SAVVY - September 2014

THE LIFESTYLE MANUAL FOR THE MODERN MOM

SEPTEMBER 2014 路 THESAVVYMOMS.COM

MOTHERHOOD

by design

Korto Momolu talks about raising a family amid her busy design career and inspiring other moms

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SEPTEMBER ON THE COVER: Korto Momolu, with son Cameron. Photography by Nancy Nolan.

28 MOTHERHOOD by design designer Korto Momolu discusses being a busy mom, traveling to fashion shows and supporting other moms through a collaboration with sisters united

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LETTER FROM THE

EDITOR

nancy nolan

NEW LOOK, NEW BOOK

Whew! That was a lot of work! As you can see, we have completely overhauled, rebranded and redesigned our magazine, and we are all super excited about it! We hope you all love it as much as we do!

If you notice, our new slogan is “the lifestyle manual for the modern mom.” The new SAVVY features expanded content to incorporate all that mom needs to take care of herself and her family.

We’re still keeping much of the content that our readers love, like parenting, events and kids who do cool things. But assuredly, we will quickly become the go-to source for moms when it comes to local fashion, food, lifestyle and culture.

I was honored this month to spend some time with local fashion designer Korto Momolu and her beautiful and sweet family. (I’m sure you noticed our awesome cover photo by Nancy Nolan.)

Korto is an amazing person. You can read all about how she balances motherhood with her design career and raises awareness about infant mortality on page 28.

Keeping with the fashion theme, we’ve got some fashion essentials for the modern, on-the-go mom, including our picks for the season’s best multipurpose carryalls and minimalist necklaces that go with everything. This will keep you looking stylish while going about your busy day.

In our redesign, we’ve developed awesome partnerships with local chefs, designers, personal trainers and other experts. We’re dedicated to bringing you the most localized content possible! We also have a new website (thesavvymoms.com) and Facebook page, so be sure to like us and stay in touch. We’d love to know what you think about our big changes.

I would also like to personally thank everyone who has made the first issue of SAVVY as awesome as it is.

You know who you are.

Erica Sweeney, Editor ericasweeney@arktimes.com

S E L E C T S

I’m an exercise junkie! And, on Sunday mornings (and sometimes Thursdays), you will find me peddling away on one of these bikes at ZenStudio in the Heights.

It’s a great workout, and Peter Vahjen is as entertaining and inspirational as always!

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SEPTEMBER 2014 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

We featured this “Like a Boss” necklace by local designer Robinson Lane in our “Minimalist” story on page 24.

I haven’t been able to get it out of my mind since I first spotted it, and I suspect that by the time this issue comes out, I will have purchased it.

I’m a coffee addict and mostly stick to dark-roast coffee with milk. But, for a treat, I’m always in search of a cappuccino that resembles what you’ll find at a European cafe. I think Mylo Coffee Co.’s comes about as close as you can get. Mylo is also a great quiet spot to take your laptop and work a little.

Wondering what direction to take?

We are here to guide you every step of the way.

Rivendell’s Adult seRvices unit (ASU) has a lot to offer! The ASU team will work with you on setting goals for yourself and aid you in the healing process. Our tailored therapeutic activities will help you make important lifestyle changes.

Find the treatment that’s right for you…

DBT – DialecTical Behavioral Therapy Designed to help deal with life’s stressors in the moment, as well as learn new skills to help you cope. Held three times a week.

courage To heal A group that focuses on healing from physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. It offers hope and validation as survivors actively participate in reclaiming power in their lives. Held twice a week.

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relaTionships This group will assist you with exploring relationships in your life. How have they helped you? How have they hurt you? Held twice a week.

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DomesTic peace A supportive group that explores issues of family and domestic abuse.

Types of abuse include emotional, verbal, physical, sexual and financial. Educational information is presented on the cycle of domestic violence, signs of domestic abuse, issues of power and control, and ways to deal with abuse. Held once a week. life skills Daily session covering various topics for discussion that address real-life issues you face once treatment is completed. Held daily. healTh & Wellness Groups designed to help you develop healthy lifestyles by looking at nutrition, exercise, dress, sleep patterns, and more. Held four times a week. focus group Designed to assist you with setting a daily goal/focus for the day. Held daily.

Discharge planning Provides both individual and group assistance in identifying resources for your aftercare. Held three times a week. aa “Alcoholics Anonymous® is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others recover…” This community led group is strictly voluntary. Held 1-2 times a week.

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publisher Rebekah Hardin | rebekahhardin@arktimes.com editor Erica Sweeney | ericasweeney@arktimes.com

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PENDING

ALL MATERIALS ARE HANDLED WITH DUE CARE; HOWEVER, THE PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR CARE AND SAFE RETURN OF UNSOLICITED MATERIALS. ALL LETTERS AND PICTURES SENT TO SAVVY™ WILL BE TREATED AS INTENDED FOR PUBLICATION AND ARE SUBJECT TO SAVVY'S™ UNRESTRICTED RIGHT TO EDIT OR TO COMMENT EDITORIALLY. 201 E. MARKHAM ST. SUITE 200, LITTLE ROCK, AR 72201 501-375-2985.

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contributors Se p tem b er 2 0 1 4

A School & A Therapy Clinic A place where children with developmental disabilities and learning differences can grow and develop in an environment tailored to meet their unique needs.

ing

w n ed

KD Reep

is a writer and public relations practitioner in Little Rock. She owns Flywrite Communications, Inc., a public relations agency, and is the PR director for Mass Enthusiasm, a full-service marketing communications firm in Little Rock.

Dwain Hebda

Therapy Services chool and AOutpatient Therapy Clinic Occupational · Physical · Speech zes (maximum of 8 children per class) ional, Physical & Speech Therapy If your child has been diagnosed with a developmental tpatient therapy is available.disorder:

is a writer and editor living in Little Rock.

He and his wife, Darlene, are the parents of four grown children. The empty-nesters enjoy their time traveling, working out and spoiling their two dogs.

Robert Bell

is a freelance writer who lives in Fayetteville with his wife and two children.

Jeff McDaniel

is a certified personal trainer and founder and program director for Busy Mom Fitness at FastFit Bootcamps in Little Rock. For more information visit fastfitbootcamps.com or contact him at jeff@fastfitbootcamps.com.

Autism plications · for limited availability.

Syndrome ed with a development· Asperger disorder; Autism, Asperger syndrome, PDD, Down anguage disorders, or sensory integration issues, contact us today for more · Pervasive Developmental Disorder mation or to schedule an evaluation for your child.

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Arkansas

Brandy Thomason McNair

is owner of Bella Vita Jewelry in Little Rock. She is known for creating personalized, hand-stamped pieces and unique, handmade jewelry using natural stones, hand-cast bronze, sterling pendants and vintage baubles. She sells her jewelry online at bellavitajewelry.com, and at retailers throughout Arkansas and nationwide.

Callie France Sterling

is a 23-year-old graduate of the University of Central Arkansas. She has a degree in Journalism with an emphasis in print as well as broadcast. She loves photography, scrapbooking, writing and going on adventures with her husband and their two dogs.

Contact us today for more information or to schedule an evaluation for your child.

We work with a variety of private insurance providers as well as ARKids 1st, Medicaid, TEFRA and TRICARE.

10 SEPTEMBER 2014 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

Calvin Bramlett

(501) 663-6965 · 1600 Riverfront Drive Little Rock, Arkansas 72202

Matthew Cooper

is executive chef at Cache Restaurant in Little Rock and owner of Dandelion Herbs, Spices, Teas. He is an Arkansas native and grew up in a family of food technologists and educators. He graduated from the Western Culinary Institute in Portland, Oregon (Le Cordon Bleu Schools Northwest). His cooking style revolves around rustic and traditional cuisine, focusing on local and sustainable ingredients. He and his wife, Priscilla, have a 9-year-old daughter, Lillian, who hopes to be a pastry chef when she grows up.

The birth-to-three period is the fastest rate of brain development across the entire human life span.

Talk. Talk. Talk. You cannot talk too much to your baby.

Talk about anything – your day, what you’re having for dinner, anything! It’s your turn to talk now, but your baby will take over the conversation before you know it!

Get to know the adults in your child care program.

Do they warmly interact with the children? Is there a lot of two-way conversation?

In classrooms with nonverbal children, the language is even more important.

Babies need to hear words to learn words.

Visit our website to download

9 simple ways to advance your toddler’s brain development

www.ARBetterBeginnings.com • 1-800-445-3316

Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2014

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NEST PARENTING | FAMILY

Social Media Overshare How to maintain a child’s right to privacy online B y K D R ee p

means that almost 100 percent You’ve seen them: the endless posts, pictures and videos of a Facebook friend’s children at a ball game, the park, home, even in the bathroom. While you may understand the poster’s need to make the world aware of just how special his or her child is, you also understand that some things should be kept private.

