May 2018 by 501 LIFE

ADMINISTRATOR

VICKEY KIRKEMIER

AMBER MACE

AMY SMITH

we being voted #1 EMPLOYER #1 CONWAY BUSINESS # 1 NURSE-AMY SMITH AND ONE OF THE TOP NURSES-AMBER MACE # 1 ELDER CARE

2 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Unity Health and Mayo Clinic - collaborating for your care

Unity Health & Mayo Clinic are

Working Together YOU for

Achieving our vision of world-class healthcare is even closer due to our membership in the Mayo Clinic Care Network, an innovative collaboration which brings the expertise of Mayo Clinic to our patients. As the first member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network in Arkansas, our depth of specialty care has been enhanced with new resources and tools while keeping patient care right here at home. Innovation. World-class care. Unity Health. For more information, please visit Unity-Health.org/mayo.

HOSPITALS â&#x20AC;˘ CLINICS â&#x20AC;˘ SPECIALISTS

Unity-Health.org

501 LIFE

EDITOR'S NOTE

OWNERS Donna Spears, Sonja J. Keith EDITOR Sonja J. Keith

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Donna Spears

ART DIRECTORS Jennifer Godwin and Nick Walker ASSOCIATE EDITOR Levi Gilbert PHOTO DIRECTOR Mike Kemp

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Tom Keith CONTRIBUTORS Donna Benton Don Bingham Tanner Cangelosi Brittany Gilbert Laurie Green Linda Henderson Vivian Hogue Megan Ledbetter Karl Lenser Georgie McCarthy Mark McDonald Mark Oliver

Todd Owens Bill Patterson John Patton Susan Peterson Robert Reising Robin Richards Hannah Robison Jan Spann Donna Lampkin Stephens Callie Sterling Jaison Sterling Katelin Whiddon

FAULKNER COUNTY EDITORIAL BOARD Johnny Adams Jack Bell Don Bingham RaeLynn Callaway Glenn Crockett Kay Dalton Beth Franks Spencer Hawks Mathilda Hatfield Roe Henderson Jerry Hiegel Mike Kemp Julie LaRue

Karl Lenser Monica Lieblong Lori Melton Kiera Oluokun Deanna Ott Pat Otto Jon Patrom Amy Reed Lori Ross Margaret Smith Jan Spann Kim Tyler Jennifer Whitehead

CONWAY COUNTY 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 COUNTY EDITORIAL BOARD

Celebrating 10 years of our LIFE This month’s edition of 501 LIFE celebrates the 10th anniversary of the magazine’s launch. Yes, it’s been 10 years since the creation of a magazine that celebrates greater Central Arkansas, its wonderful people, its scenic places and all the incredible things that make the 501 an outstanding place to live, work, worship, do business, get an education and play. Many copies of 501 LIFE have been packed in suitcases and taken around the United States and the globe for “Loving LIFE” photos – one of the most popular sections in the magazine. This section has led to special phrases – like “501 Famous” and 4 | 501 LIFE May 2018

“501 Official” – which refer to publication of an individual’s photo, wedding announcement, etc. My business partner, Donna Spears, and I have much to be thankful for as we reflect on the last 10 years – our faithful readers, our talented team, our supportive editorial boards and our fantastic advertisers. We have also been blessed with dear family and friends who have shared this journey with us. We want to express our appreciation to each for their support. Thank you, thank you, thank you. We are “Loving LIFE” and are excited about the next 10 years and beyond. Happy birthday 501 LIFE! -Sonja Keith

Betsy Bailey Tara Cathey Cassandra Feltrop Phil Hays Natalie Horton Matt LaForce

Hannah Owens Mike Parsons Brooke Pryor Carol Spears Kristi Thurmon

To subscribe or order back issues, visit www.501lifemag.com. The subscription rate is $20 for one year (12 issues). 501 Advertising and Publishing 701 Chestnut St. Conway, Ark. 72032 501.327.1501 info@501lifemag.com

501 LIFE is published monthly by 501 Advertising and Publishing (701 Chestnut St., Conway, Ark. 72032, 501.327.1501). 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. Products and services advertised are not necessarily endorsed by 501 LIFE. 501 LIFE is produced on recycled paper.

CONTENTS

May 2018

Volume 11 Issue 1

features&departments 42 Feature

Conway County educational leaders, businesses and a local community foundation are working together in a unique way to help provide educational opportunities for young people.

On the cover

501 LIFE is celebrating its 10th anniversary with this month’s edition, with a look back, its Top 10 covers (Pages 47-55) and the announcement of a new website.

56 Health

Sometimes the simple gifts are the best of all. Just ask local agencies who were presented a gift from Conway Regional Health System.

60 Home

501 LIFE contributor Donna Benton takes a walk down memory lane, recapping her 10 favorite rooms featured in 501 LIFE.

82 Sports

Wonderview and Guy-Perkins basketball teams are celebrating state championships.

neighbors 30 Couples

Nancy and Don Bingham have been dear friends to 501 LIFE since the beginning.

32 Youth

Conway fourth-grader Nikoria Williams and 501 LIFE have something unique in common.

regulars

34 Conway

4 8-9 10-17 58-67 94

Ronnie Williams is in the twilight of his career, but he’ll ride off someday with one of the highest forms of recognition.

38 Conway

The Conway Area Chamber of Commerce’s Lloyd Westbrook Good Neighbor Award was made for Crystal Kemp — in more ways than one.

40 Searcy

Unity Health President and CEO Ray Montgomery will soon write his final chapter of representing the health care system.

LIFE pics 18-24

'501 KIDS' 501 LIFE contributors Katelin Whiddon and Brittany Gilbert present some great tips in the 501 Kids section (Pages 70-73). Have a story idea or a young person you would like to see featured? Send suggestions to info@501lifemag.com.

6 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Editor’s Note Calendar Loving LIFE Home Person of the month

501 LIFE would like to thank its advertising partners for their continued support and encourage our readers to support these businesses:

501 LIFE is you!

twitter.com /501lifemag

Art on the Green, 19 Andrea Woods, 45

facebook.com /501lifemag

Baker Eye Institute, 19 Baptist Health Medical Center – Conway, 27 Baptist Health Pediatric Clinic - Conway, 37 Bell & Company, 65 Bledsoe Chiropractic, 33

Centennial Bank, 54 Central Arkansas Pediatrics, 71 Conway Corporation, 39 Conway Institute of Music, 25 Conway Pain Clinic, 76 Conway Regional Health System, 95 Conway Regional Rehab, 56

Dr. Rachel Deal, General Dentist, 55 DJM Orthodontics, 73

Edward Jones, 29 E.L. Clinical Esthetics, 69

Fairfield Bay, 75 First Security Bank, 96 First Service Bank, 13 Freyaldenhoven Heating and Cooling Inc., 67

Harding Academy, 66 Hartman Animal Hospital, 93 Harwood, Ott & Fisher, PA, 87 Hawks Family Real Estate, 59 Heritage Living Center, 5 Hiegel Supply, 81

Get “LIFE” at home! For a limited time, 501 LIFE is offering a special subscription rate for new subscribers - have the magazine delivered to your home for only $20 for one year, $40 for two years. While the magazine is distributed through more than 700 locations in Central Arkansas, copies go fast. Home delivery ensures readers they won’t miss a single issue. Readers can visit 501lifemag.com or call 501.327.1501 to subscribe.

Writers’ Room

Ladd Ellis, DDS Family Dentistry, 77 Legacy Acres, 61 Luxury Pool & Spa, 57

Magie Smith Charton Eye Clinic, 68 Magna IV Communications, 79 Middleton Heat & Air, 46

Ott Insurance, 85

Patterson Eye Care, 62

Renewal Ranch, 31

Sacred Heart Bazaar, 62 Salem Place Nursing and Rehab, 2 Shelter Insurance, 81 Smile Arkansas, 21 Smith Ford, 89 Soaring Wings, 91 St. Joseph School, 72

Toad Suck Run, 23

Unity Health, 3, 41 University of Arkansas Community College Morrilton, 43 University of Central Arkansas, 35, 36

Wilkinson’s Mall, 36

501 LIFE, 63

Tune in at 12:30 p.m. the last Tuesday of each month to KARK Channel 4 for a segment on the current issue of 501 LIFE.

A resident of Central Arkansas most of her life, Linda Hoggard Henderson shares her love of photography and traveling Arkansas each month with 501 LIFE readers. “I enjoy most our small town life in the 501, but we are close to Little Rock and our state parks,” she said. “Also, most of my family and friends live in the 501.” In addition to photography, Linda enjoys traveling backroads and blue line highways, and cooking. “I enjoy eating at every dive, drive-in and every mom and pop restaurant in the 501.” A graduate of the University of Central Arkansas, with a bachelor of science degree in nursing, Linda works at the Conway Human Development Center, where she grew up. She and her husband, Jim, have a son, John Mark, and daughter-in-law, Jenni Henderson. Other family include her dad and mom, Tommy and Peggy Hoggard, and Jim’s parents, Jack and Joanne Henderson. To contact Linda, email lindahenderson@conwaycorp.net or follow her on Facebook (Linda Hoggard Henderson) and Instagram (lindahenderson).

Vivian Lawson Hogue is among the rare “native” segment of pre-mid-20th century Conway residents still living where she was born in 1943. “Referring to the 501 area, as such, I appreciate the somewhat equal distance between our location and the four sides of the state,” said Vivian. “My husband, Gerald, and I live in the home in which I was raised. My daughter, Amy, is a Conway resident, and son, Rob, lives in North Little Rock.” A graduate of Conway High School, Vivian attended Hendrix College for two years and graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a bachelor of science in education degree in art education. Vivian said most people don’t know she played the violin from age 12 to 30, “at which time I retired from the South Arkansas Symphony to rock a second child to sleep.” Vivian writes a regular column for 501 LIFE, oftentimes with an historical perspective. “Writing just slipped into my life by a happy accident.” To contact Vivian, email vhogue@ conwaycorp.net.

Katelin Whiddon has lived in the 501 her entire life. “There is beauty and nature all around, but still the comforts of city living too,” she said. “The people in the 501 are the best to do life with!” Katelin earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of Central Arkansas, and is working on her doctorate at UCA. She is a daughter of Lisa and Travis Douglas. She and her husband, Daniel, have two children, Ashlynn and Aleah. “I enjoy shopping for a good deal, gardening, spending time with family and friends, camping, enjoying the pool and the lake, and Jazzercise!” Katelin is a regular contributor in the 501 Kids section of 501 LIFE, and in the regular issue of 501 Kids. To contact Katelin, email katelin86@ yahoo.com or follow her on Facebook.

May 2018 501lifemag.com | 7

NEWS/NOTES

The Toad Suck Daze Run, presented by Baptist Health Heart Institute and Arkansas Cardiology, is planned Saturday, May 5, at Conway High School. It includes a 5K, 10K and Tadpole Trot for kids. More than 100 young people participated in last year’s Tadpole Trot. (Bill Patterson photo)

May S 6

M 7

Historical Society. For more information please call 501.580.6633 or 501.278.5010.

10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 The 11th Annual Tour de Toad Ride is planned 11 a.m. Saturday, May 5, at Cantrell Field near Conway. Registration begins at 10 a.m. at the new Conway airport, located at 3250 Sand Gap Road. There are three different courses to choose from, ranging from 10 to 40 miles. Visit literacyactionar.org/events/tour-de-toad for turn-by-turn route descriptions. An official event of Toad Suck Daze, Tour de Toad supports Literacy Action for Central Arkansas. Updated information is available on facebook.com/ TourdeToad. Pioneer Village in Searcy will celebrate its 50th Anniversary (1968 - 2018) and annual Spring Fest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 5, and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 6. Activities specifically for children include pioneer games and a drawing contest. Also included are food, live music, kettle corn, fresh roasted peanuts, dancing, demonstrations of pioneer life, farm animals, antique tractors, crafters and much more. All buildings will be open for touring. Free admission and parking. Donations accepted. All proceeds benefit the maintenance and upkeep of the Village, a part of the White County 8 | 501 LIFE May 2018

On Thursday, May 10, Central Arkansas Rescue Effort for Animals Inc. (“CARE”) will host Paws on the Runway from 6 to 9 p.m. at Next Level Events (1400 W. Markham St., Little Rock). CARE’s 11th Annual Paws on the Runway event will feature some of the finest fashions and furry friends that Little Rock has to offer. Guests will enjoy delicious food, bold beverages, silent and live auctions and a fashion show featuring both human and canine models. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet a few of CARE’s adoptable animals. For more information about CARE or Paws on the Runway, please visit careforanimals.org. The Women Run Arkansas 5K Run/Walk is planned at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 12, at Conway High School. Event proceeds benefit the Children’s Tumor Foundation and Neurofibromatosis Research. The event is for all ages, with overall and age group awards presented. For more information or to register, visit womenrunarkansas.net. At 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 15, the Conway Men’s Chorus will present its 20th Spring Pops Concert at Reynolds Performance Hall at the University of Central Arkansas. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with free admission and parking. To help celebrate spring, musical selections by the 55-plus voice volunteer group will range from sacred and inspirational to classical and popular. The chorus is under the musical direction of Jordan Bennett with Paul Bradley on the piano. For more information, visit conwaymenschorus.org. The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce will present its 18th Annual Golf Tournament

on Thursday, May 17, at the Maumelle Country Club. Sponsorships are available. For more information, email macc@maumellechamber.com. To register, go to maumellechamber.com. The City of Greenbrier, in partnership with the Greenbrier Chamber of Commerce and several local businesses, will present BrierFest, a family-friendly festival, Friday, May 25, through Sunday, May 27, at Greenbrier High School. The festival will feature live music, a car show, craft and food vendors, carnival rides, talent and beauty contests and sports tournaments. Visit brierfest.com for other festival details or contact Shellie O’Quinn at shellieoquinn@hotmail.com. Fairfield Bay will host “Fun in the Sun Summer Bash in the Bay” from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 26, at the Cool Pool Café. The event will include water games, live music, a pickle ball tournament and food. The Fender Benders will perform 6 to 8 p.m. For more information, go to visitfairfieldbay.com/events or call 501.884.6008. The “I Know A Fighter 5K” is planned Saturday, May 26, at Garver at Northshore in North Little Rock. Registration is at 7 a.m., with the race at 8 a.m. A post-race celebration with music, food and fun is planned. Proceeds support the Children’s Tumor Foundation and Neurofibromatosis Research. For more information, visit nfendurance@ctf.org. To register, go to ctf.org/ ikaf5k.

