December 2023

December 2023 501lifemag.com | 1

2 | 501 LIFE December 2023

December 2023 501lifemag.com | 3

EDITOR

Stefanie W. Brazile

PUBLISHER/ART DIRECTOR

Jeremy L. Higginbotham

FOUNDERS

Donna Spears, Sonja Keith and Tracy Ferrell

BRAND AMBASSADOR

Donald Brazile

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Paulette Higginbotham

ADVERTISING SALES

Donna Spears

DIGITAL DIRECTOR

Levi Gilbert

PHOTO DIRECTOR

Mike Kemp

COPY EDITORS

Andrea Lively and Andrea Miller

FINANCE DIRECTOR

Debbie Flowers

SOCIAL MEDIA

Morgan Zimmerman

CONTRIBUTORS Don Bingham Jessica Duff Mary Eggart David Grimes Dwain Hebda Linda Henderson Vivian Lawson Hogue Tammy Keith Beth Jimmerson

I

t’s not only the most wonderful time of the year, it’s a favorite season in the Brazile home—except for all of the glitter that inevitably ends up on the floor or in someone’s eye! I enjoy putting up our decorations and looking at the photo Christmas cards that chronicle our lives over the past several decades.

All decorations center around the tree, which changes slightly each year, but the one constant is the star we place at the top. It reminds us of the wise men from the East who followed the star in search of a king. As a church steeple points us to the heavens, the star topper points us to an ancient story of the birth of the Savior.

I’m excited to gift our “Christmas in Central Arkansas” issue to our readers.

We have loaded it with festive stories and images from the 501 to inspire you.

We bring you collections of nativities, nutcrackers and Christmas trees! We also feature light displays and the three-foot-tall chocolate Santa at Kilwins in Little Rock that you can visit and dream about finding under your tree on Christmas morning.

We are grateful to Christina Gore, who is our Artist of the Month. She is featured on the cover and is making the world more beautiful—one home at a time. Chef Don Bingham is serving Tres Leches French Toast this month. He recommends preparing this decadent breakfast dish on Christmas Eve and popping it into the oven on your way to see what Santa left in your stocking.

After shopping, melt into your favorite chair and enjoy our tour of homes.

From the Varela home in Saline County to the Hurd home in Faulkner County, and then over to Jim Gatling’s home in Conway County—I’m confident that you, like Santa, will enjoy each stop.

Merry Christmas from the Brazile and Higginbotham Families! We hope you embrace the joy and peace that accompanies the season—and which I often find in quiet moments sitting beside my Christmas tree and looking up at the real star of the show.

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Mark McDonald Mark Oliver Susan Peterson Dr. Robert Reising Kelli Reep Judy Riley Carol Rolf Donna L. Stephens Rita Halter Thomas

FAULKNER CO. EDITORIAL BOARD Johnny Adams Jack Bell Don Bingham Jessica Brown RaeLynn Callaway Glenn Crockett Beth Franks Sylvia Gauvey Russ Hancock Spencer Hawks Mathilda Hatfield Roe Henderson Jerry Hiegel Antonio Jamison Mike Kemp

Julie LaRue Karl Lenser Monica Lieblong Lori Melton Deanna Ott Pat Otto Jon Patrom Amy Reed Lori Ross Margaret Smith Jan Spann Kim Tyler Suzann Waggoner Jennifer Whitehead Kay Wood

CONWAY CO. EDITORIAL BOARD Mary Clark Shelli Crowell Dr. Larry Davis Shawn Halbrook Alicia Hugen Alisha Koonce

Stephanie Lipsmeyer Stewart Nelson Kristi Strain Jim Taylor Morgan Zimmerman

WHITE CO. EDITORIAL BOARD Betsy Bailey Amy Burton Tara Cathey Cassandra Feltrop Phil Hays Natalie Horton

Matt LaForce Mike Parsons Brooke Pryor Judy Riley Carol Spears Kristi Thurmon

501 LIFE is published by Make the Jump Media, LLC (920 Locust Ave. Ste. 104, Conway, AR 72034, 501.327.1501) and is owned by Jeremy Higginbotham and Stefanie Brazile.

The contents of 501 LIFE are copyrighted and materials presented may not be copied or reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publishers. Articles should not be considered specific advice, as individual circumstances vary.

Advertisements are not necessarily endorsed by 501 LIFE.

December 2023 501lifemag.com | 5

December December

2023 Volume 16 Issue 8

On the cover: Christina Gore is featured as our “Artist of the Month.” Her design studio manages 28 Christmas clients along with her usual workload of new residential construction and light commercial design.

(Photo by Makenzie Evans)

4

Letter from the Editor

8

Holiday Fun in the 501!

10

Loving LIFE

12

Lavonne Riggins in Macy’s Parade

14

Couple of the Month: Jeremy & Emily Walter

18

Entertaining: Feast in heavenly peace

22

Youth of the Month: Ryan Brent

26

Julie’s Sweet Shoppe Veteran Celebration

28

Kilwins’ 23-lb. chocolate Santa

By Don Bingham

By Carol Rolf

30

By Dwain Hebda

30

Artist of the Month: Christina Gore

34

Pat Qualls’ nutcracker collection

By Donna Lampkin Stephens

By Tammy Keith

12

38

Festival of Nativities

40

Conway County Christmas Collab

By Mary Eggart

47

Special Section

64

Jim Gatling: A Christmas gem

68

Kid of the Month: Mabel Miller

72

PCSSD: Food for thought

74

Historic Hurd House

18

64

By Stefanie Brazile

By Mary Eggart

By Mark Oliver

By Jessica Duff

68

By Rita Halter Thomas

78

Diabetes education at Conway Regional

80

Beginning of Christmas Season

84

Thunder over the Rock Air Show

88

Unexpected gifts

By Rev. Mark McDonald Photostory by Bill Patterson

By Vivian Lawson Hogue

90

Author of the Month: Maria Hoskins

93

Sweet memories...

The 12 cookies of a 501 Christmas

94

Santa Paws

96

Romance Christmas Tree Farm

By Susan Peterson

By Carol Rolf

By Judy Riley

98

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Person of the Month: Denisha Knapp

r

501 LIFE would like to thank our advertising partners.

American Made General Store, 27 Arvest, 67 _____________________________________ Barksdale Federal Credit Union, 8 Baucum Nut House, 61 Bledsoe Chiropractic, 56-57 _____________________________________ The Carriage House, 17 Central Arkansas Karting, 24 Chicken Salad Chick, 55 The Children’s Clinic, 91 Conway Corp, 83 Conway Flooring, 39 Conway Healthcare & Rehab, 35 Conway Regional Health System, 99 Conway Regional Rehabilitation Hospital, 79 _____________________________________ David Hogue for Judge, 27 Downtown Conway, 44-45 DJM Orthodontics, 72 _____________________________________ Edward Jones, 71 Elia’s Mexican Grill, 43 Essence Healthcare, 46 Explore Springdale, 87 _____________________________________ First Community Bank, 37, 98 First Security Bank, 100 First Service Bank, 13 First United Methodist, 83 Freyaldenhoven Heating and Cooling, 51 _____________________________________ Glisten in Greenbrier, 29 _____________________________________ Halter’s Body Shop, 43 Hartman Animal Hospital, 95s Harwood, Ott & Fisher, PA, 92 Heritage Living Center, 5 Historic Washington Park, 9 _____________________________________ Julie’s Sweet Shoppe, 93 _____________________________________ Kilwins Little Rock, 61 _____________________________________ Little Miracles Daycare, 91 _____________________________________ Methodist Family Health, 97 MSC Eye Associates, 76 _____________________________________ Ott Insurance, 49 _____________________________________ PCSSD, 73 Pinnacle Place, 89 Power Spine & Sport, 25 PrimeCare Medical Clinic, 77 _____________________________________ Reynolds Performance Hall, 53 Rik Sowell Architects, 33 _____________________________________ Salem Place, 21 Second Blessings Daycare, 91 Sissy’s Log Cabin, 15 Shelter Insurance, 27 South Conway County School District, 65 Stoby’s, 81 Superior Health & Rehab, 2 _____________________________________ Unity Health, 3, 85 University of Arkansas Community College Morrilton, 96 University of Central Arkansas, 87 _____________________________________

Give the Gift of Good News For only $20 a year, get the perfect Central Arkansas stocking stuffer—have 501 LIFE delivered right to the mantle. Truly a favorite of 501 locals, it's the gift that gives all year long to the ones you love.

Home delivery ensures you are always on the nice list!

Visit 501LIFEmag.com or call 501.327.1501 to subscribe.

Catch 501 LIFE on KARK at Noon and Conway Corp each month.

welcome to the Writers’ Room

Mark McDonald

has served Methodist churches throughout Arkansas. He is a chaplain at Baptist Health System and Arkansas Children's Hospital. His family settled in Faulkner County in the 1840s, and he and his wife have returned to their home here. They have six children who live in Arkansas. He loves movies, hiking and spending time with family.

Tammy Keith

worked for Arkansas newspapers, including the Log Cabin Democrat and Arkansas DemocratGazette for 38 years. An ASU graduate, she is a 12-time Arkansas Press Women Professional Communications Contest winner and three-time national winner. Her biggest honor is being Mimi to her granddaughter, Kennedy.

Dr. Robert Reising

retired from the University of Central Arkansas in 2013 and held a variety of teaching, coaching and administrative posts during more than a half-century in education. His doctoral dissertation at Duke treated literature and sports. In 2009, he co-authored “Chasing Moonlight: The True Story of Field of Dreams’ Doc Graham.”

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Santa in the Park Dec. 2 • Benton

This family-friendly event features pictures with Santa, arts and crafts, a cookie-decorating station, carriage rides, bounce houses, the Mistletoe Market and more! A Low Sensory Hour is planned from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. for those who need a quiet space experience.

Appointments are available by calling 501.776.5970. The event starts at 11 a.m. and lasts until 3 p.m. Learn more at mysaline.com/events.

Christmas Extravaganza

Polar Express Pajama Party Dec. 2 • Searcy

Dec. 1 • Fairfield Bay

Light Up the Bay will kick off at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 1 at the Town Center, 115 Village Place. The parade is planned for 5 p.m. Dec. 2. The Conference Center will feature stunning displays, cookies and Santa and Mrs. Claus through Dec. 4. Make your way to the Town Center, where there will be fire dancers! Learn more at visitfairfieldbay.com.

Main Street Searcy hosts this fun event for kids at 10 a.m. at the historic Rialto Theater. Warm up with free hot chocolate and enjoy “The Polar Express” in your favorite Christmas pj’s. After the movie, Santa will read “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” from the courthouse balcony. Tickets are $8 and include cocoa and a treat for each child. Space is limited, so purchase tickets soon at polar-expressmss.eventbrite.com.

Drive Through Christmas

Glisten in Greenbrier

Nov. 30 - Dec. 2 • Conway

Dec. 2- 31 • Greenbrier

Central Baptist Church hosts the event from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. to highlight the story of Jesus’ birth. Then, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 5, women can “Cook Up Christmas” with Chef Don Bingham. Kick off the season with a delicious meal and songs of the season. Childcare can be reserved and tickets are $15. Visit conwaycentralchurch.org.

The month-long Christmas celebration features festive light displays throughout the park, a skating rink, carousel and carriage rides.

Mistletoe Market kicks off the event with a special tree lighting.

Crowd favorite Piccolo-Zoppé Winter Circus will have performances beginning Dec. 15. For complete details, visit greenbrierchamber.org/ glisten.

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Christmas Comedy Dinner with Daryl Felsberg Dec. 9 • Hot Springs

Get ready for a hilarious night of Christmas cheer, mouthwatering BBQ, and side-splitting comedy with Daryl Felsberg from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at 315 Park Ave. This show will be a mix of stand-up comedy and a hilarious take on the 12 Days of Christmas with a LOT of crowd participation. He hosts the new YouTube series “Daryl Eats.” Tickets start at $20. Visit Eventbrite.com.

Ugly Sweater Race Dec. 16 • Little Rock

Dig out that tacky holiday sweater and walk/run a 5K at Twin Rivers Park. Each participant will receive a disposable timing chip that is attached to their race number. There is a virtual option and all participants receive a shirt, number and finisher’s medal. There’s also an Elf Dash for kids, but no baby strollers or pets are allowed. Visit uglysweaterrace.com to register.

NUTCRACKER!

Magical Christmas Ballet Dec. 31 • Little Rock

The Robinson Center hosts the beloved ballet that has become a Christmas tradition for generations to share. The ballet company that will perform boasts award-winning principal dancers and a corps de ballet of 40 Vaganova-trained ballerinas and danseurs. With 10-foottall playful puppets, nine hand-painted backdrops and hundreds of exquisite costumes, it’s sure to be magical. Tickets begin at $34. Visit nutcracker.com.