But how much is too much? According to a study by AVG Digital Diary, 92 percent Joel DiPippa, an adjunct professor for of children in this country have an online cyber law at the William H. Bowen School of Law presence before they are 2 years old. That in Little Rock

“People often don’t realize what they are exposing their children to when they post on social media.”

of American children will have their nude baby snapshots, potty-training stories and accounts of growing pains available for public consumption.

In a recent national incident, mother and blogger Courtney Adamo posted pictures of her toddler daughter to Instagram, an online photo and video application that allows users to take photos and video for free and share them with followers and other social media outlets. The photos, which portrayed c o nt i n u ed o n pag e 1 4

12 SEPTEMBER 2014 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

Catch Arkansas’s Diamond Expre !

All Aboard for Fun! LITTLE

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Please bring ID. Must be at least 21 years old to attend. #1 Zoo Drive

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2014

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“Backlash from other bloggers and parents was immediate and immense; many commented on how that sweet and innocent photo could be removed but snapshots of Kim Kardashian in skimpy swimsuits remained.”

the toddler in her training pants, were reported to the service, and Instagram temporarily deleted Adamo’s account, which had more than 40,000 followers. Backlash from other bloggers and parents was immediate and immense; many commented on how that sweet and innocent photo could be removed but snapshots of Kim Kardashian in skimpy swimsuits remained.

According to Instagram’s child privacy policy, it does not knowingly collect or solicit any information from anyone under the age of 13 or knowingly allow such persons to register for the service. The policy goes on to say Instagram and its content are not directed at children under the age of 13, and in the event Instagram learns it has collected personal information from a child under age 13 without parental consent, it will delete that information as quickly as possible.

In Adamo’s case, she posted her daughter’s picture with no intention of it going beyond her blog or social media accounts. Today, the photo and Adamo’s story have been published in the London Daily Mail and Independent newspapers as well as in worldwide blogs and online news sites. Many commenters suggested that if someone viewed Adamo’s photo of her daughter as inappro-

priate, the problem was with the viewer, not the picture. However, the problem with a child’s online privacy isn’t with the child; instead, it is with parents.

“People often don’t realize what they are exposing their children to when they post on social media,” says Joel DiPippa, an adjunct professor for cyber law at the William H. Bowen School of Law in Little Rock. “Every time someone posts to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or any other social media outlet, that post is stored, aggregated and could be shared or sold. What you share with friends and family now also is available to people you add to your accounts in the future. In 10 years, how well will you remember what you have shared on social media?”

A result of all this sharing can be bullying from fellow students and friends as the child gets older and goes to school, or it could even expose children to online predators and thieves. According to the FBI Criminal Division’s Crimes Against Children Unit, photos can be copied, downloaded and shared with strangers without the parents’ or poster’s knowledge. And, if those photos are taken by a smartphone or a device with GPS, they may contain tags that tell the location when snapped. All of this can lead to a child’s whereabouts, and all without the parents’ consent.

“Let’s say you have a birthday party at your house for your daughter,” DiPippa says. “You take pictures and videos with your smartphone and post them to Facebook. Anyone who can view your posts could find out where your child lives by the tag you use, the status you post or the comments from friends. You have no intention of hurting your child, but you don’t always think about her privacy when sharing this with your friends.”

Not to mention what could happen when the child grows up. Whether he looks for employment, takes his chances in the limelight or pursues a career in politics, a complete history of awkward moments is on file because of his parents.

“Parents have saved and shared every stage of their child’s growth — including the awkward phases. Everyone has an awkward phase; with the advent of digital photo retouching and the reach of social media, your children may have to face that awkward phase anytime someone digs deep enough into the digital past,” DiPippa says.

Bottom line for posting online: Less is more when it comes to children. Wait until they are old enough to have their own social media accounts and can decide for themselves what to make public and when.

Draw the Line Online 5 Ways to Protect Your Child’s Online Privacy The only way to limit your child’s risk to an invasion of privacy is to not post photos or information about them online and to ask that friends and family do the same. While this may not seem feasible, there are other ways you can manage your child’s safety while posting about him or her to social media outlets. PBS.org offers these guidelines:

3. Put yourself in your child’s place. Before you post about their second-grade crush or a video of their impromptu rendition of Pharrell’s “Happy,” ask yourself if you would want the world to know something you shared in a private moment.

1. Take advantage of privacy settings on Facebook or other social media sites. When you limit what can be viewed by acquaintances and strangers, you reduce the chance that online predators can gain information about your child and family.

4. Beware of perpetrators who want to harm children. Online predators are adept at figuring out when children are vulnerable and taking advantage of it. If you post a status about struggles your child is having, that can tip off a predator to singling out him or her. Match that with statuses about where your child goes to school, his or her afterschool activities and your neighborhood, and you could unintentionally give a criminal access to your child.

2. Identity theft is a real threat to a child’s future. Someone could monitor your online profiles, assimilate information on your child and use it to create bank accounts or take out loans. The thief could even use your child’s name to commit crimes.

5. Use discretion when posting photos and videos. Posting photos of your child is one issue, but posting pictures that include his or her friends could put you at odds with other parents. Always ask permission before posting.

When in doubt, choose to post less, not more.

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THESAVVYMOMS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2014

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nest | NOSH | Thrive | CULTIVATE

Mount Kessler Trail, Fayetteville

Photo courtesy of Fayetteville Visitors Bureau

5

Reasons to Head Northwest While in town to catch the Razorbacks take the field, check out these fun, family-friendly activities in Northwest Arkansas.

Autumn is an excellent time of year in Northwest Arkansas — the heat usually breaks along about late September, the leaves transform the ubiquitous hills from lush green to an array of warm hues, Fayetteville is bustling with thousands of students again and, of course, the Razorbacks take to the field most Saturdays.

It’s football season, and the throngs will descend upon Northwest Arkansas from around the state and region, and they will stay at hotels and eat at sports bars and tailgate and all that fun stuff. But there’s more to do in the area than just watch Hawgball.

While in town for the game, enjoy some of the family-friendly activities the northwest part of the state has to offer. Here are our top five picks:

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B y R o b ert Be l l

1. Northwest Arkansas Trail System Northwest Arkansas has more than 100 miles of paved trails, perfect for walking, running or biking. So be sure to pack your running gear or bicycle and get your exercise. In addition to city trails in Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville, Johnson, Lowell and Siloam Springs, there’s the Razorback Regional Greenway, a 36-mile trail that will connect south Fayetteville to Bella Vista. It is scheduled to be completed this winter.

Visit NWArkansasTrails.com for maps and more information. co nt i n u ed On pag e 1 8

Noaithies Cav

Super Smiles!

Brushing your teeth makes healthy gums, clean teeth, fresh breath and a nice smile. Brush your teeth at least twice daily for at least 2-3 minutes each time for healthy teeth and gums.

Laughter is great medicine. Share jokes, read funny books, laugh and play with your friends. Smiles are contagious...and healthy! archildrens.org

We take your child’s education With quality public schools like Crystal Hill Elementary, the education you want for your child is close at hand.

Choose PCSSD schools with: • Test scores higher than other local districts • Millions in college scholarships awarded • Teachers with advanced degrees • Talented and gifted programs • State-winning sports teams

pcssd.org

501.234.2000 THESAVVYMOMS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2014

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nest | NOSH | Thrive | CULTIVATE co n t inu ed f rom pa ge 1 6

some of the best-tasting and freshest ingredients available just up the hill from campus? And it’s not just carrots and leafy greens — there are folks selling local meats and cheeses, as well as arts and crafts and coffee and pastries. Add in the variety of musical performers and some of the best people watching this side of a music festival and you’ve got a no-brainer for starting off your Saturday.

Open: 7 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturdays through Nov. 22; 7 a.m.-1 p.m., Tue. and Thur. through Oct. 30

3. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks 4703 N. Crossover Road, Fayetteville

If you need to get away from the football-frenzied crowds, you’d be hardpressed to do better than a visit to the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. This verdant, 100-acre oasis is perfect for a relaxing retreat on Saturday before the gridiron begins, or on Sunday as a way to unwind. Stroll through a dozen lush, themed gardens and savor the delicate wonder of the butterfly house before going to watch giant young men smash into each other. There is a variety of events Botanical Garden of the Ozarks

2. Fayetteville Farmers Market, Downtown Square The Fayetteville Farmers Market is much more than just a place to stock up on fresh, local produce (though it certainly fills that need). The Saturday market in particular is one part produce, one part social gathering and one part live music venue. Why go to the megamart for your tailgate fixins when you can get

PhotoS courtesy of Fayetteville Visitors Bureau

Live music at the Fayetteville Farmers Market

costumes staRtiNg

nobody has more halloween for less 18 SEPTEMBER 2014 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

nest | NOSH | Thrive | CULTIVATE photography by Timothy Hursley. Courtesy of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas.

um grounds. And, of course, there’s the rest of downtown Bentonville, which boasts an ever-growing number of top-notch restaurants, shops and 21C, the swanky boutique hotel and art gallery.