To submit a calendar item, please send information to info@501lifemag.com. To see a complete list of items, please go to 501lifemag.com.

Fairfield Bay plans three festivals May 12 Fairfield Bay will host its annual Bloomin’ in the Bay celebration on Saturday, May 12, along with two other special events. “These three festivals are a perfect way for us to kick off spring and show what all Fairfield Bay has to offer,” said Mayor Paul Wellenberger. “Our city is thriving, and we just love hosting these events, making new friends and sharing in the bounties that we’ve been given.” The Van Buren County Master Gardeners, barbecue cookers, car show enthusiasts and a host of local artisans will celebrate the start of spring with a big, all-day family event at Ed Leamon Park. It features the 15th Annual Van Buren County Master Gardeners Plant Sale, local artisans and vendors, food booths and a kids play zone. The sale is 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. New this year, individuals can learn which plants to put out to create a butterfly garden. With Fairfield Bay named the first Monarch City in Arkansas, the presentation will feature plants guaranteed to attract these beautiful creatures. For the third consecutive year, Bloomin’ in the Bay will be held in conjunction with Blues & BBQ, scheduled 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will feature some talented backyard barbecue cooks competing for a $1,000 prize. Also, Cruisin’ in the Bay will have upwards of 100 beautiful cars, both classic

inthe the Bay Bloomin' in Bloomin'in the Bay

Blu& e BBQ IN THE BAY

and late model. The event, hosted by the Fairfield Bay Chamber of Commerce, will be held in the Fairfield Bay Mall area, within walking distance of the park. For more information on Fairfield Bay, including other weekend activities and accommodations, call 501.884.4202 or go to VisitFairfieldBay.com

Run welcomes new corporate sponsors Baptist Health Heart Institute and Arkansas Cardiology are showing their community support as the presenting sponsor for this year’s Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run. The 35th annual event is planned Saturday, May 5, in Conway. “We greatly appreciate the support of Baptist Health Heart Institute and Arkansas Cardiology,” said Cliff Henry, chairman of the race committee. “Their financial support will help us support local charities in the community.” Over the years, the race has raised more than $411,000 for non-profit organizations. Proceeds from this year’s race will benefit a variety of local non-profits: • HAVEN (a residential shelter for abused girls) • Boys and Girls Club of Faulkner County • CAPCA (empowering individuals and families so they can succeed) • Main Stage EdUCAtion (connects children to performing arts through field trips) • Conway Athletics (help to resurface the Conway High School track) “Baptist Health is committed to a healthier Arkansas, and it begins with providing opportunities that make it easier for people to live healthier lifestyles,” said Tim Bowen, vice-president and administrator of Baptist Health Medical CenterConway. “Having a fun race can be a great way to introduce people to exercise and help wonderful causes at the same time. Baptist Health wants to be the state’s leading resource in advocating for healthier communities and wellness programs and being a part of the Toad Suck Daze Run is certainly right in line with our efforts.” The event includes a 10K Run, 5K Run, 5K Fun Walk and Tadpole Trot races. The 10K is an RRCA Arkansas Grand Prix race. The event begins and ends at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School. “Baptist Health Heart Institute and Arkansas Cardiology are committed to keeping you hearthealthy,” said Parker Norris, MD, cardiologist

with Arkansas Cardiology. “Baptist Health’s heart specialists take every single patient to heart and have capable and compassionate physicians ready to provide you with the care you need and deserve. Having an active lifestyle and eating well are two main components of keeping your heart healthy.” Online registration for the Toad Suck Daze Run ends at noon Friday, May 4. Online and mail registrants can pick up a racing packet, number and timing chip from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 3, and Friday, May 4, at Baptist Health Heart Institute or the morning of the race at the fieldhouse at John McConnell Stadium. The Tadpole Trot starts on the Conway High School track about 9:45 a.m. (after the 5K and 10K events) and includes races for children ages 4-12. Kids ages 4 through 8 will run a half lap, ages 9-10 will run one lap, and ages 11-12 will run two laps (one-half mile). The first, second and third place finishers in each Tadpole Trot receive trophies and all other entrants receive a ribbon. The school with the largest percentage of registrants (based on enrollment) in the Tadpole Trot will be presented with a traveling trophy and $200 for its physical education department.

Entry fee for the 10K and 5K events is $25 until noon Friday, May 4, when it goes up to $30. 5K and 10K entrants receive a technical shirt for those who pre-register. The Tadpole Trot registration is $10, which includes a cotton T-shirt. Free refreshments will be provided for all entrants. The Conway Kiwanis Club is the main organizer of the event, which is supported by the Conway Running Club and Conway Convention & Visitors Bureau and sanctioned by the Arkansas chapter of the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA). Other major sponsors are Kohl’s, TLC Pediatrics, Nabholz Client Services, Arkansas Eye Care Group, Regions, Arvest, Conway Corporation, Smith Ford and Patterson Eye Care. The Toad Suck Daze Run partners with Literacy Action of Central Arkansas, which sponsors the Tour de Toad bicycle event, which is also held on Saturday, May 5. Participants who complete the Toad Suck Daze Run (5K or 10K) and Tour de Toad receive a custom Iron Toad medal. For more information or to register for the Toad Suck Daze Run, visit toadsuckrun.com. For information on Tour de Toad, visit LiteracyActionAR. org/tourdetoad. May 2018 501lifemag.com | 9

LOVING LIFE

Sharing the 501 LIFE spirit

501 readers are enjoying LIFE and sharing their trips and special occasions with others. An overwhelming number of readers are submitting “Loving LIFE” photos for inclusion in the magazine, and every effort is being made to publish them as soon as possible. Headed out on a special trip? 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. Have a special occasion or get-together coming up? Take 501 LIFE along, take a photo and send it to us. Photos can be submitted by email to info@501adsandmags.com or by mail to Reader Photos, c/o 501 LIFE, 701 Chestnut St., Conway, Ark. 72032. Please include the names of those in the photograph and their hometowns along with contact information. (Sorry, photos will not be returned.) Here’s to “Loving LIFE.” – Sonja Keith

First Security Bank employees were “Loving LIFE” at the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute during a two-day Bank Better University – Leadership Conference.

Fredia Garrett, winner of the Conway Healthcare and Rehab Senior Queen Beauty Pageant, was “Loving LIFE.” Conway Christian Choir members were “Loving LIFE” as they auditioned and were selected for the Region 2 All-Region Jr. and Sr. High Choirs. Members pictured along with their director, Donna Bradley, are Madeleine Tanguay (front, from left), Khya Carson, Haley Shourd, Emma Kate Elliott, Gracie Hill, Anna Hartley, Drew Strickland, Harrison Lee; Donna Bradley (back), Mckenzie Thornton, Kendall Gall, Anna Beth Burrow, Lou Kerst, Drew Cochran, Matthew Lentz, Payton Lentz, McKenna Jones, Dylan Ussery and William Clark. Not pictured: Rachael Blacketer and Spencer Strickland. In addition, Gracie Hill and Lou Kerst scored high enough to audition for All-State Choir. 10 | 501 LIFE May 2018

The Konway Kickers Clogging Team took 501 LIFE along to the Pumpkin Palooza in Vilonia: Reitha Rider, Donna Bivens, Peggy Hill, Kathryn Chunn and Patsy Paul. Not Pictured: Kayla Fadley, Beth Rowlett and Kasy Holbrook.

Students in Vilonia High School civics and government classes taught by Bruce Battles were “Loving LIFE” with Gov. Asa Hutchinson while attending a meeting at the state Capitol.

Students from Sacred Heart School in Morrilton were “Loving LIFE” as they competed in the First Lego League (FLL) State Tournament. They were awarded second place for the mechanical design of their robot, Hydro. Thirtysix teams from across the state were represented at the event hosted by the University of Arkansas. The Sacred Heart team, made up of fourth- through eighthgraders, qualified for the state tournament at a regional event.

The Perryville Beta Club celebrated National Beta Club Week with volunteering their time at the Arkansas Food Bank in Little Rock. Betas are dedicated to service to others and “Loving LIFE.” Volunteering were Crete Tippen (front), Jesse Boshears, Landon Walker, Drake Henderson, Colton Vess, Ethan Price; Jacob Novoa (middle), Savanna Watts, Allee Southerland, Emily Bean, Michael Burgess, Abigail Carter, sponsor Paula Trafford; sponsor Sara Rogers (back), sponsor Kayla McDonough, Tate Jones, Mallory Hawkins, Sydney Chambers, Macey West, Arkansas State Junior Beta President Laura Beth Rogers and Riley Almond.

The Arkansas Cardiology Conway staff was “Loving LIFE” with Dr. Parker Norris as they kicked off heart disease awareness month in support of Go Red for Women Heart Health.

The ARcare - Conway clinic wore red on Feb. 2 and was “Loving LIFE” in support of Go Red for Women Heart Health: (from left) Tiffany Lowe, MA; Toralya Davis, insurance advisor; Amber Mays, MA; Jo McMinn, pediatric APRN; and Judy Hughes, occupational medicine coordinator.

May 2018 501lifemag.com | 11

LOVING LIFE

Pat Ott (holding 501 LIFE) was “Loving LIFE” while celebrating her birthday with those gathered at chapel at Renewal Ranch. (Sonja Keith photos)

Renewal Ranch ‘Loving LIFE’ celebrating Pat Ott’s birthday Renewal Ranch recently celebrated the 90th birthday of longtime supporter Pat Ott during a recent chapel service. Pat was presented with a special certificate of appreciation during the service. “God has blessed you with a long life and God has blessed us with you being a part of our lives,” said James Loy, founder and director of Renewal Ranch, as he presented her with a certificate of appreciation. “Thank you for all of your support and all that you have given to Renewal Ranch, and for showering this ministry in love and prayer. Ms. Pat, we love you.” Pat was given a standing ovation by those gathered in the Restoration Center at the Ranch. She shared that she had a son who died in his 40s as a result of alcohol. When she heard about the plans for the ministry, she contacted organizers to say she wanted to be a big part of what was planned. She said she was privileged to see the first five men come to the Ranch. “God has blessed me so much in my life that I’m overwhelmed. The thing that I love the most is this group. I am so proud of the men that come here, determined to get better from the things they are addicted Renewal Ranch founder and director James to. That takes strength. I’m proud of you,” Loy presented Pat with a certificate of Pat said. “I just appreciate you and I love you.” appreciation for her support of the ministry.

12 | 501 LIFE May 2018

I am so proud of the men that “come here, determined to get

better from the things they are addicted to. That takes strength. I’m proud of you.

”

— Pat Ott

Pat Ott with Renewal Ranch board members Jerry Boyer (from left), Al Major, Mike Lefler, James Loy, Don Bingham and Scott Taylor, chaplain and co-director.

CONGRATULATIONS ON

10 YEARS 501

Casey Cawein was “Loving LIFE” in Pittsburgh at the point where the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers form the Ohio River. She was attending the Kappa Delta Pi Convocation for educators.

Jacob Wilkerson and Noel Nims are “Loving LIFE” in Pittsburgh as they represented the education honor society at the University of Central Arkansas at the Kappa Delta Pi (KDP) Convocation.

Mara Cawein of Morrilton was “Loving LIFE” at the Fort Pitt Blockhouse in Downtown Pittsburgh while attending a conference for educators.

Lifelong friends took 501 LIFE along as they gathered in Nashville, Tenn., to see one of their own honored as the president-elect of the American Pharmacist’s Association. Nicki Netherton Hilliard, professor of pharmacy practice at UAMS, is the first Arkansan to lead the national organization. APhA is the largest association of pharmacists in the United States with more than 62,000 members. Making the trip were Donna Shipp Horita of Morrilton (from left), Patty Allison Shipp of Morrilton, Nicki Netherton Hilliard of Little Rock, Kim Toler Silvestri of Conway and Susan Temple Erickson of Little Rock.

Mark Bailey of Conway took 501 LIFE along to New York City, where he ran the New York City Marathon in a time of 3:36:43. Dean and Leo Treat were “Loving LIFE” as they celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary in Branson, Mo.

14 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Addison Leach was “Loving LIFE” on a trip to New York City to celebrate her 10th birthday. “Her grandparents flew us up for a girls trip. Our trip included seeing “Lion King” on Broadway, the Statue of Liberty, Grand Central Station, the Empire State Building and the American Girl store, to name a few,” wrote Tammie Leach. “Addison is a big sister to two brothers. She is a fourth-grade student at Carolyn Lewis Elementary in Conway, where she is involved in running club, choir, chess club and the American Girl Book Club.”

Stan (left) and Mary (right) Clinesmith of Conway were “Loving LIFE” with their daughters – Tricia Fine of Dardanelle (from left), Lori Crowe of Genoa (Miller County), Sonja Keith of Conway and Stacey Witherell of Little Rock – during a trip to Walt Disney World.

Terry Crenshaw of Conway (center) was “Loving LIFE” aboard a Carnival Cruise ship to Grand Cayman Islands and Montego Bay, Jamaica. Terry celebrated his 50th birthday on Dec. 4 with family and friends. Sarah Baxley and Ben Cawiezell of Russellville were “Loving LIFE” as they were married on Nov. 28, 2017, aboard the Carnival Triumph cruise ship in Progresso, Mexico. May 2018 501lifemag.com | 15

LOVING LIFE

The Bandits Softball Team took 501 LIFE along to cheer on the University of Central Arkansas Bears in a battle against Crowder, followed by a meet and greet with the players. Members of the team are Emalee Cook, Hannah Merle, Addison Turley, Kadence Armstrong, Alyssa Amerson, Olivia Wheeler, Ivy Dennis, Taylor Irvin, Haley Vazquez and Presley Milliken. (Photo courtesy of Daniel Wright)

The Conway Blue Wampus Cats (23-5) were “Loving LIFE” after upsetting the No. 1 seed North Little Rock Charging Wildcats (26-1) in the Central Arkansas Junior High Conference Tournament, 47-36. Team members include John David Grimes (front); Michael Dunagan (from left), Kameron Kaiser, Jayvon Ivory, Donavan Nooner, Nick Orr, Tyler Garlington, Jayden Williams, Jerry Coleman, LeVern Floyd, Easton McFadin, Talmadge Babb, Isaiah Duncan, Jacoby Easley. Not pictured: Jeff Dawes and Michael Hardaway. Coaches for Conway Blue are Tommy McMillan and Ryan Reed.