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Headed out on a special trip? Have a special occasion or get-together coming up? Pack a copy of 501 LIFE in your suitcase, snap a photo at your destination and send it to us for publication in a future issue!

Photos can be submitted by email to stefanie@501lifemag.com.

Friends from Perry, Conway and Morrilton were “Loving LIFE” on a trip to South Dakota. David French (from left), Janice French, Doris VanDalsen, Angela Austin and Jerry Austin.

Carol Loyd (from left), Mary Clark and Mary Newsom were “Loving LIFE” at their beloved University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton’s 60th anniversary event on Sept. 21.

Paula Green (from left), Charlotte Black, Jackie Smith, Thom Battles, Wanda Box, Becky Kerr, Ann Grimes, Martha Carmack, Marie Battles, Margaret Hinkle, John Grimes and Amanda Passmore were “Loving LIFE” in Bokoshe and Red Oak, Okla., while doing genealogy research on the Battles and Rimmer families.

They had a great day making and sharing memories. They are from Faulkner County.

10 | 501 LIFE December 2023

Friends on a girls' fall trip from Conway to Nantucket, Mass., were "Loving LIFE" while staying at The Hotel Nantucket. Back row: Margaret Martin (from left) and Susan Denys; front row: Robbie Davis and Linda Strack.

Eleanor Whisenhunt (from left), Donald Brazile and Piper Wallace (all from Conway) were "Loving LIFE" at the National Association of Teachers of Singing Regional Auditions at Ouachita Baptist University. Both singers are taught by Brazile and qualified to advance to the national competition.

The team at Love Salon & Beauty Lounge in downtown Conway were “Loving LIFE” and casting spells on Halloween.

Back row: Alexis Macotte (from left), Rose Poole, Leigh Lynch and Sabrina Browers; bottom row: Mary Johnson, Sav Tasker and her pet bunny dressed as a cowboy.

The 2023 Miss Teen Promise (MTP) Scholarship Competition Royalty were “Loving LIFE” when they assisted in the Alex Foundation’s “Merging Architecture and Fashion” event on Oct. 1 in Little Rock. Edward Wilder (from left) and his daughter Royal MTP Kamora Wilder with MTP Grand Champion Miss Arianna Williams and MTP Grand Champion Mom Bonita Williams.

501 LIFE writer Robert Reising and his wife, Judy, enjoyed a visit from family at their Conway home and they were all “Loving LIFE!” His niece Cindy Voghell of New Haven, Conn.; his son John Reising of Hot Springs; his daughter Paula Echols of Savannah, Ga.; and his nephew Frank Lee Schreiner of Kansas City, Kansas.

Preston Higginbotham and Cosmo, the cornbread skillet mascot, were "Loving LIFE" at the 2023 Arkansas Cornbread Festival, which brings thousands of people from all over to experience the thriving South Main Street area in Little Rock and taste and judge Arkansas cornbreads.

Photo by Mike Kemp

Floating on air

UCA graduate student thrilled to be one of 400 band directors selected to march in 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade L

avonne Riggins, a graduate teaching assistant at the University of Central Arkansas, was selected to join 400 band directors who marched in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.

Following its inaugural appearance in the 2022 Rose Parade®, the Saluting America’s Band Directors project brought together directors from across the country under the theme “America’s Band Directors: We Teach Music. We Teach Life.”

Riggins completed her bachelor's in music education in 2020 and is a first-year master’s student earning a degree in instrumental conducting. Last July, she applied to march in the parade. Band directors from around the U.S. and Mexico applied for the honor, and about 400 were chosen. Riggins is one of two members who represented Arkansas, played the piccolo.

12 | 501 LIFE December 2023

“I am super excited and honored to have been chosen,” she said. “I watch this parade with my family every single year, so it was really exciting to be there in person.”

Their parade entry recognized the extraordinary dedication and accomplishments of band directors and music educators everywhere. Throughout their careers, the music educators in this band have collectively mentored and taught hundreds of thousands of students. These professionals not only teach and direct music, they also teach about life itself.

The band was directed by nationally known music educator and innovative band director Jon Waters. The sponsoring organization behind the Saluting America’s Band Directors project is the Michael D. Sewell Memorial Foundation, based in Pickerington, Ohio. The foundation was created to recognize and carry on the work of the late Sewell, who dedicated his life to the school and community music programs in Pickerington and the Central Ohio area for almost 40 years.

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Photos by Mike Kemp

COUPLE OF THE MONTH

JEREMY & EMILY WALTER ________________

CO N WAY

THEIR STORY: We met on the steps of First United Methodist Church the weekend

The Walters’ tree skirt was created from her wedding dress by her mother, Jo Yawn, as her mother had done for her. The gift celebrated Emily and Jeremy’s 20th wedding anniversary.

I moved to Conway as a freshman at UCA in the fall of 1999. We became friends and stayed best friends for months, but eventually, it developed into more. He proposed to me in April of 2001 at the River Market stage one night. We were walking along, and he wanted to do it with the Little Rock skyline in the background because he knows how much I love architecture, and he also wanted the railroad bridge in the background because he loves trains. We dated/were engaged throughout college and were married on Jan. 4, 2003. We absolutely love to travel together. With our jobs, we don't get away much, so when we do, we make it count. We both love history and tend to migrate to historic places on vacation and fill our days taking tours of houses and war sites or taking train rides.

Continued on page 16

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HER STORY: HOMETOWN: I am originally from Jonesboro (Craighead

County).

CHILDREN: We have one daughter, Victoria, who is in college, and Sven, our 9-year-old Shih Tzu. EDUCATION: I graduated from Jonesboro High School in 1999. I also earned a bachelor's of science degree in interior design from UCA in 2003.

WORK: I am an Executive Broker/Realtor® at RE/MAX Elite.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Interim chair for the

City of Conway Historic District Commission, vice chair of Conway Symphony Orchestra, co-chair of Toadsuck Nation Leads Group through the Conway Chamber of Commerce.

CHURCH: Trustees chair for Conway First United Methodist Church, historian for Conway First United Methodist Church, trustee to the Arkansas United Methodist Conference.

HOBBIES/SPECIAL INTERESTS: When I get a spare minute, I love going to shows at Robinson, Reynolds, etc. or quick trips to discover new towns in Arkansas.

WHY DO YOU TWO GO “ALL OUT” WITH YOUR HOLIDAY DECORATIONS?

I’ve always loved the holidays. All holidays, Fourth of July, birthdays, etc. I love the creativity of decorating for the holidays. But I ESPECIALLY love Halloween and Christmas. Those were my two

16 | 501 LIFE December 2023

favorite holidays growing up and still are to this day. I have fond memories of my childhood holidays, and I wanted to keep that feeling alive when we raised our daughter.

YOU DECORATE YOUR YARD AND HOME AT HALLOWEEN AND CHRISTMAS FOR PASSERSBY TO ENJOY. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE DISPLAYS?

People always drive by and tell us they love our sunroom displays.

But when we started the projector show, it took it to a whole new level. There was this expected bonus with just the absolute joy that it brought to people. I mean, you put something like this together and work hard for it, hoping a few people stop and see it. But we have hundreds of people each season come by. It doesn’t matter the age group, people love sitting there, watching our holiday shows. So the projector would have to be my favorite part as well.

When Jeremy first told me what he wanted to do, I thought he was nuts. He showed me videos and explained how it would work, but I couldn’t wrap my head around how we would do it, having no background in it. Although I did agree our house would be a perfect backdrop for it. Jeremy worked so hard pulling it all together and planning it out. He even incorporated most of my favorite holiday movies into the shows for me and, of course, threw some of his favorites in there as well.

I’ve seen the show so many times, but I love it every single time I watch it. But if I had to pick a certain scene for the show, hands down Harry Potter scenes win my favorite every time. Who doesn’t want to see their favorite movie on a three-story tall house?

HIS STORY: HOMETOWN: I have lived in Conway my entire life.

EDUCATION: I graduated from Conway High in 1999 and

have business and graphic design degrees from UACCM.

PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT: Realtor® with RE/ MAX Elite, and I am the assistant brewmaster at the Rogue Roundabout in Downtown Conway.

COMMUNITY/CHURCH ACTIVITIES: I serve as vice chair of the board at Mount Eagle Retreat Center, a United Methodist church camp in the North Central Ozarks, and I volunteer as a driver for Conway FUMC Food Pantry.

HOBBIES/SPECIAL INTERESTS: My hobbies include anything outdoors! Let me go smallmouth bass creek fishing in a canoe and I’m happy for hours! I enjoy exploring waterfalls and new trails, and Emily and I love visiting lesserknown historic destinations here in Arkansas.

WHEN DID YOU ADD THE PROJECTOR AND RADIO STATION TO YOUR DECORATIONS? I added the projector to our holiday decorations in 2021. It’s the same technology Disney uses on their castle, and it became affordable. I thought, “Why not give people something different; something they may have never seen before?”

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE REACTION FROM CHILDREN OVER THE YEARS? It’s hard to see kids smiling while they watch from their car, but you can HEAR them smile when we are sitting inside and hear that audible giggle and laugh and “ooh” and “ahh” coming from the street! That’s why we do it!

December 2023 501lifemag.com | 17

Christmas morning is your time to

ïñ hëåvëñlÿ

By Don Bingham

A

s the overwhelming and awe-inspiring season draws to a climax, we can all take a breath from the hustle of the holidays, and even a break from technology, to enjoy the quiet, the peace, the utter joy and appreciation of loved ones, both family and friends.

To better enhance this start of what I call Christmas Peace (after all of the events, appointments, parties, parades, programs, gift buying and wrapping is done), what could be more inviting than a delicious and delightful, merry and bright Christmas brunch?

Part of the delight for the chef/cook is that most of this menu can be readied ahead of time, requiring

much less energy to bake and enjoy on Christmas morning. This colorful and rich brunch will appeal to children, welcomed home guests, and yes, even the tired cook!

The Tres Leches French Toast, already prepared the night before, is baking in the oven after resting in the refrigerator overnight; the fruit is cut; the champagne sauce is ready to drizzle over the fruit; and the bacon is ready to cook in the oven.

May we all find peace in our hearts and minds this Christmas, celebrating the timeless story and glory of the Christ of Christmas!

See recipes on page 20

18 | 501 LIFE December 2023

Photos by Mike Kemp

December 2023 501lifemag.com | 19

Båkëd Frëñçh Tøåst 1 loaf French or sourdough bread cut in 20 slices (thickly, if desired) 8 large eggs 2 cups of half-and-half 1 cup of La Lechera sweetened, condensed milk 2 Tbsp. granulated sugar 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1⁄4 tsp. ground cinnamon 1⁄4 tsp. ground nutmeg Dash of salt Praline Topping (recipe to follow) Maple syrup

Arrange sliced bread in a 9 X 13 inch baking dish.

Mix the next eight ingredients and pour over the bread. Refrigerate overnight. Make Praline Topping and spread on bread, then bake for 40 minutes at 350. Serve cut or spoon baked French toast in desired portions, then top with fresh whipped cream and drizzled syrup.

PRALINE TOPPING

1/2 pound softened butter • 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped • 2 Tbsp. corn syrup 1⁄2 tsp. ground cinnamon •1⁄2 tsp. ground nutmeg

Fruit Parfait with &

Såüçë

6 limes • 1 cup granulated sugar Rind of 2 limes 3 1⁄2 cups water • 1⁄2 cup sweet white wine or champagne

Slice limes, squeeze out the juice. Place all ingredients in a saucepan.

Bring to a boil and set aside to cool.

12 oranges and 6 grapefruit, sectioned 2 cans of chunk pineapple, drained Long-stemmed cherries for garnish

Peel and section grapefruit and oranges; drain pineapple, toss together in a large bowl. Pour cooled sauce over fruit. Refrigerate overnight. Garnish with cherries if desired. Serves 8-10.

ef Don Bingham's Visit 501lifemag.com for Ch ed Bacon! recipe for Brown Sugar-Glaz 20 | 501 LIFE December 2023

December 2023 501lifemag.com | 21

Ryan Brent is about three hours away from having his pilot’s license. His father is a pilot who soloed at age 16, and Brent was able to achieve that goal as well.

Photos by Mike Kemp

The sky's the limit

FOR SALINE COUNTY'S RYAN BRENT _____________________________________________________ YOUTH OF THE MONTH

By Carol Rolf

R

yan Brent, 17, has spent 15 years of his young life at The Baptist Preparatory School in Little Rock, which was founded in 1981.

Hunt Transport Department of Supply Chain Management receive a bachelor of science in business administration degree.

“I started here in K-3,” he said. “I am now a senior and will graduate in 2024. I’m very much looking forward to that.”

“We had a family friend who majored in supply chain management at the University of Arkansas,” said Brent, a son of Stuart and Debra Brent of Benton (Saline County).

