Searcy Living Magazine Issue 6 2011-2012 by Searcy Living

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Issue № 6 j 2012

Features

Contents

Steve Brackins & Lulla Belle 14 Healing Hands 30 Fab Do It Yourself 38 I Will March Again 40 Run It Forward 44 Life Is What Happens When You’re Busy Making Plans 46 To Our Freedom Fighters 50 Hearts Of Love 52 When A Man & Community Meet 60 St. Jude Children’s Hospital 61 Performing Arts Center On The Square 62 Christmas Catalog Giveaway Winners 63

Departments Publisher’s Note All American Citizen: Learning Leadership Fashion Fun Hope Cottage Donations Living In Searcy We The People Financial Focus Hope Believe Out & About Dinner & A Magazine

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52 On the Cover

Emily Burley Photo by Hannah Elliott

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Publisher Christine Walker Art Director & Webmaster Garrett Johnson Graphic Assistant Ikey Ray Customer Service Stephanie McInturff Editorial Assistant Cherie Sewell Makeover Coordinator Christine Locke Special Project Coordinator Hannah Elliott Contributing Independent Photographers Kimberly Brackins (501)279-1515 George Dillin (501)268-9304 Cassie Jones (501)230-0539 Roxy Creative (501)593-6866 Candace Skarda (501)281-6297 Homan Photography (501)268-2844 Taylor Howard Photography (870)917-8012 Feature Writers Cecelia Wilson Cassie Jones Erica Brooks

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 2012 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.

Searcy Living Magazine is a subsidiary of Shark Promotions LLC.

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Publisher’s Note

As I was wondering what I wanted to communicate with you this issue, I picked up a Searcy Living issue from a couple of years ago and found something I wrote to you back then that echoed what I already had on my heart for this issue. It so intensely stated what I had been thinking about. So, this note is not an exact replica from years ago, but it shares the same theme, with a lot of updates. It begins with a list of things that you and I have accomplished together recently: * You have now served over 800 children in foster care in more than 5 counties over the past several years. The Searcy Living Foster Care Boutique is simply a room in the Searcy Living business office to connect your donations directly to the case workers and foster children. You are the heroes in this great cause! Your compassion, giving, and volunteering are what make it work. * Once again you have promoted and helped grow local businesses and stimulated our local economy through (your doing business with) Searcy Living advertisers. * You have shared your enthusiasm for Searcy Living with your friends and relatives across the country and right here at home through our Facebook page and our SearcyLiving.com website. * You talk with your friends and family about the stories in Searcy Living that have inspired and encouraged you, and you inspire and encourage us with your comments. You have not only been my friends; you have been an extended family to me. We have laughed together, cried together, and fought through adversity together. You have shared my happiest moments and have helped pick me up through my darkest days. (Your notes and kind words of encouragement mean more to me than you could imagine.) We have learned together, grown together and helped each other. Once again I am challenging you to a continued team effort. Let’s surpass our goals. Let’s reach out to more people. Let’s reach new heights in serving and celebrating this community. I have no doubt that you will meet this challenge with purpose and enthusiasm. Thank you for not only reading Searcy Living, but for being an integral part of Searcy Living Magazine.

What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise? ~from the song Blessings

Over the year, my running became my passion. Jason Harper became my trainer. Since April, 2010, I have ran a half marathon, two marathons, two ultra 50k’s, and, my most recent, a 50 mile run called, “Iron Express.” Through all this running and training I began to express my desire to do something greater than myself: to be a part of something that changes lives, believing children are our future and that in these economic times they are suffering the most. Our schools are having programs cut left and right. Classes are becoming larger and children’s education is becoming weaker. My children are lucky to go to a school where parents can contribute financially to help compensate for the losses with time and money. Not all schools are this lucky. So, running and talking and dreaming and visioning, the concept of “Run It Forward” began to unfold. I believed that if a program like Be Change can work at an underserved school in Sacramento, why can’t it work somewhere else. It should be in other schools. Especially in these times, this is the Change we need to see. We can all be a part of doing something to better a child’s life and, in turn, the future. So my journey begins. I began to build a non-profit called “Run It Forward,” in partnership with Jason Harper and his “Be Change,” along with two of my friends, Jen Hamburg and Michelle Crews. My life consisted of running and working out at the gym, serving on my children’s school PTC board, being a room mom in their classes, and shuttling them after school to their various sports. I was happy and grateful. But as a little time passed, I was starting to feel... Is this it?

By Erika Small I am embarking on an amazing new journey in my life… starting up a non-profit organization called “Run It Forward.” The idea is simple, yet spectacular: 3 soccer moms, 8 runners, and 2,400 miles through 8 states… a non-stop relay on Route 66. A labor of love to benefit some of the most underserved schools in our nation, along the historic Mother Road. It’s amazing how life unfolds when you're in search to be a part of something greater than yourself. A year ago, I volunteered at an amazing event at my children’s school called, “Go The Distance.” At this event, one of the fathers at our school, an ultra-runner, ran 128 miles around our school track in 24 hours to raise money for our P.E. program and raise awareness on the importance of health and fitness in our schools. He was inspired by another runner, Jason Harper, who before him ran 100 miles from El Dorado Hills to Sacramento to raise awareness and money for children at an underserved school in Sacramento so that they may be seen by a dentist and enrolled in health care. Believing every child has the right to an equal education, Jason realized that in order for children to have a chance to do well in school, basic needs of health care need to

be addressed and provided. Jason Harper established and founded a non-profit called, “Be Change.” He has touched countless lives. Including mine. This is where my story begins. I knew that in my own life I was blessed, living in a wonderful neighborhood and being able to provide for my children and having everything I wished. My life consisted of running and working out at the gym, serving on my children’s school PTC board, being a room mom in their classes, and shuttling them after school to their various sports. I was happy and grateful. But as a little time passed, I was starting to feel... Is this it? A fire ignited in me the day I saw that 100+ mile run at my children’s school. I wanted to run, really run. I also wanted to make a difference. I connected with Jason Harper and got involved with Be Change. Donating my time at the school he serves in Sacramento. I saw first hand the difference between my own children’s school and this school. I was endeared to these children in Sacramento. They were fun-loving, welcoming, and sweet. They touched my heart and I was learning first hand that every child deserves an equal education.

This spectacular adventure will take us on the road for 20 days as we run, laugh, cry, and serve kids that need us. We will take the attention, donations, and genuine compassion we gain along the way to make a difference at a special school in each of the 8 states that we travel through. At each school, we will host a 4k Fun Run, hold a Health Expo, and leave donations and food to lend a helping hand to the students and their families. We will leave behind the resources for the schools to have their own running clubs and health care providers in place to help keep these kids healthy so they can learn. Most importantly, we hope to leave a distinct sense of empowerment with as many kids as possible. The 8 ultra runners will run a marathon a day for 20 days straight…amazing…a clear message delivered to the kids…anything you set your mind to can be done. And what cannot be done by one...can be done together. Run It Forward has been called “Audacious activism...” and I am honored to be a part of it. I am just one “soccer mom” out to make a difference…with the help of many. Please support us and help us get off the ground and running! Visit us on FaceBook… just search “Run It Forward” with the Route 66 logo and “like” our page. There you can meet us all…the moms and the amazing athletes that will be testing their own personal limits to make a difference. And most importantly, please visit us at www.grouprev.com/ rif and make a donation, big or small, and be a part of something bigger than yourself. Please spread the word, share this article... and tell people about us! Help us spread the word and gain support through your school communities, your neighborhoods, churches, sport clubs, friends, and family. Erika Small, Run It Forward Director/Running Logistics esmallrif@gmail.com or www.grouprev.com/rif

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Gandhi

Jason Harper

 The story on page 44 is from across the country, but it is filled with inspiration and it does have a Searcy connection. Erika is my cousin. Great job with Running It Forward, Erika!

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All American Citizen

By Warren Watkins

SHS senior uses football for fun . . . and applying life skills.

Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. Sometimes you’re the guy who blindsides the quarterback, and sometimes you’re the guy who teaches another player to step up. he linebacker peered through his face mask at the offense as they came out of the huddle and lined up. Quickly assessing their formation, he shouted code words to his team and saw them take their places. It was third and 10, his team was down by six points, and he knew this was a crucial play that could turn the game around. As the play began, he blitzed from his position, running headlong into the opposing team’s backfield instead of waiting for the ball carrier to come toward him as usual. It was a daring move that could result in spectacular success if he tackled the quarterback, or dismal failure if a pass was completed over his head to a man he otherwise could have covered had he not rushed aggressively. Three steps into his move he could see that none of the defenders had reacted to his move. No one was blocking him. “That’s one of my most memorable moments ever,” said Chase Caple, a team captain with the Searcy High School football team. “No one knew I came through because I came from the outside. The quarterback had his back to me and never saw me coming.” Caple sacked the quarterback, tackling him yards behind the line, and in doing so made the next play fourth and 20. The gamble had paid off. Part of a group that has distinguished themselves as leaders on and off the field, both by action and reaction, Caple is one of the four team captains and has earned the respect of head football coach Tim Harper. The team is enjoying their best season in years and is seeing some success. “It’s my favorite sport,” said Caple, who wears number 28. “It’s a team effort. Everyone has their spot and, if anyone messes up, the whole play is messed up. And I love the excitement of it.” When on the field Caple commands the defense and as their leader must make the calls just before the play starts. As linebacker, he’s in a position known to contain the hardest hitters on the field. “I like leading people,” Caple said. “I make my calls according to certain ways they line up. I watch film during the week to analyze their team so I can know how they run stuff and I can be prepared Friday night.” Coach Harper says Caple, like many of the student athletes on

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the team, is “a fine young man.” “He works hard, and is always trying to stay positive,” Harper said. Off the field, Caple is very active in the youth group at First United Methodist Church. “I’m one of the older kids in our youth group,” Caple said. “I’m always there to lead the younger kids and those in junior high. I feel lead to be there for those kids to have someone look up to. If I was their age I’d like to have someone to look up to.” Caple says he has been privileged to have someone to look up to in his teen years.

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probably think of a leader as screaming and in control. I don’t think it’s that way.”

“He’s an older guy. He is 26, I think,” Caple said. “I was in junior high when we met. He’s always there for me and I could always talk to him even about problems I have in my life.” The future looks bright for Caple. “My dream is to play college football,” Caple said. “Anywhere. I want to get my school paid for with a scholarship.” Three schools, all in Arkansas, have expressed interest: Harding University in Caple’s hometown, the University of Central Arkansas in Conway and Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia. Caple went to the three schools’ football camps and hopes to make a highlight film to send to their coaches with the scholarship applications. Caple hopes to major in physical therapy. Asked about his theory of leadership, Caple replies from experience on the field and off. “Most people probably think of a leader as screaming and in control,” Caple said. “I don’t think it’s that way because I’m not in control of my team at all. If you can make a positive influence on someone, they’ll follow you. That’s how I look at leadership.” NOTE: This article was written prior to the end of the 2011/2012 high school football season. The Searcy High School Lions football team ended an exciting year with a 9-3 winning season overall.

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 Annie Behel and Kennedie Behel

I was watching a scene familiar in so many ways:

a little girl in a frilly pink outfit whose eyes had widened with excitement at the sight of a “puppy.” The timbre of her voice was musical, rising an octave higher as she asked if she could feed the dog a treat. Mutually fascinated, the dog stood transfixed at the squeaky tones coming from the shoes on the little girl’s feet as she danced closer. It sounded like his squeaky toy, but it was taller and much more active! As sweet and everyday as the setting seemed, I knew the differences. I was unable to see the little girl’s smile for the mask over her mouth and nose, but I could clearly see the loss of hair and the IV being pushed alongside her as she ignored everything but the dog. And Lulla Belle, an Australian Shepherd, had not just come to visit this one little girl and others like her at Arkansas Children’s Hospital, she was there to play and to work; it was part of her “job” that day in the Hematology Clinic. Steve Brackins worked in and around hospitals all his life, so after retirement he yearned to return to the medical field in some capacity. The desire to help those with medical needs felt like a calling. So, when Steve rescued Lulla Belle from The Missouri Australian Shepherd Rescue, he knew he wanted to have her 14 Your Hometown Magazine

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trained to become an Animal-Assisted Therapy dog if she had the right temperament. It didn’t take long to know that Lulla Belle was a good candidate for the training. Being certified gives the trainer and the animal the credentials needed before they may enter hospitals. Once a week, for six weeks, Steve and Lulla Belle attended Delta Society’s Pet Partners Team Training Course. Only after thorough training and evaluation will a dog and handler be certified, and recertification is necessary every two years. Both Steve and Lulla Belle’s roles were evaluated as to how well the dog accepts friendly strangers, accepts petting and walks through a crowd. It is team work. It is not only important that the animal knows how to interact in group and individual settings, but the handler must also know how to attend to the animal, lead and interact with the dog and with others. Steve and Lulla Belle actually flunked their first evaluation with Steve taking full blame. “I let go of her leash,” Steve says. A few months later, leash firmly in hand, the pair passed with flying colors and were ready to make weekly visits to do what they could to help in the healing process. With four-year-old Lulla Belle eagerly by Steve’s side, the pair makes regular visits (usually about 1 hour per visit) to River Oaks to see elderly patients, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, the Arkansas State Hospital and UAMS. (continued)

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When visiting River Oaks, Lulla Belle gets to be more interactive with her more elderly “patients.” For instance, some sessions find the seniors holding a hula hoop as Lulla Belle jumps through. Visits at Arkansas Children’s Hospital are, understandably, more regimented. Each child that pets Lulla Belle must have a parent sign a consent form, and, while Steve and Lulla Belle casually make their way through the clinic and into the playroom where several children get to give a treat to Lulla Belle, watch her do tricks and just slowly pet her, one-on-one visits for 30 – 45 minutes in children’s private rooms are also prescribed by doctors from time to time. Esther Pipkin, the Child Life Specialist who began the TAILS (Therapeutic Animal Interventions Lift Spirits) Program at ACH, stresses the use of the term “Animal” rather than “Pet” when referring to Therapy to avoid the confusion over which animals are allowed into the hospital. After all, while many people have pets, only trained, certified animals are allowed into the TAILS program. Doing so allows for a safe environment with the correct measure of calmness needed for the patients’ well-being. And, the effects Lulla Belle and other breeds have on patients are certainly measurable. According to Pipkin, research shows that “animal assisted therapy promotes normalization for the patients while they are in the hospital. Seventy-five percent of patients have dogs in their own homes,” so bringing in animals into what might otherwise be a sterile hospital setting provides a welcome distraction that, in turn, reduces the children’s anxiety. Studies conducted on sickle cell patients even suggested lower pain scores after a therapy session with one of the animals. Anything that lowers one’s blood pressure and speeds recovery is well worth attempting and that is what the animals “give” when they enter a room.

Like her fellow “co-workers,” Lulla Belle has her own card to be collected by patients, much like baseball cards. The cards give a short bio on each animal and the walls of the clinic have a colorful collage from the numerous certified dogs in the TAILS Program. The reverse side of Lulla Belle’s card reads: Dog’s full name: Lulla Belle Breed: Australian Shepherd Date of birth: October 17, 2007 Hometown: Searcy, AR Primary duty at ACH: Playroom, clinic and bedsides Year started in TAILS program: 2010 Why did you want your dog to be an AAT dog? She loves it, I love it and it makes kids smile. What does your dog like most about coming to ACH? The love and affection that the kids give her. Regardless of the age of the patient Lulla Belle and Steve see, they leave the facility knowing they made someone smile. Just seeing Lulla Belle gives those patients laughter, something to love and a period of time to focus on something outside the realities of their hospital confinement. One visit in particular has stayed with Steve long after he and Lulla Belle left ACH. A physician had ordered animal therapy for a four-year-old who had cardiovascular issues and was going blind. The bedside visit had Lulla Belle and the child playing a tug of war, prompting Steve to marvel at the strength of the child whose ailments made such interaction unlikely. He watched as small, dimming eyes worked to focus on the interplay at hand. When their time with the patient was over, the hospital personnel asked the youngster, “How are you?” The child replied exuberantly, “I feel GOOD!” And so did Steve and Lula Belle.

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Leigh Anne Seger enjoyed her day with an outfit from Hays designed by Kaila Hamm. April of Salon Milan pampered Leigh Anne with a new hairstyle, and The Cosmetic Studio provided new makeup. Many thanks for the special photography courtesy of Candace Skarda!