Jerry and Sharon Grable with Carol and Gary Hutchins were “Loving LIFE” in Cabo San Lucas.

16 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Jimmy and Diana Ferguson of Mayflower were “Loving LIFE” in Key West, Fla.

The Mount Vernon-Enola Lady Warhawks were “Loving LIFE” as they prepared to play in the finals of the 1A State Basketball Tournament against Wonderview. The Sacred Heart Rebel Sixth Grade Girls Team was “Loving LIFE” as they finished out their pee wee basketball season as league champions in their division. The team has been together for four years and had a finishing record of 40-4. Members include Sydney Koonce (front to back, from left), Callie Gotsponer, Gabbi Moore; Monica Koch (middle row), Megan Fresneda, Jennifer Hartman, Sierra Hoelzeman; Brianna McCoy (back), Emerson Hoelzeman, Savannah Thompson, Myisa Ibarra and Rebecca Hartman. The team is coached by Ray Craven (back, from left), Katie Hartman and Patrick Hartman.

The Southside Bee Branch elementary and junior high archery teams were “Loving LIFE” as they competed in the state Arkansas Game and Fish Commission tournament in Hot Springs. The elementary team will be going to nationals in Kentucky in May. Coaches are Bart Bradford (left) and Lance Hulse. “Our kids have been practicing hard the last month since regionals for this day,” wrote Chastity Bradford.

Doug (from left) and Patty Coppock were “Loving LIFE” with Sally Roden and Mary Mosley at Flipper’s in Orange Beach, Ala.

Connor Boyle was “Loving LIFE” after he signed a letter of intent to play baseball for the University of Ozarks. A senior at Morrilton High School, he plays baseball for the Morrilton Devil Dogs. Joining him during the ceremony was Morrilton High School Baseball Coach Matt Long.

May 2018 501lifemag.com | 17

LIFE PICS

Bret Carroll (left) and Trip Leach.

Chip DeBoard (left) and Tom Poe.

Dr. Andrew Cole (from left), Richard Tyler and John Patton.

Jeremy Davis (from left), Jason Smith, Joanna and Jim Rankin.

Matt Fiddler (left) and Kevin Carter.

John and Brandi Keith.

James Reed (left) and Matt Troup.

Jason Culpepper (from left), Erik Sward and Kelley Erstine.

Leslie Mann (from left), Jeff Standridge, Rebekah Fincher and Josh Robinson.

Will Rose (from left), Reggie Rose and Mike Armstrong.

Dr. Thad and Sara Hardin.

Conway Regional plans first Arkansas Duck Derby Sonja Keith photos

Organizers of the inaugural Arkansas Duck Derby recently hosted a kickoff event in Downtown Conway. The hunt will support men’s health programs at Conway Regional Health System, with proceeds used for the Lodging Assistance and Guest House program for patient families who live out of town and need short-term lodging. The inaugural Arkansas Duck Derby is a one-day hunt planned in January 2019. Each team, which will have four hunters, will compete for an elaborate grand prize that can be equally divided among the team as well as the landowner who donates property for the hunt. Organizers have secured private land in and around Conway and continue to pursue participation from others who are interested in hosting a hunt the day of the derby. “Nothing pulls guys together like a great hunt and this also is an opportunity for us to focus on men taking care of their health, a topic that men rarely discuss,” said Thad Hardin, M.D., a family practice physician at Conway Regional and one of the derby organizers. “We are fortunate to provide comprehensive men’s health services to our community, but they do us no good if men don’t take a proactive role in taking care of themselves. So, our goals are two-fold with this event.” Hardin joins fellow physicians Andrew Cole, M.D., and Lew McColgan, M.D., in planning the derby, in addition to executive leaders from Nabholz Construction, Conway Corporation, the University of Central Arkansas, First Security Bank, Trinity Development, JSI Partners, American Safeguard Insurance, Crain Automotive, C2 Powersports & DeBoard Electronics and Simmons Bank. Team registration will be announced at a later date, and sponsorships are still available. For more information, contact Marla Hambuchen at mhambuchen@conwayregional.org. 18 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Meet Nashville, Tennessee Artist

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May 2018 501lifemag.com | 19

LIFE PICS

Governor’s Mansion reception honors Hatfield’s artwork Sonja Keith photos

The Arkansas Governor’s Mansion recently hosted a reception following an exhibit of some of the work of the late Conway artist Gene Hatfield. “The Hatfield Family is honored beyond words to have been invited to exhibit some of Gene’s work as part of the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion Artist in Residence Program,” said his daughter, Mathilda. The exhibit featured 35 of Hatfield’s two-dimensional works in acrylic, oil, pastel, mixed media and watercolor through March. Hatfield’s 40-year career in education at the University of Central Arkansas spanned both the art and theatre departments. He taught drawing, painting, sculpture, crafts, design, art history, art appreciation and stagecraft until he retired in 1985. He was named Professor Emeritus by UCA in 1995. He received the Arkansas Arts Council 2010 Governor’s Award for Lifetime Achievement, and in 2013, was featured by AETN in its documentary series “Arkansas Men and Women of Distinction.”

Gov. Asa Hutchinson (from left), UCA President Dr. Houston Davis and Conway Mayor Bart Castleberry.

Elizabeth Farris (left) and Pat Otto.

First Lady Susan Hutchinson (left) and Mathilda Hatfield.

Ken (from left) and Cyndy Hatfield with Missy and Roe Henderson.

Shelby Fields (left) and Krystal Fields.

Tricia Bobbett (from left), Jann Weitzel, Mathilda Hatfield and Beth Ledbetter.

Charlene Reed (from left), Michelle Rupp and LaRand Thomas.

Hadrian Hatfield and his sister, Mathilda Hatfield.

Lori Ross (from left), Mathilda Hatfield, Dot Welch and Marla Hambuchen

Marla Hambuchen (from left), Elizabeth Hambuchen, Jack Bell and Dot Welch.

20 | 501 LIFE May 2018

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May 2018 501lifemag.com | 21

LIFE PICS

Salem Place hosts Easter Egg Hunt Todd Owens photos

Salem Place Nursing and Rehabilitation in Conway recently hosted its annual “Eggs” Travaganza. The event, opened to the public, included games, bounce houses, balloon art, live music, face painting and an Easter Bunny booth. There was also cotton candy, sno-cones and popcorn. Children were also treated to a big egg hunt. For more information, visit SalemPlaceRehab. com.

Easter Bunny (from left), Salem Place administrator Vickey Kirkemier and Dawna Gunter.

Jadale Alsup (left) and Karson McKlusky.

Laura Smith (front, from left), Rhett Brinson; Charla Frain (back) and Tamara Smith.

Malachi (front, from left) and King Brewer; Gloria Green (back), Christina Collins and Tashia Collins.

Jenna Bush Hager presents lecture at UCA’s Reynolds Todd Owens photos

Shannon Riedmueller (from left), Marilyn Ott, Jenna Bush Hager, Stan Ott and Sandra Ott.

Dr. Kevin Heath (from left), Drs. Joyce and Terry Fiddler, Karen Heath, Cristal Lambert and Claire Lambert.

Jenna Bush Hager (left) and Brenda McClain.

Jenna Bush Hager (left) and Donna Spears.

22 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Jenna Hager recently presented a lecture at Reynolds Performance Hall at the University of Central Arkansas. An author, Hager is a contributing correspondent on NBC’s Today Show and an editor-at-large for Southern Living magazine. She is a daughter of former U.S. President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush. The lecture was presented by 501 LIFE.

LIFE PICS

Searcy students present annual ‘Living Museum’ Third-grade students from McRae Elementary School’s Fifth Annual Living Museum in Searcy were “Loving LIFE.”

Braxton Armentrout as King Tut.

Third-graders at McRae Elementary School in Searcy recently presented “The Living Museum” at the Searcy High School cafeteria. Historical individuals from political icons and social movement leaders to sports stars and pop culture celebrities were represented at the Fifth Annual Living Museum. Students prepared for the event by conducting their own research, creating a poster, writing and memorizing a speech and putting together a costume. During the event, nearly 100 students were lined up in rows to mimic exhibits of a museum. The students stood as still as statues until tapped by a passerby. Upon being tapped, they would recite their prepared speech, speaking in first person as if they were the historical figure.

Maria Rodriguez as Laura Ingalls Wilder.

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@ May 2018 501lifemag.com | 23

Harding presents annual Spring Sing

LIFE PICS

Jeff Montgomery photos

Sophomore Brooks Bennett (from left), junior Caroline Ritchey, freshman Maxwell Ross and sophomore Ava Galyean sing "United We Stand," the traditional anthem of Spring Sing, in a tribute to Dr. John H. Ryan who died in March. Ryan was the first producer of Spring Sing.

“The Tooth, The Whole Tooth & Nothing But The Tooth” was the first runner-up.

Thousands of students and hundreds of faculty and production crew members came together to perform in the 45th Annual Spring Sing, with the theme “Heroes and Villains.” The show comprised eight different social club shows that featured a number of themes. Judges collaborated to announce the winners in individual and overall categories, with winners awarding $6,000 to chosen charities. Recipients of the John H. Ryan Sweepstakes Award: Third runner-up — “Cut Loose: The Barbershop Tunes” (Delta Gamma Rho, Omega Phi and friends awarded a $600 donation to Searcy Children’s Home). Second runner-up — “Going Home Plane & Simple” (Chi Sigma Alpha, Regina, Sigma Phi Mu and friends awarded an $800 donation to Habitat for Humanity). First runner-up — “The Tooth, The Whole Tooth & Nothing But The Tooth” (TNT, Zeta Rho and friends awarded a $1,000 donation to CASA). WINNER — “Houston, We Have A Problem” (Ju Go Ju, Ko Jo Kai, Sub T-16 and friends awarded a $2,000 donation to The Sunshine School).

Howard Chapin IV (left) and state Rep. Josh Miller.

Cathey Arnold (from left), past president Brett Graham and Julie Murray.

Julie Murray (from left), Jo Price and Cathey Arnold.

“Cut Loose: The Barbershop Tunes” was third runnerup.

“Houston, We Have A Problem” was the overall winner.

Heber Springs Chamber of Commerce Banquet

Downtown Network Heber Springs board members Phil Terry (from left), John Bennett, Chris O’Neill, Kathy Phillips and Iana Sinkutch with Julie Murray and Cathey Arnold.

Robin Richards photos

The Heber Springs Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its 62nd Annual Banquet at the Heber Springs Community Center. The chamber recognized Jo Price, its newest Hall of Honor inductee. Hall of Honor recipients, selected by past presidents of the Heber Springs Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, are individuals who have greatly contributed to and served the community. Other award recipients were: Distinguished Citizen of the Year – Howard Chapin IV. Outstanding Business of the Year – Eagle Pest Management Outstanding Non-Profit of the Year – Downtown Network Heber Springs. 24 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Waymon Long (from left), Julie Murray, Toi Logan, Gene Wendt, Patrick Arnold, Brandon Lowe and Cathey Arnold.

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May 2018 501lifemag.com | 25

501 5 in the

10 YEARS OF 501 LIFE By the numbers A quick look at some interesting facts and numbers associated with 501 LIFE are indicative of the magazine’s overall growth over the last 10 years.

'LOVING LIFE' One of the most popular features in the magazine is “Loving LIFE” photos, where readers take a photo of someone holding a copy of the magazine while traveling or during a special occasion. Readers have submitted photos taken from all four corners of the United States and places in between, as well as around the world. The magazine has appeared in photos ranging from birthday parties and weddings as well as anniversary celebrations.

From 14 “Loving LIFE” photos in 2008 to more than 400 in 2017, there have been more than 3,500 photos published in the magazine.

FOOTBALL There have been 10 issues of 501 Football, published in August. The 501 Football Team, recognizing high school players for their contributions on and off the field, was added in 2011. The inaugural 501 Basketball Team was announced in the January 2014 issue. celebrating the greater

gridiron of central

arkansas

A NEW SEASON

501 FOOTBALL TEAM

26 | 501 LIFE May 2018

DAWNS

– FALL 2013

LIFE GROWS ON

PET FEATURES 501 LIFE is all about pets and has published a Special Friends article in nearly every issue. Over the last 10 years, the feature has included:

Ten years of 501 LIFE (120 issues) equals 9,756 pages of the monthly magazine. In addition, 501 added 501 Football (started in August 2008) and 501 Kids (started in November 2014).

132 dogs 13 horses 8 cats 6 frogs 5 birds 4 sheep 2 cows 2 lizards 2 pigs 1 turtle 1 rabbit

501 5 in the

501 LIFE is looking for reader input on future 5 in the 501 features:

• Where are the top spots to enjoy the beauty of spring? • Who offers the most delicious cheeseburger? • Where do you go for a picnic perfect place? • What are your favorite fall activities? Send your responses to info@501lifemag.com. Thanks!

26 SPECIAL SECTIONS Kris Allen was the first 501 LIFE pullout special section in 501 LIFE. Dazzle Daze has been featured in eight special sections.

#keeponamazing

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May 2018 501lifemag.com | 27

COLUMNIST

Reflecting on 10 years of 501 LIFE by Sonja J. Keith

Seems like only yesterday that we were embarking on our 501 LIFE adventure and unveiling the inaugural edition of the magazine that “Celebrates Greater Central Arkansas.” But, here we are, celebrating 10 years of working with our wonderful team and editorial boards to bring readers the stories and features about the people, places and things that make the 501 great. Over the years, my business partner, Donna Spears, and I have been richly blessed and we don’t take that for granted for a minute. We have a great team, wonderful editorial boards and supportive advertising partners. For me, my work would not be possible without the love and support of my husband, parents, sisters, family and friends. As we have worked on our May “Anniversary” edition, I have looked back on the last 10 years and reflected on some of the stories that we have presented. While I have enjoyed working on each story and issue, I’d like to share some that have been my favorites and have touched my heart. While there are different aspects of my work that I enjoy, I love having the opportunity to meet men, women and young people in the 501, and tell their stories. I have always been a curious person. Mom calls it “being nosy” but I like to think of it as being inquisitive. It’s an important quality for a journalist. And yes, I am competitive and like to get a “good story” first.