“I knew I wanted to go to the University of Arkansas, but I didn’t know what I wanted to major in. I visited with our friend, watched him work and loved what he did. I knew then that’s what I wanted to study.”

He loves flying and is excited to become a pilot soon.

Following in his father’s footsteps, he soloed when he was 16.

“I’m about three hours away from having my pilot’s license,” he said. “My dad is a pilot, and we have our own plane. It’s great! I also like to hunt deer and ducks when I can.”

Next fall, he hopes to attend the University of Arkansas and major in supply chain management at the Walton College of Business. Undergraduate students graduating from the J.B.

Brent’s older brother, Hayden, 21, is a junior at U of A-Little Rock, where he is majoring in construction management.

When asked if he might team up with his brother in business someday, he said that was possible.

Continued on page 24

December 2023 501lifemag.com | 23

The senior just completed his football career at Baptist Prep.

“I’ve played football since about the third grade,” he said. “I played running back and outside linebacker. We did not have a winning season this year, but it’s all been good.”

In addition to playing football at his high school, Brent is involved in its missions program. “I participate in our Missions Week, which is right before spring break,” he said. “We go out into the community and help through acts of service. I’m on the Yard Work Team, which we do free of charge for the elderly. We do about five yards a day.”

Billy Goss, director of missions at Baptist Prep, said Brent “works our Missions Week as one of the leaders who provide mowing, cleaning and landscaping for the elderly of First Baptist Church Little Rock.

“Ryan is a high-energy young man with an impeccable work ethic,” Goss said. “He has a servant's heart and puts others before himself.

He has a winsome personality. He has the innate ability to make people laugh and smile.”

Brent’s work during Missions Week at school complements what he does when he is away from school. He has his own landscape business.

“I’ve been doing this for three years—two years on my own,” he said, adding that he worked for a while with his brother and his brother’s best friend. “They grew out of the business, and I bought it,” Brent said. “I do everything. I mow, mulch, cut shrubs, whatever needs to be done. I work normally in Pulaski County but have a few yards in Benton. It’s profitable for me.”

Ryan Brent, a senior, just completed his football career at The Baptist Preparatory School in Little Rock. He played running back and outside linebacker.

24 | 501 LIFE December 2023

Brent said that between playing football and mowing lawns, he doesn’t have time to do much else. “During the summer, I would have football practice in the mornings, from 7 to 9:30 or so, and then go mow yards in the afternoon,” he said, laughing. “There’s hardly a dull moment at our house,” he added. “If we’re not chopping firewood, we’re mowing yards. Our parents have instilled a strong work ethic in us.”

Brent and his family attend Geyer Springs Baptist Church in Little Rock, where he is involved in its youth program.

ABOVE: Dr. Hunter Andrews (from left), Alli Pipkin and Dr. Casie Ogden As the saying goes, great minds think alike. When Drs. Mary Power, Hunter Andrews and Casie Ogden put their ambitions and experience together to establish a state-of-the-art 4,500-square-foot chiropractic facility in the 501, opening their doors in Conway simply made sense.

In addition to traditional chiropractic services, Power Spine & Sport offers functional movement assessments, shockwave therapy, blood flow restriction, Kinesio Taping®, acupuncture, decompression, electrical stimulation and more.

A Morrilton native, Dr. Andrews worked beside Dr. Power as a chiropractic assistant while earning his bachelor’s degree in exercise science from the University of Central Arkansas, then met Dr. Ogden while obtaining his Doctor of Chiropractic and Master of Science in Strength and Human Performance from Parker University before moving home to Conway. He is currently enrolled in the Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician program to provide specialized care for athletes in need. Together, the three doctors created Power Spine & Sport.

“We take things a step further by providing evidence-based research techniques in not only the adjustment but our rehab portion of the clinic as well,” Ogden said. “Afterwards, we take the information gathered from your examination to create a tailored rehabilitation program for your needs.”

“We chose Conway for multiple reasons,” Power said. “First, we saw an opportunity to promote health and wellness into an already-active community.

With Dr. Andrews being a University of Central Arkansas alum and our history working together in Conway, this clinic especially hit home for us.”

Dr. Ogden, a Pearland, Texas, native, obtained her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Texas A&M University and her Doctorate in Chiropractic and Masters in Strength and Human Performance from Parker University. She is currently also enrolled in the Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician program to provide specialized care for athletes in need.

“Our approach to care separates us from most others in this profession,” Ogden said. “In our eyes, everyone is an athlete, from the grandparents trying to pick up their grandchildren to the collegiate athlete looking for a competitive edge. We offer an open and airy rehabilitation space with private consultation and exam rooms and one-on-one interactions, with digital x-rays on the premises.”

From weekend warriors to collegiate and professional athletes, patients are raving about the level of care received at the clinic. “One of the most common statements we receive is the overwhelming appreciation of tailored care to the individual instead of a cookie-cutter approach to chiropractic care and rehabilitation,” Ogden said.

Power Spine & Sport, which held its grand opening in November, takes pride in being a leader in the 501’s chiropractic landscape. “Even in its continuous growth, this community still feels like a small town where everyone knows their neighbor,” Andrews said. “We love giving back to a community that helped us get to where we are today and we look forward to growing alongside Conway for many years to come.”

For more information on Power Spine & Sport, visit powerspinesport.com.

Located at 2655 Donaghey Avenue, Suite 101, Power Spine & Sport takes an active approach to chiropractic care and has the equipment and expertise to care for both common and complex injuries in one location. The clinic’s mission is to serve the community by going the extra mile for its patients, helping them improve their quality of life as well as their quality of performance.

“Our facility is where chiropractic meets performance,” Andrews said. “We have the capabilities to provide a top-tier sports rehabilitation program with all the equipment you might find in a gym, but with hands-on clinician guidance from our doctors.”

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Service Celebration

Heroes honored at Julie’s Sweet Shoppe's largest annual veteran's event ever Photos and Story by Carol Rolf 1. Bob Lewis (from left), Ray Briggler and Hughie Craig.

2. Timothy and Mary Reed with their children Presley (from left), Madyson and Brooklynn.

3. U.S. Rep. French Hill.

4. David Ellis (from left), Dennis Whitley, Jerry Pate and Gerald Finnegan.

5. Hughie Craig plays “Taps.”

6. Mikel Brooks (from left) and David Halley.

7. Ron Chastain and Julie Goodnight who hosts the Veterans Day Event annually.

8. Nancy Thompson (from left), Lynn Tanguay and

Ruth Bass with the Daughters of the American Revolution.

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t was standing-room only as veterans, families and friends gathered Nov. 11 for the annual Veterans Day Celebration at Julie’s Sweet Shoppe in Conway.

“This was the biggest crowd we’ve ever had,” said Julie Goodnight, owner of the bakery. “I was just tickled to death with the turnout. We prepared 150 goody bags for the veterans, which was the best goody bag we’ve had, full of donated items from the community. We also gave more door prizes than ever.

Everyone was so generous this year.

“I am very thankful for the community’s support,” said Goodnight, who celebrated the 10th anniversary of the bakery on Veterans Day. She honored veterans at a previous location before establishing the bakery in the Conway Towne Center.

This year’s event featured speakers, including U.S. Rep. French Hill; a patriotic medley of songs by the Conway Women’s Chorus; and recognition of some veterans. Among the oldest veterans were Jack Grimes, 98; Glynes Campbell, 89; and Dale Ellis, 87. The youngest veteran in attendance was Victoria Linn, 21. Jim Baker, former Faulkner County judge, was recognized for having served the longest—37 ½ years.

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He's no stocking stuffer Santa 23-lb. chocolate Kris Kringle at home in Little Rock's Christmas Candy Land A

mong hundreds of delicious, sweet treats this holiday season, Kilwins Chocolates, Fudge, & Ice Cream, located at 415 President Clinton Avenue in Little Rock, is displaying a 23-lb. artisan chocolate Santa that’s perfect for photo opportunities! The chocolate Santa will be donated to Arkansas Children’s Hospital at the end of the season to help spread Christmas cheer to the children who will be spending the holidays there.

The 3-foot tall, artisan Santa was made by hand with dark and white Kilwins Heritage Chocolate at Kilwins Chocolate Kitchen in Petoskey, Mich. The entire process, from hand-brushing the mold to packaging the final product, takes around four hours.

Tempered, colored cocoa butter is hand-brushed onto a polycarbonate mold, and then Kilwins premium fair-trade chocolate is poured into the mold in two steps. The mold is hand-rotated next to a cooling fan to solidify the chocolate, and Santa is then removed from the mold and inspected for any imperfections.

All faults are removed with a brush and razor knife, and the artisan Santa is hand-packaged and shipped out to Kilwins franchised stores across the country on the famous brand’s own temperature-controlled trucks. It’s a true work of art!

“It’s fun to see the looks on kids' and parents’ faces when they come in—it’s a real fun time to be in a candy store,” said franchisee/store owner David Lister. “We’ll be glad to have everyone in for a photo with Santa and to pick up last-minute treats.”

Kilwins Little Rock features an open kitchen where customers can view products being made and offers a full assortment of hand-crafted chocolates, gourmet cake and ice cream. “We have several ice cream flavors for the season, including perfect apple pie, pumpkin pie, pistachio ice cream and peppermint ice cream,” Lister said. For those who avoid dairy, they also offer both raspberry and lemon sorbetto.

Lister’s seasonal favorites are the peppermint bark and the candied ginger dipped in dark chocolate. He also likes their candy canes. Another item that he enjoys are the Oreos dipped in milk, white and dark chocolate and decorated with royal icing toppers. He looks forward to making customized boxes of goodies for Christmas gifts that can include chocolates, fudge, caramel corn or brittle.

Lister and his team invite the Central Arkansas community to stop in, take a photo with Santa, and try a free sample of fudge, ice cream or Kilwins Heritage Chocolate while out shopping this holiday season!

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ARTIST OF THE MONTH

CHRISTINA GORE

________________________ SALINE COUNTY

By Donna Lampkin Stephens Photos by Makenzie Evans

C

hristina Gore loves all things Christmas, and by Halloween, she is listening to carols and in the thick of the season.

Through the last weeks of the year, Gore, 40, owner of Christina Gore Design Studio, manages 28 Christmas clients along with her usual decorator workload of new residential construction and light commercial design.

“Christmas fell into my lap when some of my clients said, ‘I need help putting up Christmas,’ and one client led to another,” Gore said. “It is the busiest time of the year. Most all of my Christmas clients are repeat, and I usually have a waiting list. I’ve had several people on there for several years.”

After all, there are only so many days between Nov. 1 and the first week of December.

“I usually [decorate] a house a day until the end of the first week of December,” Gore said. “And my normal projects don’t stop for the holidays. The contractors and sub-contractors can’t wait for you. It is a juggle, but I do love it.

“I love that I can provide that service for those long-term clients. It’s always my favorite when it comes full circle—to go in and help with someone’s Christmas when I helped with their floor plan from the beginning. You’re building a place for them to create memories, and that is very special to me.

I love being able to have that personal connection with my clients.”

Gore, who graduated from Bryant High School, earned an interior design degree from the University of Central Arkansas in 2004. From there, she and her husband, Sean, moved to Nashville, Tenn., where he attended dental school and she worked for an architecture firm. After four years he finished his degree, and the couple returned to the 501 for his career.

After staying home for a few years with their three children, Christina returned to the workforce nearly 10 years ago with a bit of a change of focus.

“It was always the goal to have my business,” she said. “At first I thought I wanted to work for an architecture firm and do more of the corporate side of it, and I did that for a little bit, schools and corporations, some larger-scale commercial projects. But after I started here and there for friends, getting more into residential work, I really loved it. I do a lot of new builds and work a lot with builders and clients from the ground up.”

She said she had never wanted a retail space.

“It’s really hard to be the designer you want to be and run a complete store,” she said. “I would rather spend more time engrossed in my client’s project than having to worry about numbers for my store.”

She begins that project by getting to know the client.

“Do they have kids? Do they have pets? How do they live?” she said. “I ask them to send me an inspiration pic of something they like, and I look at what they already have, and we decide, ‘How do we make this as beautiful as we can?’”

Her Christmas work is guided by a few other threads.

“Where will you open the presents? Where will you sit the most?” she said. “I want them to be able to see the tree, and on Christmas morning, they should be surrounded by their pretty decor. If they have kids or cats, we don’t use a lot of glass ornaments. We try to dive into how they live. We want it to be functional for them.”

Color-wise, she said her clients are about equally split between wanting red, which goes with everything, and neutrals—flocked trees, golds and whites.

“You can never go wrong with either,” she said. “There’s been a lot of traditional green in the markets. You see a little bit of everything at Christmas, even navy blue. It all goes away and comes back.”