Before

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Makeup by

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The Cosmetic Studio Hair by April of

Salon Milan Christine Locke Makeover Coordinator

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Outfit designed by Kaila Hamm from

Hays

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

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Photography by

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501-281-6297 candaceskarda@photographer.net Facebook:Candace Skarda-Photography CandaceSkardaPhotography.blogspot.com

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Many thanks to Searcy First Assembly of God WMS for 18 handmade fleece blankets for Hope Cottage!

Thank you Diane Moeler for your donation to Hope Cottage.

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in Searcy

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Story by Janet Morris • Photography by Candace Skarda Photography

The House of Janet Morris AVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAVAV Don’t rely on the navigation skills of your GPS to direct your path to “6th and Plum” (six miles out and plum in the sticks, as my Grandpa Sanders used to say). This home literally sits in the middle of an open field of soybeans, surrounded by a running creek, catfish ponds, and wildlife. It is not unusual to be greeted by deer, bluebirds, and, on special occasion, a bold turkey from the window of my breakfast nook. The kitchen has a coffee theme, and a basket of gourmet coffee collections greets me each morning, awaiting my choice of cinnamon hazelnut cream, caramel truffle, white chocolate macadamia nut, or Italian roast. A little luxury I allow myself. Bar stools behind an extended counter are handy for early morning reading, quick snacks, or that last cup of coffee before beginning my day. Tasteful decorating doesn’t need to be expensive – just heart felt. Some of my curtains were purchased at a dollar store, and contrasting colors were used to add a bit of personality. My entire home, from beds to dressers to tables to sofas and a china cabinet, was furnished for about three thousand dollars using local furniture stores. One of the joys of having a warm, inviting home is hosting. Thanksgiving is usually celebrated at my home, where my family gathers in my African-themed dining room. As a missionary to Swaziland, Africa, the number one AIDS capital of the world, I understand just how much I have to be thankful for. I have seen, first-hand, people sitting on cardboard boxes outside their tiny mud home, dying of AIDS – a disease that wipes out entire families, including innocent children.

Eating in my African decorated dining room also regenerates the hope I have for Swaziland, a tiny country smaller than the state of New Jersey. This summer I plan to make my third trip there, where we have full time missionaries stationed. Christian Swaziland natives with leadership skills are brought from their villages to the Assembly of God college there in Swaziland. After earning their degree, they are transplanted back into villages as pastors, where they teach the people about God's love, helping them to develop new life styles and skills so they may feed and cloth themselves. My church is responsible for assisting in building both churches and schools in the rural areas of Swaziland, where poverty stricken communities would have no hope for an education other wise. If you would like to learn more about our missionary work, or support this ministry, please call Faith Assembly at 501-268-6220 or visit our facebook page. Some of my Swaziland art work, including a mask of their king, was purchased at the Golden Mile, a flea market setting where local craftsmen and women gather to sell their handmade pieces in order to provide food and shelter for their families. As a counselor specializing in crisis intervention, my work challenges me to face chaotic events at times. I aspire to balance the work I love with an atmosphere of peace in my home. Classical music and a yoga mat are only a finger tip away. My bedroom and bathroom walls are painted a soft blue, accessorized with colors of gold, inviting me to enjoy a warm bubble bath or bundle up with a book on my

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bed. Wrapping up with a special quilt made by the lovely ladies of my church always gives me special comfort. These ladies also minister to the pastors of Swaziland by supplying homemade quilts. In conclusion, decades of disability and poverty deceived me into thinking I could never build my own house. But that was simply a season – though long, drawn out, and trying it was. I now own a modest but beautiful three bedroom, two bathroom home of comfort. The honesty and overall integrity of my builder, Mr. Danny Hayes, is much appreciated. He and my father made this adventure possible for me. Raised by conservative Christian parents who taught me to always live below my means, I continue to embrace, and live my life by, those standards. For years I lived in a single wide trailer and, though no one was interested in featuring that home in a magazine, it was just as much a peaceful home to me as the home I have now. Home is what you make it, whether it’s a one bedroom apartment, dorm, camper, castle, or a missionary home in Africa. I don’t spend a lot on my household accessories. I bargain shop at yard sales and spend my money on the intangible things – like seeing a face light up in Africa over a piece of cosmetic jewelry, bags of dried beans and rice, or a care package for a school child. After all, the key to receiving much is giving much, without expecting anything in return. It’s a biblical principle I live by, and it works. I challenge you to try it!

 The bedroom and bathroom walls are painted a soft blue, accessorized with colors of gold.

Online Extra Read Janet Morris’ story on SearcyLiving.com!

www.SearcyLiving.com

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 “Eating in my African decorated dining room regenerates the hope for Swaziland, a tiny country smaller than the state of New Jersey.”

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“Tasteful decorating doesn’t need to be expensive – just heart felt.”

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By Laura Bolding n April 11, 2011, when Bennett and his brothers, Brock and Blake, got off the bus after school, Brock told me that one of the teachers had asked him, “Did you know Bennett has yellow eyes?” I stood there thinking to myself, “Yeah, right.” So, Bennett came slowly up the diveway, dragging his backpack on the ground. He got up the stairs to the porch and I made him look at me, then look to the right and to the left. Much to my dismay they were very, very yellow! That morning he had complained that his stomach hurt and that he was tired, but nothing out of the ordinary seemed to be wrong. He definitely did not have yellow eyes. So, the first thing I thought of after looking at his eyes was possible liver problems, but I wasn’t sure. I called a friend of mine here in Alpena, who is an RN. I told her about him and she said to take him to the doctor, and if they couldn’t do some blood work that day to go on to the ER. I gathered the boys up and we went to Harrison to an emergency care clinic. They did a urine test and sent us to the hospital there in Harrison to have blood work done. They called about an hour later with the news that his liver enzymes were very high and he needed to see a Pediatrician the next day. To make a long story short, we had only lived in Alpena a short time and didn’t have a doctor for the boys as of yet. We met with a Pediatrician in Harrison, Dr. Sharron Leslie, the next morning. She wanted to do some more lab work and asked us if we knew a specialist of any kind in Little Rock at Children’s Hospital. Praise the Lord, we had a Gastrointestinal doctor we had used for Bennett’s stomach ulcers in the past. She contacted him and he ended up calling us at home that night. (His name is Dr. Stephen Fiedorek.) The next day, on the 13th, Dr. Fiedorek called and asked us to bring Bennett to Little Rock. He wanted to see what he looked like, and said we might have to stay one or two nights, then would hopefully get to go back home. I got our clothes together, packing one change of clothes for me and two 30 Your Hometown Magazine

for Bennett. My husband (Todd) packed several for himself and tried to get me to pack some more for myself “just in case” we had to stay longer, but I refused to believe we wouldn’t be back home in a day or two. We met my in-laws in Clinton and left Blake with them, then they went to our house in Alpena to wait for Brock after school and to keep the boys at our house until we got back. We kissed Blake goodbye, little knowing that I wouldn’t get to see his sweet face again until Mother’s Day in May. We got to Baptist Hospital on Springhill in North Little Rock at about 2:30 p.m. and got admitted in to a room. Bennett had to have an ultrasound and more blood work. They had trouble drawing blood, and could not get an I.V. in. Dr. Fiedorek came to the hopital a couple of hours later and asked Todd and I to go down to the waiting room to talk, asking a nurse to sit with Bennett. He began to tell us that Bennett had a serious liver problem. He said his liver enzymes were around Bennett & Laura 3,500 or so, I said, “Is that bad?” He said, “Yes, they are usually under 65.” He then began to tell us he wanted to move him to Children’s and we agreed that whatever he felt Bennett needed, we wanted to do, that we trusted him completely. He then told us we were looking at a possible liver transplant. Todd and I looked at each other and literally began to fall apart! He told us there was a slight chance his condition could reverse itself, but that this was very serious! He said there was no medication he could give Bennett, that God was our only answer and to wait on some tests for possible answers. He asked us if he could pray with us, and we did right then. I asked him, “Are you telling us he is dying?” He said, “Yes, he could die,” but that he was going to do everything possible to care for Bennett. We went to Children’s after that, and had tests that night and the next day. Dr. Fiedorek came in to see us on Friday, the 15th, and said we had waited enough, he was gonna try to fly us to a hospital that day that could do a transplant if needed. He took our insurance card

and ran with it, telling us he wanted us to go to Nebraska. I stood there thinking, “What’s in Nebraska?” We owe so many thanks to Dr. Fiedorek. Because of his care, Bennett is alive today. He sent us to the right place at the right time! Within hours, we were on a medical flight to Omaha, Nebaraska. Bennett was admitted into PICU and began more testing. The next day members of the Transplant team came in to talk to us and to meet Bennett. They told us that Bennett’s condition was very rare, that they only saw this once every two or three years. They also told us that 50% of the time they don’t even know what causes a perfectly healthy child to be “slammed” into acute liver failure like his. We had to sit down that day and talk to the Transplant Coordinators. They explained what we could expect if he ended up having to be put on the transplant waiting list and how he would be listed, then they proceeded to talk about “living donors.” I was not aware you could donate part of your liver. The next few days led to more tests, and frozen platelet transfusions. We grew weary, but our faith in Jesus Christ grew stronger moment by moment! On the 20th, we were told that Bennett was being put on the Transplant List and that they wanted to do a work up on one of the parents,