Open: 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon. and Thur.; 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Wed. and Fri.; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. and Sun. Admission: Free

Colonial to early 19th-century art gallery at Crystal Bridges

5. Senior Walk at the University of Arkansas

and activities hosted at the gardens throughout the year, and you can rent the facility for special events as well.

Open: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily Admission: May-October: $7 (adults), $4 (ages 5-12), free (4 and younger); November-April: $5 (adults), $2.50 (ages 5-12), free (4 and younger)

4. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art 600 Museum Way, Bentonville

at just

Photo courtesy of University of Arkansas

If for some reason you have not yet made the trek up to Bentonville to visit Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, you are missing out on one of the most important and, more importantly, one of the most enjoyable art experiences of the last few decades, and it’s right here in Arkansas. There are also ongoing children’s programs.

On Sept. 13, the museum opens its State of the Art exhibit, a collection of work of all types from more than 100 emerging American artists. Also, be sure to explore the wonderful 3.5-mile trail system that winds around the muse-

As any alum will testify, Senior Walk is one of the most revered and noticeable traditions at the University of Arkansas (other than the Hog Call, of course).

The 1905 class was the first to etch their names into the campus sidewalk, but then added the 1904 class, and Senior Walk at the University of Arkansas thus was born a practice that is unique among American universities, according to the UA. Later, students went back and wrote the names of all the classes going back to the school’s founding.

If you’re in town with UA graduates, try to find everyone’s names. It’d be good exercise, too, especially if you decide to see all 140,000 names (that’s about five miles worth, by the way). There are a few famous ones as well. You can find the great novelist Charles Portis’ name etched on the northwest corner of Mullins Library.

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11218 N. RodNey PaRham Rd. / LittLe Rock / 501.223.4929 4822 N. hiLLs bLvd. / NoRth LittLe Rock / 501.978.3154 THESAVVYMOMS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2014

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nest | NOSH | Thrive | CULTIVATE

THRIVE Fashion | lifestyle | health

Carry All Photo g r a p h y b y Br i a n Ch i l s o n

Moms often tote around all sorts of things for themselves and their little ones. A typical mom’s bag may be filled with makeup, snacks, wet wipes and possibly a change of clothes, but no one says it can’t also be on trend. We’ve scouted out some of our favorite bags from local shops that are stylish and functional enough to take any modern mom from the office to carpool lane, date night to the soccer field, along with playdates, girls’ nights out, weekend errands and far beyond. co nt in u ed o n pag e 22

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I AM THE AEA

Eric Gorder

B

rig Caldwell has been a part of Rogers Heritage High School since it opened in 2008, and he has been instrumental in creating networking and leadership opportunities for students.

Caldwell serves as the school’s Student Relations/Community Liaison, where he fills multiple roles in the areas of student leadership, community awareness, access to higher education, parental involvement, and clubs and activities.

He is on the steering committee for Arvest First Leadership, a leadership and career-path program for students, and he facilitates the school’s Link Crew program, a national mentoring program that pairs upperclassmen with lowerclassmen. He also sponsors several school clubs, including the Association of Latin Professionals in Finance and Accounting.

To create opportunities for his students beyond high school and to help students access the resources they need for higher education, Caldwell works closely with the admissions offices at the University of Arkansas and Northwest Arkansas Community College.

Involving parents in the school culture is essential to student success, Caldwell says. He is an active member of the PTO, and he serves as the coordinator of Padres, a Spanish-speaking parent group.

The student body of Rogers Heritage High School is more than 35 percent Hispanic.

Caldwell believes that when Spanish-speaking parents are better acquainted with school culture in Arkansas, they become more active at the school.

Language barriers are a big challenge at the school, where more than 1,900 students speak over 35 different languages. Caldwell’s role at RHHS includes serving as the Spanish-speaking liaison for faculty, students and their families, and the community.

Caldwell, 39, has been working in education for 10 years. Before joining Rogers Heritage, he worked at Rogers High School and volunteered with AmeriCorps in elementary schools. He enjoys working with teenagers most.

“I like to work with the level of learner where they are taking on more responsibility,” he says.

In his previous career, Caldwell worked in the hospitality and food service industry, including management roles. But, he says, teaching had always been on his mind since he held his first job at the Northside YMCA in North Little Rock when he was fourteen.

Joining the Arkansas Education Association was one of Caldwell’s first moves when he became an educator. He says he appreciates the AEA’s professional network, workshops, and opportunities for professional development.

“I was young in my career in education and felt like it was an important group to be a part of because of the opportunities for personal and professional growth,” he says.

Meet Brig Caldwell, Rogers Heritage High School

Caldwell, originally from Costa Rica, was adopted from an orphanage in San Jose when he was two. He grew up in North Little Rock and Benton. His parents, a doctor and a middle school principal, instilled in him the importance of education and modeled leadership behavior.

These are values he has in turn modeled with his two daughters, who are two and fourteen. His older daughter is a ninth grader at Rogers Heritage this year.

His family enjoys traveling and often spends summers with his wife’s family in Costa Rica. However, this summer Caldwell taught at Northwest Arkansas Community College as part of the Upward Bound Project.

Caldwell says he enjoys staying busy with his many networking and leadership roles, and he hopes to inspire the next generation to do the same.

1500 W. 4th St. Little Rock 501.375.4611 aeaonline.org

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2014

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Carry All

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1. Will Leather Goods canvas and leather satchel, $275, available at Greenhaw’s Fine Men’s Wear in Little Rock; 2. Tory Burch leather perforated tote, $558, available at Barbara Jean in Little Rock; 3. Co-Lab Bordeaux-colored leather satchel, $98, available at Scarlet in Little Rock; 4. Hobo ink-colored leather tote, $298, available at Warren’s Shoes at the Promenade at Chenal in Little Rock; 5. Foley+Corinna tan and black fold-over cross body, $375, available at Indigo at the Promenade at Chenal in Little Rock; 6. Rebecca Minkoff double-handled tote in latte, $345, available at B. Barnett in Little Rock; 7. Urban Originals black fringe tote, $90, available at Steamroller Blues in Little Rock; 8. Cinda B quilted bowler bag, $129, available at Bella Boutique in Little Rock. Previous page: Street Level canvas printed carryall, $65, available at Fringe Clothing in Little Rock.

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Domestic violence thrives when we are silent;

but if we take a stand and work together, we can end domestic violence. Throughout the month of October help Women & Children First, the largest domestic violence shelter in the state to raise awareness about domestic violence and join in our efforts to end violence. Here is what you can do: 1. )Like our Facebook page and spread the word that Arkansans will not be silent about domestic violence.

2.) Change your social media profile and cover photos to show you stand with WCF as we remember those who have lost their lives and celebrate those who have survived.

3.) Wear purple -- the color of Domestic Violence Awareness Month -- during the month of October and use this as a way to tell others why ending domestic violence is important to you.

4.) Make a donation to Women and Children First in honor of the women in your life who have been impacted by domestic violence. Also honoring the counselors who are so passionate about their mission to help give women and children back their lives, which is the foundation of our organization.

www.wcfarkansas.org

For more information contact: Angela McGraw, Executive Director amcgraw@wcfarkansas.org 501-376-3219 • Toll Free 1-800-332-4443 P.O. Box 1954 • Little Rock, AR 72203 THESAVVYMOMS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2014

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Minimalist B y B randy T homason M c N air P hoto g raphy by B rian C hilson

Jewelry can make or break any ensemble, and pairing the right piece with the right outfit is what makes a fashion statement unique. But when you’re on the go, it’s not always possible to spend time coordinating accessories. Finding a simple signature piece will make getting dressed in the morning a snap. These minimalist pendants (most of which were made by local designers) go with anything and work in any setting so that you always look stylish and put together.

Left to right: Hand stamped initial necklace by Bella Vita Jewelry, $35, available at bellavitajewelry.com; “Like a Boss” hand stamped brass bar by Robinson Lane Designs, $38, available at bourbonandboots.com; “Love” pendant by Farrah b, $39.95, available at Fringe Clothing in Little Rock; Gemstone pendant by Susan Strauss, $48, available at Box Turtle in Little Rock; Rowan Necklace by Shira Melody, $24, available at Steamroller Blues in Little Rock.