Her own home holiday decor features multiple trees, including a 12-footer with a woodland theme in the entryway; a flocked one that looks like it’s been covered with snow, loaded with red ribbons, frosted berries, pinecones and branches with special sentimental ornaments in the living room; and individual trees for each of the children.

For an additional charge, she will “un-decorate” after the holidays, packing everything, labeling and storing in bins that the client will then store until the next year.

“The following year, we’ll get all that out, and (decorating) goes so much faster,” she said. “Most people always use their same stuff, but we may tweak it a little bit, add more red, or more ribbon here, and sometimes the client may pick up something extra, too, that we are happy to incorporate.”

Her 2023 schedule has been booked for months. “I usually start scheduling by the beginning of August, and by midSeptember, it’s finalized,” she said. To see more of her work, visit her Facebook page at Christina Gore Design Studio.

See photos from the home on page 32

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After the Varela family lost their home to a fire in January 2020, they decided to rebuild and asked Gore to finish out the interior. “I had the honor of helping them furnish and style their home,” she said.

“Their Christmas tree is a beautiful, flocked tree that is full and luxurious. It's full of white, gold, silver and pale aqua ornaments. It's so calming, and I just love that it is completely coordinated with their soothing ribbon.”

The exterior of the home features a natural look mixed with glittering pinecones and garland, which pairs perfectly with their wooded property.

“My favorite story is regarding the staircase décor,” Gore said.

“It was their first holiday in the new house, and after pricing out the stair garland, Amy had decided to wait; however, when we were decorating, her husband asked if we could surprise her with the matching staircase. It is beyond stunning and feels so relaxing when you are hanging out in there!”

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THERE'S ALWAYS ROOM AT THE

By Tammy Keith Photos by Mike Kemp

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hen Pat Qualls opens the door to her Conway home at Christmastime, children and adults alike are wide-eyed at the sight.

Her collection of 102 colorful nutcrackers is displayed on the baby grand piano, multiple tables and the kitchen island.

“I have just always been a collector,” she said, from Waterford crystal to antique books. Her nutcracker collection started more than three decades ago.

“The nutcrackers remind me of so many things, especially music,” she said.

Music is in her DNA. She taught choral music for 16 years at her alma mater, Monette High School (now Buffalo Island Central). She also is a pianist and a harpist and gives private lessons. She founded a group of special-needs singers when she lived in Jonesboro, and that legacy lives on.

“You associate nutcrackers with music,” she said, referring to Tchaikovsky's “The Nutcracker Suite,” which she loves, and the famous ballet set on Christmas Eve. “I love the story of the nutcracker, where Clara goes to visit so many places. The musical selections are so wonderful.” It’s no surprise that her favorite figures in her collection are from “The Nutcracker:” The Sugar Plum Fairy, which also is a music box; The Mouse King; a soldier; and Uncle Drosselmeyer. These are Steinbach nutcrackers, which are handmade in Germany to this day.

Steinbachs “are the Cadillac of nutcrackers,” Qualls said.

“Their history goes back 200 years to the Ore Mountains of Germany.” When the mining of precious metals waned, miners used their woodworking skills to make nutcrackers and incense smokers to sell. The 28 Steinbach nutcrackers in her collection also include the mysterious, masked “Phantom of Opera” and the Three Wise Men.

“I love all my nutcrackers. I love the variety from the Steinbachs,” she said.

Despite her appreciation for Steinbachs, she is not a nutcracker snob. She has nutcrackers from department and hobby stores, florist shops or anywhere she sees one that strikes her fancy. “My fun, non-Steinbach nutcrackers give me a lot of pleasure and joy to look at,” she said.

The collection, which took her two days to unbox and arrange, also includes five antique nutcrackers, one of which she estimates could be 90 years old.

She exchanges nutcrackers as gifts with relatives, especially her son, Bret, and daughter-in-law, Mary Etta, of Conway, who has her own extensive collection. Mary Etta spent months cross-stitching a design of 10 nutcrackers on a throw that Pat drapes over a sofa table that was custom-made by a harp student’s husband, David Reed, specifically for her nutcrackers.

The nutcrackers displayed on this table include one that looks like the trench-coat-wearing Inspector Clouseau, Geppetto holding his Pinocchio marionette, a firefighter, Uncle Sam and a Santa. Her collection of nutcracker cooks, male and female, goes in the kitchen, of course. One chef holds a basket of baguettes; another has a chocolate birthday cake in his hand.

Her nontraditional nutcrackers include “shopping ladies,” which were sold at Pier 1 for years. They are approximately 19-inch-tall fashionable women, some holding shopping bags and puppies on leashes, and each with her own personality.

“Aren’t they cute? I love my Pier 1 ladies, and I wish they hadn’t stopped making them,” she said.

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Pat Qualls displays a collection of 102 colorful nutcrackers each holiday season.

A retired music teacher, she loves sharing each unique design with family, friends and especially children.

Her tallest nutcracker is a 35-inch soldier holding a Countdown to Christmas chalkboard, and she also has some miniatures.

Qualls picked up a large nutcracker from the entry table. The piece has multiple smaller nutcrackers as part of the design and a banner that says “Nutcracker Collector.”

“Look, this is so sweet. They don’t make them like this anymore. See how detailed they are?” she said.

If her less expensive nutcrackers don’t have enough details, Qualls, also an expert seamstress, adds ribbon trim, fur and tiny Swarovski crystals or faux jewels to them. One table is devoted to 19 that she has bejeweled, which she has done so professionally that they look like they were created that way.

Julia Lansford of Jonesboro said Qualls gifted her a nutcracker years ago, which launched her own collection of 65 and counting. “She gave me a soldier, a captain, and redid his outfit to make it more elegant,” she said.

Qualls said that despite their name, her nutcrackers are only decorative, not functional. In German folklore, nutcrackers are supposed to bring good luck to a family and protect the home.

When Qualls was asked if she’d keep collecting nutcrackers, she looked surprised and laughed. “Oh, yes!” she said.

Among Qualls’ nutcrackers are the fashionably dressed Pier I “shopping ladies,” which are no longer produced.

She has since added a 10th one that she found online.

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At press time, she was planning a party for a few friends to surprise their children with their own nutcrackers to decorate in her garage-turned-Santa’s workshop, along with a tour of her village inside. “I love children, and I love doing things like this,” she said.

Because her favorite part of her collection is sharing the joy with others.

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A scene to behold

Take part in the Festival of the Nativities returning to Central Arkansas G

race Presbyterian Church of Conway will once again host the Festival of the Nativities from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, at 1010 Hogan Lane, Ste. 2. The event offers a time to reflect upon the birth of Jesus Christ as depicted in the various nativity scenes that will be on display. The Festival of the Nativities is free and open to the public.

The nativities on display come from members of the congregation and community. They are different sizes and presentations. “The variety of the nativities make for an interesting viewing of the nativity scene of Jesus as an infant surrounded by his mother, Mary, and other components of the night of the birth of Jesus,” said Jim Hays, a lay pastor at the church.

There will also be a chili supper from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for a donation of $7 or any donation amount. All proceeds from the chili supper will be given to Conway Cradle Care (CCC) and its ministries, which provides mentoring and access to child care, or child care vouchers, to adolescent parents who are still in high school or college, working on their GED, or enrolled in a workforce program. “We make sure they do not have to abandon their education just because they are a parent,” said McKinley Hess, who has been with the organization for five years and executive director for a year and a half.

CCC is located at First Presbyterian Church on Prince Street in Conway. In addition to child care, CCC offers mentoring in Faulkner, Van Buren, Conway and Perry Counties. “Our number one goal this year is community outreach, letting as many as possible in the community know about the services we offer and helping as many young parents in the

community as possible,” Hess said. “We are so grateful to Grace Presbyterian for letting us be a part of the wonderful festival.”

At this time, CCC is caring for 15 babies and has the capacity to care for 18. They also provide diapers and wipes for every child in their day care and mentoring program and depend upon grants, donations and fundraisers for support.

Hays sees the connection between the nativity and the local nonprofit. The original name for nativity scenes was a crèche, which is the French word for a crib. A crèche is also known as a place of day care for infants and small children while their parents are at work or school. “Because Conway Cradle Care provides a ‘crèche’ for the infants of teenage mothers, what better way to share the meaning of the birth of Jesus than by supporting this Festival of Nativities and Chili Supper?”

Hays said.

“The history of the nativity scene being displayed is credited to St. Francis of Assisi, when he set up a live ox and donkey with a child in a bed of hay to display to his audience ‘a scene to provide the ordinary people access to the divine child,’” Hays said. “Since those days, churches and homes throughout history have set up nativities with live animals and people and in art through painting, sculpture, carvings and any form of medium imaginable to create a scene of the Christ child and his birth.”

Anyone may display their nativity scene at Grace Presbyterian Church. The setup of nativities will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 9. Contact Hays with questions at 501.499.2885.

This antique nativity will be among more than 100 scenes on display at the Festival of the Nativities on Dec. 10 at Grace Presbyterian Church in Conway.

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One family’s Highway 95 Christmas display is a labor of love and a Central Arkansas must-do

By Mary Eggart

Allan Upchurch (from left), Cindy Upchurch, Rhonda Tanner, Susie Inskeep, Sharon Grantham and Bill Grantham, all residents of Nicholson Drive in Morrilton, stand in front of one of the light displays. The popular destination is the result of a collaboration between members of the Grantham and Upchurch families. They begin setting up in early October so that the finished product is ready by Thanksgiving and remains “merry and bright” until New Year’s, only closing for heavy rain or bad weather.

Photos by Mike Kemp

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o yourself a favor — load your family members in the car, pack a thermos of hot cocoa and some Christmas cookies, turn on a little holiday music and cruise up Highway 95 from Morrilton about 5 miles to Nicholson Drive. As you approach your destination, the sky and landscape will become illuminated with all the wonders of Christmas where a magnificent drive-through display will delight all of the senses and bring spirited smiles to everyone’s faces.

This popular holiday destination is the result of a collaboration between members of the Grantham/ Upchurch family. Family members are Sharon and Bill Grantham, Allan and Cindy Upchurch, Rhonda Tanner and Susie Inskeep, all residents of Nicholson Drive. Sharon, Allan and Rhonda are siblings, and together the Grantham/ Upchurch family begins setting up in early October so that the finished product will be ready for the public by Thanksgiving. Countless hours are spent working days and evenings each year to make sure that every twinkling light and holiday character are perfectly positioned on Nicholson Drive. The end result is a drive-through Christmas display that checks all the boxes and leaves all who enter with big smiles and warm hearts. Each year, hundreds of vehicles come through Nicholson Drive to reap the benefits of all those hours of labor, which, according to Sharon, is truly a labor of love. “The best part of the process is the time we spend together as a family,” she said. “We share laughter and sometimes tears (when we hurt ourselves!), but every year is full of countless memories that we all cherish.”

The Grantham/Upchurch display has been a work in progress for more than 20 years with additions being a yearly occurrence. Sharon and Allan usually take the lead each year with decision making, but every family member’s input is valued, and special requests are always honored.

The love of exterior Christmas lights and decorating began with Sharon, Allan, and Rhonda’s grandfather, John Nicholson Sr. Every year, he would outline his entire house with big, bright lights. Since then the family has worked diligently as a team each year to make their display bigger and better from one year to the next.

When asked if there is a particular theme to the display, Sharon stated, “For us, it’s just “A Country Christmas.”

We try to have something that will appeal to everyone no matter the age group. We use many colors, have music

and set up displays featuring characters from old to new.

Displays are organized in small groups coming together to create the overall Christmas experience. Most of the decorations are handmade or built by us.” When driving through the display, visitors will catch sight of countless holiday inflatables, thousands of multi-colored lights and a vast assortment of wooden Christmas characters, all of which are designed, cut and painted by the family. But possibly the greatest features of the display are the giant white cross and a towering multicolored Christmas tree that lights up the sky, both of which were also designed and made by the Grantham/Upchurch family. The cross has about 3,000 lights, and the tree has approximately 5,000 lights.

For all members of the family, it is the children who visit that give them the most satisfaction and joy each year. “It’s wonderful when minivans come through with their doors open so that the kids can hear the Christmas music and see the decorations fully,” Cindy said. “Sometimes, they are even singing with the music and waving to us as they drive by.” The vivacious enthusiasm, wide-eyed wonder and sweet smiles are priceless to the family, making every hour of work and preparation totally worth it. “We do this for the kids who don’t get to experience the spirit of Christmas like we did as children,” Sharon said. “There aren’t near as many homes decorated as there used to be. The spirit and meaning of Christmas seems to be fading. We hope to share our Christmas spirit with both children and adults in and out of the community.”