“ How precious are our friends that God has blessed us with! We want to thank all of White County for their love and support! ” in case there was not a liver to be found for Bennett. They told us his condition was worsening and they wanted to do a transplant on Friday, the 22nd, because they did not think he could wait any longer. They started working Todd up as a “living donor” first, but after his tests that day, they said he was not a match for Bennett. They wanted to work me up next. So I went that evening and the next day for tests. Before I was finished with my tests, the team had told Todd that Bennett and I were a “perfect match,” and they scheduled us for surgery the next morning at 5:30 a.m. Todd’s parents, Benny and Linda Bolding, took our other two boys to my parents, Bill and Shirley Stephenson in Searcy, and then headed to Nebraska. They got there that evening, and the next morning we went into surgery. Our surgeries and healing process was truly blessed by the grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I was released from the hospital 6 days later, and Bennett was released on the 2nd of May. We stayed in a hotel there in the Nebraska Medical Center until June 10th. On May 6th, one of my best childhood friends, Susan Cofer Fell, put a carnival benefit together for Bennett and our family. She also had wristbands that said “Prayers for Bennett” on them that she sold as donations for our extra expenses while we were away. Through all of our friends' and Susan’s help, we were able to “survive” while in Nebraska and take care of expenses for Bennett and our family. How precious are our friends that God has blessed us with! We want to thank all of White County for their love and support! Bennett’s old liver had DNA strands of Parvo B19, which caused his liver failure and can lead to bone marrow problems also. Parvo B19 is associated with Fifth’s Disease in children. Bennett has his own page on FaceBook: “Bennett's Page.” Thanks to our friend Stephanie Parish for starting that up for us. NOTE FROM SLM STAFF: In checking Bennett's Page on Facebook, we see that Bennett's platelet count has been down and that he is scheduled for a Bone Marrow Biopsy soon. Please continue to pray for Bennett and this family, that God's healing hand will prevail. SearcyLiving.com 31

We the People <<<<<<< Student Artists >>>>>>>

Sidney Deener Elementary congratulates Landon Crawford for being our November Student Artist. Landon is in 1st grade and is in Mrs. JoAnn Blakely’s class.

Sidney Deener Elementary congratulates Mara Taylor for being our December Student Artist. Mara is in 1st grade and is in Mrs. Kay Lawson’s class.

Sidney Deener Elementary congratulates Wesley McSpadden for being the January 2012 Student Artist. Wesley is in 3rd grade and is in Mrs. Machelle VanReenen’s class.

Find Searcy Living on Facebook! Photos • Promotions • Events & More! 32 Your Hometown Magazine

Surprise Dedication To Honor Floyd Daniel Harding University’s Senior Vice President of University Advancement Floyd Daniel stands with his wife Juanita in front of the plaque that was placed outside the classroom dedicated to him in the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Business Building. Photo by Jeff Montgomery, director of photographic services.

Pictured: Detective Keith Hays receives award from Chief Kyle Osborne.

Detective Keith Hays was chosen as the 2011 Officer of the Year. Hays joined the Searcy Police Department in October of 2007. He grew up in Pleasant Plains and attended Pleasant Plains High School. He graduated from ASU-Beebe with an Associate’s Degree. Before becoming a police officer, Hays worked at the Eaton Corporation for 12 years and worked in real estate for seven years. Hays credited his success in the Criminal Investigative Division to his coworkers and his training. Officer Terry Blanton earned the Top Gun title. The Top Gun award is given to the officer with the highest score in the year’s firearms qualification shoots. Michelle Jobe earned a pin for 20 years of service at the Searcy Police Department. Corporal Steve Spurlock received a pin for 10 years of service. Lanelle Mendenhall, Krissi Harden, Holly Money, Karen House and Officers Jeremy Baldwin, Rachel Black, and Greg Mote earned pins for five years of service. SearcyLiving.com 33

We the People Officer of the Month

The Searcy Police Department chose Officer Chad Thornton as Officer of the Month recently. Chad Thornton is a Patrolman for the Searcy Police Department. He has been in law enforcement since January of 2010. Thornton is from Pearl, Mississippi. His favorite part about working as an officer is knowing that people in this community are safer because of the work the Searcy Police Department does. Thornton also enjoys helping out with community events. He recently visited two preschools during their community helpers segments and helped hand out candy at Searcy’s Trick or Treat on the Square. Searcy’s Chief of Police, Kyle Osborne said, “Officer Chad Thornton is consistently a top officer in our department. Thornton takes pride in his role of protecting this community and it shows.”

Four Generations Front: Jayne Foster, 3 1/2 year old Shelby Smith, Julie Smith Back: 80 years young Joyce Jaynes and cancer survivor Teresa McLeod

Little Miss Holiday of Lights Queen Kylee Free, 8 month old daughter of Hunter and Leah Free of Searcy, rode in Searcy's Holiday of Lights Parade on December 3, 2011.

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Searcy High School All-Region Choir Row One: Becca Shaw, Catherine Duncan, Jennah Denney, Alana Niederbrach, Rachel McCready, Laurel Fitts, Anna Barnes, Tyler Touchet, Lawrence Maizon, Cole Sanders, Kelly McKenzie, Mary Carr Row Two: Jacob Stewart, Kelsea Melville, Emily Crawford, Marlee Bennett, Paige Duncan, Allie Wilbourn, Kristen Stewart, Austin Shaw, Philip Baird, Taylor Touchet, Molly Wheat, Lizzie Bailey, Kenna Daggett, Allisyn Stroupe, Travis Cloutier Row Three: Kennedy Turley, Jordan Feltrop, Monica Griffin, Hannah Stewart, Katherine Jimerson, Hal Niederbrach, Neale Zeringue, Tyler Norris, Jordan McGrath, Jordan Ladyman, Morgan Pruitt, Ashley McCord, Kara Treadwell, Aj Maizon, Sadie Henson Not Pictured: Victoria Pulliam, Courtney Mowdy, Michel Hamby, Crystal Neill, Kyle Fritter, Kaleigh Ramey, Adelyn Havens, Jessica Bryant, Carissa Snow, Maegan Franklin, Charity Barnes, Yuli Sosa, Felicia Van Winkle

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Financial Focus with Jeff Kernodle & Ben Katon Warm Glow From Charitable Giving Also Reduces Tax Burden

Americans have a charitable streak. In fact, estimates place the percentage of American households making charitable donations each year at 70-80%. Research suggests that giving is good for you, too. Donors experience a measurable kind of warm glow or “helpers’ high” from giving to a good cause, studies show. Even if feeling good is not a motive for charitable giving, it sure is a plus to reap the tax benefits of giving. So it is worth considering the benefits of giving in the most tax-efficient ways, including making gifts of cash and appreciated securities or establishing donor-advised funds and family foundations. Gifts of appreciated securities are a popular way to benefit a favorite charity while sheltering the gains from taxes. By giving this way, the donor is allowing the charity to put to work 100% of the market value of the long-term appreciated securities, thus avoiding paying tax on the “built-in” capital gain. Let’s say you own an appreciated position of GE, now worth $10,000, acquired for $2,000. Sell the stock and you would be subject to capital gains tax on the $8,000 realized gain – a $1,200 tax bill. If you donate the stock instead, you can deduct the full amount as a charitable gift. For an individual who itemizes deductions and whose marginal tax bracket is 33%, the savings of $3,333 in federal taxes – added to the $1,200 in capital gains savings – brings to $4,533 the tax savings for making your gift in stock. A cash gift would reduce taxable income by $10,000, thus saving $3,333 in income tax. Actual tax benefits will vary depending on the details of your overall income tax situation, the type of property contributed, and the type of organization receiving your gift.

