of the best salesman I’d ever met! I helped Jim market the Worthen model to banks in 5 other states.

While living in Little Rock, I did 2 things: started Discount Records and bought some land in Ferndale, in west Little Rock. I eventually sold Discount Records to Jack Garner, but I developed the acreage into 1, 2, and 5 acre parcels. This is where my sod business was born.

While building roads and streets, I had a huge erosion problem in that rocky ground. So, I called my friend John Nunes, a family friend and pioneer of the CA sod industry. He told me to find an old Bermuda grass field, buy a sod cutter and plant that sod on the embankments. In 1972, there was no sod industry in AR; so, when people saw us hauling that grass, they wanted some. And here SearcyLiving.com 77

Enter E.D. Yancey and his dad in 1976….

Because the sod industry was in embryonic stage, equipment, vegetative plant material, delivery equipment, mechanical sod harvesters, etc were prohibitively expensive. E.D. and his dad, Elmer, visited me one day and asked if they could help, which was an understatement. They kept me on my feet, and I’m truly indebted to them to this day. E.D. and I developed a great friendship and later, when he got the idea to start River Oaks, he asked me to be a partner and help him build the golf course.

After a real hard winter in 1978, Steve Ralston, the Burns Park superintendent, called me and told me that all his golf greens were dead. He had heard that I had a grass called Tifgreen 328 Bermuda, a greens grass which I had purchased from the Georgia turf grass certified breeding program in Tifton, GA. He asked if I could fix them and I said yes. I had never planted a green before. I replanted all 18 of them, and it was an overnight success! God was on my side again.

About 100 other courses in the South had lost theirs, too. We fixed them. That was our entry into the golf industry.

The golf course industry is highly sophisticated and fickle. It’s primarily segmented into 4 categories: greens, fairways, trees and roughs.

Market Segmentation and Product Differentiation My goal was to be the premier golf course supplier of certified grasses that satisfied every need a golf course had. And to install our grasses on their course.

So, I bought certified grasses to match their needs, but I needed more land to expand my product mix. Ed Hubach saw that our marketing skills were outpacing our capacity to meet the demand that we created. Being a large landowner in the Georgetown area, he set me up to buy a 390 acre parcel there. It didn’t take long before we needed more land and grass to meet the ever growing demand for high quality certified grasses, particularly Myers Zoysia, which was used for fairways and tee boxes. In a few years, our acreage grew to over 2600 acres of grass. During the golf course building boom, we worked on 100’s of them and planted 1000’s of acres of grass in AR, OK, MO, TX, MS, IL, IN, KY, AL, GA, FL, and SC. My goal was met; we became one of the premier sod sources and contracting companies in the Southeast. Architects specified our certified grasses because they could depend on our quality and the workmanship of our installation crews. We sold them “risk reduction.” Because of our intense schedule of trying to work on 10-15 courses a year, I started flying so that I could cover more ground. Flying is still an integral part of my life today. In 2008, when the economy went into a horrible recession, we lost 50% of our revenue due to the loss of golf related income and building industry. In October 2007, we had purchased another 470 acres on the river, east of West Point, with the intention of planting more sod. More sod is better, right? Wrong! As it turned out, we couldn’t sell all the sod that we had in inventory. What did we do? We precision leveled the whole farm, put in a huge center pivot and started growing

“We have planted 1000’s of pecan trees and plan to sell pecans through our existing channels of distribution, export and gift packs through our web-site...”

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“My dad always told me, ‘Water first and everything will follow.’ Sure enough, every inch of every parcel that we own is irrigated today!!!”

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“Don’t ever let your targets become your ceilings…”

soybeans and corn on it, watering with the pivot and down the furrows. I cut my eyeteeth on furrow irrigation. My son didn’t much like the idea of row cropping, but it has worked out fine with high yields and good marketing. We now have half of it in sod. Currently our product mix consists of: 10 varieties of grasses that are segmented into full shade, partial shade, and full sun types, which we use in our athletic field construction business. Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cantaloupes and watermelons. The produce is sold to Kroger and produce vendors, one being Jerry Dougherty’s place next to Ace Hardware on Beebe-Capps. Row crops: corn and soybeans. Nuts: Pecans. Yes, pecans. We have planted 1000’s of pecan trees and plan to sell pecans through our existing channels of distribution, export and gift packs through our web-site justnutsforyou.com. Years ago, we sold a lot of our Fuji Apples and Asian Pears in gift packs. My daughter Gretchen will be instrumental in that venture, as she is extremely creative. Most of you know my son as Bud Friedrich, but his first name is Christian and he is truly a Christian man.

He is a God loving, hard working young man.