There is no charge for entering the Christmas display, but the family did decide last year to set up a donation box if there was anyone who felt led to give. Sharon said that they were very hesitant to put it out because “it’s all about ‘from us to you.’” However, with the cost of plywood and other supplies increasing, the family decided it certainly wouldn’t hurt if there were some donations to help offset their costs a little each year.

The Grantham/Upchurch family welcomes everyone to come and enjoy “A Country Christmas” this December at Nicholson Drive. Heavy rain and bad weather are the only factors that close the display, which is open to vehicles nightly beginning on the evening of Thanksgiving, and the display will remain open until New Year’s.

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The Grantham/Upchurch family displays can be found at #1 Nicholson Drive, Morrilton.

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A message from

Kim Williams

Executive Director, Conway Downtown Partnership December in Downtown Conway is brimming with holiday cheer and festive happenings! It all starts with the much-anticipated annual Conway Christmas Parade on Saturday, Dec. 2. Hosted by the Semper Fi Movers, this delightful parade isn't just about spreading merriment—it's also for a wonderful cause, as all proceeds will support Toys for Tots. Festivities begin at 4 p.m. and last until 7 p.m.

Following this joyful extravaganza, mark your calendars for Downtown Conway Mistletoe Madness on Saturday, Dec. 9, starting at 10 a.m. and going until 8 p.m., hosted by the Conway Downtown Partnership. This event marks the final sprint toward Christmas, enveloping the town in an irresistible holiday spirit.

Downtown Conway will truly be the epicenter for all your holiday shopping needs and an array of fantastic events. Get ready to immerse yourself in the warmth and joy of the season with an abundance of shopping opportunities and delightful festivities. Join us in Downtown Conway this December for an unforgettable celebration of the most wonderful time of the year!

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By Stefanie Brazile Photos by Makenzie Evans

Christmas trees are the centerpiece of holiday decorations and the main focal point in homes across the world this time of year. Southerners rarely have only one Christmas tree, and we love to go all out, adding lights, garlands, ornaments and baubles of all shapes and sizes. Tinsel has even made a comeback this year.

But where did the tradition originate? Its roots are deep in the ancient world, and several countries claim to be the birthplace of the Christmas tree, including Latvia and Estonia. There’s also a strong argument that German families influenced the idea of bringing an evergreen indoors and decorating it. Many credit the Protestant reformer Martin Luther for being the first to put candles on Christmas trees, but historians agree that its popularity increased in 1848 when Queen Victoria and her husband, Prince Albert, allowed “The Illustrated London News” to publish an illustration of the family gathered around a decorated Christmas tree.

That illustration made its way to the U.S. around 1850 when a Philadelphia-based magazine, “Godey’s Lady’s Book”, republished the festive scene of the royal family.

Today, Christmas trees are a cherished tradition around the world, and especially in the 501. We’ve visited several homes in Central Arkansas to bring you lush images of glamorous Christmas trees, some with high-end décor, a couple of trendy trees, cozy trees and, of course, a fun tree!

We hope you enjoy our Tour de Trees and that the following pages inspire you as you deck the halls in your home!

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Merry and Bright A stunning traditional red-and-gold Christmas tree graces the dining room at the home of Drs. Troy and Shannon Ardoin in Little Rock.

From the moment you approach their home, you are transported into a festive environment. Interior designer Christina Gore suspends the garland framing the front entranceway from the ceiling to prevent any damage to the exterior of the home. To create the masterpiece, more than 70 ornaments and 12 rolls of ribbon are used!

The gorgeous dining room tree was added this year. Glass ornaments, beglittered magnolia leaves, draped berry garlands and jeweled velour ribbons create the perfect backdrop to the Ardoins’ Christmas dinner. It makes for a beautiful transition from the exterior doorway to your first look inside the home. The stair garland and dining tablescapes also coordinate.

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sugar and plum The tree at Fig Modern home décor in Conway will imbue “visions of sugar plums” in your head. Store owner Katie Pew chose a flocked tree and combined matte, shiny and glittery balls in an array of fun jewel-tone colors, including bluegreen, gold and shades of pink. The oversized light green ornaments are the color “matte celery.”

Glittery sprigs and frosted ornaments add depth and texture, and when combined with velvet poinsettias the result is calming and lovely. Pew chose flocked pine cones, glittery white curled sprigs, a shiny muted pink ribbon and a thin, curled ribbon to cascade from the top.

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classic christmas A traditional theme was chosen by Terri Camp, owner of Doorframes home goods store in Searcy. She started with a green tree, then added white lights and red and white ornaments to create a classic look that is timeless. Two garlands divide the tree vertically into pie-shaped sections: red, white and green pompom garland is paired with red jingle bell garland.

Next come the red berries with different finishes—some icy and some matte— nestled deep in the branches of the tree for a natural look. Ornaments consist of white marble trees, crosses, hearts and stars. Red gingham balls and stuffed gingham hearts were added, along with hanging red birds, which are favorites this time of year.

At the top of the festive tree, icy berry picks spill from the tip, and the tree topper is a sherpa fleece, star-shaped pillow that can transition to your sofa after the holidays are over.

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Add fun and conversation to your home with a Grinch-inspired tree! Scott Brents at Fairytale Floral in North Little Rock lived up to his business’ name when he created a whimsical, colorful nod to the much-loved curmudgeon from Dr. Seuss’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” which was published in 1957.

Complete with Max, the dog-turnedRudolph, it’s hard to take your eyes off the elaborate display! Blending shades of green and blue with pops of red, Brents even added backdrops of Whovilleinspired homes.

An entertaining tree like this one will give family and guests a lot to laugh about together during a stressful season!

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heaven and nature sing This “Natural Elegance” tree stands in the foyer at the Schrader Homes office in Benton. It is loaded with berries, pine and gold vintage bells from Round Top, Texas. A mix of ribbons are tucked into the large tree, including silk red plaid, red velour, and red satin. The variety of fabrics gives an elevated look to the otherwise natural tree. A combination of red, gold and mercury-colored glass ornaments add interest and beauty. Oversized pine cones and sage-colored greenery and berries enhance this natural yet elegant look that Interior Designer Christina Gore has achieved.

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reindeer games Kimberly Paladino created a “Festively Merry” Christmas tree at her shop Three Poppies in Conway. “It was inspired by all the bright colors we are starting to see enter the realm of nontraditional Christmas décor,” she said. “We found our stunning deer mounts first and played off their bright colors.”

Lavender items were added to give the tree some softness and to balance out the bold colors. In terms of ornaments they went ball-heavy, using various sizes and colors. The ribbon woven throughout doesn’t compete with the colorful orbs.

There is only a minimal amount of neutral iridescent and a velvet leopard print on the ribbon. They were layered, and a one-sided bow was created for each deer bust, adding some elegance to the trendy tree.

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Photos by Mike Kemp

A Christmas Gem

Nostalgic treasures and holiday spirit abound at the home of Jim Gatling

By Mary Eggart

O

ne step into Jim Gatling’s home in Morrilton will transport visitors and well-wishers to days gone by, and this could not be truer than at Christmas.

Gatling is a retired art teacher, artist, craftsman and avid collector of unique antiques and sentimental memorabilia.

For example, he owns 60 sets of China, more than a thousand pieces of petit point and has a collection of 300 quilts, more than 100 of which were made by Gatling himself. His passion for the holidays, crafts and collectibles have resulted in a home filled with an abundance of Christmas color, sparkle and nostalgia. Don’t expect any of those decorations to correspond with whatever the latest and greatest trends are online, because Gatling is a self-proclaimed traditionalist and his collections speak to his style.

“I am very traditional and sentimental,” he said, laughing.

“I don’t do plastic ornaments the size of basketballs. Glitter is not your friend, and turquoise is not a Christmas color.”

Christmas is everywhere in his home, and Gatling has 15 tabletop trees of all sizes that are thematic and magnificently

decorated. In fact, he collects many types of ornaments and goes antiquing once a week.

His love of collecting started as a boy, with his most treasured ornaments coming from his childhood, some even dating back to ones his grandmother owned. “I love Christmas, and I love decorating,” Gatling said. “I was lucky enough to get my mother and grandmother’s Christmas things. I enjoy miniatures and smalls, antique glass, unusual shapes and kinds, the hand-painted wooden ones from the ‘80s and ‘90s, wooden nutcrackers and felt and stitched ornaments.”

Gatling’s passion for Christmas and crafts can be traced back to his mother, Dot. Growing up in Forrest City on his family’s farm, he was influenced by her as an amazing artist and decorator. “Christmas was always special. Mama would decorate, and she loved using fresh greenery, berries and pine cones; the house always smelled of pine and cedar,” he said.

“Everyone had a felt stocking Mama had sewed, beaded and sequined. She made the felt tree skirt, which I still use today.”

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‘I am very traditional and sentimental.

Glitter is not your friend, and turquoise is not a Christmas color.’

Jim Gatling

December 2023 501lifemag.com | 65

Each year, Gatling proudly hangs those stockings on his hearth for his son, Blake; daughter-in-law, Cindy; and grandchildren, Maggie and Will.

Anyone who knows Gatling also knows that his personality and spirit are just as colorful and unique as his collections.

If you are lucky enough to be a friend of Gatling’s (and he has many), you will eventually find yourself invited to one of his famous Wednesday Night Suppers (WNS). His Christmas dinners are particularly special. One of his new best friends, Dr. Kevin Heifner, remarked, “Jim’s home is the most unique in America.” And this is true in countless ways, especially during the holidays. As a traditionalist, it is only fitting that the smells of good ole southern Christmas foods permeate the rooms of his home at a WNS during the holiday season. The meal is pleasing, but the true stars of the show are Gatling’s spectacular table arrangements. With intricacies like a sterling silver rest for your knife and your own personal tiny sterling salt shaker, sharing a meal with Gatling and his friends and family makes one feel elegant. His table settings, centerpieces and decorations are truly works of art. In fact, Gatling is a member of a Facebook group called Beautiful Table Settings (BTS) that has 2,500 members. It is of no surprise that he was recently chosen to speak at two different BTS conventions, one in Alabama and the other in Mississippi.

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Gatling has many hobbies and interests. Aside from collecting antiques and quilting, he also enjoys woodburning and primitive miniature watercolor painting, where he collects small frames, cuts paper to fit the frames and uses tiny brushes and old watercolor sets to paint beautiful, intricate pieces of art.

It’s no secret that Gatling has many admirers in Morrilton and beyond, with many of them being former students. As a well-loved art teacher at South Conway County School District for 30 years, he taught art, quilting and stitchery to sevenththrough -12th-grade students. He was also the costumer and set designer for the drama department. After retiring from South Conway County, he taught kindergarten through 12thgrade art at Sacred Heart Catholic School, a job that was supposed to be just teaching a couple of classes for a year but somehow turned into 11 years. Gatling jokingly said, “I never dreamed in my old age I would be teaching kindergarten, but they were a blast! Especially at Christmas.”

If there were a king of Christmas, Jim Gatling could proudly hold that title. He embodies the Christmas season with his passion and love for tradition, family and friends — all of which are gloriously crafted together with an abundance of spirit, sparkle and shine.

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KID OF THE MONTH

MABEL MILLER _____________________ __________________ PULASKI COUNTY

By Mark Oliver

Everything that Mabel Miller touches turns to gold.

First cast in “Oliver” last year, the 9-year-old actress has quickly captured the hearts of the 501’s theater community.

From her bubbly personality to her passionate performances, it’s easy to see why everyone adores the young starlet.

“Acting is a lovely opportunity,” Mabel said. “I love being on stage, and I love singing and dancing. When you have fun doing what you love, it brings both the character and the spirit to the production.”

Mabel’s favorite part of acting is immersing herself into the world of the story alongside her cast members.

“It’s so fun to be in a show and work with the cast,” Mabel said. “Acting on stage beside them and dancing and singing beside them is just lovely. You learn from them, you get inspired from them and they become your new friends.”

After mesmerizing audiences with roles in “Cinderella” and “Matilda” earlier this year, Mabel recently landed her first lead role as Susan Walker in “Miracle on 34th Street” and

is hard at work preparing for Argenta Community Theater’s upcoming production in North Little Rock.

"Mabel is such a joy to work with, and she nailed this audition,” Argenta Community Theater Producing Artistic Director Vincent Insalaco said. “Her dedication and exceptional growth in our summer education program and her performance during Rodgers and Hammerstein's ‘Cinderella’ also made it evident that she was the perfect fit for this iconic role. Her genuine portrayal of Susan Walker brings a heartwarming authenticity to the character. Mabel's presence, as well as that of all the talented children in our production, is the true embodiment of the magic that makes Argenta Community Theater so special."

For Mabel, “Miracle on 34th Street” is the perfect story to inspire holiday cheer. “‘Miracle on 34th Street’ is a story about believing,” Mabel said. “I love the story and the relationship between the characters. Working with our cast has been magical. Our production has also added Christmas carols to bring joy into the show, too.”