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12-Minute toning

Working out with resistance bands provides all the benefit of weight training, but in a much more convenient way

By Jeff McDaniel Photo g r a p h y b y Br i a n Ch i l s o n

There is probably no better piece of fitness equipment for use at home or travel than a resistance band. Lightweight, affordable, portable and convenient, bands provide an unlimited number of training options and all for under $20.

There are many benefits to implementing resistance-band training into your workout routine. Band training takes the pressure off your joints but still allows muscles to really feel the burn. Unfortunately, machines and deadweight can be tough on the joints. Your muscles won’t know the difference between band resistance and deadweight resistance, but your joints will.

Squats are a great functional exercise we need throughout life, but using deadweight can be hard on your back. But, squats, hip-hinges and lateral lunges using bands keep the hips strong and healthy without killing your spine because the load is taken off your back.

1. Band Push Press This is a total body exercise for super shoulders and explosive hips. Begin with the band placed in the racked position at your clavicle. Dip into a quarter squat and push the band overhead with weight on your heels. At the top of the press, go wide with the hands and keep abs and glutes tight at all times.

2. Band Front Squat Using a band is the perfect way to add weight to squats without actually using weights. Begin holding the band in the racked position, with arms crossed in front of your chest. Sink the hips down and back into the bottom of the squat with knees, chest and eyes out. Push through the heels to stand (or add a jump to make the move more challenging).

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Getting to the gym can be difficult for busy moms, and bands allow for a consistent workout. Bands allow us to create a simple home gym that can go wherever we want: home, hotel room or even an outdoor park.

For this four-exercise circuit band workout, perform each move continuously as intensely as you can for 30 seconds and rest for 30 seconds. Repeat each circuit three times for a 12-minute workout. Little Rock mom of three Angie Potts, 39, shows us how to perform the moves.

nest | NOSH | Thrive | CULTIVATE

4. Band-Resisted Mountain Climbers This is a core-cardio combo, and the added resistance increases the challenge to your core. Slip the band around your lower back and hook in with your thumbs, and get in a push-up hold. Keeping tight abs, glutes and thighs, begin slowly bringing each knee into the same side elbow without letting the foot touch the floor. Progress by increasing the speed of movement.

3. X-Band Hip Walk This is a great total body movement for the shoulders and hips.

Begin by standing on the band with feet hip-width apart. Cross the band over making an X. Step laterally to the side leading with your heel to best activate the glute.

Pull the band to chest height on the side step. Lead with the elbows and repeat side to side.Â

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MOTHERHOOD

by design

Local fashion designer Korto Momolu talks about preparing for New York Fashion Week, traveling with a 5-month-old, spending quality time with her family and how she makes it all work.

B y E r i c a Swee n e y Photo g r a p h y b y N a n c y No l a n korto ' s M a ke u p b y Am a r i Brook s

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Korto Momolu with daughter Alyse, husband Benny Briggs and son Cameron THESAVVYMOMS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2014

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People often tell Korto Momolu that she makes juggling motherhood with a bustling career as a fashion designer look easy.

Sitting in the lobby of her office in the River Market District and bouncing 5-month-old son Cameron on her lap, she laughs as soon as she says this. The reality is so far from the perception.

Momolu often operates on little sleep. She coordinates nearly every aspect of the fashion shows she participates in, sews her entire collections (often at the last minute), strives to spend enough quality time with 10-year-old daughter Alyse and, since April, brings Cameron with her everywhere so that she can breastfeed.

And, she does all of this without the help of assistants or nannies.

But Momolu takes it all in stride with a laid-back air. With so much on her plate and New York Fashion Week just around the corner, she was planning to create her entire spring/summer 2015 collection just a month ahead of the event. While time management is always a struggle, she says she works best under pressure.

“It’s more exciting at the last minute,” she says.

Known for being a finalist on “Project Runway” in 2008, being a contestant on “Project Runway All Stars” earlier this year and regularly showing collections and hosting fashion shows all over the country, what’s most important to Momolu is raising a healthy family and projecting an image that makes her children proud.

Momolu, 39, has always wanted to be a mother, and says having kids is like getting a “clean slate.” The best part is seeing traits of herself and her husband, Benny Briggs, in their two children.

She is as dedicated to her own family as she is to supporting other moms through a partnership with Sisters United, an initiative created two years ago by local African-American sororities to raise awareness about infant mortality in Arkansas.

Momolu is writing a blog, titled “Birth by Design,” documenting baby Cameron’s first year, and covering subjects like breastfeeding, safe sleep and life as a new mom, all in an effort to raise awareness about infant and women’s health.

“Being a new mom can be a lonely time,” she explains, and the support of other moms is invaluable. “Every day of having a new baby is so different. If [the blog] helps bring a voice to that, that’s awesome.”

Breastfeeding is an important issue for Momolu, especially because AfricanAmerican mothers in Arkansas are nearly half as likely to breastfeed as white mothers. And, infant mortality remains higher in Arkansas than the national average, and highest among the state’s African-American community.

African-American families in Arkansas are three times more likely to have a child die from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, and twice as likely to have a child die before their first birthday, says Michelle Smith, director of the Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities at the Arkansas Department of Health and a member of Sisters United.

“A lot of people look up to Korto, especially young people in the [AfricanAmerican community],” Smith says, so having Momolu as a spokesperson brings more awareness to these issues and empowers women.

“Korto is very generous and very humble. She’s a giver and a great mom.”

The Art of a Fashion Career Art and creativity have always been staples in Momolu’s life. Drawing was her first art of choice, but while studying at an all-girls boarding high school in Canada, she began making garments for herself and others. Her sketches transitioned from landscapes to people in clothing. An art teacher recognized her talent and helped her apply to L’Academies des Couturiers Design Institute in Canada, where she graduated.

Born in Liberia, Momolu and her family moved to Canada in 1990 because of civil unrest in their home country. The move was supposed to be temporary, but the family was eventually given exile status. In the process, Momolu’s family lost everything, so she says going to Parsons The New School for Design in New

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“Korto is very generous and very humble. She’s a giver and a great mom.”

Michelle Smith, director of the Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities at the Arkansas Department of Health and a member of Sisters United

York City was out of the question. She interned for several fashion designers in the city and helped out during fashion week.

Showing at Bryant Park years later as a “Project Runway” finalist was a “dream come true,” she says. She earned a spot on the show on her first (and, it would have been the only) try. Momolu was first runner-up on the fifth season in 2008 and voted fan favorite.

Winning the money to start her own line was her only reason for wanting to be on “Project Runway.” The fame and becoming so recognizable never entered her mind. At first, Momolu says people treated her differently (which she doesn’t like), and she even lost a few friends after being on the show.

Staying grounded is always important to Momolu and something she insists on modeling for her children.

“I’ve always been the same person,” she says. Because of being on “Project Runway,” she says people think she’s a “glamorous diva” but on a regular day, she’s often wearing “flip-flops at Walmart.”

Briggs says having a recognizable wife has taken some getting used to. While he expected that people around Little Rock would notice her after being on the show, it wasn’t until a trip to the British Virgin Islands that he realized how well known she was.

“It blew me away when we went other places, people were coming up to her and showing her love,” he says. “At times, it’s super cool, and at times, it makes you stop and think, ‘It’s crazy people know who my wife is.’ To me she’s my wife, but when that happens, it’s like I’m with a superstar.”

But, Briggs, an Arkansas native, has always known Momolu was “going places,” ever since he saw her design portfolio shortly after they met at a New York City shopping mall 18 years ago. They have been married for 15 years.

“She has a vision and puts it into action,” he says. “That’s hard to do. She never stops until she achieves a dream. I’m super proud of her.”

Her creativity blew him away, he says, and he loves that Momolu fosters their daughter Alyse’s creativity and knows she’ll do the same for Cameron. Briggs calls his wife an “awesome mother.”

Having creative children is also important to Momolu: “I wouldn’t know what to do with a child that wasn’t,” she says. Though she bought Alyse a sewing machine, the 10-year-old is more interested in dance and performance, and hopes to be a model when she grows up.

Speaking a Dream Without the support of her husband and other family and friends, Momolu says, “I couldn’t do what I do.” And, she’s grateful that her husband “steps aside and lets me be me.”

With raising a family, traveling and running a business, Momolu says it isn’t until the middle of the night, around 2 a.m., that she has a chance to take some time for herself. This is when she checks email, browses social media sites and catches up on the TV shows she records.

“I feel like I have to live a little before bed,” she says.

The family lives in Mabelvale and spends time together riding bikes across the Big Dam Bridge, watching the Cooking Channel and checking out new places to eat.

Having children 10 years apart has had its ups and downs, Momolu says.