In addition to tax benefits, donors often have additional reasons for choosing to give stock. These might include lessening a concentrated position in a particular stock or preserving available cash for other needs. Those who wish to facilitate significant philanthropy may establish tax-favored vehicles such as donor-advised funds or family foundations. Many donors are discovering the benefits of donor-advised funds available through financial services companies and community foundations. A donor-advised fund is an irrevocable, tax-deductible contribution of assets to a charity. At any time thereafter you can recommend grant distributions to qualified charitable organizations. The convenience of donating a single block of securities that can benefit multiple charities makes the donor-advised fund a popular choice. Wealthy families looking to instill their family’s values and create a legacy of giving for their children and grandchildren often choose to establish their own private or family foundations. These foundations provide a vehicle or focus within the family to work towards common social goals and promote giving to future generations, permitting young and old to collaborate on these topics. The cost to establish and administer a family foundation can be prohibitive for all but the most committed donors. In addition to setup costs, foundations must meet a required minimum payout each year and provide access to information, complete reporting and public disclosures that may prove a burdensome counterweight to other charitable vehicles. Donors should consult their tax advisors to seek a more thorough evaluation of one charitable vehicle over another, particularly in view of the donor’s own circumstances. The fourth quarter is a good time to consider the best way to give in view of your plans and objectives. You can plan ahead by putting funding vehicles in place to facilitate year-end giving. When it comes to tax-wise giving, who knows? It might feel better than you think. # # # This article was written by Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Jeff Kernodle and Ben Katon in Searcy at 501-279-0101. Wells Fargo Advisors does not render legal, accounting, or tax advice. Be sure to consult with your own tax and legal advisors before taking any action that may have tax consequences. Trust services available through banking and trust affiliates of Wells Fargo Advisors. Investments in securities and insurance products are: NOT FDICINSURED/NOT BANK-GUARANTEED/MAY LOSE VALUE Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN), Member SIPC. Kernodle & Katon Asset Management Group is a separate entity from WFAFN.

About the Writers Kernodle & Katon Asset Management Group, a member of the Wells Fargo Financial Network, LLC in Searcy is located at 515 South Main Street. For more information on this and other articles, please call Jeff at 501-279-0101 36 Your Hometown Magazine

SearcyLiving.com 37

Do It Yourself! This is a fun and inexpensive project for you or the entire family! It can be customized for any room or area!

with Amanda Lutrell

Supplies Needed: Assortment of picture frames Spray paint (available at your favorite hardware store) Scrapbook paper/decorative felt Poster board Glue Scissors Decorative objects (Buttons, ribbons, flowers, stickers, stamps, etc. The skyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the limit!) Note: Different sizes, shapes, and styles of frames add to the interest and uniqueness of the project. These were all found at yard sales and dollar stores.

Remove the back and glass from the picture frames and spray paint frames. I used the same color on each frame for a more uniform look.

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To add stability to your scrapbook paper or felt, glue to a piece of poster board. After drying, cut out. After cutting your paper to size, put in the frame of choice and replace the back but leave off the glass.

Use a variety of decorative objects to decorate the pictures, fitting your taste and decor. Make each picture random, unique, and fun!

Decide how the collage will work best on your wall and hang.

You can make this project match any decor. We chose to tie together this whimsical child's room to give it the finishing touch it needed.

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40 Your Hometown Magazine

hrough a cloud of anesthesia the 16-year-old junior looked into her doctor’s face as he leaned over the operating table. She had just come through the first of what would be four major surgeries after being injured in a car wreck on August 17th and had just regained consciousness after the operation. One question was on Emily Burley’s mind. “Will I be able to march in the band this year?” she asked. Sadly, the doctor shook his head “no.” Sometimes the melody of life isn’t what you expect. A trombone player and flag line member, Emily has seen her life enriched by music; but the wreck, which also injured two other band members, altered her plans for her junior year at Searcy High School like a scratched CD skipping in a car stereo. On their way to church that evening, the trio had hit another car almost head-on, with severe damage to Emily’s side of the vehicle. After the wreck, firefighters worked for an hour and a half to free Emily, using the “Jaws of Life” extrication tools three times. Emily, who suffered 47 breaks in the bones of the lower half of her body, was taken by helicopter to Arkansas Children’s Hospital and was later hospitalized at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, both in Little Rock. Metal rods and pins were placed in the bones of her legs and ankles and she is confined to a wheelchair . . . for now. “I asked the doctor if I could march next year and he said, ‘When you do, tell us the date and we’ll come watch,’” Emily said. SHS Band Director Tony Luzzi was shocked by the accident, as were the other members of the marching band. “Emily is a wonderful young lady and was even before the wreck,” Luzzi said. “She’s always super happy all the time. I don’t think I’ve ever seen her not smiling. We’re

 Emily and two other band members were injured in a car wreck on the way to church.

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SHS band members

fortunate to have her in our band and get to see her every day.” Emily’s love for music – and the band – has been a positive influence and is helping her through the grueling healing and rehabilitation process. “I’ve always loved music,” Emily said, describing how she joined the band in the sixth grade, the earliest it was offered. “Music plays a huge role in my life. I’m constantly listening to music. Music has given me joy in life and something to connect to.” When in the car, she often listens to Christian music on “Air One” at 101.5 unless she’s with her dad and they listen to classic rock. Emily says her tastes are eclectic and she’s liable to listen to any style of music. But joining the band has been a symphony of relationships for her. “Band has given me a second family,” Emily said.

Luzzi says the SHS band is known to be more than just a forum for music education. “We have a really tight-knit group,” Luzzi said. “I tell the kids a lot, ‘You have to take care of each other.’ We’re like a family and families stick together and take care of each other. When one hurts, we’re all hurting. We pull through it like any family would.” Emily is using the band as a support group for motivation during the biggest challenge of her life, something other students have told Luzzi they experienced, too. “Through the years, kids visit with us or will write a short thank you note at the end of their time with us,” Luzzi said. “One in particular said there were days they would come into band and, whatever was going on in their life, they would spend an hour with us and it helped them. It allows them to escape from whatever might be bothering them on the outside. It is an emotional experience. Music helps us through the hard times and elates us when we’re happy.” And it’s not just Emily’s life that is being enhanced. The marching band is massive this year with a record 194 members – up from 112 in Luzzi’s first year – and consistently gets First

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SHS Band Director Tony Luzzi

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 Emily suffered 47 breaks in the bones of the lower half of her body.

 Emily playing the trombone.

Cindy Burrow directs the band.

Division and Superior ratings in competitions. “We have been fortunate to just keep hanging on to great kids,” Luzzi said. “Our kids want to work hard and want to be a part of something that’s successful. With that success, they want to continue doing great things and right things. Through the years it’s become something we just do. It’s something we expect and the kids expect too, and I guess you could say it feeds off itself. They don’t expect anything less than excellence.” Emily is keeping up with her studies through the school’s homebound program but under the Friday night lights she struggled on the sidelines. “It’s been really, really rough,” Emily said of her fight to overcome the injuries. At halftime of this year’s Homecoming game, Emily watched the band from her wheelchair on the track in front of the band section. “It was really difficult for me because I was thinking, ‘I should be out there,’” Emily said. Her experience has given her insight. “There are going to be hard times in life, but they can be journeys you can really learn from,” Emily said. She knows that, because of the extent of her injuries, reaching her goal of participating in the marching band during her senior year will be difficult, but Luzzi said her “band family” believes in her. “She has always been a strong-willed young lady,” Luzzi said. “I don’t think anything is out of her grasp.” Those who know Emily do not doubt her resolve and expect to see her on the football field entertaining the Lion family again. “It’s given me a goal to work for,” Emily said.

 Emily continues to heal. 42 Your Hometown Magazine

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be addressed and provided. Jason Harper established and founded a non-profit called, “Be Change.” He has touched countless lives. Including mine. This is where my story begins. I knew that in my own life I was blessed, living in a wonderful neighborhood and being able to provide for my children and having everything I wished. My life consisted of running and working out at the gym, serving on my children’s school PTC board, being a room mom in their classes, and shuttling them after school to their various sports. I was happy and grateful. But as a little time passed, I was starting to feel... Is this it? A fire ignited in me the day I saw that 100+ mile run at my children’s school. I wanted to run, really run. I also wanted to make a difference. I connected with Jason Harper and got involved with Be Change. Donating my time at the school he serves in Sacramento. I saw first hand the difference between my own children’s school and this school. I was endeared to these children in Sacramento. They were funloving, welcoming, and sweet. They touched my heart and I was learning first hand that every child deserves an equal education.