A sweet love story 501 LIFE published one of the sweetest love stories in early 2011. Mary and Al Hiegel are a real treasure. They attended St. Joseph School and fell in love but World War II delayed their marriage. Instead, Al enlisted when he was 17 and was deployed, prompting an exchange of more than 200 love letters between the two. They still have the letters and are still very much in love after 70 years of marriage. 28 | 501 LIFE May 2018

From their story: Al Hiegel’s love letters written during World War II to his wife, Mary, have faded and turned fragile. Yet, the couple’s love affair has lasted a lifetime. While away serving his country, Mary and Al began writing to one another. While aboard ship, Al wrote to Mary nearly every day. “Sometimes I wouldn’t hear from him for weeks and then one day I’d get a dozen letters,” Mary said. “I saved every letter he wrote.” Al would sometimes sign his letters “I love you with all my heart” in French, using some of the foreign language he learned in school. “That’s the only French I know,” Al said.

Chasing dreams In our February 2017 edition, we featured Bryan Massey who overcame many obstacles – a serious injury, homelessness and even death threats – to realize his dream of being an artist Also, early on, he did not have the support of his family, yet he chased his dream. From his story: In July 1982, Massey lost four fingers on his left hand in an accident involving a table saw while he was attending East Carolina State. “I couldn’t do any art or 3D for 18 months,” he said, adding that surgery was performed to reattach what doctors could. “I could’ve quit but I didn’t.” Having faith in God and being brought up in a Christian home made a big difference for Massey. “I think it makes a difference in anybody’s life,” he said. “I could’ve given up a long time ago on a lot of things but I just decided not to,” he said. “I felt if I was going to do something with my life, I had to make the decision to do that. I couldn’t rely on people helping me or taking handouts. There were times I wouldn’t eat for four or five days but I wouldn’t steal. I’d rather go hungry than steal. That was the morals embedded into me by my parents.”

Everyone is going through something In our August 2015 edition, we featured Sydnie Reedy, who was starting her senior year at Cabot High School. Growing up, Sydnie loved to play basketball and dreamed of being a Lady Razorback. The summer before she started the eighth grade, she began experiencing dizzy spells, which led to a cancer diagnosis. Doctors removed as much of the tumor as possible from the back of her neck. She received chemo and radiation and returned to basketball and school for ninth grade. But cancer turned up during a monthly checkup in the 10th grade. It was inoperable and she resumed chemo. For our story, Syndie talked about the difficulty of suffering a serious illness, including social interactions with friends who ignored her condition. She also shared her struggle with her performance on the basketball court. Once highly competitive, her teammates had surpassed her in skills. The courage and bravery in which she shared her struggles was inspiring, and I still recall from time to time one of the stories she shared. From her story: Sydnie has gained a different perspective since her cancer was discovered. She recalls how car rides to UAMS for treatment, not feeling well and every bump causing pain. Other motorists would honk and give them dirty looks. “You never know what is going on in someone’s life,” she said, offering some advice. “Love and be kind to every single person.”

Showing kindness In our October “Health and Wellness” edition in 2016, we featured Jeannie Brown, who was told at age 32 that she was too young to have breast cancer by her physician, who refused to even examine the lump she had found. Health care professionals told her that had she waited a month to get a mammogram, her battle would have been very different. If she

had waited two months, it would’ve been too late. Following a lumpectomy, she met with her doctor to learn the pathology results. She was only given a 15 percent survival rate. From her story: Jeannie has been surprised by the reactions that people have had to her battle with cancer. She thinks people are generally uncomfortable when confronted with someone who has cancer and aren’t sure what to say or do. After she lost her hair, Jeannie got a wig but hated to wear it because her head was hot and itchy. “I didn’t think the wig made me look better or make me more comfortable. If I put a wig on, it was for somebody else’s benefit,” she said, adding that she did it for her nieces and nephews because they were

accustomed to seeing Aunt Jeannie with long blonde hair. She would wear hats, but if it was hot, she opted to wear nothing on her head, which resulted in stares and sometimes people pointing at her. Jeannie has considered writing a book about her experience and the “ridiculous things” that people have said. She learned that people will say “anything” regardless of how hurtful, but she just had to laugh. One person said, “Why don’t you wear a wig so people don’t have to look at that?” Her response was, “Guess what? Everything I’m going through with chemo, you don’t have to look at me. Look away. I have to do this stuff or I won’t be alive.”

In pursuit of freedom Another story which touched my heart featured Laz Castillo who left Cuba on a handmade raft in search of a better life in the United States. He spent 14 months in a refugee camp,

overcame a language barrier and was nearly homeless. Today, he is giving back to the community he loves as a member of the Conway Police Department. Laz shared details of his decision to leave Cuba, the conditions aboard the raft and the group’s rescue. He also detailed the challenging conditions he faced while a refugee at Guantanamo Bay for 14 months. From his story: Looking back on Cuba, his journey to the United States and his life in Arkansas, Laz said there were a lot of things to overcome. “I do like a challenge,” he said. “I’m one of those people who like to figure things out.” Today, he is living the life he envisioned when he set out for the U.S. on a raft with only the clothes on his back. “I was poor in Cuba. Now, I’m not rich by any means but I have a beautiful family and a wife who loves me and supports me. I have most of my needs met,” he said. “I love Conway. I’ve been here 20 years now. I love my job and I love working for the Conway Police Department.

Thank you It has been a tremendous privilege to have individuals share and trust their stories with me and 501 LIFE readers over the last 10 years. They’ve shared their happiest and saddest moments, their hardfought accomplishments and their heart-wrenching losses. It is an absolute honor and I thank them for the opportunity.

May 2018 501lifemag.com | 29

NEIGHBORS couples

HIM

Don Bingham

NATIVE OF: Huntsville, Ala.

Don and Nancy Bingham have been special friends to 501 LIFE since it launched 10 years ago. Don serves on the Faulkner County Editorial Board for 501 LIFE and is a regular contributor. (Mike Kemp photo)

HER

Nancy Bingham

NATIVE OF: Texas.

WHERE DID YOU GROW UP: Huntsville.

WHERE DID YOU GROW UP: East Texas and Louisiana.

EDUCATION: Bachelor of arts in communication, with further study at Dallas Theological Seminary.

EDUCATION: Southeastern Bible College, Birmingham, Ala.

JOB: Former administrator of the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion. COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Board member of the Little Rock

Coterie; vice chairman of the Renewal Ranch Board of Directors; member of the Faulkner County Editorial Board for 501 LIFE; former Bicentennial Committee chair and Christmas Parade chair; community arts productions; and University of Central Arkansas activities.

CHURCH ACTIVITIES: Worship pastor for Family Life Bible Church (20 years).

HOBBIES/SPECIAL INTERESTS: Reading, fundraising for orga-

nizations, painting and writing.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF: Passionate about

JOB: Former co-owner/operator of Restaurant Zinzendorf’s in Conway; 10 years as assistant to Arkansas First Lady Janet Huckabee; housewife and mom to five children.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR VOCATION: Love being a homemaker. COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Pastor’s wife, Orpheus Club (community musical support club); taught cooking classes in gifted and talented programs; taught Bible studies in local retirement home; active in drug and alcohol program for Renewal Ranch.

CHURCH ACTIVITIES: Sunday school teacher, worship ministries, host Bible studies, teas for children, shows and dinners in home.

HOBBIES/SPECIAL INTERESTS: Reading, gardening, prayer groups

and community Bible study groups.

everything I undertake. Love to encourage others to strive for their greatest potential.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF: Gregarious, content.

WHAT IS ONE THING PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU:

college years, I taught horseback riding and canoeing in summer camps.

I won a dance contest in my early years.

MOST ENJOYED WEEKEND ACTIVITY: Spending time with family, church activities, Renewal Ranch chapel on Saturdays.

WHAT IS ONE THING PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU: During MOST ENJOYED WEEKEND ACTIVITY: Spending time with family, church activities.

WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO: “In acceptance lieth peace.” – Amy Carmi-

WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO: “Man’s thoughts of God are too hu-

chael

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN THE 501: The

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN THE 501: The people, the relationships with dear friends for many years, and being close to children and grandchildren.

man.”

longtime history of the 501 people, the relationships, the exposure to well-rounded opportunities through the colleges and universities.

30 | 501 LIFE May 2018

THEM

RESIDENTS OF: Conway. HOW WE MET: We met in college, my freshman year and her junior year. THE PROPOSAL: On Valentine’s

Day – two weeks after we started dating!

WEDDING BELLS: Married June

3, 1967, in Shreveport, La., at the Community Bible Church. At 8 p.m., a formal wedding!

CHILDREN: Five – Jennifer and Jeremy Newton, Jill and Kenny McCollum, Janna and Glen Williams (Houston, Texas), Jessica and Daniel Faulkner, and Joseph and Carrie Bingham. Eleven grandchildren. FAMILY ACTIVITIES ENJOYED TOGETHER: Most of our family

activities revolve around food or sports activities. We have regular “feasts” and family fellowships – whether full blown meals or grilled burgers – it’s always a celebration. All of our family loves to cook. Nancy has studied professionally and we have three chefs in the family. Nancy and Don have co-authored four cookbooks over the years. May 2018 501lifemag.com | 31

NEIGHBORS youth

Fourth-grader Nikoria Williams holds the inaugural edition of 501 LIFE, which published on the day she was born.

32 | 501 LIFE May 2018

B-day surprise Conway student, 501 LIFE share something unique

Nikoria Williams was “Loving LIFE” with her fourth-grade class, Marguerite Vann Elementary Principal Bobby Walker (back, left) and her teacher, Mark Cuddy. by Sonja J. Keith Mike Kemp photos

Conway fourth-grader Nikoria Williams and 501 LIFE have something unique in common. They both have the same birthday. The magazine is celebrating its 10th anniversary with publication of its May 2018 edition. 501 LIFE was launched on April 21, 2008, during a special event in Downtown Conway. On the same day the magazine launched, Nikoria, now 10, was born in Pine Bluff. She has lived in Conway since the second grade. “She was 5 pounds and 7 ounces,” said her mom, Nina Page. “She was very small and had coal black curly hair.” 501 LIFE contacted Heather Kendrick, communication specialist for the Conway Public Schools, to identify any students who shared the magazine’s birthday. Of the 10,001 students in the Conway School District, there were about 40 with birthdays on April 21 but only one with the exact birthdate as the magazine. Nikoria is a student in Mark Cuddy’s class at Marguerite Vann Elementary School. Math is her favorite subject. When not at school, Nikoria enjoys playing outside and explained it is her favorite thing to do. “Nikoria likes to dance and draw,” said her mom. “She’s a beautiful person, funny and outgoing.” Nikoria’s brother, JaCoreyen Williams, is 13 and attends Carl Stuart Intermediate School. Nikoria has seen copies of 501 LIFE before, but this is her first time to be featured in a magazine, something she and her classmates described as “pretty cool.” “Nikoria came home all excited that she was the only one in the district to share the birthday,” said her mom. May 2018 501lifemag.com | 33

34 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Ronnie Williams, vice president for Student Services at the University of Central Arkansas, was selected for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guy W. Murphy Distinguished Service Award presented by the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce. (Mike Kemp photo)

NEIGHBORS conway

UCA’s Williams recognized for service by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Ronnie Williams — by his own admission — is in the twilight of his career, but he’ll ride off someday with the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce’s highest form of recognition. Williams, 64, since 1996 vice president for Student Services at the University of Central Arkansas, was honored recently with the Guy W. Murphy Distinguished Service Award. The award, established in 1957, goes annually “to an individual or group who has rendered special service for the benefit of the community,” according to the chamber. Winners have shown “an active leadership role for the betterment of the community through their involvement in business, civic and social service organizations.” That pretty much sums up Williams’ career, but he found lots of people with whom to share the award. “It was a humbling experience for me to be honored in that way,” he said. “When I think of this award, it sort of implies that you alone have done something significant, but if the truth be known, I don’t think any person who receives an award like this gets there without being sur-

rounded by very good people. “I’ve had very good employees, very good mentors, very good family members who build me up and prop me up.” Former UCA President Tom Courtway called Williams “a foundational leader.” “Ronnie Williams is a person we all want our children and grandchildren to emulate,” Courtway said. “He is an educator, public servant, effective administrator — and above all else, an incredible person. He is most deserving.” Williams grew up in Menifee, where he starred in basketball and was part of the first group of recruits for a young Cliff Garrison when he arrived as head coach at Hendrix College in 1972. Williams earned his undergraduate degree in education at Hendrix before doing his master’s in educational administration at Arkansas State. “I can’t say enough good about Ronnie Williams,” Garrison said. “He is one of the finest young men I have had the pleasure to coach. He is a class act. I am so proud of his outstanding career in education. He is most deserving of this award. I can think of none more deserving.” Williams first came to UCA in 1980 as as-

sistant dean of students, left in ‘83 and returned in 1990 as the first director of Minority Affairs under former President Win Thompson. “I absolutely loved that,” Williams said. “I enjoyed programming, and Win and (former UCA Vice President) John Smith set some broad parameters for what he wanted us to do in that role. UCA has always been a place of choice for people of color, but we were not retaining them like we needed to. Win Thompson and John Smith wanted us to do whatever it took to turn that around.” He remembered that he was “finding my second wind” after 18 months in that position when Thompson called and invited him to lunch one day. “I distinctly remember him calling me,” Williams said. “We had lunch off campus, and he asked me, ‘How would you like to come to my office as assistant to the president?’” During his four years in the UCA President’s Office, Williams said he seized the chance to grow. “I learned a lot,” he said. “What I loved about Win was you always knew where you stood with him, and I grew.”

Congratulations!

Ronnie Williams Recipient of the

2018 GUY W. MURPHY DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD by the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce The Guy W. Murphy Distinguished Service Award is the Chamber’s highest form of recognition. Established in 1957, this award is special service for the benefit of the community. As vice president for Student Services and Institutional Diversity, Mr. Williams has been an integral part of UCA for 30 years. UCA is proud of his service to our students and the community.

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Photo: Strain Photography

presented annually to an individual or group who has rendered

4/3/18 35 May 2018 501lifemag.com | 9:53 AM

Drew Gainor (from left), Drew Spurgers and Brad Lacy.

Drew Gainor (from left), Matt Troup and Brad Lacy.

Drew Gainor (from left), Ronnie Williams and Brad Lacy.