Alyse, an only child for so long, had some trouble adjusting to the new baby, but she is a big help with taking care of Cameron. Most of all, Momolu says, “I’m calmer this time around.”

Because she travels several times a month to host or show collections at fashion shows, and pumping enough breast milk for an extended time period is difficult, Momolu brings Cameron everywhere.

“I’m getting him on the road early,” she says. She doesn’t travel with a nanny, but sometimes hires one locally to help out with Cameron during the shows.

Later this month, Cameron will attend his first New York Fashion Week, where his mom will show her spring/summer 2015 collection, featuring prints and leather, and a flowing style. Momolu has partnered with a jewelry designer to create coordinating Lucite and metal pieces.

Momolu says her designs make women feel sexy and pretty, even when they aren’t “100 percent comfortable in their own skin.” She never uses patterns to cre-

ate her pieces. Instead, she chooses fabrics first and then drapes on mannequins.

Locally, Momolu has been involved with the Designer’s Choice Fashion Preview, founded by Theresa Timmons, since it began in 2007, just before auditioning for “Project Runway.”

This summer, Momolu taught at the Cultivate the Arts Summer Camp in Little Rock. At the camp, created by the Timmons Art Foundation, she talked to students ages 6-15 about how fashion is a part of every aspect of life. While she says teaching “takes patience,” she loves educating others about what she loves. Plus, she sees herself in the young artists.

“I tell them to speak their dreams, and then do things to get there,” she says.

“Speaking it out makes it real.”

The importance of hard work in achieving a dream is a value she’s working to instill in her own children and those that she teaches.

In some ways, Momolu says, she’s still chasing her dreams. She says she’s not in an environment to do everything perfectly in her design career, and there are “still some rough edges.” She does everything herself, including sewing her collection, coordinating attendance at fashion shows and finding sponsors. She says she hasn’t found the right team to help her, and isn’t yet able to hire a full-time staff.

“I’m still a mom-and-pop shop,” she says. “I’m still pushing to where I want to be in my career.”

Why she continues to stay in Little Rock despite success beyond is the question Momolu is most frequently asked. To her, the answer is simple: Central Arkansas is a great place to raise a family.

“Here it’s calming and peaceful,” she says. “I’m just like everyone else, chasing the American Dream and raising a family.”

Korto with 10-year-old Alyse

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2014

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NOSH COOKING | DINING | NUTRITION

Sweet Honey Yogurt Fruit Bowl

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nest | NOSH | Thrive | CULTIVATE

Toss It Up

Kids will love eating their fruits and veggies with these delicious, and easy-to-prepare, salad recipes developed by local chef Matthew Cooper R e c i p e s b y M a tthew Coo p er Photo g r a p h y b y S a r a B l a n c ett

Promoting healthy eating and supporting local food sources are two causes that Matthew Cooper is passionate about.

Cooper is executive chef at Cache Restaurant and owner of Dandelion Herbs, Spices, Teas, both in downtown Little Rock, where he takes care in choosing the best quality, often local and organic, ingredients. He says its important for local families to do the same whenever possible and to always cook together.

These are philosophies that Cooper himself puts into practice at home.

He and 9-year-old daughter Lillian often prepare ingredients and cook together. Supervised, she likes to chop up fruits and veggies, and has developed some impressive knife skills, her dad says.

Lillian likes cooking because she gets to spend time with her family and says, “It’s a good experience for when I grow up.” She says she loves to be in the kitchen and hopes to be a pastry chef (or comedian) when she grows up.

Cooking as a family teaches kids where food comes from and what goes into the recipes they’re eating, Cooper explains. Children also learn communication skills and responsibility because of the time element of meal preparation. Cooking as a family also builds relationships.

“The kitchen needs to be the room that brings families together,” Cooper says.

Cooper has developed three healthy and family-friendly salad recipes that are also gluten free. Because the recipes incorporate ingredients that kids Chef Matthew Cooper and his daughter Lillian usually love, like peanut butter, fruit, prepare the Sweet Honey Yogurt Fruit Bowl

cheese and nuts, they are a great way to promote healthy eating and add more fruits and veggies to their diets.

These salads are quick and easy to prepare and make great snacks, sides, lunches or dinners. The recipes are also easy for kids to make and practice their own culinary skills. The Sweet Honey Yogurt Fruit Bowl is Lillian’s personal favorite.

Sweet Honey Yogurt Fruit Bowl With adult supervision, kids can help prep all fruit to the desired size and combine in a large mixing bowl. Use all organic ingredients if possible. This recipe is gluten free.

1 cup chopped strawberries 1 cup blueberries 1 pear, chopped 1 cup watermelon, scooped 1 cup yogurt (plain) 1 ounce white balsamic vinegar 3 ounces honey (use local honey to help boost immune health) 1 tablespoon mint, chopped Sea salt and pepper to taste

Instructions 1. For the honey yogurt dressing, combine plain yogurt, white balsamic vinegar, honey, mint, salt and pepper to taste.

Whisk until ingredients are well combined and smooth, then taste to salt.

2. Toss the fruit with the honey yogurt dressing and refrigerate for a quick healthy snack. co nt i n u ed o n pag e 3 4 THESAVVYMOMS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2014

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Truffle Grape Salad

Peanut Veggie Rice-Noodle Bowl

Most kids (and adults) love candied pecans and cheddar, so this is a perfect family salad. Let kids help out by whisking the truffle grape vinaigrette or tossing the salad.

Kids can help out chopping up the veggies, with supervision. Kids will also enjoy shaking up the dressing, which is made in a small jar. This recipe can be made gluten free.

½ cup grapeseed oil ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar 3 tablespoons honey (use local honey to help boost immune health) ¼ teaspoon black pepper 2 tablespoons truffle oil Salt to taste 1 pound salad mix 1 cup grapes 3 ounces white cheddar, grated 3 ounces pecans (candied)

12 ounces rice noodles 3 tablespoons dark sesame oil or grapeseed oil 3 tablespoons tahini 3 tablespoons peanut butter 2 tablespoons honey 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or Bragg sauce for a gluten-free option) 2 tablespoons rice vinegar ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 4 to 5 cups chopped veggies (red cabbage, snow peas, radishes, cucumber, bell pepper, broccoli slaw, carrots, bean sprouts, etc. — any veggies your kiddo picks out) ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional) ¼ cup peanuts, chopped

Instructions 1. Whisk grapeseed oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey, black pepper and truffle oil until smooth. Salt to taste.

2. Combine salad mix, grapes, white cheddar and candied pecans, and toss with the dressing.

!

Shopping Tip

Chef Matthew Cooper encourages home cooks to use local and organic ingredients whenever possible. However, all of the ingredients for these recipes can easily be purchased at local supermarkets.

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Instructions 1. Cook noodles according to the package instructions. Drain noodles (reserve some of the cooking liquid), rinse and set aside to cool.

2. Combine the oil, tahini, peanut butter, honey, soy sauce, vinegar and pepper in a jar. Shake until well combined. Using the reserved pasta water, thin the sauce by adding about a tablespoon of water at a time, until the sauce is about the consistency of heavy cream.

3. Toss cooked noodles with the sauce until well coated. Stir in the veggies of choice. Top each bowl with a sprinkle of cilantro and nuts.

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Loblolly’s bottled kombucha comes in a variety of flavors

Kombucha Craze Local producers of the fizzy fermented tea, Loblolly Creamery discusses its most popular flavors and WHY the drink IS growing IN popularity B y E r i c a Swee n e y Photo g r a p h y b y Br i a n Ch i l s o n

Touting its health benefits and probiotic properties, kombucha has been a ize the elixir, and bottled kombucha always comes flavored, Frankenstein excommon drink of choice among health-food junkies for years. But, the fizzy plains. Honey ginger, hibiscus and blackberry are the most popular flavors.

Their bottled kombucha is sold locally at the Root Cafe; the Beast Food Truck; drink is becoming increasingly popular as locals are taking notice of its potential Dandelion Herbs, Spices, Teas; Mylo Coffee Co.; and from Loblolly’s own food health-promoting qualities.

Loblolly Creamery, best known for its array of small-batch ice cream treats, truck. Besides Loblolly’s locally made product, nationally produced kombucha also brews kombucha, which it sells on tap at the Green Corner Store’s soda can be purchased at local supermarkets.

Making kombucha is fairly simple. Loblolly starts with organic black tea, fountain and in bottles at eateries and food trucks around Central Arkansas. which is mixed with sugar and a SCOBY (Symbiotic ColKombucha is a naturally fermented tea, usually ony of Bacteria and Yeast) — their SCOBY originated made from black or green tea, and many believe it is from a Buddhist monk. It takes about a week to produce packed full of probiotic benefits, says Laura Frankena batch, and each week they brew nearly 100 gallons, stein of Loblolly.