This spectacular adventure will take us on the road for 20 days as we run, laugh, cry, and serve kids that need us. We will take the attention, donations, and genuine compassion we gain along the way to make a difference at a special school in each of the 8 states that we travel through. At each school, we will host a 4k Fun Run, hold a Health Expo, and leave donations and food to lend a helping hand to the students and their families. We will leave behind the resources for the schools to have their own running clubs and health care providers in place to help keep these kids healthy so they can learn. Most importantly, we hope to leave a distinct sense of empowerment with as many kids as possible. The 8 ultra runners will run a marathon a day for 20 days straight…amazing…a clear message delivered to the kids…anything you set your mind to can be done. And what cannot be done by one...can be done together. Run It Forward has been called “Audacious activism...” and I am honored to be a part of it. I am just one “soccer mom” out to make a difference…with the help of many. Please support us and help us get off the ground and running! Visit us on Facebook…just search “Run It Forward” with the Route 66 logo and “like” our page. There you can meet us all… the moms and the amazing athletes that will be testing their own personal limits to make a difference. And most importantly, please visit us at www.grouprev.com/rif and make a donation, big or small, and be a part of something bigger than yourself. Please spread the word, share this article... and tell people about us! Help us spread the word and gain support through your school communities, your neighborhoods, churches, sport clubs, friends, and family. Erika Small, Run It Forward Director/Running Logistics esmallrif@gmail.com or www.grouprev.com/rif

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Gandhi

Jason Harper

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by dan newsom

Kirk Manor

Widow Of White County Single Parent Scholarship Fund, Inc., Board Member Serves In Memory Of Her Husband

n John Lennon’s post-Beatle song, “Beautiful Boy,” there is a line that goes like this, “Life is what happens while you’re busy making other plans.” Bonnie Manor knows the truth of this statement all too well. Bonnie and her husband, Kirk, had things all planned out. Kirk was nearing retirement in his position with Winrock International. Bonnie was working part time at Harding University. The plan was for Kirk to transition into retirement and maybe work part time and for Bonnie to transition into a full time position. Their two sons, Caleb and Joshua, were ages 11 and 13 at the time. The plan was for them to attend Harding University after completing their high school education at Harding Academy. Everything was all planned out and they were working their plan. But, to paraphrase John Lennon, “life happened” while they were busy making their plans. On April 26, 2011, Kirk suffered a massive heart attack and passed away. Suddenly, Bonnie was a single mom and was facing the task of raising two teenage boys alone. Needless to say, the next few months were filled with grieving, planning, and transition. Bonnie knew that she needed to find full time employment for insurance purposes. She knew she needed to find help for Caleb and Joshua in dealing with their father’s sudden death. She knew that she wanted to find a way to honor Kirk’s memory. Bonnie has seen God’s help in accomplishing these goals. She recently began working full time as Administrative Assistant in the Art Department at Harding University. With this position, she now has health insurance for herself and her two sons. She found counseling help for Caleb and Joshua through the College Church of Church, which her family attends. Bonnie also found a way to honor Kirk’s memory. In the summer of 2010, I made a presentation to the Searcy Rotary Club. Present that day was Searcy Rotarian, Kirk Manor. After the presentation, Kirk approached me about his interest in the White County Single Parent Scholarship Fund, Inc., and about how he could get involved. He indicated that he would be interested in serving on our board. I visited with Kirk several times and briefed him on the work of the WCSPSF, Inc., and the responsibilities of being a board member. The WCSPSF, Inc., funds scholarships to White County single parents of minor children who are pursuing post-secondary education in order to find skilled employment. There are currently over 2,000 single parent families in White County, with 46% of those families living at or below poverty level. WCSPSF, Inc., provides hope to these families through 46 Your Hometown Magazine

education. With an education and a skilled job, single parents can better provide for themselves and their children. This will encourage the children to complete their education as well. The goal is to break the cycle of poverty that exists in single parent families. This year, WCSPSF, Inc., awarded 46 scholarships to White County single parents with a total value of $27,825. Since the organization began in 1999, WCSPSF, Inc., has awarded 346 scholarships with a total value of $169,200. Kirk was very impressed with the work of WCSPF, Inc., and became a board member. One of his first assignments was to work with me at a booth for the annual Day of Caring. Kirk developed a real passion for WCSPSF, Inc., and became a very active and valuable board member. He attended every board meeting unless he was out of town on business. He participated in every event we scheduled. His financial and investment advice was extremely valuable. Kirk was known for bringing a delicious dish called baked brie to our Scholar/Donor receptions and to our annual Bunko Bash fundraisers. Everyone always looked forward to the baked brie! Upon Kirk’s death, Bonnie directed that any memorials be made to the WCSPSF, Inc. Enough money was collected so that two complete scholarships will be awarded in his name for the Spring 2012 semester. Bonnie and the family will be present at the Spring 2012 Scholar/Donor Reception and make the presentations to the two Kirk Manor Scholars. “Life is what happens while you’re busy making other plans.” Just ask Bonnie. For more information about or to make a donation to the White County Single Parent Scholarship Fund, Inc., go to our website, www.aspsf.org/county_white.html

Dan Newsom, Executive Director White County Single Parent Scholarship Fund, Inc. Box 8325 • Searcy, AR 72145 fabfour64@sbcglobal.net 501-230-2414

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by D.P. Diffine, Ph.D.

, I told our college sophomore son, “America is a privileged nation.” He countered, “I disagree.” And I rejoined, “Son, that’s the privilege!” Since then, and in our own lifetime, our country has seen some dark days and yet some very bright hours. We’ve learned a lot about ourselves. It turns out that we don’t just live in America, but rather America also lives in us: “… And crown thy good with brotherhood...” And yet, we Christians are strangers and sojourners on this earth. Aren’t we but passing through? Not one of us is staying. We look to the city whose builder is God. Our citizenship is in Heaven. We also have earthly responsibilities -- duties to each other and to Caesar, as well as to God. Governments were ordained by God. Religion provides moral values that can make a country great. Government can provide the climate and protections that make greatness possible and sustainable. The Scriptures (e.g., Romans 13) certainly hint that, in clashes between good and evil on this earth, duly constituted governments are the vehicle through which to right the wrong done to the innocent public. And so it was, for example, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, an Armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, was declared between the Allied nations and Germany in the First World War, then known as “the Great War” (for people couldn’t imagine a worse war). Today, and on each November 11th, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls, an official wreath-laying ceremony is held at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, while other celebrations are also held in the states. Although Thanksgiving is a day when we pause to give thanks for the things we have, days that honor our veterans are when we pause to give thanks for the people who fought for the things we have. So, let’s not forget. Former President Ronald Reagan’s presentation at a Veteran’s Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery on November 11, 1985, says it all: “It is, in a way, an odd thing to honor those who died in defense of our country, in defense of us, in wars far away. The imagination plays a trick. We see these soldiers in our mind as old and wise. We see them as something like the Founding Fathers, grave and gray haired. But most of them were boys when they died, and they gave up two lives -- the one they were living and the one they would have lived. When they died, they gave up their chance to be 50 Your Hometown Magazine

husbands and fathers and grandfathers. They gave up their chance to be revered old men. They gave up everything for their country, for us. And all we can do is remember.” Days that honor our veterans help focus attention on the important purpose: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good and mutual goodwill and understanding between nations. And just who are the brave men and women who serve and protect America? Some volunteered; others were drafted. They all learned how to go, and to fight, and to win. Presently, there are 23 million living military veterans in the U.S. Our nation’s service men and women come from all walks of life. They are parents, grandparents, uncles, aunts, brothers, sisters, spouses, nephews and nieces, and children. They are friends, neighbors and coworkers, and an extraordinary part of their communities. Twenty percent of our Harding University College of Business Administration faculty, for example, are veterans. They have ordinary names like Bob, Mark, Don, George, and Steve. Are American citizens becoming timid and apologetic about the “Stars and Stripes?” Hear the words of Mr. Alan Grant, former President of the American Farm Bureau Federation, and guest speaker at Harding University’s American Studies Institute some years back: “When I was a little boy, very small, my father and I were watching a parade. My father was an immigrant to this country, and there was some marching and flags going by and I looked over at my dad and I said, ‘Daddy, why are you crying?’ And he said to me, ‘You’re too young to fully understand.’ But he also said, ‘Remember that you asked the question, and think about it in later years when you’re older and can think about it -- remember that when you are asked the question, ‘Daddy, why are you crying?’ -- your flag was going by.’” Although we Americans often have our differences (especially during election seasons), we still join together in times of crises. Judge Felix Frankfurter provided the clarity we need: “Democracy is always a beckoning goal, not a safe harbor. For freedom is an unremitting endeavor, never a final achievement. That is why no office in the land is more important than that of being a citizen.”