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Photo by Mike Kemp

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Young actress Mabel Miller recently landed her first lead role. She will play Susan Walker in “Miracle on 34th Street,” which will be performed Dec. 6-17 at Argenta Community Theater in North Little Rock.

Boasting a professional work ethic at a young age, Mabel puts in the time to perfect her craft before the curtain rises each night.

“Practice makes perfect,” Mabel said. “I’m always practicing my lines. Before I go on stage, I also do warmups to make sure I’m ready. Connecting with the cast is helpful, too. It helps bring your character to life.”

Balancing both a busy production schedule and homework can be a daunting task for any youngster. According to Mabel, when you love what you do, it’s never work. “Besides acting, I also do dance classes and musical theater,” Mabel said.

“Being homeschooled makes it a little easier for me to juggle everything. Between my schedule and my brothers also being in school and sports, we stay pretty busy.”

As her stage presence continues to grow throughout Central Arkansas, Mabel draws inspiration from family as well as timeless classics.

“Some of my favorite works are ‘The Sound of Music,’ ‘Matilda,’ ‘Cinderella,’ ‘Hamilton’ and ‘Jingle Jangle,’” Mabel

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said. “I’m a fan of Lin-Manuel Miranda and Julie Andrews, too. I have two family members who act in movies and shows, and they inspired me to start performing. It’s so fun to be on stage. I just love it.”

Outside of acting, Mabel loves reading, singing, dancing, writing plays and making friends, and she dreams of becoming an actress or a dance teacher. The daughter of Stephen and Lindsey Miller, Mabel enjoys playing with her three brothers, Woods (7), Huck (5) and Thad (2), and spending time with her dogs, Kuba and Lolly, and her bunny, Mango.

“We’re very excited for Mabel,” Lindsey said. “She grew up in Rwanda in East Africa. We just moved here a couple of years ago. This is all very new and fun. It’s neat that she’s found what she loves and has jumped in. I get nervous for her but she doesn’t feel that. She loves it. It’s really neat to see her come alive and find something that she loves so much.”

“Miracle on 34th Street” is featured at the Argenta Community Theater in North Little Rock from Dec. 6-17. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit argentacommunitytheater.org.

Photo by Nancy Cole Photography

Mabel with her three little brothers.

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Food for Thought PCSSD works to ensure students are fueled for learning

By Jessica Duff

T

he Pulaski County Special School District (PCSSD) boasts many dedicated educators and administrators from 26 schools across Central Arkansas, which includes the DRIVEN Virtual Academy now starting its third year with the district. PCSSD understands the importance of quality student nutrition and the benefits it provides students and families. PCSSD is also in its third year of a partnership with Chartwells K12 to enhance its students' nutrition department and offer the best nourishment possible to students (and staff).

are a number of benefits to receiving the free and reduced meal program.

The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is a federally assisted meal program operating in public schools. It provides nutritionally balanced, low-cost, or nocost lunches to children each school day. The program was established under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, signed into law by President Harry Truman in 1946.

Reed said it is important for students to have healthy options available at school.

Children may be determined eligible for free meals through participation in certain Federal Assistance Programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or based on their status as a homeless, migrant, runaway or foster child. But all families are encouraged to apply.

Chartwells District Manager, Tiffany Reed, said there

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“You know your kids are getting a healthy and awesome school breakfast and lunch. Your family can also qualify for free ACT testing, free summer school, and a reduced cost for at-home internet. For every student who qualifies for free or reduced lunches, the district gets federal dollars to spend on services like interventionists, dyslexia services, social workers and more.”

“The dollar doesn’t quite go as far as it used to,” Reed adds. “Families have a lot of stress. Why should they also have to worry about figuring out what to pack for their kid’s lunchbox or how to afford a school lunch? A student's opportunity to get a healthy school meal should not be something you worry about. We are here to help you, and we want to help you make sure your student is fueled to learn.”

Families can apply at any time for free and reduced meals, and the district strongly encourages families to apply for the program. Applications are available at pcssd.org.

About PCSSD Pulaski County Special School District spans more than 600 square miles in Central Arkansas and requires highly skilled and passionate personnel to adapt educational policies and personalization to 26 schools.

Every school is accredited by the Arkansas State Board of Education. PCSSD has served schools across Pulaski County since July 1927.

PCSSD is committed to creating a nationally recognized school district that assures that all students achieve at their maximum potential through the collaborative, supportive and continuous efforts of all stakeholders.

Nourishing Minds for Success

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Photos by Makenzie Evans

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Seen and Hurd

Historic home is filled with music, decoration and joy during the holiday season

By Rita Halter Thomas

D

ragging out boxes of Christmas decorations can turn some into grumpy ole Grinches instead of jolly ole St. Nicks.

However, one historic home in Conway is transformed for all seasons and holidays, especially Christmas, as if elves appeared sprinkling holiday cheer everywhere. Assuredly, no elves live in the historic home, just Steve and Denise Hurd with a Lab named Sadie, and three cats: Judy, Bob and Ginger.

to the home. “With everything else I had in there, it just made a really neat area.”

“When it comes to Christmas decorating, I love to use what I have. I love old things…and anywhere I go, I’m always looking for old things,” Denise said.

She decorates seasonally in every room of the home.

Even an old sleeping porch off the master bedroom receives Christmas love. “That’s my happy place,” she said of the cozy area full of plants. “It’s such a neat space.”

Decorating the 110-year-old home and showcasing its stately beauty, brings her great joy, but she insists that transforming the 3,200-square-foot home doesn’t take as long as one might assume.

“If you were to walk in with it fully decorated, you would think it took months to do it all, but it’s really not that much.

Just the little things here and there can make any room look festive,” she said.

“I decorate a little at a time. I like to use a lot of what I have and just exchange things.”

Denise shared a few tips, saying anyone can transform a space by moving things around and changing out a few items in each room.

Throw pillows can be exchanged seasonally, using red ones with white snowflakes, for example. Vases are great for seasonal silk flowers, such as poinsettias for Christmas, or other red and white flowers with a pop of sparkle. Sprigs of holly, real or artificial, can be placed over pictures or along shelves.

Exchange pumpkins scattered about from Thanksgiving for bush bottle trees, garland or a handful of ornaments. “Antique ornaments in an antique bowl set on the table will make a great centerpiece or is perfect for a side table. Table settings are one of my favorite things to do at Christmas time,” Denise said.

She sometimes even hangs ornaments from some of the sturdier house plants and ties ribbons around things that stay out all year. “You can make anything festive by adding something sparkly or something red.” Once, Denise took hand-painted clear and plastic ornaments made by Steve’s children when they were little, paired them with the rose window ornaments Steve makes and strung them on some pretty ribbon. She then hung them from the antique chandelier above the table, one of three chandeliers original

Lights are also key, not just on porches, but in bookcases, shelves or around the perimeter of a room at the ceiling.

Denise uses clear lights all year as part of her normal décor, inside and out.

Denise starts the day after Thanksgiving, taking about three weeks and leaving decorations until near the end of January.

Her eye for such artful transformations comes partly from living in Williamsburg for 20 years. “Colonial Williamsburg decorates with all-natural things like seed pods, branches and fruit. I try to incorporate some of that,” she said.

According to Steve, their home is Conway’s only true American Foursquare home and has been on the National Registry of Historic Places since 1996. He purchased the home in 1992 from the family of the original owners, D.O. Harton and his wife, Hattie. The Hartons built the house and moved in on Dec. 31, 1913, the day after the couple married.

Remodels and additions make it more like an “eightsquare,” including 10-foot ceilings on the upper and lower levels. One addition on the ground floor includes a family room the Hurds use as their music room. For the holidays, Denise decorates a tree with music ornaments and uses silk poinsettias as a filler. She also places poinsettia branches around the room with the same artful eye.

“We’re members of the Rackensack Folklore Society, which started with Jimmy Driftwood in the Mountain View area. George Fisher (cartoonist) started the Pulaski County Rackensack chapter in 1963 and my father was one of the original founders. He’s passed away now and I’m playing his fiddle, just trying to keep it going,” Denise said. The group plays all over, including Christmas songs they refresh each year.

“We love to host lots of music gatherings, family and friends,” she said. “This house is happiest when it’s full of people, especially when we’re making music.”

For Denise and Steve, caring for and sharing the stories of this architectural treasure bring them as much joy as the season itself.

Tour the Hurd home on pages 76 & 77

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Circle of care Diabetes education closes the loop for night shift worker P

icture this: It's the dead of night, but while everyone sleeps, you're clocking into a night shift with eyes weighed down by fatigue. Now, layer on the silent battle of wrestling with a blood sugar level that screams danger at 14 percent, turning each task into an even more challenging effort.

Stanisha Maltbia, a night shift worker at the Conway Human Development Center, was hospitalized earlier this year due to her high blood sugar levels. Elevated blood sugar levels (diabetes) can cause tiredness, increased thirst, nausea or vomiting, blurred vision, drowsiness and other symptoms. This can lead to heart disease, stroke and other life-threatening conditions.

Stanisha, who has Type 1 diabetes, felt like her body was shutting down because her blood sugar levels were out of control, and she didn't know what to do. That all changed for Stanisha after her primary care doctor, Thad Hardin, MD, referred her to Maria Javaid, MD, an endocrinologist at the Conway Regional Endocrinology and Diabetes Center.

While Stanisha's health is still a work in progress, she is thankful for the physicians, diabetes educators and dietitians who have made managing a chronic illness much more manageable. She has dropped her A1C from 14 to 6.9 percent with their teamwork.

“At Conway Regional, we help patients manage diabetes beyond medication. We offer a comprehensive approach, integrating elements like diet, diabetes education, physical activity and one-on-one nutrition counseling, all located at our medical center in Conway, " said Maria Javaid, MD. "With our state-of-the-art endocrinology and diabetes center, we provide a unique, convenient and highly effective environment for patient care. This not only simplifies the journey for our patients but also leads to the most personalized care."

Stanisha did not discover that she had Type 1 diabetes until she was 25 years old. The difference between Type 2 diabetes and Type 1 diabetes is that Type 1 patients do not have a functioning pancreas to make insulin.

At first, there was no avoiding frequent injections. "I was tired of injecting myself with insulin, getting sick and not

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Maria Javaid, MD knowing what was wrong," said Stanisha. That ended when she visited Dr. Javaid.

Dr. Javaid referred her to the Conway Regional Wellness and Diabetes Education Department for diabetes selfmanagement classes and ordered an insulin pump and a continuous glucose monitor. Now, Stanisha can keep track of her blood sugar level using a mobile phone app.

Stanisha also began diabetes education classes and oneon-one meetings with Jordan Johnson, a licensed clinical dietitian at Conway Regional. "The first thing she taught me was how to count carbs and read food labels," said Stanisha.

"Managing my diabetes forces me to eat more. Working night shift, I used to skip lunch and dinner. Nutrition for diabetes management involves eating healthier, smaller meals and snacks more often.”

"We focus on a balanced approach to eating," said Johnson.

"Stanisha was very open to trying new things to control her A1C better, especially counting carbs and using measuring cups to ensure she ate the right portions.

"You feel awful when your A1C is that high," she said.

Johnson has Type 1 diabetes herself, which helped motivate her to become a dietitian. "The continuous glucose monitor and the insulin pump helped change all of that for Stanisha."

"We are very fortunate to have our Endocrinology Clinic here at Conway Regional,” said Ashley Cornett Robb, wellness manager, dietitian and certified diabetes educator.

“Before, patients would have to go to Little Rock or Northwest Arkansas. Now, they can get all their diabetes care in one area.

It is great to be able to close that loop for our patients with diabetes. Patients are so excited to have a diabetes specialist close by."

The Conway Regional Diabetes and Endocrinology Center providers are Maria Javaid, MD, Hooman Motahari, MD, and Beth Strack, APRN. In addition to diabetes, Conway Regional Diabetes and Endocrinology Center treats other types of hormonal disorders, including thyroid disease, low potassium, hypoglycemia, calcium disorders, hypertension, polycystic ovarian syndrome and other endocrine system conditions.

“I’ve learned that to manage diabetes, you have to change your lifestyle, and you definitely have to follow your doctor’s orders.”

- Stanisha Maltbia, on right

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The

beginning

s a m t s i r Ch n o s a e S of the

By Rev. Mark McDonald

W

e’ve all heard the saying “the reason for the season,” which is, of course, the birth of the Christ child.

Christmas Day is on Dec. 25, but Christmas itself lasts more than a day. It begins on Dec. 25 and lasts through Jan. 6, when the three visitors from the East come bearing gifts (hence the “twelve days of Christmas” and the reason we share gifts during the season).