Mengel says.

Some of these potential benefits include better digesLoblolly added kombucha to its menu soon after settion, disease prevention, immune system support and ting up shop about two years ago to pay homage to the improved energy. However, according to the Mayo Clinhistorical significance of the soda fountain, where peoic, scientific research has not proven the health claims ple used to get their medicines mixed. The Green Corsurrounding kombucha. ner Store is housed in a building that is about 100 years Sally Mengel, Loblolly co-founder, says kombuold, and the shop operated for 70 years as a pharmacy. cha helps her ward off colds, and she has heard from Its soda fountain and fixtures, while not original to the some pregnant customers that it helps them with space, are about the same age as the shop. morning sickness.

Kombucha is more commonly an adult beverage, but In its pure form, kombucha is a golden color and its Frankenstein says some local moms are introducing taste resembles a fizzy apple cider vinegar, often dethe drink to their children early. An ancient drink that scribed as tangy and sweet and sour. Though not for originated in Northwest China, kombucha is becoming everyone, “the taste grows on you,” Mengel says.

Unflavored kombucha is served on tap at Green increasingly popular because of “the idea that it’s health At the soda fountain, Loblolly’s soda jerks can add Corner Store in Southside Main Street and can be mixed with a variety of homemade syrups. promoting,” she says. any combination of their homemade syrups to custom-

36 SEPTEMBER 2014 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

Savvy July 2014 .pdf

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THESAVVYMOMS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2014

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CULTIVATE ARTS | EDUCATION | PHILANTHROPY

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nest | NOSH | Thrive | CULTIVATE

Lemonade for a Cause

A 7-year-old from Sheridan is being honored by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for his creative fundraising efforts B y C a l l i e Fr a n c e Ster l i n g

•

Photo g r a p h y b y S a r a B l a n c ett

After being diagnosed with leukemia last year, Cooper Cody knew he wanted cally limited him in some ways — he can’t jump on a trampoline, for example. to do something to raise awareness about the disease that has forever changed But, his parents encourage him to do as many youthful activities as possible, his life. So, like any enterprising 7-year-old, he set up a mobile lemonade stand and selling lemonade for LLS was something that his parents jumped right on board with. to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Cody and his lemonade stand have also received national attention. Debbie The Cody family lives in the Sheridan Country Club, and the golf course proved to be the perfect spot for lemonade sales. Cody set up shop outside his Kersting, LLS national executive director, was highly impressed by his efforts.

“It is unbelievable that this little 7-year-old is functioning at this level with comhouse to sell lemonade to golfers for $1 a cup. He has been invited to sell on the munity service,” Kersting said. “My motto golf course and, when he gets a chance, is one person can help save the world and plans to take his lemonade stand on the those people who are capable of doing road and sell the drinks from his family’s so are people like Cooper. It has been an golf cart. honor for LLS to have Cooper be the face “My first time I sold lemonade I waited of our fight against blood cancers.” until there was a golf tournament and When asked about the ingredients he sold it during the tournament,” Cody said. uses to make his lemonade, Cody would So far, he has raised $2,150 for LLS not share his secret family recipe. and intends to continue his fundraising.

“We started with Country Time LemHe has also sold lemonade at his church onade, but now we have a new recipe,” and during a fun run benefit sponsored he said. “My dad helps me mainly when by his mother’s sorority.

I make it, and my sister helps me sell it.”

Partly because of his fundraising, He said he’s enjoyed his fundraising Cody was named LLS’s 2014 Boy of the K i m D u P a s , Le u kem i a a n d L y m p hom a So c i et y, efforts because “it makes me really hapYear and will serve as the Honored Hero Ark a n s a s d i v i s i o n c a m p a i g n m a n a g er py to help other kids.” for the organization’s Light the Night Cody and his mother, Tamyra Cody, Walk later this month. hope that one day a cure for leukemia is “I first heard about Cooper from a found. Cody’s parents feel that honesty large group of people that attended the is the best policy when talking to their LLS Light the Night Walk in September son about his illness. last year,” says Kim DuPas, LLS Arkansas “We never hold any information back division campaign manager. from Cooper,” Tamyra Cody says. “We “The group walking in Cooper’s honor always say that we fight back and fundwas so powerful and I admired their pasraise to help find a cure. We don’t want sion. I had to meet him and I am so glad Cooper’s kids to have to deal with leukethat I did.” mia and that is why we fight.”

The money that Cody has donated to Tamyra Cody says she has been LLS will remain in Arkansas and help amazed at Cooper’s depth of knowledge local LLS recipients. The donations will and understanding about leukemia and be used to fund research, helping others his dedication to raising awareness. who are diagnosed and toward promo“It is like he is a whole new person tional materials to raise awareness. since his diagnosis,” she said. “He is “I feel like Cooper really can see the like a little adult in many ways. He is so big picture,” DuPas said. “He is such a wise; it is pretty impressive.” kind spirit and it is amazing to see him fighting for others while fighting his own battle at the same time. The best Leukemia and Lymphoma part about my job is that it changes how Society’s Light the Night Walk you think. There are so many things to Sept. 12, 6 p.m. at First Security be happy about.”

Amphitheater in Little Rock Cody was diagnosed with leukemia Register at lightthenight.org/gat/localchapter/littlerock on July 31, 2013. The disease has physi-

“I feel like Cooper really can see the big picture. He is such a kind spirit and it is amazing to see him fighting for others while fighting his own battle at the same time.”

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2014

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nest | NOSH | Thrive | CULTIVATE

The Great Escape New exhibit recounts the incredible journey of Curious George creators B y D wa i n H e b d a

Allan Drummond, The Long Road, 2005, modern reproduction of watercolor and ink on paper, 15 1/4 x 22 3/8 inches, courtesy Allan Drummond and Institute for Holocaust Education, Omaha, NE.

Arguably one of the most recognizable children’s book characters of the 20th century, Curious George has an intriguing backstory. And, a new exhibit at the William F. Laman Public Library’s Argenta Branch tells a real-life tale of near misses and narrow escapes that rival any of the pint-sized simian’s adventures.

“The Wartime Escape: Margret and H.A. Rey’s Journey from France” traces the journey of Curious George’s creators as they fled Paris in advance of the Nazis with little more than the clothes on their backs and a knapsack of manuscripts. The traveling exhibit opens Sept. 1 and runs through Oct. 26 at the main floor exhibit hall of the Argenta Branch.

“This is a story that I had never heard about,” says Dan Noble, public relations manager for the library system. “I’m fairly certain if you surveyed people you might get nine out of 10 or 10 out of 10 who had no idea it happened, either.

It’s a great escape story.”

The display details some early collaborations and the genesis of George, who first appeared in the Reys’ pre-World War II stories and was the focal point of a children’s manuscript in process in 1939. Political turmoil and the increasingly dangerous environment for Jews in Europe stymied that effort as the authors fled for their lives.

Bicycling out of France, the couple’s run to safety over five months also included trains and boats, traveling to Spain, Portugal, South America and eventually to America in October 1940. From there, one month later, the world was introduced to The Adventures of Curious George and the rest is children’s literary history.

Noble said even though the exhibit is family friendly, it will most likely appeal to young adult audiences and older as it focuses on the authors’ story and only peripherally on the Curious George character and storybooks.

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“Anybody who grew up with Curious George will be interested in how this story came about,” he said. “Even though it’s a cartoon illustrated exhibit, it’s for teenagers and up who can understand why they were fleeing, where 3-, 4-, 5-year-olds probably couldn’t understand it.

“But, I think it would help parents to come up and see it, and I think it will give a renewed interest in Curious George. I think it will kindle a little fire to rediscover an old classic.”

The exhibition is based in part on The Journey that Saved Curious George: The True Wartime Escape of Margret and H.A. Rey, by Louise Borden and illustrated

by Allan Drummond. It features 27 framed art prints by Drummond and supplemental archival images from the holdings of the DeGrummond Collection of Children’s Literature at the University of Southern Mississippi. The exhibition is organized and curated by Beth Seldin Dotan, director of the Institute for Holocaust Education in Omaha, Nebraska.

The show is the latest in a series of exhibitions that Laman Library has put on to help expand the mode and means of learning through the library system.

Previous exhibit topics have included civil rights, the Beatles, 9/11, quilt making and the history of the Argenta Library building itself, a former post office.

“We have exhibits year round,” Noble said. “We’ll have anywhere from five to six per year that really run the gamut of topics. We think it’s very important for us to invest in these types of events because we believe that it really does enrich the community.”

The self-guided exhibit is free. Laman’s Argenta Branch is located at 420 Main St. in North Little Rock, and is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed Sunday.