Thompson allowed him a year’s leave of absence to do the course work for an Ed.D. in higher education at UALR. After that, the vice president for Student Services position came open as a result of administrative realignment, and Williams was hired into that position in 1996. Thompson said Williams was “the obvious best choice for the job.” “Ronnie Williams joined my staff not long after I arrived at UCA in 1988,” he said. “He was a pleasure for me to work with and built excellent rapport with faculty, with staff members and, most importantly, with students.” Thompson, who left UCA in 2001, praised Williams’ ongoing work as VP. “He has done a superb job for successive presidents and, more important, for generations of UCA students,” Thompson said. “He also

found the time to maintain an active role in his communities — Conway and Menifee. I am very pleased that my friend is being honored by the Conway Chamber.” Williams said he owed “everything I am professionally in this position” to Thompson. “I would not be sitting where I’m sitting today if it were not for Win Thompson,” he said. “He gave me an opportunity — this young, unproven administrator — an opportunity to rise and fall. I credit him for changing my life.” Several years later, Courtway added chief diversity officer to his title, which became vice president for Student Services and Institutional Diversity. “I’ve worked for some phenomenal presidents at UCA, such as Win Thompson and Jeff Farris, Tom Courtway — and most certainly now Hous-

ton Davis, who is going to do a phenomenal job here,” Williams said. “I’m surrounded with a great management team and great employees in the Division of Student Services who are very passionate about their work, who are very competent and who believe in putting students first.” Williams said he’d also enjoyed the opportunity throughout his career to work with people and organizations in the community such as Brad Lacy, Charles Nabholz, Johnny Adams, Bunny Adcock, the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce and the Conway Development Corporation. “I could go on and on with people that certainly have meant a lot to me,” he said. He met his wife, Connie — a Conway High School classmate of Courtway’s — at a Conway gathering when both were in high school. James

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Honorees Recipients of this year’s awards presented by the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce: Guy W. Murphy Distinguished Service Award Ronnie Williams Lloyd Westbrook Good Neighbor Award Crystal Kemp Business Executive of the Year Matt Troup Young Business Leader of the Year Drew Spurgers Business of the Year:

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Clark, the former principal, played a role in their young romance by allowing him to visit campus during the noon hour to hang out with Connie. “I tease him about that now,” Williams said, chuckling. Courtway said he’d known Williams for more than 45 years, dating back to their years as Hendrix students. “He has been, and always will be, a dear and close friend,” Courtway said. “We’ve worked together, side by side, on many things. We’ve laughed together, been through tough times together and cried together at funerals. “In all things, large and small, he has acted with utmost honesty, integrity and character — and with compassion for all.” The Williamses have two sons — Torre Williams, now a senior project manager with Mars home office in Franklin, Tenn.; and Greg, a senior project manager with Walmart corporate headquarters in Bentonville. Although he used the twilight metaphor, Williams has set no exit date. “I’m surrounded by a great team,” he said. “When you stay around long enough, you get to assemble a great team. They’re an extremely competent group of professionals. That keeps me going.”

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A good neighbor NEIGHBORS conway

Kemp receives award named for mentor by Donna Lampkin Stephens Mike Kemp photo

The Conway Area Chamber of Commerce’s Lloyd Westbrook Good Neighbor Award was made for Crystal Kemp — in more ways than one. Kemp, 49, Conway Corp’s chief marketing officer, who received the award earlier this spring, is the epitome of a good neighbor — long-time Girl Scout troop leader, Faulkner County Youth Leadership steering committee member, Conway Kiwanis Club member and former Bethlehem House board member. And Lloyd Westbrook was her mentor. “I can’t think of a better person to win this award,” said Brad Lacy, president and CEO of the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a little bit serendipitous that it’s named after Lloyd, and that relationship was so special to her. “It’s neat all the way around.” According to conwaychamber.org, the organization’s Good Neighbor Award was established in 1973 and is presented annually “to an individual who has given of his or her time and talents. Candidates are known for going beyond the call of duty to help others. The nominee exemplifies outstanding public service to the Conway area.” The award was renamed for Westbrook, the former president and CEO of the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce, a few months before he died in 2016. Westbrook hired Kemp at the chamber in 1993, shortly after she and her husband, Mike, moved to Conway. The two worked together at the chamber until he retired in 2000. A few months afterward, Kemp went to Conway Corp. “When he died, I told Mike it felt like one of my biggest cheerleaders was gone,” Kemp said. “It’s crazy things, like when we moved here, we lived for a year in an apartment before we bought a house. Lloyd went to look at it to make sure I was making a good choice — a lot of things your dad would do, just the way he felt protective and looked out for me and was always thinking about my best interest.” She said Westbrook was supportive of her move to Conway Corp as director of marketing and continued to stay in touch. “He took a personal interest in my career and professional development, but I’d also take the girls — my daughters and my Girl Scouts — to his farm for farm tours,” she said. “He took a personal interest in my family. He just cared about us. “When I went to work for him, I was 25, and when you’re 25, you think you know a lot of things, and you don’t realize you still have a lot to learn. He was nearing retirement. It could’ve been a completely different kind of relationship, but he saw something in me and he was going to invest in that, and I’m 38 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Crystal Kemp, chief marketing officer at Conway Corp, was recently presented the Lloyd Westbrook Good Neighbor Award. Crystal, a long-time Girl Scout troop leader, with Lylla Hinchcliff (left), who has been with Crystal's troop since first grade, and her daughter, Sarah, a Scout since she was in kindergarten.

thankful.” Kemp, whose family moved often while she was growing up, graduated in the final class of Laneburg High School in Nevada County. She worked at a radio station in Prescott and attended what was then Arkansas College (now Lyon College) in Batesville, where she earned a degree in media arts and met Mike, who has worked in photography studios and at newspapers. The couple moved to Conway from Forrest City when he was hired at the Log Cabin Democrat in 1993. She had worked at the chamber in Forrest City, so she went to see Westbrook. Although he didn’t have an opening then, he called her a few weeks later when the bookkeeper left. Over time, she became membership director and ultimately vice president. “He invested a lot of time and energy in me and worked to get me involved,” she said. “He was on his second career. He knew I had my whole career ahead of me, so he helped and encouraged me.” Kemp, a 1995 graduate of the Faulkner County Leadership Institute, became the Conway Kiwanis Club’s first female president in 2000, the year she was also selected Kiwanian of the Year. The Faulkner County Youth Leadership Institute was the FCLI class of ‘95’s community service project. “We determined the program we were experiencing could be great at the high school level,” she said. “It was so energizing to be around those students, and you’re hopeful that what they’re learning, they’re going to plug back into the community. They have passion. “I’ve been doing this now for 22 years, and 22 years ago, people were saying, ‘Those teenagers,’ and just this negative thing about kids. But I’m here to

tell you when you spend time with these kids, you’re very hopeful. You don’t feel like teenagers are the problem. They’re the solution.” The Kemps have two daughters — Katie, 21, will graduate in May from Ouachita Baptist University; Sarah, 17, is a junior at Conway High School. Kemp, a former Girl Scout herself, has been a leader in the organization for 17 years, once in charge of three troops. “I loved my time as a Girl Scout, and when my girls got old enough, I thought that was just what you did,” she said. “At one time, I had Katie’s and Sarah’s troops at the same time, and there was a Brownie troop that did not have a leader, and I could not stand to think about girls wanting to do Girl Scouts but didn’t have a leader. It’s a great leadership program, and I love spending time with them.” Kemp was marketing coordinator for Conway Corp from 2000-2010, when she became manager of marketing and public relations. She was recently promoted to a newly created position of chief marketing officer. “Crystal truly cares about people, and I could mention many sacrifices that Crystal has made to help others, but I think one of her biggest contributions is the vast number of young women that she has encouraged, mentored and empowered over the past 17 years through her affiliation with Girl Scouts,” said Bret Carroll, Conway Corp CEO. “Many of those young women are now in their late teens or early twenties, and they are better prepared to face our world for having been around Crystal. She is a model recipient of this award.” Lacy agreed.

“The Good Neighbor Award speaks for itself in why you give it,” he said. “It goes to someone who gives a lot of time and energy to make Conway a better place to live, and Crystal certainly exemplifies that. There are few people who have done more for young people who are not their own children. She has invested a lot of time and energy to make this a better place for young people.” Kemp said upon learning of the honor, she sent Westbrook’s daughter a message. “The first thing I wanted to do was to be able to call him and tell him,” she said. “I could almost hear how he would’ve responded. To know what it meant to him when they renamed the award for him makes this very special.” The day after the awards banquet, Kemp joked that she regretted not announcing to the crowd that she had Girl Scout cookies available. “Clearly, none of the things we’re talking about were done for recognition,” she said. “They were done because investing in our youth was such an instrumental part of my development. How could I not pay that forward? How could I not give of my time to invest in my daughters and the next generation? “I learned so much, and people believed in and invested in me; it just seems like that’s what you do. And you don’t do it because you think you’re going to get an award for it. “The thing this award does for me is when I see it sitting there, it’s another reminder of Lloyd and his impact on me, and it inspires me to keep doing things like he did. I’m a huge believer that you give back and impact your community. This is an inspiration to keep doing that.”

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Leaving a legacy NEIGHBORS searcy

Ray Montgomery plans to retire at Unity

Unity President and CEO Ray Montgomery will retire this year, leaving a legacy of service and leadership. by Hannah Robison

With a 10th anniversary threefold, one man stands in service to the rest at Unity Health in Searcy — President and CEO Ray Montgomery. This year, he will write his final chapter of representing the health care system, as he plans to retire before the close of 2018. Montgomery’s profession actually began by a change in direction when a college aptitude test led him from pursuing engineering to health care. He 40 | 501 LIFE May 2018

first began in respiratory therapy, and it was through this career he was exposed to caring and interacting with patients, working alongside physicians and associates and learning how to navigate working in a hospital. Before making Arkansas his home, Montgomery was raised in Kansas, and later spent time in Oklahoma and Texas, beginning at White County Medical Center on Aug. 8, 1988 (8/8/88). “Health care is a ministry and an opportunity to serve and care for your fellow man, and God has rewarded me and so many others in the service that we

have in caring for people,” Montgomery said. “Scripture tells us that we must work as if we are working for the Lord, and though it takes many highs and lows, both frustrations and celebrations, health care is truly meeting the needs of patients, and you have the opportunity to connect with them through life and death situations.” During his tenure, Montgomery has led the hospital through extensive facility improvements and acquisitions of local hospitals, including Central Arkansas Hospital of Searcy and Harris Hospital in

Newport, along with a number of clinics. He has also been instrumental in the building of the Cancer Center of Excellence, creating the Unity Health Graduate Medical Education program and leading the organization to become the first hospital in the state to be accepted into the Mayo Clinic Care Network. “Our organizational structure is inverted; the people who are most important are those giving the care, and if there is a hero among us, it is because each and every one of those individuals have made a difference in a collective teamwork approach,” Montgomery said. “These are the true heroes of our organization.” Montgomery believes the driving forces of success for Unity Health are those who devote their time and talents toward serving patients and families above all. With outstanding associates dedicated to compassionate care, constant innovative developments and a thriving and supportive community, a teamwork approach is what has brought a county hospital to become a haven for health care for multiple cities, counties and rural communities in the region. “Integrity and servant leadership set him apart,” said Unity Health VP of Patient Services LaDonna Johnston. “He pushes you to reach your full potential and is never happy with status quo; he is truly a visionary.” He and his wife, Rebecca, have been active in conducting home Bible studies and housing undergraduate and graduate students in their home, and Montgomery has served as an elder at his local congregation. He feels that awards and recognitions

The Unity Health team after receiving the Arkansas Governor’s Quality Choice Award for the second time in 2012 — the only hospital in the state to receive the award twice. do not measure the greatest accomplishments of his career, but rather it’s the relationships he has formed. “He is driven, analytical and expects high performance out of himself and translates that to his team members,” said Unity Health CFO Stuart Hill, “He always does the right thing for the right reason. He always has a vision for what we need to accomplish and how to keep everything moving in the direction of his constructed plans. He is willing to take risks,

and I appreciate how he sees the value in what every person can bring to our organization. You cannot separate his faith from any part of who he is, and it is integral in everything he does.” Montgomery hopes to leave the following legacy for his career in health care administration — “What I hope it will be is that I was a servant, I was faithful to this community, I could be trusted and I was humble.”

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May 2018 501lifemag.com | 41

FEATURE

Conway County program provides students unique access to college by Dwain Hebda

Conway County educational leaders, businesses and a local community foundation are working together in a unique way to help provide educational opportunities for young people. “We really wanted to provide an opportunity to the students that we serve,” said Shawn Halbrook, superintendent with South Conway County School District in Morrilton. “A lot of our kids have an access barrier to college, be it money or they just don’t have the structure to help them get there.” Halbrook, along with his peer superintendents in the Wonderview and Nemo Vista school districts, met with Dr. Larry Davis, chancellor at the University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton, and together refined an audacious idea of making college courses available to high school students free of charge. “A lot of the kids and their families can’t afford the cost of taking concurrent classes,” Davis said. “It was a matter of how do we get them trained so the kids or the parents are not going to have to come up with a bunch of money.” The three high schools committed to paying $50 per credit hour for each student who took advantage of the program during their junior and senior years. UACCM agreed to waive fees averaging more than $40 per student for all the county’s high schools, which also includes the private institution Sacred Heart. The group turned to School Counts!, a local foundation, to pick up the remaining $40 per credit hour. “Our main goal is to help students understand the importance of higher education,” said Lawana Lyon, a board member for School Counts! “We have a lot of students here whose parents didn’t go to college, so they don’t talk about college at the dinner table.” Lyon said the board immediately saw the value of the new proposal and signed on to cover the remaining costs, a share that has totaled more than $23,000 in tuition support in the past two years. Davis said the cooperative spirit among many shareholders was the most amazing element of the organizational process. “I’ve not seen a partnership anywhere like this with the local college, the county public schools and the local foundation all chipping in to help pay for kids’ education. I have not seen that anywhere,” Davis said. “It’s unique. It’s exciting.” The initiative was an immediate success as students whose interests didn’t match a four-year college experience suddenly had a free alternative that could 42 | 501 LIFE May 2018

To donate to School Counts! Use the “Donate” button on ccschoolcounts.org. Go to the Arkansas Community Foundation website (arcf.org). Click on “Give Now” and select the link to the Conway County School Counts fund in the drop-down list. Mail donation to: School Counts, P.O. Box 282, Morrilton, AR 72110.

provide them with a certificate at the same time they pick up their high school diploma. “We have three students this May who are actually going to get some sort of certificate or an associate’s degree — one in welding and two in industrial maintenance,” Lyon said. “The kids that we were really targeting were the career technical kids because we need kids that, when they graduate high school, are almost done with some kind of certification to be employed,” Halbrook said. “There are many high-wage, highdemand jobs — like welding, plumbing and HVAC — that do not require a four-year degree.” Davis said the college accentuates its technical training with workplace readiness skills, noting there’s a difference between someone who’s trained and someone who’s work ready. “A lot of these kids will finish high school with a certificate of proficiency or technical certificate, and they could actually go get a job,” he said. “The concern that we have is you’re still dealing with the maturity level of an 18-year-old. So part of what we teach in the program is work ethic, showing up to work every day, showing up on time. Those are all parts of our program, too.” Plans are to expand the program’s reach to

students outside of technical career fields. To accommodate the cost, a campaign is under way to raise additional funds for School Counts! by some members of Leadership Conway County. “The School Counts! board established the initial endowment in 2010, and they haven’t touched it since then,” said Ashley Newman, mortgage originator with Centennial Bank and a member of the Leadership group. “That’s where we came in.” Newman and her colleagues plan to visit 150 community investors in person to ask for additional funds to expand the program and to raise awareness. The effort has already yielded one big donation — $25,000. “We felt that this was something that brings value to Conway County, brings value to the students and the workforce and UACCM,” Newman said. “It’s a win for everybody.” Halbrook said the program is a testament to what can be done when forces in the community exercise creative problem-solving. “Get at the table and start having a conversation and developing relationships,” he said by way of advice. “Understand you can’t get everything for you; it’s about doing something for the people you serve, which for us is our students and our community.”