Several years ago, I ran across a book called “The Hundred Dollar Holiday” by Bill McKibben. In it, he challenges us to rethink Christmas and focus more on things other than giving presents. The basis of this challenge is only to spend $100 on our Christmas—in total! That seems so very far away from where we are, yet there is something powerful behind this movement.

Spending less means buying less and making more. We can give the gift of a homemade dinner, babysitting, hand-writing a letter or making something bespoke as a gift.

If we were to do this, I believe we might be closer to the reason that giving gifts to others is a wonderful way to celebrate Jesus’ birth. After all, Jesus did give up his own life for others and clearly taught us to love God and love others as we love ourselves. Giving gifts to others–especially gifts that have deeply spiritual and sentimental value–is exactly what Christ did by his example.

So what is the reason for the season?

I’ve always noticed something that is unique to Christmas—we act better during the Christmas season. We give to more good causes. We not only feed those who are hungry, but we provide elaborate meals and baskets of food for anyone who wants one.

We focus on providing children with a little extra, seem slightly more patient (well, most of the time), we sing to each other, and we show love more than any other time of the year. It gets stretched from Thanksgiving to New Year’s, even longer than the traditional 12 days of Christmas that begin on Christmas Day. In short, it seems like we get the reason for being a follower of Christ better during Christmas than any other time of the year. So much so that it’s contagious among all of us! Everyone is drawn to the reason for the season, which is a reminder that every day should be Christmas. Not just one. Not even just 12 days. Every day.

It is a reminder that it is more blessed to give than to receive, that we cannot be filled until we empty ourselves.

That we cannot fully love God unless we love others as we love ourselves.

Every single day of the year. Whether we start Christmas Day, Thanksgiving, Advent or even in August when decorations start showing up in the stores, Christmas is the beginning of the rest of our lives. It is a season of practicing what we preach as Christians, a season of showing the world the unconditional love of Christ.

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Energy Smart – Winterization Tips

By Beth Jimmerson

The winter holidays are back again, quicker than ever,

which means cooler temperatures are finally and officially here. Conway Corp wants to help make your home warmer without turning up the heat this winter.

While the U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts Americans will pay one percent less for heating expenses this year, that number can change dramatically with unexpected drops in temperatures if your home is not properly prepped.

Conway Corp wants to ensure your home is prepared for the unexpected, helping you save a nice chunk of change while protecting your property for years to come. With these winterization tips, you’ll save energy while saving money at the same time.

Seal all Drafts

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, drafts can waste 5 to 30% of your energy use. Window insulation is a few dollars at most hardware stores and is essentially invisible once installed. Repair bigger gaps with caulking and weatherstripping. Looking for a simple fix? Fill old socks with sand or kitty litter to make a “draft snake” to place in front of a drafty door.

Change Furnace Filters

Turn Down Your Water Heater

Many conventional water heaters are set to 140 degrees, but most households don’t need that much steam. Lowering the temperature to 120 degrees—or lower—will reduce your water heating costs by 6 to 10%. Consider a tankless water heater to save even more.

Install Storm Doors and Windows

Installing a storm door or storm windows can increase energy efficiency by 45% by sealing drafts and reducing air flow. They also offer greater flexibility for letting light and ventilation enter your home.

Give Your Heating System a Tune-Up

Keeping your furnace clean, lubricated and properly adjusted will reduce energy use, saving up to 5% of heating costs.

Mind the Thermostat

Most households spend 50 to 70% of their energy budgets on heating and cooling. For every degree you lower the thermostat during the heating season, you’ll save between 1 and 3% of your heating bill. The average family with a programmable thermostat will save $180 a year.

It’s important to replace furnace filters once a month during the heating season. Dirty filters restrict airflow and increase energy demand. Consider switching to a permanent filter, which will reduce waste and hassle, saving time and money.

Replacing an inefficient furnace for a modern machine will cost you in the short term but save you money every month through the heating season. Disposable fiberglass filters trap between 10 to 40% of debris while permanent electrostatic filters trap around 88% and are much better at controlling bacteria, mold, viruses, and pollen.

Boost Insulation

Run Fans in Reverse

Zero percent interest loans for energy efficiency home improvements like attic insulation are available to Conway Corp customers through its Energy Smart program. All you need to do is provide an estimate from a vendor and apply for the Energy Smart Loan. Once approved, the vendor will verify the need and install your new insulation. Conway Corp then remits payment to the vendor. It’s that easy to start saving money with a more energy-efficient home.

Many ceiling fans come with a switch that reverses the direction of the blades. Counterclockwise rotation produces cooling breezes while switching to clockwise makes it warmer.

Air pooled near the ceiling is circulated back into the living space, cutting your heating costs as much as 10%.

Winterize Your AC and Water Lines

Drain any hoses and air conditioner pipes, making sure you don’t have excess water pooled in equipment. If your air conditioner has a water shutoff valve, go ahead and turn it off.

Remove any window air conditioner units and store them so you don’t invite cold drafts all winter. Also, turn off exterior water spigots.

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Insulation is one of the best ways to save energy and money at home. It can make a big difference to add more insulation between walls and on the attic floor. Properly insulating your attic can save you up to 10% annually on energy bills. You can also pay less for hot water and decrease the chance of pipes freezing with insulation. Check to see if your pipes are warm to the touch. If they are, get pre-slit pipe foam at any hardware store, cut it to size and fasten it in place with duct tape.

Looking for more ways to save this winter?

Visit ConwayCorp.com/EnergySmart and find energy-saving tips, or call 501.450.6000 to schedule a free energy audit from a Conway Corp certified energy professional.

Conway First United Methodist Church

Advent and Christmas 2023 1610 Prince St.

501-329-3801

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Thunder Over the Rock returns to Little Rock Air Force Base Photos by Bill Patterson

T

he Little Rock Air Force Base’s first air show since 2018 took place Oct. 21-22. The event was free to the public.

Headlining the air show was the Air Force’s premier demonstration team, the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, better known as the Thunderbirds. The Thunderbirds performed incredible formations, including sharp turns, loops, rolls and inverted rolls, displaying the pride, precision and professionalism the U.S. Air Force represents.

Thunder Over the Rock spectators also had an up-close and personal view of the mission at Team Little Rock as they performed during the C-130 capabilities exercise (CAPEX).

The CAPEX is a unique joint display of effects which demonstrates an airfield seizure operation, showcasing Team Little Rock’s trademark teamwork and precision aerial skills.

Also featured in the CAPEX was the A-10 Thunderbolt II from the 358th Fighter Squadron at Whiteman AFB, Missouri, the venerable workhorse UH-60s Blackhawks from the Arkansas Army National Guard’s 77th Theater Aviation Brigade at Camp Robinson, and 200 Army paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Liberty, N.C. Along with the Thunderbirds performance and CAPEX, there were performances by the Air Force F-35 Demonstration Team, the Army Golden Knights parachute team, the Air Force Academy Wings of Blue Parachute Jump Team, the Aftershock Jet Truck, "Tora, Tora, Tora,” a commemorative recreation of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, and more.

Additionally, there was a variety of modern and historic aircraft on display.

See additional photos on page 86

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A

cademic excellence is just the beginning. UCA offers nationally recognized faculty, NCA A D1 sports,

impressive facilities and more. Even better? We cover tuition and fees for incoming Arkansas freshmen with an annual household income of $100,000 or less, starting in fall 2024. Learn more about the UCA Commitment at uca.edu/commitment.

ExploreSpringdale.com | 479.872.2222 December 2023 501lifemag.com | 87

Unexpected Gifts The most special may stay with us for a lifetime, or even through the generations

By Vivian Lawson Hogue

I

n this year of utter turmoil, the annual subject of gift-giving still must come up. How does one buy for the person who has everything? Or the person who doesn’t want anything? Or is your billfold a little slimmer this year?

As I recall my 5-year-old self, I frequently met Mr. Casteel, our postman, at the edge of the front porch asking when the Sears and Roebuck catalog would arrive. I think I imagined that he personally gathered them up still warm from the printing press in Chicago and would bring one straight to us. Anyone who experienced the same excitement knows about circling items one wanted Santa to bring.

I recently found a neatly crayon-printed Christmas list that I once left on the coffee table – as if he knew it already and would have them in stock in the trunk of the sleigh. We rarely received items on our lists, but it was fun to dream since the catalog was, after all, called the Wish Book. My Depression-era brothers would get one gift plus ribbon candy and an apple.

My father, a turn-of-the-century, hill-country lad, and his nine siblings had an orange and a small gift in their stockings at a total value of 25¢. The number and value of gifts has always seemed to depend on an economic crisis or war, whichever came first. Often it was both.

But what of gifts that are not in a material form? Are you immediately accepted as friendly by a dog, cat, child or elderly person? Not everyone has that gift, but theirs may be evidenced elsewhere. You may have the gift of appreciation for keeping alive a hobby of stamp collecting. Everyone has a gift, whether physical, mental or spiritual, and some have all of those! You can’t deny it or ignore it, but you do have to discover and develop it. You may surprise yourself!

I am an appreciator of items, stories and histories in regard to ancestors. In my own genealogy research reaching back to the 900s, some ancestors were married to royalty and some beheaded by royalty.

Others led much simpler lives and kept their heads.

Some items are long-revered but may hold no value to anyone else. One valuable item of mine is a large family Bible printed in 1896, apparently a gift to my grandparents Arnold on their wedding day. It contains their marriage certificate and records of all family members’ birth and death days.

The many-times retold story of that wedding is a gift in itself. In December of 1898, my Grandfather Arnold ordered my grandmother’s wedding ring from a jeweler in St. Louis, Mo. After many months of secretly writing love notes in pencil on scraps of paper, they finally decided to marry. The misunderstandings had been many, the same as now when a text or email

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doesn’t adequately convey emotions or intent.

The ring arrived by mail nestled in a tiny box, but stuffed in that box was also a note he had written on a 9-inch by 2 ¼-inch slip of tissue-like paper. To fit the box, it had been folded lengthwise into thirds, then folded eight times to about the dimensions of a large stamp. The ring box was placed in a slightly larger box adorned with a few 3-cent stamps, and it was sent on its important mission.

The note, written in pencil as usual, said: Dear Effie: This I got for your Christmas gift, but it did come too late. I am sorry it is too large. I wish you would not use it before the first of February, for there are several that know I got something [but] don’t know what it is. It doesn’t make any difference with me [but] it is not the kind I thought it to be when I sent for it.

Kindly to Effie, Noel Granddad followed up with a jeweler’s card with holes for determining ring sizes, so the sizing matter was settled. Effie and Noel had not revealed their plans to anyone. They simply told the preacher he could be at Effie’s home at 9 a.m. on the 9th of February.

Regardless of snow and ice on the ground and the frost-bitten preacher riding a horse, he did arrive, but on the wrong day.

My great-granddad was busy with hog-killing. Upon hearing the preacher’s intent, the future father-in-law headed for the house and gathered his six daughters to ask, “Which of you is planning a wedding tomorrow?”

Grandmother admitted it was she, and on Feb. 9, 1899, she finally got to show attendees the mail-order ring not of her choosing. But the groom most certainly was.

A gift, tangible or not, is something given without expecting payment. It can also be called a blessing.

It may be a gift such as Grandmother’s ring or perhaps the gift of God’s blessing upon a marriage. In December we are reminded that Jesus was God’s gift to us and the gifts the Magi brought to Him were used at stages of His life and death.

A favorite Christmas song, “Mary, Did You Know?” asks if Mary actually knew that when she kissed her little baby Jesus, she kissed the face of God. She received a Christ-gift that was not in the Sears catalog, and all believers received a duplicate of that gift, free of charge and with the manufacturer’s lifetime guarantee. And that’s a joy to the world!

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AUTHOR OF THE MONTH

MARIA HOSKINS ___ __________________

By Susan L. Peterson

Photo by Mike Kemp

Maria Hoskins never expected to be a book author. She was in her 50s when she wrote her first book, which she did only because of a challenge.

In 2013, Hoskins was at Pyramid Art, Books & Custom Framing in Little Rock, searching for a suitable Christmas book to read in her Sunday school class. When she couldn’t find the right book, the store owner said, "Just go write the book."

So she did.

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Author Continued

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Since that time, Hoskins not only authored seven children’s books that focus on family and tradition, but she also started her own certified woman-owned minority business, C & V 4 Seasons Publishing.

“Christmas Night on the Farm” was released in 2014.

Based on Hoskins’ own memories, it tells the story of a girl and her family visiting her grandmother’s farm in the mid1960s.

She is proud that she was not a “one-book author,” and she subsequently wrote and published “Grandma’s Thanksgiving Dinner,” “Down Home in Arkansas,” “My Easter Story,” “Papa’s Pets,” “My Sister My Friend” and “It’s My Birthday!,” which was released this year.

Hoskins draws her material from her own family experiences, especially memories of family occasions or traditions that were celebrated on important holidays. There is always an underlying message of love and understanding.

