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Issue 4 2013
F E AT U R E S Blessed Beyond Measure
12
Reeling In Memories
16
Up or Out?
18
Mr. Pockets
46
My Lunenburg Dory
54
A Caregiver’s Journey
62
Hope Outdoors
64
Healing Through Camp Sunshine
70
My Name Is Meth
74
Easy Health Tips
79
D E PA R T M E N T S
54
Publisher’s Note
11
“Believe with all of your heart that you will do what you were made to do.”
Fashion Fun
22
— ORISON SWETT MARDEN
Living In Searcy
26
We The People
32
Local Business Highlights
40
Hope Believe
58
Over The Counter
66
The Bookstack Blog
68
Out & About
72
Tiny Changes
73
Dinner & A Magazine
78
Games & Puzzles
80
72 Out & About
On the Cover
ALEXIS ANN TONEY
Photo by
GEORGE DILLIN
501-268-9304
SearcyLiving.com 9
Publisher Christine Walker Art Director & Webmaster Garrett Johnson Graphic Assistant Ikey Ray 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 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 2013 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 2013 Shark Promotions LLC Searcy Living Magazine is a subsidiary of Shark Promotions LLC.
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If you are my FaceBook friend you may not want to read this publisher’s note because I know you have heard it a few times before. But I thought this was important enough to share with the entire community. At the end of this true story I am going to ask you to My little girl opened the door recently to say food again. A giant vicious raccoon. (There were two I had seen in the yard several times.) Anyone who knows me will agree that I am a total animal
kinda. I caught my daughter’s cat. So I put the back of the cage in a cardboard box and made another cheese ball AND left a trail of whipped to relocate him to a nice place in the wilderness. If you have been reading Searcy Living Magazine for any length of time you know that I love to do two things: seek the truth and learn from every situation. know but we are going to have fun with this. So let’s have a contest. Here are the rules:
not a sweet animal. It best mean look and told it to leave. It held its ground. We were at a stand off. So I grabbed my shoe - my favorite summer shoe - and threw it at him. my other shoe and nailed it right in the head. He looked and ran off! It was my favorite comfortable wear-allthe-time at home shoe. Gone. So I told this story to my FaceBook friends and asked if anyone had a trap I could borrow. When I got
1. “Like” our FaceBook page (Searcy Living Magazine). 2. Tell me what YOU think the moral of the story should be in an e-mail to searcylivingfb@yahoo. com. (It can be deep or highly entertaining. Your choice) 3. The Searcy Living staff will vote for our favorite. The winner gets a gift basket full of goodies valued at $100.00! And I promise there with be at least one The dates of the contest will be listed on our FaceBook page. I can’t wait to see what you come up with!
Christine
disappearing without the trap ever being tripped and no coon. So I upped the ante and made a gourmet raccoon
A CAREGIVER’S JOURNEY “ that there is both hope and help in there is a brighter day ahead.” Page 62
REELING IN MEMORIES “ always about numbers or the size of the catch. It’s about the time on the water with friends or family.”
UP OR OUT? “God had heard my prayers and was calling his people to do his work!” Page 18
Page 16
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By Alexis Ann Toney
“I will bless the Lord who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me. I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.” –Psalms 16:7-8
honor of standing next to my Granddad as I was reborn in a horse trough. This event sparked many emotions in my heart. It helped for eternity with him. This event also blossomed the longing for
to make our own plans without God’s consent. The problem being with this is praying every Sunday for my dad to change his mind. Every Sunday would I go to see my dad and his “new” wife. I would always
pray with all our might for this opportunity. All I can say is that
my mother. I wanted nothing more than to always be with her. My mercy of God she made it. could not have been happier. The amazing thing was that Gordon was also raised in a broken the bitterness I had towards mine. He did not want me to grow up have been blessed with a more exceptional man to take the role that he loved us more than anything. He portrayed his love for my mom and our family in a way that will never be forgotten. Not only and needed. supported me throughout this process. They made sure I knew all the details about giving my life to God and its meaning before Granddad to do the honor of baptizing me. I’m sure many wondered why my “dad” was not baptizing me. My reason was that I was
12 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
young age. He loved me enough to guide me down the right path and help me rebuke the bitterness. He gave me this scripture to aid me: “But if you refuse to forgive others their sins, your father will not forgive your sins.” –Matthew 6:15 He told me what God bestowed upon him during his struggle. He directed me to be able to be forgiven. He saved me from straying forgive me for the hatred I felt towards him. He easily accepted my
“Do not nurse hatred in your heart for any of your relatives. Confront people directly so you will not be held guilty for their sin.” ~Leviticus 19:17 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” ~Jeremiah 29:11 “And ye shall seek me, and find me, WHEN you seek me with all your heart.” ~ Jeremiah 29:13 God’s plans for me all along have meant to give me hope. I his strength I was healed. By his strength I am who I am today. God allows every person the ability to make their own decisions. but also to mold me into the strong Christian I have become. God has blessed me beyond measure. He has given me so many amazing people to help me through this. He has blessed me with many talents that help distract me from sin. He has blessed me with opportunities I could have never dreamed of. I’m so very grateful for all God’s many blessings! mother (Tammy Toney) that anyone could ask for. She is my I would never dream or wish for someone more special than she is to me.