Wonderview Superintendent Jamie Stacks (from left), South Conway County School District Superintendent Shawn Halbrook, Nemo Vista High School student Dylan Watters, School Counts! board member and Assistant to the UACCM Chancellor Mary Newsome, UACCM Chancellor Dr. Larry Davis, UACCM Vice Chancellor for Student Services and School Counts! Board Member Darren Jones and School Counts! Board Chairman Dr. Thomas Flowers at the new Workforce Training Center at the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton. Dylan is one of the Conway County high school students who also attends UACCM, thanks to the School Counts! program. (Mike Kemp photo)

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May 2018 501lifemag.com | 43

COLUMNIST

Remembering times like these

Vivian Lawson Hogue A native of Conway, Vivian Lawson Hogue graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with a degree in art education. A retired teacher, she worked in the Conway School District for 23 years. She can be reached at vhogue@conwaycorp. net.

I have the luxury of recalling my youth in Old Conway and the rustic experiences at my grandparents’ cabin in northeast Arkansas. But I am not alone in such memories. During the six years of writing columns for 501 LIFE, I have been pleased to hear from readers with similar or more interesting recollections! I thought it might be timely to concentrate on a few reader comments this time, with the related subject provided.

The now-gone train station

A teaching colleague once said, “In my youth, I lived ‘by the tracks’ in Galesburg, Ill., and Jefferson City, Mo. I loved the sound of the train whistles, and, with Dad’s supervision, learned how to feel the vibration of trains on the tracks long before their arrival with long, mellow whistles. Those are beautiful memories. Even progress cannot steal those!”

Thanksgiving memories The same reader also recalled, “We nearly always had snow. The women cooked, and the men played in the yard with the children. Sled rides, snowmen, forts, snowball fights. Dad even built an outdoor skating rink one year.”

Varieties of art including shoemaking From Ron Spradlin: “My father also had those tools, which he used during and after the Great Depression to put new soles and heels on our well-worn shoes. I never gave it a thought; it was just the way things were. After the early 1950s, they were kept in a storage room just in case. Since his passing, I have wondered where those shoe lasts and tools were. Perhaps a scrap iron dealer came by and offered a buck for them. I would treasure them now.”

On the subject of ‘Champion’ trees Ron further added, “The Lord, Pat and I own the largest hackberry tree in Arkansas. When measured by the Arkansas Forestry Department, it was the second largest in the state, with the largest located on the courthouse lawn in Corning (Clay County). About 12 years ago, a storm took down the largest, and by default, we now claim the title. I have used it to teach our children its example, as it relates to growing strong, just a little every day.”

Cemetery history Conway native Dave Hammond stated, “I can add to your history lesson on Oak Grove Cemetery. My great-grandfather, John Ingram, gave the land to the city 44 | 501 LIFE May 2018

February 2014 edition of 501 LIFE – A vintage postcard (above) showing Downtown Conway. (Photo courtesy of the University of Central Arkansas Archives) July 2016 – Noel Lawson and his sister, Vivian (right). Noel at age 5 and Vivian at 2. April 2013 edition of 501 LIFE – The 152-year-old cabin (below) still used by Vivian’s family.

November 2014 – Hand-stitched quilts made by Vivian's mother and grandmother. to build the cemetery. It was a part of his farm, (with some becoming the former Conway airport) when my grandmother, Lillian Ingram Hammond, sold it to the city in 1941. Most of my family is buried there in either the Ingram or Hammond plots.”

My grandparents’ log cabin and springhouse A displaced Arkansan in California stated, “Such comfortable reading — yes, there was always a dented dipper, placed by kind souls, at every cistern and spring. Water never tasted so good!”

The now-gone Joseph’s boarding house on Van Ronkle Street Doyne Kelley said, “I remember coming to Conway from the Beryl community in a wagon with my Uncle Earl and parking in the back.”

On the subject of ‘wheels’ Dale McMasters lives in Northeast Arkansas and recalled sitting on the porch of her two-story Queen Anne home in Imboden (Lawrence County) with her brothers, counting the different kinds of cars that came by. “One would decide that Fords were the most popular and bet a prized marble that those driving by in an hour would be Fords, with another betting his marble on Chevrolets. They would sit for an hour counting the cars that passed — not hard to do as there often weren’t more than a dozen in an hour.” Doyne Kelly added, “When I was in second grade, I rode in a bus Dave Ward probably built. It was on a 1935 Ford chassis, with a sheet metal body held together by an exposed interior wooden frame. It had a bench along each side and one in the middle. Windows were covered with chicken wire, and a tarp rolled up on each side that was rolled down in winter.”

Summer movies for children Nancy Mitchell wrote, “The summer movies on Wednesdays were free for children. You simply picked up tickets at Simon’s Grocery. My parents took all nine of us to the drive-in movie to see ‘The Ten Commandments’ since you paid by the car. Mother would have popcorn and lemonade made beforehand so we’d have something to eat.” A common thread in these stories is life in less complicated times. Children created their entertainment; residents lived and walked about town without fear; families lived frugally and closely; and memories, good or bad, defined what grew us up. Hold fast to them. The older you get, the more valuable they become.

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VOTE MAY 22 May 2018 501lifemag.com | 45

FAITH

10 years is just the beginning! One of my favorite images is that of a potter at a pottery wheel. I’ve watched videos of potters molding the clay as it spins around, and I’ve even gotten to try it a few times. The videos make it look easy, seamless and fluid. But when I sat down at the wheel, I found it to be entirely different! As the wheel spins, it is critical to have just the right amount of water on your hands to be able to glide with the clay. Too much, and you can’t guide it well. Not enough, and it sticks to your hands and gets thrown off balance. In fact, even if you have the right amount of water, the wrong amount of pressure can throw it off balance, and there are a host of other facMark tors that can lead to problems: having it even slightly McDonald off center, not having adequate ventilation or setting Mark McDonald, pastor at Grace the wheel too high or too low, just to name a few. United Methodist Church in When we watch someone throwing pottery, we Conway, has served churches in Northwest Arkansas, Booneville probably tend to think of what we would do as the and Jacksonville. His family settled potter, and certainly it is a great role to which we can in Faulkner County in the 1840s, and he grew up spending time aspire. There is an old Christian hymn called, “Have each summer working with his Thine Own Way, Lord,” in which the lyrics teach grandfather’s hardware store in Downtown Conway. He attended something else: Hendrix College, where he Have thine own way, Lord, have thine own way. currently serves as a trustee. He met his wife while attending Thou art the potter, I am the clay. SMU, and they have six children Mold me and make me, after Thy will; all living in Central Arkansas. Mark enjoys hiking and movies While I am waiting, yielded and still. and also serves as an endorsed law (Adelaide A. Pollard, public domain) enforcement chaplain. We aren’t the potter; we are the clay! God mixes the clay, centers it, turns it, fixes the flaws and creates a work of art. For this to happen, we must become more flexible in God’s hands, and that is reflected in one of the traditional ways we celebrate a 10th anniversary (as we do with 501 LIFE this month). When a couple has been married for 10 years, the traditional gifts are aluminum or tin. Those are malleable metals that can be molded and formed as needed, so they actually symbolize that a 10th anniversary isn’t a celebration that 10 years has ended and we’ve reached a finish line. It is a reminder that even after 10 years, we are still being molded and made into something better!

46 | 501 LIFE May 2018

The prophet Jeremiah tells of his visit to a potter’s wheel: “Then I went down to the potter’s house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels. And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it. Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the LORD. Behold, as the clay is in the potter’s hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel” (Jeremiah 18:3-6, KJV). In other words, God is working on us, even if we are off center or marred. And God can make something beautiful if we will allow God to continue to work with us, to allow God to mold us and make us. No matter where we are in our journey, whether we are doing great or struggling, this is just the beginning. God will continue to create a masterpiece of our life if we can be flexible, yielded and still! The 10th anniversary is far from the end of the story; it’s just the beginning!

May 2018 501lifemag.com | 47

COVER STORY

10th anniversary A look back at 501 LIFE

COVER continued on Page 50 48 | 501 LIFE May 2018

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It’s been 10 years since 501 LIFE launched its first edition, which featured a nighttime photo taken in Downtown Conway. “We had many conversations with our editorial board about what the magazine would look like and what it wouldn’t,” said publisher Sonja Keith. “We considered several different ideas but settled on the downtown image for the first image – it was where our business started and the magazine began so it was an ideal2 choice.” Since then, the cover of 501 LIFE has seen a wide range of images – from sunrise atop Petit Jean Mountain and the spectacular view from Pinnacle to the beauty of Greers Ferry. “We’ve also depicted the 501 in all of is beauty and splendor, including wonderful autumn images (by 501 LIFE Photographer Mike Kemp) to the stunning Old Mill in North Little Rock in a winter snow (taken by 501 LIFE Contributor Bill Patterson).” A lot of time and effort has gone into identifying monthly themes and front cover illustrations. Each year, 501 LIFE has utilized reoccurring themes – like home and garden, health and wellness, and the holidays – while presenting some unique and different topics. “Our talented 501 LIFE team as well as our editorial boards have had some really creative ideas for themes,” said Sonja. “It has been so exciting to see those ideas coming together through photography and design to create an engaging and attractive cover.” “Each month, so much thought and preparation goes into the photography and design of the front cover of 501 LIFE,” said Publisher Donna Spears. “The magazine theme obviously determines the cover photo or art. Each reader has an individual interest and that seems to be a favorite, but some just pull at our heart more than others.” For this 10th anniversary edition, 501 LIFE engaged its editorial boards, contributors and some of its advertisers to identify the Top 10 covers. It was a difficult task, creating the need for a list of honorable mentions. “In the case of some of those that were voted favorites, clearly they spoke to many of our readers,” said Donna. “In particular,

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• April 2009 • March 2010 • November 2013

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“

In particular, the tornado of 2014 ripped through our communities and changed lives forever. The American flag in the midst of all the destruction was captured in the first few days. Readers identified with it immediately.

”

— Donna Spears

The Conway County Editorial Board was “Loving LIFE”: Mary Clark (seated, from left), Shelli Crowell, Alicia Hugen; Donna Spears (standing), Kristi Strain, Stephanie Lipsmeyer, Jim Taylor, Stewart Nelson, Dr. Larry Davis, Morgan Zimmerman, Shawn Halbrook and Sonja Keith. Not pictured: Alisha Kooce.

COVER from Page 48 the tornado of 2014 ripped through our communities and changed lives forever. The American flag in the midst of all the destruction was captured in the first few days. Readers identified with it immediately.” Vilonia resident and former 501 LIFE contributor Angie Davis took the tornado damage photo featured on the cover of the June 2014 edition of the magazine. “The ‘In Honor of our Heroes’ edition published in July 2011 was a reminder of those that served our country,” said Donna. “Their inspiring stories should be documented so that we will always remember why we can enjoy our freedom in America.” Mike, who takes most of the photos featured on the cover, photographed Pearl Harbor veteran Herbert English of Plumerville for the cover story in the July 2011 “In honor of heroes” edition. Jeremy Higginbotham designs the front cover each month, and the husband-wife team of Jennifer Godwin and Nick Walker design the inside pages of the magazine. Another Top 10 cover featured a very unique image – a Christmas tree in the chapel at Garvan Woodland Gardens at Hot Springs – taken by Linda Henderson. “We are very blessed to have such an incredible team of writers, photographers and designers,” Sonja said. “I’m so thankful for Mike Kemp, who does most of our photography, as well as our other contributing photographers. We are also blessed with highly creative designers, Jeremy Higginbotham, Nick Walker and Jennifer Godwin. They are all so talented and we greatly appreciate them.” 50 | 501 LIFE May 2018

The Faulkner County Editorial Board was “Loving LIFE”: Monica Lieblong (seated, from left), Deanna Ott, Margaret Smith, Beth Franks, Amy Reed, Jan Spann; Julie LaRue (seated, back); Donna Spears (standing), Lori Ross, Pat Otto, RaeLynn Callaway, Don Bingham, Johnny Adams, Jerry Hiegel, Jack Bell, Jon Patrom, Glenn Crockett, Roe Henderson, Tom Keith, Kiera Oluokun and Sonja Keith. Not pictured: Kay Dalton, Spencer Hawks, Mathilda Hatfield, Mike Kemp, Karl Lenser, Lori Melton and Jennifer Whitehead. (Mike Kemp photo)

The White County Editorial Board was “Loving LIFE”: Betsy Bailey (seated, from left), Brooke Pryor, Natalie Horton; Donna Spears (standing), Kristi Thurmon, Mike Parsons, Philip Hays, Carol Spears, Cassandra Feltrop and Sonja Keith. Not pictured: Tara Cathey, Matt LaForce and Hannah Owens. (Mike Kemp photo)

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52 | 501 LIFE May 2018

501 LIFE launches refreshed website design To coincide with the 10th anniversary of 501 LIFE, co-owners Sonja Keith and Donna Spears are giving readers a gift this month — a completely reimagined website design for 501lifemag.com. Now, the content that readers enjoy online will come in a much prettier and more intelligent package. “Celebrating Greater Central Arkansas through print and digital media has been our strategic plan from the beginning of our business launch in 2008,” said 501 LIFE Publisher Donna Spears. “Many things have changed and we are thrilled to share a newly designed and updated website that we think readers will find very appealing and easy to navigate. The site is chock full of photos and stories. It is also the go-to place for events in the 501 area.” “As we begin our second decade of publication, we wanted to introduce a new, more vibrant website,” said 501 LIFE Publisher Sonja Keith. “We are very excited about the new site and the incredible work of our talented team that created the new site.” 501 LIFE worked with Allen Winkler and his company, WinkCorp Concepts (winkcorp.com), on the new site. “The 501 team was such a joy to work with. They had a vision for what they wanted the site to look like and we were happy to deliver on those expectations,” said Allen. “I’ve read through 501 LIFE for years. It’s a part of Conway and it was such an honor to work with Sonja and Donna on their new site.”