I’m truly indebted to my two kids, Carla, our office manager for 30 years, Francisco, our primary foreman and our dozens of employees that have made our business a fun, family business.

As you know, we are only as strong as our weakest employee or advisor. I’m also grateful for all my highly qualified advisors… you know who you are. The list is too long to enumerate.

I also thank God and my mentors: My Dad, Ed Hubach, John Nunes, Jim Faulkner and my best friend E.D. Yancey. Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to write this story. And, thanks to those of you that have bought our products.

Nothing is by chance: God gives us the idea and it’s our responsibility to pursue it to it’s fullest potential. We don’t plan on stopping our growth now… keep it going is our motto!!!

Gretchen Marie Friedrich Age 40 Lives in Tuscaloosa Graduated from the University of Alabama MBA from the University of Arkansas Works for the Family business Married to Cecil Hurt Has 10 year old twin girls, Sydney & Libby Christian Bud Friedrich Age 34 Lives on his farm in Plainview community Graduated from the University of Arkansas He manages several company entities as well as all the trucking and hauling all of our construction equipment.

He is not married

Web-sites: www.tiptopturf.com www.blueberryfieldsforever.com www.justnutsforyou.com

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Harding Academy Girls

Basketball Team photos by Al Fowler

“If you accept the expectations of others, especially negative ones, then you never will change the outcome.�

-Michael Jordan

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By Carol Frank

M

y parents, J.C. and Winifred Franks, moved to Searcy in May of 2005 from Lake Charles, Louisiana, where they lived for close to 50 years. They always knew they would make a move when “the time was right” and this was the right time. They each had taken care of their older siblings until that care was no longer needed. It was clear that this was the time to move. Their three girls, my sisters, and I, had attended college at Harding University and eventually returned to this area years later with our families.

We girls anxiously awaited Mama and Daddy’s relocation to be closer to us in Arkansas. My sister, Patty Graul, and I lived in Searcy, and our other sister, Terri Fielder, lived in Little Rock. All three of us were school teachers. When school was out in May that year, we made a trip to Lake Charles and moved our parents to Searcy.

Mama and Daddy were in good health and made the transition easily, although it was difficult leaving family, friends, and the home where they had lived for most of their lives. Everything about the move fell into place perfectly: finding the right house and furnishings for it, making wonderful new friends, finding a welcoming church home, not to mention, being close to their kids and grandkids. The timing of this move even prevented them from experiencing Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita, which occurred later that summer after their arrival to Arkansas and did major damage to the area of Louisiana where they had lived.

We believe the blessings and providence of God and His perfect timing were at work in bringing my parents to a place they now call home in Searcy, Arkansas.

“We believe the blessings and providence of God and His perfect timing were at work in bringing my parents to a place they now call home in Searcy...”

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By J. C. Franks

W

hen I was just a young boy, my uncle Jess Franks owned the community grocery store. We made visits there quite often. There were two ways to get there, around the road or through the woods. Cutting through the woods was a shortcut, but there was one obstacle. You had to cross the branch. Sometimes that could be a chore. For instance, in rainy weather, it could be muddy or the branch so high you had no other choice but to take the road.

We boys in the community had a solution to the problem. We would build a bridge across the branch. The trail ran through the woods, then across the branch and up the hill, passing the homes of a few friends and neighbors along the way and ending up at the store. The trail route was about half as far as going around the road.

There was a shallow spot in the branch that we could step across in the summertime. When rains came and it flooded its banks, there was no other choice. We could solve this problem.

One summer, with school out and some spare time, we got to the task at hand. We chose our bridge location carefully. There was a place where the branch was narrow with high bluff banks on both sides. That way the branch could be crossed at high water level.

Then the real engineering began.

We cut two pine poles about twelve feet long and five inches in diameter. These poles were cut on the west side of the branch.

Two shallow holes were dug on each bank to place the end of the poles in. The poles were placed about thirty inches apart. The task of putting one end of each pole in the matching hole required a business meeting. Someone suggested that about three of us get down in the branch and feed the poles across to the other side. That was a good idea, but one of the three boys in the creek might get snake bitten. Idea number two made more sense. Go up the hill to Lee’s house and get us a rope. Then the boys on the east bank could throw the rope to the boys on the west bank, tie it to the pole, and pull it to the other side. It worked like a charm.

Once our poles were in place, the next thing was flooring across our poles. It just so happened that Uncle Carl and Norris had a sawmill a few hundred yards west of our bridge site, and wood slabs were all over the place. A slab is a crude piece of lumber,

Road to Old River round on one side and flat on the other. These were perfect for our bridge and free for the asking. We carried enough slabs, one boy on one end and one on the other, to floor our bridge. They were cut with a cross-cut saw to proper lengths that would fit our poles.