I was also blessed with precious grandparents (Donnie and Paula Bolding). They are my role models. They are such an married over 50 years and are still madly in love. Someday I hope I am as in love as they are with the man God sends me. I hope I’m at least half of what they are. Another blessing is my older brother (Corey Hawkins). We I am an inspiration to him; I hope God’s light shines through me and touches him in any way possible. it this far through school. She’s the person I can tell anything SearcyLiving.com 13
to. She’s there to listen whenever I need her. She is beyond special to me. I was also blessed with the “coolest” hair dresser and friend (Carlie Lay). Not only can she do helped me realize that I can do anything I set my mind to do. She is like the sister I have always longed for. makeup artist (Doris Yates). She actually is the reason I am getting the opportunity to share my testimony. She is the sweetest woman I have ever met. She is like another grandparent to me. and guidance. I had no clue that living in a broken home would have such a large and valuable impact promise there is hope for you. I’m so happy I am being able to share my testimony with you. I hope I have touched your life. God’s always there for you through everything. His plan may not be what you you want. Allow him to guide you in everything Be thankful for everything he has provided you with. You are also blessed beyond measure; you
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void and a longing for a sister that I could share everything with. Every night before I went to bed I would say my prayers for my I would be blessed with someday. I had my son and he is such
that I did not need to have another child. But in my heart I knew pregnant again and I knew God had answered all my prayers. already knew it because in Matthew 21:22 it says you can pray faith in God and I knew that he would bless me with this sweet baby girl. beautiful on the inside. She is one of the most loving young ladies I have ever been around. I realize that she is my daughter and people probably say all mothers think this. I am sure that
her to trust in the Lord and be a Godly woman. The scripture I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.� (Philippians 4:13) She has taken that scripture and applied it to her life. such a wonderful daughter.�
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statement.
about the time on the water with friends or family. It’s the grandparents or moms & dads helping their exuberant child reel in their catch. It’s the
then wanting to take a picture of their catch to send to their other buddies the photographs that we take of them.
Spring and summer are great times to get out on a river or lake and
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UP or OUT ?
By Debbie Howard
y name is Debbie Howard and my husband and I have been residents of Searcy for the past 7 years. I have an incredible story to tell about the amazing residents of Searcy and how they help each other when in need. I want everyone to know how amazing this town is and how great our God is. house.” And I then began to trust. To trust that he would provide for Because it was the beginning of summer and I couldn’t leave
Mother had a small life insurance policy which would help with 10% of that money was God’s and that I needed to tithe it. I disagreed. It was too much. We could do all kinds of things with
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out the check and placed it into the offering plate on Sunday morning.
and wanted to come by and visit a minute. We explained to him it and he told him he would be right there. could meet him in the parking lot. He needed to talk to me. I him. I could see that he was shaken and had tears in his eyes. Now I was scared. I sat (impatiently) while he struggled to tell me that at church that evening the congregation had discussed our family and agreed that our house was too small for seven
was calling his people to do his work! work hours from the men in my church and local businessmen a space of their own and some peace of mind to heal and grow. I am very happy to say that by the grace of God all of my children of a few good men have forever changed the lives of my family and made us believe in miracles yet again.
“ I want everyone to know how amazing this town is and how great our God is. �
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“ I am very happy to say that by the grace of God all of my children are now happy, healthy, and well adjusted.”
Bro. Jim Wiley Anthony Bailey Ferrel Davis Greg Hellman Mike Miranda Kenny Wayne Bailey
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Thank You To All That Helped! Calvary Baptist Church Langley Construction Command Construction M & R Electric Ridout Lumber Floyd Heating and Air
Habitat for Humanity Lee Ingle Josh Lawson Creative Carpet Heber Springs Southern Exteriors
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Brooke Ferren of Hays in Searcy. Doris Yates of the Cosmetic Studio and Melissa Badger of Symmetrix designed her new hairstyle. Michelle Unique Boutique provided Kimberly Brackins photographed Brooke’s new look. Thank you to all our generous sponsors!