Modern design When 501 LIFE launched in April 2008, web design principles were very different than today. Sites designed as blogs put more emphasis on simple structures to focus on the text, giving smaller, more constrained areas for art. “Ten years ago, our computer screens were at such a lower resolution that you didn’t need big, high-res art,” said Levi Gilbert, associate editor. “The blog templates were designed more for making navigation easy and less about highlighting art. HD-resolution screens on laptops just weren’t common then, let alone things like Apple’s Retina screens or 4K. “Our new site gives us more flexibility with our story templates, giving us the ability to equally highlight our quality written content and our art. Now the online versions of our stories will pop on the screen just like they pop on the pages of our magazine every month.” It all starts with the new home screen. A new home page slider fills the screen with rotating top stories. “Before, we really struggled with how best to feature content on the home page,” Gilbert said. “All we could really do is load up the home page May 2018 501lifemag.com | 53

with a handful of stories, but this required our readers to keep scrolling down to see more. Now with the slider, we can truly feature our trending content, and this slider completely fills your browser. It’s beautiful and simple. Strong lead art with a simple headline.” Scrolling down the home page past the slider reveals two things: a new card design and a floating navigation menu. “In the early days of the magazine, we only updated the website once a month when a new issue published,” Gilbert said. “But that quickly changed a few years in when we launched our two weekly newsletters. With 501 LIFE Extra and 501 Sports Extra, we were producing more and more content each week — a lot of it exclusive to online and not in the magazine. Our new card design gives us so much flexibility to surface content both from the magazine and exclusive to the newsletters. We’ll be able to feature the various categories of our magazine in a more visible way rather than relying on readers to click through all the categories on our site. “And with the floating navigation menu following readers as they scroll through the site, it’ll be easy to dig deeper through the site without a lot of scrolling and clicking. With easy access to the search bar and a hamburger menu wherever you are on the site, there’s a clearer path to navigating the site, which makes for a much cleaner experience.”

Highlighting art The most obvious change in the new design

54 | 501 LIFE May 2018

is how art is featured. The old site kept photos constrained to small sizes, but the new site features incredible hero shots. “Again, screen technology was so much different in 2008 when the original site was designed,” Gilbert said. “Standard computer screens have such a higher resolution now, and this new site design enables us to highlight what is really a core strength of 501 LIFE — our amazing photographers and their amazing art. “One reason that our magazine is such a great read is because it’s just beautiful. The high-quality stock of the paper combined with amazing photography and design is stunning, and now our site will be able to deliver a similarly inspiring experience with our art.”

Mobile friendly The new site also brings with it a mobile friendly responsive design. “When 501 LIFE launched, the iPhone wasn’t even a year old yet,” Gilbert said. “Mobile friendly sites were barely even a thing yet. Like most sites, the majority of our traffic comes from mobile devices, so we are very excited to be able to deliver a better experience for readers who are visiting our site on smartphones and tablets. No more having to double tap to zoom in on our online stories.”

Easier sharing It will now be easier than ever to share stories. “Just like with responsive design, share buttons weren’t a thing in 2008 either,” Gilbert said. “Back then, the only button you really had on a story was

the print button. A few years in, we added some share buttons through a third-party tool, but with the new site, we’ll be able to do this natively, which will improve the experience of sharing articles from the site.”

Flip through LIFE from anywhere For the first time, readers will have a digital option for consuming monthly issues of 501 LIFE. “The magazine has always been available for free through our advertisers and other select locations, but now readers will be able to get it right from their phone at any time on the Issues page on the site,” Gilbert said. “The new site felt like the perfect time to launch a digital option for our readers. We’re always looking for new ways to add value to our readers and our advertisers, and this is a win for both.” “Our readers love having a printed copy in their hand and we will not be taking that away,” said Donna. “We are adding extra value for both the reader and our faithful advertisers that make our publication possible. With the new technology at the click of a button, go to the ‘Issues’ tab and you can read the complete magazine. If you prefer the print version we will still be in more than 700 locations for your convenience.” As with the printed magazine and other 501 LIFE offerings, readers are invited and encouraged to share their feedback via email (info@501lifemag.com) or by phone (501.327.1501). “We hope that readers will let us know their thoughts on the new 501 LIFE website and share their ideas,” said Sonja.

Living the 501 LIFE dream for 10 years! Going back to 2008 the economy was less than appealing. We had some doubts! We quickly found that the relationships we built over the years in the business world and the encouragement to move forward would ultimately help us make our final decision. Our friends, family, contributors, editorial boards, designers and everyone in between would be “our village.” They would be our eyes and ears in the 501 communities. After much prayer, planning, hard work, never ending days and nights, we moved into a small office space on Front Street on Feb. 8, 2008. 501 LIFE was born! We outgrew the space and moved into our current office at 701 Chestnut St. in May 2010. We have been very blessed. We started the magazine with 60 pages and now it ranges from 80-96 every month. Publishing a magazine is a non-stop job. You never finish. You never get away from it. You always have a deadline. You always have another story to tell. And, you always have another ad to sell. We came up with a pretty unique business plan that worked. 501 LIFE has far exceeded our expectations. Success 501 LIFE Publishers Sonja Keith (left) and Donna Spears. (Photo courtesy of Donna Evans) comes in many forms and for us, our success is providing a product that serves our communities. It has been more about the friends we’ve made and the loyalty that they have shown. The 501 area has embraced the magazine much like it is their own. For that reason, we quickly started calling it the “people’s magazine.” We are loving every minute of it! I have always heard about “the dash” on headstones between the birth and death of a person and how it is representative of their life. While it’s not exactly the same, when I typed 2008 – 2018, I stopped to think what the dash has meant to me during the 10 years we have been in business. It’s been amazing. A step in a direction that was uncertain in the beginning, has been a great ride. I would do it all over again! -Donna Spears

N OW W E L C O M I N G

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8 Wilson Farm Road • Greenbrier May 2018 501lifemag.com | 55

1 HEALTH

Special gift Conway Regional helps local first responders by John Patton

Sometimes the simple gifts are the best of all. “It was a wonderful and simple donation,” said Adam Bledsoe, public information officer for the Faulkner County Sheriff’s Office. “Water is the gift that keeps on giving. Hydration is crucial, and we are thankful.” A gift of water became a healthy and refreshing expression of gratitude to Faulkner County’s first responders after Conway Regional Health System recently donated 224 cases. The Conway Fire Department, Conway Police Department, MEMS and the Faulkner County Sherriff’s Department each received 1,344 bottles of water. The first responders are providing the water to employees and the public as needed. The gift made sense to Matt Troup, Conway Regional’s president and CEO. “We started out donating water as a way to help Conway High School raise funds for school projects, and it grew to include all the high schools in Faulkner County. It just makes sense to extend our donations to the first responders who are so vital in saving lives in our community,” said Troup. “This is another way we can assist our first responders by providing them with much needed hydration year-round.” Troup was joined by the Conway Regional Emergency Department’s Amanda Irby, Meg Prince and Michael Henry, along with Lori Ross, Conway Regional’s chief development officer, in a visit to personally deliver to and thank all four organizations that received the water. The first responders were appreciative. “We use it for a lot of different purposes,” said Bledsoe. “We don’t have a sink or water fountain in the office, so we rely on bottled water. We use it at saturation training events that can last up to 10 hours.” Bledsoe noted that SWAT officers, in particular, can easily become dehydrated during training and incidents because they are carrying 100 extra pounds of gear. The water can also come in handy during extended negotiations with suspects. In addition to crisis situations, LaTresha Woodruff, public information officer for the Conway Police Department, noted that the CPD water will be used to

56 | 501 LIFE May 2018

MEMS

Michael Henry, Amanda Irby, Meg Prince, Lori Ross and Matt Troup with MEMS employees: Major Janie Brown, Melanie Hutchinson, Steve Clement, Nathaniel Ficklen and Christian Baldridge.

Conway Fire Department

Conway Regional Health System representatives Lori Ross, Michael Henry, Amanda Irby, Meg Prince and Matt Troup with members of the Conway Fire Department: Engineer Jay Mattox, Engineer Clay Hartness, Assistant Chief Todd Cardin, Captain Stewart Wilcox, Firefighter Cody Rainey, Captain Michael Cullum and Captain Steve Ashcraft.

A few facts about water • • • • •

While water covers 71 percent of the earth’s surface, only 3 percent of it is fresh water. Only 0.5 percent is available for drinking. The rest is inaccessible in glaciers, polar ice caps, atmosphere and soil. 97 percent of the earth’s water is found in the oceans (too salty for drinking, growing crops and most industrial uses except cooling). In actuality, that amounts to an average of 8.4 million liters (2.2 million gallons) for each person on earth. This supply is continually collected, purified and distributed in the natural hydrologic (water) cycle.

Faulkner County Sheriff’s Office

Conway Police Department

Conway Regional’s Lori Ross (from left), Matt Troup, Meg Prince, Michael Henry and Amanda Irby deliver water to Faulkner County Sheriff’s Office staff members Adam Bledsoe, Angie Wooley, Durwin Lasker and Matt Rice.

Conway police officers Jonathan Vince (from left), Todd Wesbecher and Dellwyn Elkins with Conway Regional’s Matt Troup, Meg Prince, Michael Henry, Amanda Irby and Lori Ross.

stock the department’s patrol cars and gymnasium. “We use it to hydrate our officers during the summer months. We encourage them to drink water when they are on the streets serving the people of Conway, and this donation helps us to do that. We also have a gym where we encourage officers to exercise, and they also use the water there. “This is really not a simple gift; you can imagine what it is like for our officers out in the streets in 95- and 100-degree heat. We are very appreciative of this gift.” The officers also keep water in their vehicles for instances when they encounter pedestrians in need of hydration. Assistant Fire Chief Todd Cardin also expects the water to be useful as tem-

peratures rise. “The water will be used this summer during training and to rehab our firefighters during fires. It will also be available for participants at the many classes we host throughout the year,” said Cardin. “On behalf of the Conway Fire Department, I would like to thank Conway Regional Health System for this donation.” Clay Branham, a MEMS supervisor of operations, said the water donation is being used to stock the six ambulances that cover Faulkner County. The MEMS staff keeps the water in ice chests for rehydration purposes while responding to extended emergency situations. “We share with anyone who needs water,” said Branham. “It was a very nice gesture by Conway Regional, and we really appreciate it.”

OVER

YEARS IN BUSINESS

2665 Donaghey Ave, Ste 103 Conway AR • (501) 327-1772 www.luxurypoolarkansas.com

�

ENTERTAINING

Publishers entertain too! Happy 10th birthday to two great owners, editors, writers, promotors and yes….entertainers! Sonja Keith and Donna Spears are to be congratulated on 10 amazing years of 501 LIFE publications – these ladies have been a wonderful encouragement to so many! In consideration Don Bingham of the “celebration Recognized throughout the article,” I wondered if state as an accomplished chef, Don Bingham has authored these two ever had time cookbooks, presented television to cook or entertain, programs and planned elaborate events. and how their love for entertaining came about. Here is the result of my interview with Sonja Keith and Donna Spears – the queens of 501 LIFE!

Q A

Do you enjoy cooking when time permits?

Donna: I love to cook, and even more, I love to teach my 8-year-old grandson, Weston, how to put things together. He believes he has the skills for his own cooking show! My granddaughter, Madi, and I make wonderful cupcakes from scratch!

Sonja: I do enjoy cooking! My husband, Tom, is actually the better “cooker” in our family, as our children used to say. I do OK in the kitchen, as time allows!

Q A

What do you enjoy cooking the most – where are your culinary strengths?

Donna: I can usually come up with meals without having to run to the grocery store! I prefer one-dish meals, something from old cookbooks, and especially Mom’s handwritten recipes! They are always special!

Sonja: My greatest strength is probably my flexibility! I don’t get too uptight when something doesn’t turn out the first time! I also love to fix dishes that I remember Mom or my grandmothers preparing.

Q A

What did you prepare the last time you entertained at your home?

Donna: Christmas Eve – with all the family and additional friends – we did traditional Southern favorites with a few new dishes for something different. It’s very casual, but that’s how we roll.

Sonja: I enjoy special dinners at home, for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, and time spent with our children and whoever they happen to bring with them. My family “entertains” each Sunday 58 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Mom’s Jambalaya. afternoon at my parents’ home. Sometimes Mom cooks (her gumbo is my favorite) and other times we all pitch in with a dish. I treasure these special times of food and fellowship with my wonderful family.

What is your idea of a perfect entertaining evening?

Donna: Cooking a favorite for each family member and having my grandkids help with it. It’s never a peaceful evening, but it’s who we are which means there’s a lot of clean up afterwards.

Sonja: Having all our family gathered around the table, with the “good dishes” and candlelight! Nothing too fancy but still special.

Sonja and Tom Keith with one of their family’s favorite dishes, Mom’s Jambalaya. (Mike Kemp photo) Donna Spears (center) with her grandchildren, Madi and Weston. and nutrition units. Included in this article are one of Donna Spears and Sonja Keith’s favorite recipes for you to enjoy!

Donna enjoys making biscuits using the recipe and method passed down in her family.

Q A

Who taught you to cook?

Donna: My Granny lived with my family when I was a child and between Mom and Granny, we spent a great deal of time in the kitchen. Dad raised cattle and he always had a huge vegetable garden. Living on a farm allowed me to learn the basics. I learned early how to make pie crusts, biscuits, cornbread and all typical farm food. Of course, canning and freezing vegetables was a way of life. It was an awesome childhood!