For all who served, or who now serve, we can’t thank you enough. And veterans, whenever your candle flickers a little (and you long for more R&R in life), dig down in that file of military service papers, past the DD 214 Discharge Orders (past the faded photos of a slimmer, more fit you), and you will surely find this:

Certificate of Appreciation for Service in the Armed Forces of the United States I extend to you my personal thanks and the sincere appreciation of a grateful nation for your contribution of honorable service to our country. You have helped maintain the security of the nation during a critical time in its history with a devotion to duty and a spirit of sacrifice in keeping with the proud tradition of the military service. I trust that in the coming years you will maintain an active interest in the Armed Forces and the purpose for which you served. My best wishes to you for happiness and success in the future.

Signed Commander in Chief

Is this a great country or what?! Would you remember to take time out of your day to thank a Veteran? If so, then “Three Cheers for You…and the Red, White, and Blue!”

, a former Air Force Captain and Squadron Commander, is a Professor of Economics and the Director of the Belden Center for Private Enterprise Education at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas.

SearcyLiving.com 51

, and one group of teachers and students in Searcy have experienced true connections of the heart, including one young man from Pangburn. Christopher Henry, 19, had his life changed by his friends — so close they could be considered family — at the Sunshine School, a facility that is enjoying its new building (built through a multiyear fundraising effort) on Airport Loop off South Main Street. “He was born in the ambulance in the parking lot of the hospital in Batesville,” said Jewel Henry, Christopher’s grandmother, who has raised him. “It took them six hours to keep him breathing.” Five weeks premature, Christopher’s brain was probably deprived of oxygen during the crucial minutes and hours after birth, Jewel went on to say, noting she has been taking care of him since he was four months old and got custody when he was eight months. At the age of five, Christopher became a student at the Sunshine School and will graduate next year. The years have not been easy, Jewel said as she hugged Christopher at the school during a recent interview, but the teachers and staff have made all the difference in both her resources and her grandson’s successful start to life. “I’m a single parent,” Jewel said. “I hope you’re not a single parent at age 73.” Jewel’s husband died just before Christopher was born and then her house burned. “You just do what you have to do, you know,” Jewel said. 52 Your Hometown Magazine

The heart of the school is its teachers, she said. “It takes a very special person to teach these kids and they have a fantastic staff here,” Jewel said. “They have just helped me with him.” And it’s not just been cognitive abilities Christopher has learned. “They taught him respect,” Jewel said. “They taught him the things he needs to survive in this world, like how to handle money.” Christopher’s helpful attitude is apparent as he takes responsibility every morning and evening riding the bus to school. His job during that time is to help a fellow student who is confined to a wheelchair. “It makes me feel good for other people if they need help,” Christopher said. Sunshine School Director Mary Lou Dunn bragged on the good looking young man, saying, “Christopher is very dependable. He’s one of our go-to guys.” During outdoor activities, Christopher has another assignment he takes seriously, interacting with another student, helping him integrate into the school’s social groups. “Students respond better to other students, and it’s really working for him,” Dunn said of the student Christopher helps. Involved in Special Olympics as a member of the bowling team, and in running and throwing the shot put, Christopher loves the school and may join its adult development class after he graduates in May. “It’s fun every day and a little hard work,”Christopher said.

 Chris and Jewel

Christopher Henry gets a hug from his grandmother in the lobby of the Sunshine School’s new facility on Airport Loop. The 19-year-old will graduate in May.

Mary Lou Dunn Sally Paine Charity Morris Willie McNeil

Director Head Teacher Secretary Clerical Assistant

Teri Pollnow Stacey Pearce Jocelynn Goff Susan Patterson

Renee Jackson Megan Evans Ron Williams

Jackie Vidal Tina Zavala Kelley Sanchez Linda Holleman Shelby King

Michelle Cossitt Pat Johnson Sheryl Faulk Susan Ramsey

Julie Bridges

Patti Munson

The community came together with donations to make the badly needed building and equipment a reality for the Sunshine School. The Rotary Club donated televisions for all the classrooms, and the Lions Club gave $85,000 which was used toward lunch tables and other furniture throughout the school. Food services are contracted to the Searcy public schools. The interior three rooms are safe rooms for severe weather, offering protection for the 70 students who learn in eight classrooms. Sunshine School Director Mary Lou Dunn was like a youngster on Christmas morning as she gave a tour of the new facility recently. Investing her life in others has been a benefit for her, Dunn said. “They teach us the joy in simple things,” she said with a smile. “We can't thank our community enough for their generosity to us, not only for the new facility, but for their continuing support of our day to day operations,” Dunn said. “Who would have thought in the present economy that $1.3 million could be raised? We only lack approximately $300,000 of raising the entire amount needed to completely pay for the new building. We live in a wonderful place with the most generous, caring people. Everyone is invited to stop by for a tour and see what a great facility we now have to continue meeting the needs of people with developmental disabilities. It is something everyone can be proud of.” Tax-deductible donations to the Sunshine School may be sent to: P.O. Box 831, Searcy, AR For more information call (501) 268-9227.

SearcyLiving.com 53

 Jewel, Mary Lou, and Chris

Mary Lou Dunn, director of the Sunshine School, hugs Jewel Henry, left, and Jewel’s grandson Christopher Henry in the lobby of the school’s new facility. Dunn said her students have taught her “the joy of simple things.”

54 Your Hometown Magazine

SearcyLiving.com 55

800!

The Searcy Living Foster Care Boutique is simply a room we have dedicated in the Searcy Living business office. Our awesome Searcy Living readers bring in donations and DHS case workers and foster parents get what they need for foster and disadvantaged children at no cost. Our office is located at 812 S. Main Street in Searcy. We do our best to provide “shopping” bags for the foster parents and case workers so they can fill one up for every child. This also helps us keep up with approximately how many children are being served. So far we have gone through over 800 bags in nearly three years! Thanks to you for helping!!!

Amanda Lutrell and Caleb

Thank you to all our camera shy donors!

White County Extension Homemakers Council donated more than 100 pairs of children’s socks.

Kay Gowan - Wednesday night Intergenerational Home Bible Study of College Church of Christ (donation of clothing and socks)

From left to right: Krista Brimer, Lawana Stone, Mary Brown, Pat Osborne.

Clothing - Carol Hutchison Toys - Youth Class at Midway Baptist church in Judsonia What we need the most right now: Diapers! Sizes 2-5 Socks and underclothing All sizes - boy’s and girl’s New hair brushes and combs Volunteers to sort clothing is always a BIG need. Just stop by the Searcy Living office between the hours of 1 to 5 pm Monday-Friday. No need to call just show up. :-) 56 Your Hometown Magazine

Harding graduate students donated book totes to encourage families to read together. They also provided other resources such as reading activities.

TJ Jelks (dad) IssaBella Jelks (baby) Bethany Sellers (mom)

Rowan and Cecelia McLeod of the College Church of Christ Faith Builders Class (donation of diapers) Every year an anonymous donor gives money with the stipulation of a match deal. The deal is to match the amount by selecting a worthy cause in the community and donating to that cause.

Tracey and Carley Rogers and Michael Marsh of New Horizons International Ministry Youth (donation of hats, gloves, scarves and blankets)

Olivia and Brook of White County Domestic Center - Items collected from various donors.

SearcyLiving.com 57

OUT&ABOUT

â&#x20AC;&#x153;By perseverance the snail reached the ark.â&#x20AC;? ~ Charles Spurgeon

58 Your Hometown Magazine

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.

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s make the readership of Searcy Living the BIGGEST supporters for life in the state!

Find more OUT&ABOUT on SearcyLiving.com! Send your photos to: SearcyLivingPhotos@yahoo.com.

SearcyLiving.com 59

man community when a and

meet

By Teri McKenzie Assistant Principal Searcy High School

Where can a man and a community meet to make a great business? To answer that question, Searcy, of course.