22 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
Before
Outfit From
Makeup by Doris Yates of
Sponsors
Christine Locke Makeover Coordinator
(501) 268-0800 www.haysstore.com Makeup by
Hair by Melissa Badger of
Doris Yates at
In the Heart & Soul Plaza (501) 279-2526 Hairstyling by
Melissa Badger at Accessories by
(501) 268-4540 www.symmetrixsalon.com
Photography by
(501) 268-1700 www.uniqueboutiquesearcy.com Turn the page for more fashion and beauty retailers. >>>>> (501) 279-1515 www.kbrackins.com
SearcyLiving.com 23
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By Haley Rogers Photos by Hannah Elliott
IN SEARCY
Above the porch swing hangs a sign that sums up the atmosphere at the
family in a little chest along the wall. Behind the glass doors of the case are Tom and Brenda Webb
of the grandchildren. A particularly special piece is displayed in the room which was bought when the Webbs were only dating. Brenda was intent on
26 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
Part of what makes this home special are the items that came from
The front room is where the family spends most of their time with comfortable seating, French style pieces and sentimental dĂŠcor.
with shredded newspaper and a collection of lottery number balls Brenda came across one day.
This allows the main rooms to be connected so that communication is easier and more convenient. Brenda was initially unsure about the favorite changes.
constant openness through to the kitchen. The room was opened up not the removal of overhanging cabinets that used to be over the bar. It
set around the kitchen table.
Behind the glass doors of this case are items from Austria, where Mr. Webb's ancestors are from.
SearcyLiving.com 27
room. Mrs. Webb made most of the curtains throughout lovely surface within the room. Another interesting piece is that of the large beautiful hutch that came to Mrs. Webb as The dining room bedrooms. One room holds random items such as artistic
The kitchen
wall-hanging of a red artistically-distorted house made by
and throw pillows. The pillows are worth giving some throw pillows out of napkins and place mats. Who would The den
28 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
house wall hanging and pillows Brenda made out of napkins and place mats.
all different items and the color green! If there’s one thing that has
with a chic and elegant fabric that Mrs. Webb used to create a showstopping curtain for the shower. Zebra print items are used on the countertops to add to the sassy and elegant glam.
outdoors under the white Christmas lights. The grandchildren have own under the shade. An interesting chandelier is hung from the
the home feel private and protected.
Zebra print items create a sassy and elegant glam. SearcyLiving.com 29
The lawn is adorned with many pieces found throughout their
that make up the character of the entire lot. An important space
several places to sit and is placed on a plot of stones. Two chairs A bedroom is decorated in lime green.
a bottle tree. This item sticks out with its many colorful bottles not that any could possibly even exist in such a wonderful place. A hidden mailbox sits on the edge of the lawn and holds some small like most other items at this home.
one that they created on their own. Both Tom and Brenda have a
On the porch are many special things such as a smoker, a wooden table for those wishing to eat outdoors, and an interesting chandelier hung from the ceiling.
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The “Secret Garden� area.
“...One can truthfully say, ‘Life is good.’”
The outside is complete with a shed and garden.
A sitting area on a plot of stones. SearcyLiving.com 31
Kid Fishing Derby The 25th Annual Sam Lester and Friends Kid Fishing Derby was
Lowell Myers and Greg Seaton.
complete with tackle. All organizations and businesses partnered our area. The winner of the 1st place trophy was Luke Camp from Nesbit
volunteers. “It is our hope that bringing community together and by serving
32 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
Pictured left to right front row: Renee Drewery, Treccie Cook, Brenda Marion, Cheryl Allen, Shelle Richardson Back row: Dea Moore, Connie Betts, Jamie Martin, Elena Strickland Not pictured: Maggie Prichard The Daughters Of Light Daughters of Light (DOL) is an intra denominational ministry for all the women and young ladies in our community whose purpose is to glorify God and to love and encourage women to develop or strengthen their personal relationship with Christ. We It has been a tremendous blessing to the DOL Team and all who have been able to attend! We begin each meeting with a time of dessert and fellowship Childcare is provided. Beginning this past month and continuing You can “like” us on Facebook at Daughters of Light “Searcy” our upcoming meetings will be held. If your church would be at brenda.marion@yahoo.com or Cheryl Allen at cmail1104@ yahoo.com. a combined Sons of Thunder and Daughters of Light service at the
Schedule-of-Events “But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7 ESV)
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The Passing of Arkansas House Bill 1185: Harding University Pharmacy Political Advocacy Students are Paving the Way for the Advancement of the Pharmacy Profession By Elizabeth Scott and Tyler Staten, Doctor of Pharmacy Candidates and political advocacy students at Harding University College of Pharmacy about these changes and to further solidify Harding University Political Advocacy class began under the direction of Mr. Wright (D) as its sponsor; and shortly of Pharmacy Practice. The course was developed to increase pharmacy students’ the legislative process and policy issues affecting the pharmacy profession. Little did anyone know that this would lead to the
University College of Pharmacy family in a grassroots effort to get them involved
substitution bill that expands pharmacy
expanding the awareness and helping to procure votes from House and Senate
adopt such a law. Beginning early in the fall semester of
The spring advocacy class attended the February 14th meeting of the House Public
Association (APA) to talk about current pharmacy issues. One issue discussed board because they saw it as an achievable
Harding Pharmacy students Abby Cooper and Tyler Staten testifying in support of
looked forward with great anticipation. In
to develop concrete evidence in support of allowing pharmacists to utilize their knowledge for patient care. This research resulted in a white paper outlining the
thus declaring it Act 274.