Then they were nailed to the poles face up to complete our bridge.

This bridge building was slow work, and we did not want to rush a complicated job like that. It took several days out of our summer vacation to get it done. We could only do this part time because all of us had chores to do at home, which might include picking vegetables and plowing a field.

We boys had never heard the expression “supply and demand” but, come to think of it, that is what we were doing. We were simply supplying a need for a shorter route to the grocery store, and we had fun doing it.

Just think, we boys privately built a bridge for public use for very little money. We had no state regulations to contend with and no Government bailout. What we would have enjoyed most was meals-on-wheels to be enjoyed on the creek bank. If our project had been a federal one, it would require engineering to research it, banks to finance it, and inspectors to inspect it. It is said, according to the theory of aerodynamics, a bumble bee cannot fly. Because of its size, weight, and wing span it is not possible. The bumble bee, being ignorant of all these scientific facts, flies anyway. We boys, like the bumble bee, with no blue print, no financing, and no outside help, built our bridge anyway.

“The bumble bee, being

ignorant of all these scientific facts, flies anyway. We boys, like the bumble bee, with no blue print, no financing, and no outside help, built our bridge anyway.”

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A Calling to serve

By Jennifer Skinner

Mark Sullivan

Sometimes in running a business, owners want to do more than just make money. Often business owners operate with a deeper meaning, a bigger purpose in mind. They know their business well and understand that sometimes there are other needs to be met besides providing a product or service.

That is precisely what Mark Sullivan does in his service to families in the community and surrounding areas. Sullivan Funeral Care in Kensett goes beyond merely offering services and products for funerals. They recognize that families need special care in the process of preparing for the funeral of their loved ones.

Sullivan Funeral Care also recognizes the need for reasonable prices and traditional service.

Mark Sullivan was only thirteen when he first realized the importance of providing excellent care for families in the funeral planning stages. The loss of his father to cancer at that young age left an impression in his life, not only because of the careful planning his father had done, but also because of the excellent service and care given to his family by the funeral director. He explains that this became clear to him again seven years later when his mother passed suddenly. He knew then that he had to take the step to complete mortuary school and serve families like his that had been served so well. At that point, it became “like a calling in life” for Mark.

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For Mark Sullivan, Funeral Director and Owner of Sullivan Funeral Care, providing the proper care and best service is a personal mission. He says, “We want families to know we care, and we are here for them.” He explains that sometimes the best way to help is just to listen. “You have to realize that by the time some families get to the funeral home….they may already be under a mountain of pressure and strain.” He believes that “the funeral home and director should be where healing begins.” It can be a place where families can begin to learn how to move forward. That’s why Mr. Sullivan has partnered with Spark of Life to help provide families with after care in the midst of the grieving process. Spark of Life offers counseling services, workshops, and retreats to help people cope with their grief and loss. This is a unique and completely free service that is offered exclusively by Sullivan Funeral Care in partnership with the Spark of Life organization because they care about the families they serve.

Mark explains that most people don’t realize that while the details of the funeral are his main priority, as a funeral director another one of his top priorities “is caring for the living.” For him it’s about serving the needs of the families who have suffered the loss. This is just one of the aspects about Sullivan Funeral Care that is different. Another benefit in choosing Sullivan Funeral Care is their focus on providing the proper services to meet the individual needs of the customers at the most reasonable prices. He explains that some may want a large elaborate funeral, but others want a smaller and more intimate service. “Every situation is different.

We are able to accommodate a broad spectrum of needs.”

Mark explains that while people believe in carrying out funerals, they also want better value. He says that “this is not a new idea, just an old idea whose time has come around again. Fifty years ago, visitations and funerals were held in a home or church or

“ We want families to know we care, and we are here for them.”

–Mark Sullivan

modest funeral home setting. By keeping the overhead low, the funeral home was able to offer attentive services at a modest price.

Now, Sullivan Funeral Care is bringing funeral service full circle by renewing old and sensible traditions. We are convinced that offering services at a fair price to families not only makes sense, but is an ethical obligation.” He wants people to know that “aside from being affordable, Sullivan Funeral Care focuses on personal service, attention to detail, and a relaxed down-to-earth atmosphere” which is what their customers say sets them apart.

There are many details for families to consider when planning a funeral for a loved one, and in the moment of loss and grief it would be easy to get overwhelmed. But Sullivan Funeral Care is equipped to ease families through the process of creating a funeral to meet all of their needs. Their accommodations offer foyer seating, a modest chapel, kitchenette and seating area, as well as displays of caskets, vaults, and urns. They will even come to your home to help you plan or pre-plan a funeral.