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nest | NOSH | Thrive | CULTIVATE

Classic Tales, Storybook Favorites The Arkansas Arts Center Children’s Theatre opens its 35th season with ‘Go, Dog. Go!” on Sept. 19 B y C a l l i e Fr a n c e Ster l i n g

The story of dogs that like to drive cars, a slew of classic fairytales and a Dr. Seuss favorite. This is a snippet of what audiences of all ages will find on the main stage at the Arkansas Arts Center Children’s Theatre, as it soon kicks off its 35th season.

The 2014-15 season opens with “Go, Dog. Go!” on Sept. 19. This adaptation of P.D. Eastman’s children’s book of the same name runs through Oct. 5.

“This season in particular has a set of titles that are highly recognizable and that are a lot of fun,” says theatre artistic director Bradley Anderson. “This season is very similar to last year’s season in many ways. I feel like both seasons appeal to really young chil-

dren. Many of the plays from this season and last season come from the same time period.”

“Pinocchio,” the classic fairytale written by Carlo Collodi and adapted by the theater’s resident playwright, Keith Smith, is up next, with performances on Oct. 24 to Nov. 9. The year ends with the magical holiday favorite “The Velveteen Rabbit,” Nov. 28 to Dec. 21.

To ring in the new year children and adults of all ages can enjoy “Rumpelstiltskin,” from Jan. 23 to Feb. 8. This play was adapted by Smith from the original Brothers Grimm tale.

Everyone will love Katie Mitchell’s adapted version of Dr. Seuss’ famous “Cat in the Hat” beginning March 6 and running until March 29. The season closes with “The Legend of Robin Hood,” April 24 to May 10, also adapted from the original version by Smith.

“There is such a great mixture going on this season with our productions,” says Anderson. “There is a mix of style, cast sizes and different time periods.”

The process for choosing which productions to stage is an extremely in-depth process and a collaborative effort, Anderson explains.

“Choosing the productions that we do is a process that involves a lot of people and many different factors,” he says. “I visit a lot of schools to see what the kids are reading in the school systems. I do polls amongst our staff, and our marketing department also gives their feedback. I narrow down our selections to 25 and then I continue to narrow down the list from there.”

The Children’s Theatre is also expanding its theatre family in the coming season.

“We have about 10 to 12 core actors but we also have many new staff members that we are excited about,” Anderson said. “We have such a top notch team here. They are a very creative group.”

Each season, the Children’s Theatre also performs three touring productions. These productions are performed around Central Arkansas at schools, libraries and other locations to give children the opportunity to experience the excitement of theatre in their own communities. The touring shows include “The Little Mermaid,” Nov. 11 to Dec. 20; “Pinocchio,” Feb. 10 to March 19; and, “Chicken Little and the Little Red Hen,” March 31 to May 8.

The Children’s Theatre is located in downtown Little Rock at 501 East Ninth St. Show times are Fridays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. “The Velveteen Rabbit” features an extra Saturday show time at 4 p.m., and “Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat” will offer matinees during spring break, March 24-27 at 2 p.m.

Tickets range from $10 for Arkansas Arts Center members to $12.50 for non-members. Season tickets may also be purchased. For more information, call 501-371-4000 or visit www.arkansasartscenter.org.

42 SEPTEMBER 2014 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

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Community Arts New ACANSA festival showcases homegrown and regional talent B y D wa i n H e b d a

Sharen Bradford

Dallas Black Dance Theater is scheduled to perform at the ACANSA Arts Festival

The first ACANSA Arts Festival, scheduled for late September, will feature five days of music, theater, dance and art, showcasing both regional and local talent.

Established in 2012, ACANSA takes its name from the Native American term meaning “people of the southern place” used to describe members of the Quapaw tribe indigenous to what is now Little Rock.

Performances and exhibits will be conducted across a variety of venues in Little Rock and North Little Rock. Linda Newbern, festival associate director, said the event will showcase Central Arkansas’s diverse artistic community as well as highlight the role art plays in improving the quality of everyday life.

“Art enhances a community,” she said. “Music and art enable people to see life from a different perspective, and appreciating the arts is an important part of personal growth.”

The 2014 festival kicks off with a special opening reception at the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion on Sept. 23. Presenting artist Matt McLeod will complete a painting to be auctioned during the reception.

Highlighted regional artists include American mime artist and actor Bill Bowers, internationally acclaimed organist Hector Olivera, contemporary modern dance company Dallas Black Dance Theater and a cappella group Street Corner Symphony.

Local talent will be on display as well, Newbern said, to expose residents and visitors alike to the wealth of native artistic expression to be had in the area.

“Our organization’s three anchors are The Rep, the Arkansas Arts Center and the Arkansas Symphony,” Newbern said. “But in addition to these larger entities, there’s also local talent in Little Rock you can see every day. One of the

44 SEPTEMBER 2014 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

things we want to do is show that off.”

Among the homegrown attractions are performances by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, Arkansas Chamber Singers, Opera in the Rock and The Muses at various venues on Sept. 24. That same day, an exhibit of Arkansas artist laureate Evan Lindquist will be held at the Arkansas Arts Center.

In North Little Rock’s Argenta district, two events will spotlight Heber Springs photographer and eccentric Mike Disfarmer, including an exhibit of his photographs and a play about his life and work written by native playwright Werner Trieschmann. Those events are scheduled for Sept. 25-27.

The event’s closing picnic features performances by Arkansas Festival Ballet, Ballet Arkansas and Finger Food guitarist ensemble at the Lucy Cabe Theatre at Wildwood Park for the Arts on Sept. 28.

Several free events are also on the agenda, including Artists in the Park on Sept. 27. Set in Little Rock’s MacArthur Park, it will feature a variety of activities for children accompanied by family-friendly musical acts. Also, three brown bag Lunch and Learn sessions, Sept. 24-26, will feature speakers addressing a different art form each day.

“We want to educate people, some of whom maybe can’t otherwise afford to come to such events,” Newbern said. “The education classes are designed to show people what art can do for a community.”

ACANSA is Sept. 23-28. For a full list of attractions, ticket purchase and latest information, visit www.acansaartsfestival.org. Proceeds from the event will fund future arts festivals.

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“My daughter Zoie started attending Helping Hand Children’s Center when she was 14 months old. She wasn’t crawling, walking, or talking, and she refused to eat anything but pureed baby food. She was also very shy and timid around other people and did not like going new places. After just a few months of receiving therapies from Helping Hand, she was trying new foods, repeating sounds and some simple words, pulling herself up, and taking small steps. Zoie is now almost 3 years old and her progress has been incredible! She’s walking and running everywhere, and went from eating only pureed food to eating pretty much every kind of food she can get her hands on. She loves to play and interact with her peers, and one of her favorite things to do is sing songs with her class. Helping Hand’s therapists, teachers, and staff are amazing! Even though she still has a long way to go, I know Zoie would not be where she is today without them.

Zoie and I love Helping Hand, and I can tell every single person there genuinely cares about every child in their center.Thank you so much, Helping Hand!” – Shawna Bowden

www.Helpinghandcc.com • 501-791-3331 4901 North Shore Dr • North Little Rock Helping Hand Learning Center Is A 501 (C)(3) Non-Profit

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2014

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Tutoring Tactics There are several types of tutoring available for students, depending on specific needs and desired outcomes

When it comes to tutoring, there are many options. Local tutoring centers provide an evaluation and develop an action plan to ensure student success.

There are many kinds of tutoring offered in Central Arkansas, and here’s an overview of some of what’s available.

Exam Preparation

Academic Skills Tutoring

Preventative Tutoring

This type is available for elementary, middle and high school course levels. It covers academic skills, including reading skills, writing skills, study skills, math, vocabulary and phonics/phonetic analysis.

This type includes brain training, enrichment and ongoing academic support so children never fall behind. Starting this early will ensure that students are successful in high school and beyond.

Academic Therapy

Subject-Specific Tutoring

This is a specialized form of tutoring designed to assist students with a specific subject area, develop study skills or complete homework. This is an intervention program designed for students who have a specific disability in the areas of reading, reading comprehension and/or written expression. Academic therapists are highly trained to work with children with specific reading and writing disorders.

This type covers a specific subject matter. For example, tutoring may be available for algebra, pre-algebra, geometry, trigonometry, pre-calculus, calculus, earth science, biology, chemistry or Spanish.

10

Questions to Ask About Tutoring

This type helps students prepare for and succeed when taking the SAT, ACT, PSAT, SAT subject tests, AP exams, ASVAB (military entrance exam), GED, high school entrance exams and state standardized tests.