them on the topic and gaining support. The advocacy class hosted a “Dinner with the Legislators” event on campus at the end of the semester. The dinner created a forum for dialogue between community
and Tyler Staten) were able to watch their efforts transform into an advancement in pharmacy practice for Arkansas pharmacists. Our advocacy class hopes that Act 274 of 2013 will serve as an example
well as other healthcare issues.
achievable goals can be and how every voice matters.
class of advocates to the cause. Students
some of the legislators to educate them 34 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
University College of Pharmacy students
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W.H.O. Foundation Awards $20,000 Grant to White County Aging Program
or below poverty level. “Our goal is always to continue to provide for our senior citizens of White County and
home-delivered meal programs that serve our senior citizens.” them enough for giving us this grant to help those in need.”
36 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
Yearbook Cover Art Contest
be featured on the yearbook cover and the runners-up will have their artwork included on the backside of the yearbook.
Arkansas Boys and Girls State Six Searcy High School students have been selected to attend Arkansas Boys and Girls State this summer. Pictured are Searcy
provided the sponsorship for these students. Boys State will be will host Girls State.
SearcyLiving.com 37
ASU-Beebe: Robinson Receives Past TRiO Achiever Award was recently honored by the Student Support Services program at
in developing skills necessary to succeed in college. For more
38 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
Wheeling, W.Va.; Taryn Sheets, director of Searcy Children’s Home; and Kerry Burkett, club show director from Dickinson, Texas. Bottom: Dacia Bolt, club show director from Kennewick, Wash. Harding University Social Club Makes Generous Donation. The winning club show in Harding University’s 2013 Spring award to give to the charity of their choice. The participating and friends — chose Searcy Children’s Home as their charity.
SearcyLiving.com 39
A new AC unit on Searcy Athletic Club was Phillip Mize of Mize Heating & Air. The unit had to be placed on the building by a large crane by Spurlock because of the size of the building.
ASU-Beebe: Student Wins Design Contest Award
and graphic design at ASU-Beebe.
40 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
SearcyLiving.com 41
and Maumelle 10-7 in the championship game. Pictured:(Front Lying Down) Andrew Laird Tucker Smith Smithson, Grant Jones Randy Jones
Liddler Fiddlers Play at WCMC Arts in the Hospital Welcomes Westside Elementary Musical Act
White County Medical Center as part of the Arts in the Hospital program. The 16 students played selections on their violins under the direction of Westside music teacher Pam Frazier. WCMC’s Arts in the Hospital program was developed to promote the healing process of patients. The program invites patients and Art displays range from elementary school student drawings performances from choirs and bands featuring students of all ages. White County Medical Center Event Specialist Anna Overbay at aoverbay@wcmc.org. 42 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
All Listings...One Site. SearcyHomes.com t 8 #FFCF $BQQT 4VJUF " t 4FBSDZ "3
Greg Angel 501.230.9707
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8 #MBLF ) -BOF MLS 10352000 $284,900 %POOB 4NJUI
.BOOJOH 3E MLS 10342429 $47,500 %POOB 4NJUI
97 Ac/3/4 mi.river frontAge
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)XZ MLS 10333106 $843,900 +VEZ +PIOTPO
/ $ZQFSU MLS 10350087 $84,900 +VEZ +PIOTPO
Roxanne Miles 501.827.5403
Marla Duncan 501.230.9528
Kelly VanHook Exec. Broker 501.230.4567
David Dale 501.281.3017
Shelley Dietz 501.827.2239
Judy Johnson Exec. Broker 501.305.1503
Tom Worley 501.278.0805
Donna Smith 501.288.7551
8& $"/ 4)08 :06 "/: 1301&35: -*45&% #: "/: $0.1"/:
SearcyLiving.com 43
Searcy Healthcare Center
Pageant Queen Brandy Rose
Facility Queen Pageant 44 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
Family Fun Fest
Billy Ward
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Mr. Pockets b al l o o n man By Jared Nesbit
T
or Larry’s Pizza for Sunday lunch may have witnessed Mr. Pockets making his magic with balloons. From colorful
back for more. Hut making swords and hats. He made some for me and I took them home to examine them. I untwisted and re-twisted them until
I learned how to make a couple of different animals that usually ended up looking like they had been in a chainsaw accident. It took
something with all these balloons!” So I did. I went to Chik-Fil-A and asked if they would let me come in and make balloons for the kids. They were extremely generous and offered to me to work for tips. My wonderful mom got busy and made me an apron with lots of pockets in which to keep
on my twisting skills. I think I’ve seen every balloon
“I love balloon twisting. I enjoy talking with people and meeting new friends.”