Planning a funeral involves numerous choices and does incur financial expenses, possibly left for loved ones. However, Mr. Sullivan explains that, “When you plan well, not only are the financial expenses taken care of, but all the little details are too. By planning ahead, it helps the families focus on celebrating the life lived rather than the details and expenses.” He encourages people to plan ahead with the “Gift of Love” pre-planning program, so that loved ones will not be left with all the choices and financial expenses. There are excellent Family Service Counselors available to assist with all the details, even coming to your home if needed. Sullivan Funeral Care provides experience, ethical standards, attention to detail, and a desire to serve families with care and reasonably priced accommodations for their funeral needs.

Their service area includes numerous towns in central Arkansas. Contact Sullivan Funeral Care at 501-742-3621, online at www.SullivanFuneralCare.com, or visit their location at 111 Wilbur D. Mills, Kensett, AR, 72082.

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The Searcy Junior Auxiliary Charity Ball

Download pictures on SearcyLiving.com!

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Download pictures on SearcyLiving.com!

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Fab

Sentimental Character:

Door Makeover A home should be as unique as the family who lives in it. A great way to personalize a home is to add pieces that are unexpected, or have sentimental value. For me, this project has both.

When completing my master suite addition, I decided to use a glass panel door for my master bath instead of matching it with all of the other interior doors. This particular door was from my grandparents’ dining room.

I remember looking at the door as a child and thinking how pretty it was.

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For privacy I needed to frost the glass panels. Rust-Oleum Frosted Glass works just like spray paint. I cleaned the glass and applied two coats to each side of every panel.

I used a semi-transparent finish that allows light to filter through without being able to see inside.

After the glass frost was completely dry, I painted the door to match my dĂŠcor. When painting doors, cabinets, and trim, I recommend using semi-gloss enamel. Enamel forms a hard “shellâ€? that is more durable and cleans easily. After allowing dry time, I hung the door in place.

This was a simple weekend project, but the end result adds loads of character to my room and brings back priceless childhood memories!

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Baked Macaroni and Cheese Few people will turn away macaroni and cheese; normally it’s a dietary restriction because anybody within the realm of sanity would want to eat an entire bowl of this southern version of comfort food.

If by chance you know of somebody who has tried to pass off boxed macaroni and cheese which had been poured in a casserole dish of sorts and heated in the oven as “homemade baked macaroni and cheese,” please do them a favor and pass this recipe on to them. I can only guess they are just unaware; they need to be enlightened. If you need a side dish for Easter that might just steal the spotlight from the coveted ham, this is it. You choose how sharp you like the cheddar. Organic ingredients are recommended, but you can decide that one as well.

INGREDIENTS 2 C. Uncooked Macaroni

Cook

Cook macaroni as directed on package and drain well.

Add

2 Tbsp. Unbleached All Purpose Flour

Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and add flour, mustard and salt. Stir to make a paste and slowly whisk in milk until mixture turns smooth and thick. Add cheese and stir until it melts.

1 Tsp Dry Mustard

Combine

2 Tbsp. Unsalted Butter

1 Tsp. Salt 2 1/2 C. Milk 2 C. Shredded Cheddar (8 Ounces)

Tanya Turner Leckie’s cookbook Cartwheels In The Kitchen, is available at Tonya’s Consignment, Midnight Oil Coffee House, as well as through Tanya by e-mailing her at lazydaygourmet@sbcglobal.net. Partial proceeds through sales benefit the Makonde Team mission work in Tanzania, Africa.

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Remove from heat and combine cheese and cooked macaroni. Pour into a well buttered casserole dish and bake in a 350˚ preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes.

Enjoy

If you need to prepare it ahead of time, simply pour into casserole dish and wait to bake until just before you need to serve it. Enjoy!

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Across

3. One of Savannah’s favorite activities in the summer is going to the farmer’s _______.

6. _______ _______ envisions a world where all achieve their potential.

7. Diabetes mellitus is a condition where the body cannot properly process food for use as _______.

8. A painless therapy of treating brainwaves that are not performing correctly.

9. Beverly at The Flats sees employees more like _______.

What is the coolest letter in the alphabet?

Down

1. A concept that is important to the success of Camp Quality.

2. Rudy Roo Roo’s goal is to educate against _______.

4. Children need the _______ of having items that are their own when everything else is out of control.

5. The Vision of Special Olympics Arkansas is to transform communities by changing lives through _______.

I’m heavy but not backwards. What am I?

Find The Answers On

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Keep your head up. God gives His hardest battles to His strongest soldiers.

Show your support for life and help raise money at the same time! Purchase an Official Choose Life Arkansas License Plate for the rear of your car. You can obtain one through direct purchase from the Department of Finance and Administration.

Let’s make the readership of Searcy Living the BIGGEST supporters for life in the state!

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