That message is probably most evident in “My Sister My Friend,” which is dedicated to her daughters, one of whom is special needs. In the book, one sister needs a wheelchair and requires extra help and attention.

Hoskins’ books have a feature that differs from most books. Pages are included in the back for children to write and respond to prompts. For example, in “My Easter Story” children are asked to write their story and a poem about Easter. “Family Reunion” asks children to chart their family tree.

The illustrations are another unique and appealing aspect of her work. Hoskins used artists who have some connection to Arkansas, but their varying styles give each book a different tone. For example, the vibrant colors used in “My Easter Story” are very different from the subdued watercolors in “Grandma's Thanksgiving Dinner.” “Down Home in Arkansas” is illustrated using oil on wood, and “My Sister My Friend” is the only book using digital art.

One of Hoskins’ biggest fans is local TV personality and children’s literacy advocate Craig O’Neill. He has visited her home for an interview and has read several of her books on air.

Hoskins grew up in a military family and traveled a lot, but she always considered Mayflower her home. She attended several schools in the area but graduated from Hall High School in Little Rock, where there were many opportunities.

She says she was always a performer who enjoyed dancing, reciting poetry, participating in debate and playing the clarinet in the band. Her favorite subject was English, and she earned a bachelor of arts in mass communications and English from Philander Smith College.

During and after school, she worked for a record company, a TV station and Congressman Vic Snyder in the U.S. House of Representatives. Following Snyder's retirement, she landed a job with the Department of Justice and retired in December 2022 after 21 years of service.

Since retiring, Hoskins now enjoys sharing her stories fulltime. She loves reading them in a fun and interactive way at schools, bookstores and libraries. She incorporates her first-hand experience as a businesswoman and publisher to tell children what is involved in producing a book.

Hoskins and her husband, Archie, have been married 30 years. They have two daughters, Christina and Victoria.

In addition to her author events, she volunteers as an advocate for youth and is involved with Youth Advocate and Resource Network (YARN) programs, a nonprofit founded

by Hoskins' mother, Berthenia Gill. YARN's programs include After School Tutoring, Let's Make Reading Fun, Community Safety and Garden to Table. Looking ahead, she anticipates her next book will come out in 2025 and will be about mothers.

Her books are available from her website, Seasons2dream. com, Pyramid Art, Books & Custom Framing, and most online retailers. To schedule her to speak, email info@ seasons2dream.com.

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Sweet Memories

Last December, 501 LIFE partnered up with the big guy and featured a favorite cookie from each of the eleven counties we serve –Cleburne, Conway, Faulkner, Garland, Hot Spring, Lonoke, Perry, Pulaski, Saline, White and Van Buren.

It was one of the most popular issues the magazine has ever shared.

As we looked back, it hit a sweet spot in our hearts and we know it will touch yours too, so we're sharing the link to our cookie recipes, as well as downloadable recipe cards.

Merry Christmas from all of us at 501 LIFE Magazine!

501lifemag.com/santas-12-cookies-of-central-arkansas

December 2023 501lifemag.com | 93

Photo by Mike Kemp

IS COMING TO TOWN! Event for Friends of the Animal Village promises to be a howling success!

By Carol Rolf

Willow, a recent adoptee from the Little Rock Animal Village.

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The annual Santa Paws Holiday fundraiser is sponsored

by Friends of the Animal Village, which is a nonprofit organization that provides supplemental support to Little Rock’s animal shelter, the Little Rock Animal Village.

The event is set for 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at Loft 1023, 1023 W. 7th St. in Little Rock. Tickets are $ 50 per person in advance and may be purchased at friendsoftheanimalvillage.org/santapaws. They increase to $ 60 per person on the day of the event.

“This is our biggest fundraiser of the year,” said Betsy Robb, volunteer spokesperson. “It’s not a ‘bring your pet’ event but rather a holiday party for adults, although children are welcome. There is no age restriction for children. Parents can use their own judgment as to whether to bring their kids. There will also be an adoptable pet at the event.

“Loft 1023 is a new event venue for us,” she said. “It’s a little bigger than where we have held this event previously, so there should be a lot more room. We will have food and an open bar with beer and wine.”

There will be a wine pull and a silent auction which includes a $500 gift certificate from Cecil’s Jewelry, a gift certificate for Botox from Arkansas Family Dental worth $ 700, a $1,000 gift certificate from J. Oliver’s, a round of golf for four at Pleasant Valley Country Club worth $500 and glass jewelry from James Hayes worth $175. Additionally, bidders will find artwork from local artists and galleries, gift certificates to local restaurants, jewelry and more.

Robb said Friends of the Animal Village (FAV) accepts donations throughout the year in its efforts to support the Little Rock Animal Village (LRAV) located at 4500 Kramer St. in Little Rock.

“A lot of the money we raise will go toward helping with the LRAV’s heartworm prevention program,” Robb said.

“Last year, they spent $10,000 on this program, which helps ensure a long life for pets. The money we raise also goes toward the LRAV’s practice of microchipping all animals in its care.”

Robb said the animal shelter houses 200-plus animals a day. “The kennels stay full every single day of the year,” she said. FAV is dedicated to raising awareness about the Village, increasing adoptions and improving the quality of life of the animals.

The LRAV is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and the community can adopt between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. They offer a learning center for volunteers with regularly scheduled classes to promote animal welfare and public safety. It also has a fully staffed veterinary clinic. For more information on LRAV, call 501.376.3067 or email LRAV@littlerock.gov.

Robb said Friends of the Animal Village started the Santa Paws event in 2013. “We skipped 2020 and 2021 for obvious reasons (COVID-19),” she said. “This year, we will not have live music but will present holiday music. Santa will also be there for photos at no additional charge.

“We will also present the Best Friend Award,” she said.

“That award is to recognize a person who has contributed to the Village during the past year. That person can be a longtime supporter, a volunteer, a rescuer—it’s not limited to any one thing. It’s just to recognize a person who has done a lot for the Village and its mission to save more animal lives.”

Dress code for Santa Paws is relaxed cocktail party. “They can come in formal dress, or in just whatever they are comfortable in. We’re okay with it all,” Robb said, laughing.

For more information on Santa Paws, call 501.725.0250 or email favsantapaws@gmail.com.

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Photos by Kaycee Dougherty Photography

Evergreen Romance

Christmas tree farm brings family fun and scenic views to Central Arkansas

By Judy Riley The Romance Christmas Tree Farm was established in the 1980s and was purchased by Janet and Kevin Newcom in 2009.

Michelle and her family have run the family enterprise since 2017. Donna (from left), Davis, David and Michelle Walker.

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F

olklore or fact, the modern-day Christmas tradition of a lighted evergreen is often attributed to religious leader Martin Luther. Regardless, it has become an American tradition. And the family adventure of selecting a tree from the woods or a tree farm is alive and well. According to the Christmas Tree Growers Association website arkansaschristmastreegrowers. com, there are ample tree farms right here in the 501.

Most tree farmers let you select your own tree from a collection of types as well as sizes. You can cut it down yourself with a handsaw or the proprietors will cut it for you. The tree is shaken with the aid of a mechanical shaker, removing any dry limbs or unwanted critters. Trees are then wrapped in webbing and placed atop a vehicle for the ride home.

One tree farm with a heartwarming background story is in Romance, a scenic drive north from Cabot on Highway 5.

Originally established in the 1980s by the late Larry Pankey and his family, it was purchased in 2009 by Janet and Kevin Newcom. The farm thrived and grew, adding new varieties and more experiences, like a tractor-pulled train ride, holiday wreaths and on-site photographers ready to document the experience.

Because of health issues, the family’s daughter, Michelle Walker, husband David and children Davis and Donna came to join the family enterprise in 2017. Family ties run strong in this particular business. The whole family unit is involved in planting, trimming, watering and caring for the trees, numbering in the thousands.

They grow several different varieties: Murray Cypress, Leyland Cypress, Carolina Sapphires, Gold Dust, Silver Smoke, Blue Ice and Naylor Blue. In addition, they have shipped directly from Michigan several varieties of spruces and firs, including Frazier, Conoclor, Grand Fir, Black Hill Spruce, Blue Spruce and Snowtip. Families can choose to select a tree early, and then get it when needed.

Walker presells around 200 trees beginning in October ahead of the season, a modern-day ‘tree layaway plan,” at no

extra charge to the buyer. In fact, there are no extra charges except for the items purchased. All the ‘experiences’ are free.

How long does it take to grow a typical 6- or 7-foot tree? In perfect weather conditions, they grow about 1 to 2 feet per year, according to Walker. She adds that last year’s weather was not conducive to optimum growth, but they will still have plenty of trees. They water when needed and trim a couple times a year. The proper trimming is really an art form, according to Walker. She takes pride in creating the ultimate Christmas tree shape.

The family tries to provide the whole experience to visitors.

Upon arrival, one is greeted at the Christmas on the Ranch welcoming house and handed a clipboard with instructions, tags and welcoming smiles. Families are allowed plenty of time to select the tree of their dreams. When asked what her family’s rewards are, she quickly said, “Watching the little kids. They approach hundreds of trees with total awe and excitement.” The Walkers have old farm equipment on display for kids to sit on for a photo op. They provide a tractor-guided hayride on little cars dressed up as reindeer. Walker makes wreaths of all sizes. The family even has a group of farm animals for viewing.

Walker’s advice for buying a tree is to water, water, water.

The tree will last through the season if kept watered. “It is best to take the tree home immediately and get it in water. If the cut trunk stays dry for even a small amount of time, the sap will form a coating on the trunk and water will not penetrate.

So, if the family has a stop or two to make on their way home or if they live several miles away, make another cut on the base of the trunk just before putting in water. That way the tree can better soak up needed water.”

For information, look them up on Facebook at Romance Christmas Tree Farm. They can even arrange for an onsite photographer to capture a visitor’s experience. Call 501.556.5173 for rates and available time slots. Other Christmas tree growers and their amenities can be found at arkansaschristmastreegrowers.com.

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FAMILY:

My husband, Zach, and I will have been married for eight years on Dec. 20. We have two children, Nyla and Dakota..

EDUCATION:

PROUDLY PRESENTS PERSON OF THE MONTH

DENISHA KNAPP

CONWAY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

I am a 2013 graduate of Hot Springs High School. I received my bachelor’s degree in education from UCA in 2017. This year, I started my master’s degree at Arkansas State University.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES:

Last school year, I volunteered for the Helping All Little Ones (HALO) program. This summer, I volunteered at the special needs Bible school at Salem United Methodist Church. I am a Conway Special Athlete cosponsor/coach and help with Caring Cats.

PERSONAL INTERESTS:

I play competitive city league kickball and volleyball.

I love all things caffeine: coffee, energy drinks and Dr. Pepper Strawberries & Cream Zero Sugar.

WORK:

I have served Conway Public School District in many capacities over the past six years. Currently, I am a special education teacher at the high school and coteach three courses: English 12, World History and Oral Communication. Throughout the day, I serve approximately 125 kids.

PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

I’ve had several honors throughout my life, some of the most recent including Paraprofessional of the Year, Arkansan of the Day and Conway Core Values Champion. However, my Unified Basketball (UB) team accomplishments stick out the most. It provides an inclusion opportunity for special ed students. There is a 3:2 ratio of special ed to general education students on the court.

Last year, Mrs. Sheppard and I coached our firstever UB team to a state championship. To me, it did not matter if we won or lost, it was about inclusion, relationships and experiences. Many of my players had never eaten at a nice restaurant or stayed overnight in a hotel. It was exciting to see them experience these things for the first time. At the end of our journey, one of my co-workers gifted me a plaque for Most Inspirational Coach.

WHY DO YOU ENJOY WORKING WITH PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS:

A person with Denisha’s talent and drive could make millions in the private sector, but she chose to put her gifts to work for others, especially children. Some measure success in terms of money or power; Denisha measures it in having a positive impact on those who need it most. By that measure, she is one of the richest people I ever met.

- Charles Finkenbinder, Conway City Attorney

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I mean, why not? Of course, it’s challenging, but so rewarding. I have challenged myself to open my heart and be present for kids with unique needs—to watch and listen without judgment, striving to understand.

Every kid is on a unique journey and needs tailored instruction to be successful. The students push me to be the best version of myself and keep me on my toes. I want to be a lifelong learner, and I feel like God gifted me this when he called me to special education.

I constantly look for new and innovative ways to reach my students.

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON:

This will be my first year to help with Angel Paws. This program serves Conway Public School District kids who need assistance for Christmas.

I am blessed to be surrounded by people, past and present, who pour into me, believe in me and provide me with an example of what it means to be a champion for those around you. Two people that specifically come to mind are my mom, Chenitia Scott, and my former English teacher and cheer coach, Amanda Barker.

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