46 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
designs I made. I now put my own designs on YouTube for other people to watch. I’ve private parties and events. Some of my more interesting events have been at Harding University’s tailgate parties and ASU-Newport’s 10th year anniversary carnival. I was even given permission to set up a booth at Searcy’s GetDown/Downtown event. friends. People all over town know and recognize me even when I’m not in costume. It is not uncommon to have a little kid whisper to his wonderful I hope one day to go professional and turn balloon twisting into my
SearcyLiving.com 47
48 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
“It is not uncommon to have a little kid whisper to his wonderful mom behind my back, ‘Look Mommy, it’s the balloon guy.’”
SearcyLiving.com 49
man’s country “ Ais not a certain area of land, of mountains, rivers, and woods, but it is a principle; and patriotism is loyalty to that principle. – George William Curtis
50 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
”
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My LUNENBURG DORY Text and Photography by Robert & Sandra Homan
I
T ALL STARTED on a trip to Nova Scotia. My wife and I left Arkansas during the summer of 2012 to escape the brutal heat. I wanted to visit the seaport town of Lunenburg. I had seen pictures of this town and knew it to be
they would unload their catch and haul their small dory back on head out again the next day and do the same thing. These small dories were extremely sea worthy and had great success in the
to me. The Bluenose is a famous Canadian symbol. It is a celebrated to compete with U.S. racing ships. The Bluenose defeated all contenders for the next 17 years. The Bluenose II is a replica
that they could be stacked one inside the other on the mothership. I headed to the next pier to where The Bluenose II was berthed. The only thing missing were her masts. They were added and she was launched shortly after my visit.
during our visit. This was a surprise because I had no idea that there was such a a Sunday and the shop was closed but I loved examining the beautiful dories in their yard.
launched off the decks of The Bluenose during the years when able to secure a copy of the plan and couldn’t wait to get back to Searcy to build my new treasure. using Striptite construction.
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, Canada
54 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
SearcyLiving.com 55
Robert Homan working on his dory.
The Bluenose is a famous Canadian symbol.
“
were extremely sea worthy and had great success in the early fishing industry.”
The dory and kayak. 56 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
Kayak carving.
Robert’s next project: a kayak.
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The Searcy Living Foster Care Boutique is simply a room we have dedicated in the Searcy Living 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.
1000!
We welcome gently used or new items.
As the old Proverb says
take a village to raise a child. Not one entity can provide the resources
Thank you to Claudette Smith for her donation.
58 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
Needed Items for the Foster Care Boutique:
Girls sizes 5 thru 8 Boys pants and long shorts sizes 5/6 Volunteers to sort (no need to volunteer hours between 1pm and 5pm.)
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60 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
Thank You! Annual Customer Appreciation Day and Flip Flop
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By Marie Medsker
It was a tuesday afternoon, september 2012.
three days. I sensed the end was near. The late afternoon sun seemed to be an omen that it was a
For four long years my husband had struggled with the debilitating disease called Alzheimer’s. To call it a “strange”
wanted him to live. I longed for him to get well. The outlook but I began to envision the day when my plight would become 24/7. The third year into the illness was the worst. The stress was almost more than I could handle. I knew the time was fast approaching when I would become my husband’s sole security.