How Rob Morris, Managing Partner at Chili’s here in Searcy, does this is an accomplishment and a personal undertaking for a man dedicated to making a positive impact through his business and helping make Searcy a great place to live. But he would never take credit for these accomplishments himself, and most people don’t even know what kinds of great things that he does through Chili’s, until now. Rob Morris recently brought recognition to his Searcy Chili’s by being ranked number one in the Chili’s Organization and Brinker International, the four billion dollar restaurant industry organization that owns restaurants world-wide. This is a major accomplishment for a restaurant that doesn’t serve alcohol and is a community based business. There are a few reasons that Rob Morris brought home this amazing award. He has a passion for taking care of children, helping them become successful, Chili’s worked with Searcy Schools by providing building relationships with the community that include local and national non-profit and delivering party platters for Teacher organizations, and he has received positive recognition for Chili’s Searcy through his continued efforts to reach out to the community and surrounding area schools. Appreciation Day at Southwest Middle School. But he would never take credit for these accomplishments himself, and most people don’t even know what kinds of great things that he does through Chili’s, until now.

Chili’s team volunteered for Special Olympics May 27th.

Elliott Foundation’s Suicide Prevention 5K Run 60 Your Hometown Magazine

He has been working with the Special Olympics for the past five years and helping support this organization through giving his time and his team from Chili’s Searcy to host events and escort children to their activities. Rob creates an environment in his restaurant that makes his team members see the significance of giving back, and nurtures and maintains this as a focal point in his store. Many of his team members give their time freely. While teaming up with the March of Dimes on two different occasions, the Searcy Chili’s team raised $12,000 in one day and $7,000 on another by having a “Jail Lock-in.” In supporting our partnership with St. Jude, Rob’s team has raised over $10,000 a year since being with Searcy. And, after a catastrophic tornado hit neighboring Vilonia, Arkansas, Rob coordinated with all the local restaurants to put party platters together to feed residents and rescue workers as the community tried to recover from this tragic event. He also takes his passion for running and makes it a healthy way for him and his staff to get involved in some worthwhile causes for children and teens. This restaurant is also a place where seeds are planted with Harding University and local high school students in how communities and businesses can grow and make a positive impact together on people and lives. This Chili’s is focused on building relationships and maintaining a moral and spiritual compass. It is refreshing to know that this business is supporting some real and life-changing philosophies. Some accomplishments are meant to be shared and appreciated in a wonderful community that supports and rewards such great accomplishments. Rob Morris has definitely brought his business philosophy and his desire to make this community a better place to life, by leading the way in giving back to a community that has continually shared its good people, customers and support. Send us your community changing story! SearcyLiving@yahoo.com

St. Jude Children’s Hospital The mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is to advance cures, and means of prevention, for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. Consistent with the vision of founder Danny Thomas, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion or a family’s ability to pay. The idea that no child should be denied care based upon the inability to pay is amazing considering the recession Americans have been plagued with over the last few years. However, there is no reason that a child should not receive the best care possible, no matter where they come from. In 2006, Chili’s partnered with St. Jude with the goal to provide adequate medical care to any child. Since 2006, we have raised thirty million and counting for the children. In order to meet that goal, when you came into Chili’s Searcy this past September, you were greeted with peppers, peppers, and more peppers. Chili’s started the create-a-pepper campaign so that for only one dollar, kids and adults alike can color a pepper and Chili’s will display it proudly - but it doesn’t

stop there! Chili’s also has t-shirts, as well as the new slap bracelets you can color. Last year Chili’s Searcy finished off as #1 in the area with $14,073! Thank you, Searcy! Without the support from our generous community, we would not have been able to make such a huge impact on such an amazing cause. Thank you to all who came out to support the first annua 5 Queso Run, as we raised $3,800 on that alone! A big shout-out goes to Nic Bashaw on finishing 13th in the company for the most money raised by a single server. The generosity of this community has made a huge impact on many children’s lives. Just as Danny Thomas believed that no child should be denied care, this community has proven they believe that as well. Thank you for making Searcy’s part of this program a success! We look forward to this again next year. Let’s try to make it $15,000!

SearcyLiving.com 61

We are writing this letter to keep you informed of a very important part of our community, the Performing Arts Center on the Square. No one should be left in the dark about all the exciting things that are happening at the Center. The Dinner Theater is your opportunity to dine with family and friends at our quaint and intimate setting at 111 W. Arch Street in downtown Searcy, while enjoying live stage performances. The Land O’Frost KidStage is a must for children of all ages. Being a part of Land O’Frost KidStage is sure to create unforgettable memories for your child, that only taking part in live theater can bring. We invite you to come and share a time of fun and laughter with your family by attending the Spring Double-Feature of the Land O’Frost Kidstage. The entertainment will include second through sixth grade students performing a collection of humorous and heart-warming folktales, written by Searcy’s own Ann Nieto, entitled Folktale Potpourri. The Junior High and High School students will then perform the brilliant sketch comedy, Check Please, written by Jonathan Rand. A new show has recently been added to our line-up: The Actor’s Showcase. We are planning new programs in the near future. As you can see, there is always something exciting happening for everyone at Searcy’s own Performing Arts Center on the Square.

The only way to ensure that you and your family will not miss out on these endless opportunities is to contact the Center and request to be added to our mailing list. You will receive complimentary mailings to guarantee that you are kept informed on what is happening at the Center. Show dates have already been set in February and March for the southern comedy, Greater Tuna. You may gain early access to tickets for every show through our website: www.centeronthesquare.org. Performances are so popular that the only way to guarantee you will have a table is to become a season-ticket holder. Any board member (see below) would be glad to assist you with obtaining these. You may also call the Center at 501-368-0111 during box office hours on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays from 1:00 - 5:30, where Ryan Hoyle, Administrative Assistant; Caleb Keese, the artistic director; or Rickae Boyd, the interim executive director, will gladly assist you. If you are interested in having your child involved in the popular Summer Session of the Land O’Frost Kidstage, call the Center or go online for more information or to register. We, at the Performing Arts Center on the Square, look forward to enjoying the magic of theater with you and your family!

Sara Dacus, Chairman. Allen Busby, Chair-Elect. Shari Edmunson, Treasurer. Tity Abbud. Ginger Beebe. Janet Benight. Shelly White. Roy Showalter. Rusty Taylor. Dianne Thomas. Missy Carey. Stacie Smith.

62 Your Hometown Magazine

Sonya Burchett

Susan Harrington

Thea Baker

Congratulations to the winners of the

Thank you everyone for your participation!

SearcyLiving.com 63

d nner

& A Magazine

Recipe Submitted by Tanya Leckie

Black Bean Soup

If you’ve entered 2012 trying to eat healthier, I have come to your rescue! This soup has absolutely nothing in it but healthy, yummy ingredients. I ran into a friend recently and she said her grandaughter, Gracen, said, “Why can’t Mrs. Leckie submit a recipe without nuts so I can have it?” Well, here’s one you can have (and you’ll love it), Gracen! Black beans are also called “turtle beans” and are commonly used in Mexican dishes. This might very well be your new favorite soup!

Ingredients 1 pound black beans (organic, if possible) 1 carrot, diced 1/2 c. diced celery 1/2 c. diced onion 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp oregano 1 large clove garlic, minced 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper 1/2 can Rotel diced tomatoes and peppers

Directions Boil Check beans for any stones, dirt, or yucky beans and rinse well. Place beans in a large pan or stockpot and add enough water to cover beans plus about 2” (above level of beans). Bring to a boil, then lower heat and add remaining ingredients. Slow Cook Simmer, covered with a lid, until beans are tender (maybe an hour or two). This can all be done in a slow cooker, too. Plan on cooking them in a slow cooker for 6 to 8 hours on high. Enjoy! Serve by topping each serving with shredded cheddar and a dollop of real sour cream (like Daisy or Breakstone). We use organic* tortilla chips like a spoon to eat these... sorta like a dip (which can never hurt when trying to get kids to eat something new!). Organic tortilla chips are made with corn that is not GMO (genetically modified organism... SCARY!).

Tanya Turner Leckie’s cookbook Cartwheels In The Kitchen, is available at Wear It’s At, Midnight Oil Coffee House, Harding University Bookstore, online at www.heylookicancook. com and by contacting her at lazydaygourmet@sbcglobal.net

Online Extra You can find more recipes on SearcyLiving.com!

64 Your Hometown Magazine

405 N. Walnut Searcy, AR 72143 501-278-5463 sassysweets@mail.com

SearcyLiving.com 65

66 Your Hometown Magazine

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