Sources: Bryan Redditt, Huntington Learning Center; Janice Edmonson, ACCESS; and, Kate Makan, Kumon of North Little Rock

When seeking out a tutoring center for their children, parents should ask the following questions to ensure their child’s academic success.

1. How is the child evaluated to ensure that his or her needs are met?

2. What are the primary methods used? How do these methods apply to my student?

3. How can tutoring services be integrated with my student’s schoolwork?

4. Will my child have extra assignments?

5. What qualifications or level of competency do tutors have in their area of expertise?

6. What is the time commitment?

7. Does the center have a code of ethics?

8. Do tutors have they have a library of textbooks (above and below the child’s grade level) and standardized tests that can be used to evaluate problems?

9. Do tutors take the time to get to know a child to determine if group or one-on-one tutoring works best?

10. Does the center understand a child’s unique needs, such as lack of focus, ADHD or anxiety? c o n t i n u ed o n pag e 4 8

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co n t inu ed f rom pa ge 4 6

Beat the Tutoring Stigma A little extra academic help can benefit all students

Tutoring can benefit students in all grades and at all academic levels. However, many people often incorrectly associate tutoring with students who are behind in school or make poor grades.

In reality, tutoring can be an investment for parents by keeping children on track academically, and can eventually pay off in the form of college scholarships.

Most tutoring centers help identify students’ strong and weak spots, and create an academic plan accordingly. Some of the identified problems may not seem academic at all.

Adjusting to a new school or grade level, learning organizational skills and time management or brushing up on study skills are all benefits of tutoring. Acing these skills, in addition to academic achievement, will help students prepare for high school and college.

Receiving some extra help with subject-specific material and test preparation when students are younger will help boost their confidence by the time they reach high school and help prepare them for the ACT or SAT. This type of tutoring can also help students get into their chosen college and avoid placement in remedial or developmental classes once they get there.

Students who score in the mid 20s on their ACT often receive few (if any) scholarships to the college of their choice. But, test prep can help students raise their scores several points and put them in competition for full or partial scholarships and tuition assistance.

Sources: Bryan Redditt, Huntington Learning Center; Janice Edmonson, ACCESS; and, Kate Makan, Kumon of North Little Rock

Recognize the Signs

Ever wonder if your child needs tutoring? Here are some tips from experts on when tutoring may be necessary.

The best way to determine if a child truly needs tutoring is to have him or her evaluated at a local tutoring center. This will help identify any problems and allow for a plan to address these core issues.

Parents should look for programs that offer proven, well-researched methods, with tutors who have demonstrated experience and knowledge in the area or subject matter where the student is struggling.

A child’s need for tutoring does not develop overnight, and solutions take time and work on both the student’s and parent’s part. Here are a few warning signs that tutoring may be needed: • Teachers may notice that a child is daydreaming, cutting up or acting out in class • At home, parents notice that a child avoids homework or struggles to finish it, gets poor grades or is disrespectful or has a discipline problem • Teachers may tell the parents that a child has a learning disability or will be held back (retained) an academic level or year.

• Students take hours to complete homework • Parents receive notification that students have missed or not completed assignments Sources: Bryan Redditt, Huntington Learning Center; Janice Edmonson, ACCESS; and, Kate Makan, Kumon of North Little Rock

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7

Reasons to Seek Tutoring

1. Younger kids who can get help with reading comprehension so they never fall behind 2. Students who aren’t struggling, so they can maintain a certain grade point average or stay at the top of their class 3. Students who plan to pursue education at elite colleges and universities 4. Students who experience academic failure and lose the desire and motivation to participate and engage in learning 5. Students who need help staying on track with classmates 6. Students whose parents feel may not have mastered a concept or subject 7. Students who need help in subjects like Spanish, advanced algebra or trigonometry, with which their parents may be unfamiliar

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Thea Paves the Way

Sept. 13, 8 a.m. to noon, Clinton Presidential Center grounds The Thea Foundation’s ninth annual sidewalk chalk event allows families and groups to participate in a community creative effort to cover the sidewalks in chalk art. The event also features music, outdoor fun and entertainment. Teachers who register their students to participate as a group are entered to win a $250 gift certificate for art supplies from Dick Blick. Email stacey@theafoundation.org for more information.

Camp Aldersgate Fish Fry Sept. 14, noon to 3 p.m., Camp Aldersgate, 2000 Aldersgate Road

Camp Aldersgate’s 31st Annual Fish Fry includes live music by the Intruders and Jubilation Jazz, cupcake walk, poolside bingo, face painting, carousel rides and a kids fishing derby. To-go meals are available at OrthoArkansas nearby. Tickets are $15; free for kids 6 and under. Proceeds benefit Camp Aldersgate. Purchase tickets at campadlersgate.net, or call 501-225-1444 for more information.

Tinkerfest

Sept. 20, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Museum of Discovery

HAPPENINGS

our picks for cool to-dos around central Arkansas for our complete calendar of events, visit our website at thesavvymoms.com.

Tailgating

September to November, War Memorial Stadium, reynolds Razorback Stadium or anywhere else!

While the Arkansas Razorbacks football team only plays one game in Central Arkansas this year (on Oct. 18, vs. the Georgia Bulldogs at War Memorial Stadium), September begins tailgating season.

And, if you’re planning to set up a tailgate at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, take the whole family and check out our suggestions for family-friendly fun in Northwest Arkansas on page 16.

Brian Chilson

50 SEPTEMBER 2014 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

Chelsey McNiel

SEPTEMBER

The museum is hosting its third annual Tinkerfest, where participants of all ages can spend the day taking things apart and fabricating new creations.

Visitors will enjoy more than 50 building and taking-apart activities, including deconstructing a car and 3D printing. $10 for adults, $8 for ages 1-12, free for kids under 1 and members. Call 501-396-7050 or visit museumofdiscovery.org.

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51

Lamanpalooza!

Photo g r a p h y b y P a tr i c k J o n e s

On Aug. 2, the William F. Laman Public Library celebrated the end of the summer reading program with Lamanpalooza.

Held at the Argenta Branch in downtown North Little Rock, the event featured a zip line, inflatables, games, crafts, music and more. This year’s summer reading program theme was “Fizz, Boom, Read,” and the library held events all summer long to promote literacy and to keep kids reading.

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52 SEPTEMBER 2014 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

Clinton Center Hosts Back-to-School Bash Photo g r a p h y b y P a tr i c k J o n e s

The Clinton Presidential Center celebrated back to school and President Clinton’s birthday with a party on Aug. 16. The first 1,000 kids received a backpack full of school supplies, and children also received coupons for free haircuts, school supplies and immunizations from the Arkansas Department of Health to prepare to head back to class. High-schoolers had the chance to win an ACT/SAT prep course. The celebration included cupcakes and free admission to the center.

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MOMSPEAK Michelle Rhodes Photo g r a p h y b y S a r a B l a n c ett

Age: 31 Hometown: Little Rock Occupation: Executive assistant by day; jewelry designer (owner of Myrrh Handmade Jewelry) and mom by night Child: Alexis, 13 My go-to fall outfit is … anything involving a scarf or a cardigan. I’m a sucker for fall and anything in an autumn tone—browns, grays, oranges, greens. My fall clothing collection is the most extensive of my wardrobe.

The piece of jewelry I wear almost every day is …

my watch, a stack of bracelets and a pair of Myrrh studs.

I have a lot of places to be and have to keep up with the time, so I wear a lot of bracelets to keep my watch from looking purely functional. The mantra of taking a piece off is lost with me. I pile ’em on like Mr. T. My favorite fall activity is … Harvestfest, farmers market, anything that involves two of my favorite things: shopping and an Arkansas autumn.

My favorite pick-me-up on a stressful day is … a walk or jog around the neighborhood. It helps me clear my head and brings me back to gratitude.

It’s Friday night and I’m home alone, so I … am prob-

ably feverishly trying to get [jewelry] orders filled, new jewelry designs put together, or I’m searching for inspiration.

Any time alone means I get to focus on Myrrh!

54 SEPTEMBER 2014 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

It’s your turn to smile.

Delta Dental has ways of doing that.

Choose Delta Dental as part of your employee-benefit plan at work, or on your own at DeltaDentalAR.com, and get affordable coverage that fits your family’s budget. Plus, you’ll have access to the state’s largest network of dentists and the majority of dentists nationwide.

Enroll with Delta Dental, the dental insurance experts, and let us put a smile on your face.

DeltaDentalAR.com • 800-814-3451 THESAVVYMOMS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2014

55

Give your family HOPE! Please contact Pinnacle Pointe Hospital for more information regarding our services.

All major insurances accepted.

56 SEPTEMBER 2014 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

1-800-880-3322 pinnaclepointehospital.com 11501 Financial Centre Parkway Little Rock, AR 72211

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