Through the four years that became my own personal struggle
and understanding in the midst of overwhelming circumstances obvious that Doc’s short-term memory was getting worse. became the norm. The second and third years brought drastic changes to my husband’s behavior. At times I had the uncanny feeling I was living with a stranger.
any Alzheimer’s caregiver can attest.
to reason with a person who could not reason. Guilt feelings
to help sustain me in my loss; best of all the love and prayers he said something that still makes me laugh. We were sitting
62 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
in our living room one day when he looked at me and in a somber He then leaned back in his recliner with a look of total satisfaction. are a wonderful release from the pain and loneliness and go a long “Tears are the water that washes the window of the soul.” Isn’t that
“I have many memories to help sustain me in my loss; best of all the love and prayers of family and friends.”
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HOPE Outdoors children who are physically challenged or critically ill - and we
She fought her battle with Cancer very hard. She never let on how much she hurt or how bad she was feeling. She always had a smile and a good prank up her sleeve for those she loved. She hunted with us several times and always made an impression on
seeing God’s work accomplished through His own creation: The her in a mighty way while she was here on earth. One of our events all of a sudden their life has taken a sharp turn by encountering a compassion and love for those in need can be used as a channel
Easley Memorial Youth Whitetail Hunt. This event was also our most recent from November 2012.
through an outdoor experience by showing them there is still Hope in this world through Christ. share about the impact we hope to make upon participants and their
exists. HOPE Outdoors was formed by some special people in young man with a severe illness. From that one event blossomed a beautiful ministry for children and adults with disabilities and
2007. There have been many special people we have met during picture with her beloved horse.
Job McCulley is another young man that has hunted knew each other from going through cancer treatment in the same our Mississippi chapter events.
and his family have also been featured in the television show Extreme Home Makeover. They blessed this special family with a with us as a new chapter here in Arkansas. We are thankful for this special family. HOPE Outdoors would like for every participant to realize that
64 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
one big obstacle at a time. It doesn’t matter what kind of disability
Something new that our organization started in 2012 is 3-D Pop Up Archery Tournaments. We travel all over using this as a way us come and be a part of your next outdoor event with our archery pop-up system. Our archery system is a 5 target pop up system that can be set up outside or indoors with a minimum of 40’x100’ area (gymnasium). You can also host an archery tournament for your own organization to help raise funding that will bring archers from all over to your event. Here is a photo from one of the shoots.
It is our HOPE that all who come to an event leave feeling blessed. May God Bless all of your outdoor adventures<>< Team HOPE Outdoors Contact Steve “Opie” Thomas, our National Director, to schedule shoots at opieministries@aol.com. If you or someone you know would like to be a participant at a website address is www.hopeoutdoors.org. There is an application for events on our website, as well as our calendar of events. If you would like to help HOPE Outdoors through a donation, you may also do so on our website on the Donate Now button. HOPE Outdoors is a 501c3 organization recognized by the IRS. If you would like to help HOPE Outdoors as a volunteer or by hosting an event on your land, please contact us at the above.
SearcyLiving.com 65
Quitting Smoking: The more you know, the better it will go! Harding University Center for Drug and Health Information
That is 1 out of every 4 Arkansans you know! Smoking remains the leading preventable cause of death in the United States despite the current availability
smoker can learn tips and tricks that have proven to help increase the chances
all. Thank you for taking the time to read this medication tip of the day provided by the Harding University Center for Drug and Health information.
66 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
SearcyLiving.com 67
The Bookstack Blog Matched
by Ally Condie
Matched Cassia is a young girl about to turn seventeen. She lives in “the
The Fellowship of the Ring
by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Fellowship of the Ring Frodo Baggins. But I must tell you that the book will make a lot more sense if you read The Hobbit
government reveals the person that has been chosen for them to spend the rest of their lives with. Cassia is excited about being there has been a mistake and she may have been matched with someone else.
main character in The Hobbit). He receives the ring that is more powerful than any other ring in all of Middle-Earth. The ring can make you turn invisible and make you live a longer life. But tells Frodo that the ring has to be destroyed by dropping it into a to stop the evil lord Sauron from rising to power and destroying
not be such a bad thing to be suspicious about the “Society.” She deciding her own fate may mean she’ll have to break some rules. year. I recommend this book to 11-15 year old boys because of the high vocabulary and some violence. If The Fellowship of the understand her desire to be free. — Rockin’ Robin, Age 11 Book 1: Matched Book 2: Crossed Book 3: Reached
be a lot of action in the middle and near the end of the book. -Flaming Arrow, Age 11
The other books in the trilogy are: The Fellowship of the Ring The Two Towers The Return of the King And the prelude: The Hobbit
thebookstackblog.blogspot.com www.thebookstackblog.com facebook.com/thebookstackblog
Flaming Arrow and Rockin’ Robin 68 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
Thanks to the many who participated in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
Rotary Golf Tournament
SearcyLiving.com 69
By Gretta Wilkinson, RN Camp Director
“Healing is not an event, it is a process that is supported and nurtured in every way.”
C
amp Sunshine is one of Arkansas’ most beloved medical camps that provides fun for children who have recovered from severe burns. They are
of their peers who have travelled the same road and share the same memories and scars. The campers range from 4 years of age to 21 years of age and have burns that
last a lifetime.” children who attend. There is a wide range of activities on a schedule that is put
Thursday to Sunday. Many fundraisers take place throughout the year by many Fire Fighter Locals
to counselor-in-training to counselor at 21 years old. They have the opportunity
strength within. The impact that the camp has had on me is enormous and I am very honored and grateful to you all.”
70 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
Camp Sunshine is partially funded by the Arkansas Professional Fire Fighters Association, and many of the counselors and Eric Meharg, Gretta Wilkinson, Marty Baine
Arkansas Professional Fire Fighters Association would like to thank everyone who donated to this Henderson, Marty Baine;
Thank you to Tropical Smoothie CafĂŠ for having your Flip Flop Day fundraiser to help raise money for Camp Sunshine!
SearcyLiving.com 71
Send us your photos: SearcyLivingPhotos@yahoo.com
72 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
When someone asks you how you are doing say, “Fantastic!” not “Really busy.”
Quit lying and making excuses to yourself.
Ask someone for help.
Focus attention on a special person, really connect with them.
Enjoy nature: take a hike, sit on the beach, dance in the rain.
Make a list of 100 things you are thankful for.
Nurture a child.
Find a book or articles related to your work and schedule time to read it.
By Beth Dargis of the My Simpler Life blog. www.mysimplerlife.com SearcyLiving.com 73
I am all around. your soul will be mine. The nightmares
may never break free. Just try me once and I might let you go, but try me twice, and I’ll own your soul. When I possess you
but you came to me, not I to you. you challenged my power and chose to be bold. You could have
laugh in your face when I do you harm.
I turn people from God and separate friends. I’ll take everything from
when you go to your grave. Now that you have met me what will It’s all up to you. I can bring lead you to hell.
74 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
clients feel that the problem is over and their activity becomes secondary drug use and discontinue treatment activities at this stage. - Saliva acts as a buffer against acidic
irritability. Clients often assume that these conditions will persist
can increase ten times over normal levels. Meth dries out the
withdrawal. spots that turn into cavities. Some medications dry the mouth but meth is especially bad. - Meth users are notorious for trying to treat cottonmouth with lots of sugary soda. The bacteria that
A great feeling of accomplishment often occurs after making it past the Wall. This can result in a sense that everything should return to the way it was before. Clients who successfully deal
brush and rinse when high. A typical cavity starts in-between two teeth. It eventually invades the tooth and destroys it from the inside out. Meth teeth decay invariably starts at the gum
of “normal.”
swathes of enamel in its wake. Completion of the six-month sobriety period signals a shift
- Because the drug can make them
allow yourself to be manipulated by the user. It is NOT your fault they are an addict. It is NOT your fault that they are for
*It is argued that gateway drugs open the door and progressively lead one to harder drugs.
them and you will be the recognition of this fact. someone else for their situation. be accepting responsibility.
This one makes you respond to “Hey stupid” ten seconds slower.
“ride the roller coaster” during their recovery. Addicts your feelings and do not get sucked back down or back in.
in the early stages of sobriety. Physical cravings crop up at any given moment. Post-withdrawal syndrome can persist beyond the SearcyLiving.com 75
Meth babies whose parents use or make meth are often neglected. They can have toxic chemical residue on their skin. Many have respiratory problems. All suffer emotional problems.
Meth abuse occurs across rural and urban boundaries. Usage is
demographics of users in terms of age: says “it’s too soon to know what long-term effects these meth babies will suffer.” Knox says most of the research focuses on babies born addicted to meth. It’s a repeat of 20 years ago when the focus was on
30-40 years old: 13 percent Age 40 and above: six percent
The things I cannot share
Administration (DEA) data showed that 30% of labs nationwide had children living in them at the time of seizure. has one of the highest relapse rates. Common sense would tell us that the meth user needs to be held accountable and have serious rehabilitation.
If they have not been there. Now I have grown older My memories come and go Still trying to forget events That happened long ago. Still come to me at night
And help them through their plight
rage. The psychosis meth may cause sometimes lasts a long time after drug use stops. Meth use may cause extreme personality changes Department of Health & Social Services. Meth users may feel extreme emotions and stress that impact their health. Ongoing spikes in stress take a strong emotional toll on meth users.
What else could have made my daddy so
Then maybe my mommy would still want to hug me. I can’t speak at all I can’t do a wrong Or else I’m locked up all the day long. When I awake I’m all alone. The house is dark my folks aren’t home When my mommy does come I’ll try and
My daddy is back from Charlie’s Bar. I hear him curse my name he calls I press myself up against my bedroom wall. I try and hide from his evil eyes I’m so afraid now I’m starting to cry
more bad words spoken. too late. His face has been twisted into unimaginable hate. The hurt and the pain again and again. it end!
at work. He slaps me and hits me and yells at me door. Tonight my daddy murdered me.
tonight.
He takes me and throws me against the hard wall.
~Author Unknown
productivity and crime-related spending. This estimate does not include the costs of providing medical care.
after prolonged exposure to relatively low levels of methamphetamine
One of the earliest uses of methamphetamine was during World War II. The company Temmler produced methamphetamine under the trademark Pervitin and so did the German and Finnish militaries. It was distributed
or keep enabling and possibly become their grave digger
person. The term is most often associated with people who allow loved ones to behave in ways that are destructive, Stopping enabling generally involves the enabler setting healthy boundaries for himself and letting the enabled person face the consequences of his or her actions. Enabling generally has negative results for both the enabler and the enabled. fact worsen makes the enabled person dependent on him or her, which often leads to resentment. there is a difference between helping and enabling behavior. Helping someone entails
millions of tablets being distributed throughout the war. More than 35 million three-milligram doses of Pervitin were manufactured for the German
Hitler was given intravenous injections of methamphetamine by his personal physician Theodor Morell.
professional with no life experienced (track record of clients who have successfully kicked the habit and stayed clean that is). You may want to check out this book written by recovered Meth addict Steve Box. Steve thoughts and hallucinations while on Meth.
chooses not to. or damage to ones self with methamphetamines. This includes the physical “natural person” within society. and/or enablers of the addict’s abusive behavior. While you may not be able to control all the external factors that afford your you can certainly control your role in the process. Think about the things that you do for your loved one with the addiction. Enablers are not just family members. even therapists and other entities that are supposed to be “helping.” Enablers aren’t protecting the addict from harm; they are actually contributing to the addiction.
in their lifestyle. This means cutting ties with current friends, relocating if necessary, and avoiding places in which the meth user is accustomed to using damage caused by meth often serves as an impetus to send a recovering addict back into the throws of active addiction. According to KCI’s website: The period of acute withdrawal effects for casual meth users lasts six to eight months after the abuser’s last usage. For addicts in which regular meth use was for an estimated two to three years after the last use. SearcyLiving.com 77
CORNBREAD SALAD
cornbread because that’s one less thing you’ll need to prepare in advance. (I always have a stash of leftover cornbread in the freezer to make Chicken and Dressin’ with.) This will need to sit in the fridge so plan ahead!
4 c. or so of your favorite cornbread 2 c. cooked pinto beans, drained 2 c. organic super sweet frozen corn (DO NOT COOK! See note following.) 1 sweet red bell pepper, diced 1 sweet yellow onion, chopped
LAYER In a large bowl roughly crumble the cornbread to form the
1 large tomato, diced 8 ounces good cheddar (like Tilamook), shredded 1 c. homemade Ranch dressing * *A recipe for homemade dry ranch dressing mix, using ordinary spices found at the supermarket, can be found in my cookbook, Cartwheels in the Kitchen. Simply add buttermilk and mayonnaise to it and you’re set! Note: The only place in Searcy I have found that sells “super sweet” organic frozen corn is The Natural Foods Store, on Beebe Capps Expressway. It really does make a difference; trust me on this one!
POUR allowing it to soak throughout.
ENJOY This can be served as a side salad or as a meal. We’ve had it both ways and STILL ate every speck!
Tanya Turner Leckie’s cookbook Cartwheels In The Kitchen, is available at Tonya’s Consignment, Midnight her at lazydaygourmet@sbcglobal.net. Partial proceeds Tanzania, Africa.
78 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
You can find more recipes on SearcyLiving.com!
Eat in moderation.
Be aware of how many sodas you drink.
There are many drinking water.
Walk more.
Associate with positive people.
You are worth the effort!
SearcyLiving.com 79
ACROSS
DOWN
1. A remarkable aspect of a dory is that they 3. The Howard family now has how many meth.
10. Mr. Webb’s family is from this country. 11. The leading preventable cause of death.
Riddles
STUMPED?
Get the answers, play games, download wallpaper and tons more online at SearcyLiving.com!
WHAT GOES UP BUT NEVER GOES DOWN? WHAT IS THE “LONGEST” WORD?
80 YOUR HOMETOWN MAGAZINE
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