Sonja: Mom taught my sisters and me how to cook. While I was in high school, my sisters and I were in charge of preparing the evening meal each day as my parents worked and it would be 5 p.m. or later before they arrived home. I had lots of practice time! I also took every home economics class that my school offered and always enjoyed our food

Granny (Zelma Beall), mom’s (Betty Merritt) and mimi’s (Donna Merritt Spears) biscuit recipe is one of my favorites. This is the way we always made biscuits and the way I’ve taught my grandkids.

Biscuits Preheat oven to 375 degrees. We use an iron skillet. With a paper towel, spread a small amount of oil on the bottom and sides. 3 cups W-R self-rising flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon soda 1 1/2 cups buttermilk or a bit more if needed 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (sometimes we cut in shortening). Oil is my preference. Mix the dry ingredients together and make a “pond,” which is nothing more than a hole in the center. For fun, we call it a “pond.” Mix in the buttermilk and oil. Dough will be sticky. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Lightly sprinkle flour over the top of the dough. Use a lightly floured rolling pin and roll the dough into a ¾-inch thick

circle. Cut the dough with a round biscuit cutter and place in the iron skillet. Spread a small amount of oil on the top of each biscuit. We always end up with a “baby” biscuit, which is fun for Madi and Weston. If you have dough left over, the kiddos can create their own designs. Sometimes we do animals or flowers. Bake until the tops are slightly brown, approximately 20-30 minutes. The recipe makes about 12 biscuits. Serve with butter and homemade strawberry freezer jelly. Yummy!

Mom’s Jambalaya 3 tablespoons oil 1 clove garlic, chopped 1 medium onion, chopped 1 green pepper, chopped 1 pkg. smoked sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces 2 cups rice 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper 1/2 teaspoon allspice Pinch of cayenne Chili powder (to taste) Basil (to taste) 1 cup water 2 large cans tomatoes (crushed or diced) 1 pound shrimp (can substitute with chicken) Combine garlic, onion and pepper. Saute mixture in oil. Add smoked sausage, uncooked rice. Add spices and combine. Add tomatoes to mixture. Add second meat. Simmer, at least 30 minutes until rice is cooked.

May 2018 501lifemag.com | 59

HOME

Donna Benton Donna Benton is a maker of custom home furnishings and specializes in classic painted finishes for antique and vintage furniture. You can see her work at WaterHouseMarket.com.

To help celebrate the 10th anniversary of 501 LIFE, I thought it would be fun to recap 10 of my most favorite rooms from homes that have been featured in our magazine. I have had the pleasure of visiting and sharing lots of beautiful and unique homes in the 501 area, but the best part by far is getting to know all the fabulous and creative families whose talent, energy and spirit are reflected in these spaces. So, here they are in no particular order. My 10 favorite rooms!

FAVORITE ROOMS IN THE 501

This office nook feels exposed Mike Kemp photo

When Niki Thompson restored this Storybook Home, she left a peek into the past. An exposed lath and plaster wall give a nod to the construction techniques of days gone by and makes a perfect bookshelf in this little office nook.

Cub’s room is classic baby-cool Makenzie Evans photo

In this home, little Cub Copeland is the star of the show. When his rock and roll frontman father, Boots, is not on the road, you can bet the whole family is hanging out and doing lots of fun kid-stuff in this hipster-cool modern and vintage bedroom.

60 | 501 LIFE May 2018

9 Hey, were you born in a barn? Makenzie Evans photo

They say first impressions are everything, and you will feel the Watkins family’s warm welcome before you even ring the doorbell. If the porch swing gets you, you may never even make it inside, which would be unfortunate because this barn house is full of fabulous fun features, just like the porch.

The cottage on Ash Street Makenzie Evans photo

Owner Laura Roussel and Lance Johnston’s ReForm Design+Build whipped this ramshackle cottage into shape, and the result is fabulous from front porch to back. I could never decide on one favorite room, so here’s the whole living area.

Pink girly-girl room

Makenzie Evans photo

I’m not sure what takes center stage in little Madalyn Landers’ room — the pink vintage dresser or the wall of giant hand-painted roses. Together, they make this little girly-girl’s nursery an unforgettable eye-pleasing work of art.

The perfect farmhouse kitchen Mike Kemp photo

Brett and Laura Meek moved to the country, and they wanted to make sure their home fit the farm. They got this kitchen exactly right with open shelving, industrial lighting and a sunny window where you can watch the cows while you do dishes in the farm sink.

Amelia’s garden room Rita Treece photo

Has a little girl’s room ever matched her so perfectly? Amelia Treece’s room is a complete fairy tale right down to the rose bush outside the window where she gathers her bouquets. May 2018 501lifemag.com | 61

get f ra m e d at

Pa t t e r s o n E y e C a re

Teapots and robots workshop Makenzie Evans photo

If a great room has two requirements, they are function and beauty. Jenny Keylor’s fun and funky workspace is where she creates her one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry, each piece a work of art, like the space in which it is created.

2505 Donaghey, Ste 102 • Conway, AR

501.450.9900

pattersoneyecare.com

2 Caldwell manor kitchen Makenzie Evans photo

Niki Thompson’s Storybook Home kitchen remodel perfectly blends classic lines, marble and stainless steel with aged copper lights and a rustic island made from lumber salvaged from the home.

1 An outdoor dining room in the hills Rita Treece photo

Technically, it’s not really a room at all, but that doesn’t stop the folks at Honey Hill Ranch from creating the perfect dining space. There is no better place for a dinner date than the great outdoors.

62 | 501 LIFE May 2018

May 2018 501lifemag.com | 63

GET CREATIVE

Funky Frugal: A bedroom transformation There is a family that we have recently had the pleasure of getting to know. The Ritters are extremely talented and see potential where others might see a problem. After I attended a baby shower at their beautiful and historic barn home, I had to write about Tanner how they made it Cangelosi work. There were only An alum of the University two bedrooms in the of Central Arkansas, Tanner home. With their three owns her own business – www. neonsouthernlady.blogspot.com – children, they needed a and has done a variety of projects, space for their daughter from individual home décor items to painting murals in private to call her own. They residences. For more information, took a carport and creTanner can be reached at tcangelosi@newlifechurch.tv ated a cozy room. I was able to ask her how she did it, and she wanted to share with 501 LIFE readers also.

Tell the 501 readers about your home: I love our barn house and the history that came with it. It is so neat to live in a place that has a lifetime of work and memories. Our house was a barn until the 1970s, when Patsy Dowster had the vision to renovate it into a house. She collected things from all over town. A tub from Spring Street, bricks from downtown hotels and many items from The Arlington Hotel. She was meticulous and took her time. Sconces were special ordered from New York, and barn wood was re-purposed to give architecture interest. She saved a piece of history — a piece of this world that is drifting further away. Walking into our house feels like stepping back in time, and I love that.

How did you figure out how to make this space into a bedroom? I loved this house the first time that Justin brought me here in between soccer games at Munro. I would pull it up online and try to problem solve a way to make it work to fit our family of five. It just never made sense because there weren’t enough bedrooms. The house stayed on my mind for months, and one day, I looked up the owner and just gave her a call. I told her that I was probably wasting her time, but I felt compelled to see the house. We agreed to meet that evening, and I met one of the most fascinating women that I have ever known. I walked in and saw the room off of the kitchen. I knew right when I saw the room that 64 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Whitney and Justin Ritter converted a space near the kitchen in their home into a bedroom for their daughter. we could make the house work for our kids. That night, Ms. Dowster and I instantly connected and sat on the stairs and spoke for hours about her memories and my dreams.

What was the process of the room renovation? We moved over winter break, and I really wanted to have the house put together before we left for a ski trip. Prior to living in the house, it was vacant for four years. The vacancy, coupled with the coldest week of winter weather, led to a busted pipe despite having someone checking on the house and leaving the water dripping. It was

devastating, but led to getting the room together correctly, which was a blessing. We had to gut the room to the studs that day because there was water everywhere. The more we took away, the more problems we found. Justin is great with stuff like this and began the slow and methodical process of drying everything out properly. After everything was dried out, he put new subfloor down and hung sheet rock packed tight with insulation. He changed out the door frames and trim. We spent lots of time caulking. I took the light covers and spray painted them with copper brown. Justin found an old can of paint and used that to paint the walls. We de-

cided to add carpet to give it more of a bedroom feel. We were on a budget, so we just went with the cheapest that Lowe’s had to offer. I wish we would have done something different here. My mom bought Mae the chandelier, and I am proud to say that I installed it with a little help from Dad via FaceTime.

How did you decide to build her a bed? The bed build came more from necessity than anything else. Mae’s was ruined in the flood, so we needed one, and we didn’t have the budget to buy one. I asked Justin to build a bed, which he did in an afternoon, using logs from the family farm. I love it. I love that he built it. I love that it is natural and whimsical. Justin can build anything. It’s a pretty amazing gift that I take full advantage of. The rest of her room just fell together.

The room during its renovation into a bedroom.

What was the cost breakdown for the room renovation? We spent $500 on carpet. The paint was free because we found it in the shed. We spent $1,000 on flooring, insulation, etc. The bed was free except for a few bucks in brackets.

What are your tips for DIY families? I think the trick in DIY is to not have an exact vision in mind. I like to have an idea of what I want, but it’s better to just let it come together

The space before the room transformation. without an expectation. Look at it, play with it and walk away. I like to reuse things because it’s fun for every piece to have a story. We have so much, it seems

wasteful to not transform what is already lying around. The most important part about a DIY project is having someone who can take your wacky ideas and turn them into reality. Thankfully, my husband is pretty good at the actual knowing what he’s doing part. I just supply the ideas, and I start the project and create such a disaster that he moves in and cleans it up correctly for me. Spending money on the actual foundation of a room is much more valuable than buying cute things to fill it with. This is a hard one for me. I love stuff. The room is structurally sound now and shouldn’t be weathered. It hurt to spend the big money on things that we couldn’t see, but it’s worth it.

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2490 Washington Avenue Conway, AR 72032 501-329-7021 bellandcompany.net May 2018 501lifemag.com | 65

ENERGY SMART

Time for an AC tune up by Beth Jimmerson

Summer is officially on its way, which means temperatures are steadily rising. Sometimes it’s hard to balance comfort and cost, but staying relaxed and cool in your home on the hottest days of the year without worrying about energy bills going through the roof is possible. One of the easiest things you can do to stay cool this summer is have a professional tune up your air conditioning unit. Over the course of 12 months, a home’s heating and cooling will easily run thousands of hours. Left un-serviced, the average unit will lose 5 percent of its efficiency each year from dust and dirt accumulation as well as regular wear and tear. Conway Corp recommends customers have a preventative maintenance tune up on their central air conditioning unit every year to keep it working efficiently. Having your home’s cooling system serviced is one of the best things you can do — both from a comfort perspective as well as a financial one. Plus, small problems can be detected long before they turn into big, expensive problems when temperatures are likely at their worst. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a checkup of your home’s HVAC system can extend its life by several years as well as save you up to 10 percent a month on energy bills. On average, a tune up will cost $70 to $100, which easily pays for itself in monthly efficiency savings. Plus, a welllooked-after unit will last up to 15 years, compared to seven years for ones that are left ignored. Extending the life of your unit will save up to $5,000 in replacement costs. Conway Corp Energy Smart professionals recommend scheduling a local, certified HVAC

66 | 501 LIFE May 2018

contractor to perform a system tune up that includes four basic steps: Measure airflow of the system to test capacity and efficiency. Most air conditioners require 400 cubic feet per minute of air to operate to capacity. Clean the condenser. The outdoor unit should be sprayed with a heaving foaming cleanser that soaks for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing. Measure indoor and outdoor conditions including indoor wet bulb, indoor dry bulb and outdoor dry bulb. After all measurements are taken, they should be plotted on a sliding chart to determine super heat that will set the proper refrigerant charge. Adjust refrigerant charge. One of the most expensive repairs for units is a refrigerant leak. Homeowners can also play their part in keeping the system in good working condition by changing the filters on their heating, ventilation and cooling system four times a year. This helps to keep the system running smoothly and improves the home’s airflow, providing better air quality and less temperature fluctuation.

WIN A FREE AC TUNEUP Conway Corp’s Energy Smart program can help you balance increasing demands for electricity with our commitment to providing affordable rates. This month, Energy Smart is giving away an air conditioner tune-up to one Conway Corp customer. To register to win or to see a list of certified HVAC contractors registered with Conway Corp, visit ConwayCorp.com/actuneup. Entries must be completed by midnight Thursday, May 31, and the winner will be announced by Friday, June 15. Winner must be a homeowner in the Conway Corp service area. To learn more about Conway Corp’s Energy Smart program, call 501.450.6000 or visit ConwayCorp.com/EnergySmart.

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www.freyaldenhoven.com May 2018 501lifemag.com | 67

FASHION in the 501

Learn to love yourself by Georgie McCarthy

Spring is typically a time of rejuvenation, reflection and spring cleaning, but I have one more thing to show a little love to — yourself! I’ve been thinking about how important it is to love yourself and show yourself some respect. Yes, we have a holiday typically dedicated to loving others already, but loving yourself first is an essential part to being a healthy and overall happy individual. They say you can’t fully love another until you learn to love and appreciate yourself. Most of the year, we’re busy showing everyone else how much we love them, but don’t forget to show yourself a little love this season. Here are my tips on how to show yourself just how much you care.

Learn to love your flaws Flaws are the things we often hate the most about ourselves, and our thoughts, unfortunately, often cling to them rather than the positives. Today though, I challenge you to accept and maybe even try to love those faults. Whether it’s stretch marks, a lisp or even terrible spelling skills, they make us unique and often are the things other people find most attractive and endearing about us! We need to remember that our “flaws” make us who we are and make us beautiful in our own lovely, silly and imperfect ways.

Treat yourself Whether it’s a chocolatey treat or a new purchase (or both in my case, lol), I want this article to remind you to treat yourself, too! You deserve just as much as your significant other, child and/or friends! Acknowledge the amazing things you’ve accomplished and the talents and skills that make you you. You deserve it!

Take care of yourself Today should also remind us to take care of ourselves! Looking after our minds and bodies is never a bad idea, but we often get swept up in our day-today lives and forget. Whether it’s running yourself a bath, feeding yourself some nourishing foods or expanding your knowledge with a new book, there are endless ways to take care of little ole’ you! Remember to show yourself a little love today! Big shout out to the lovely and amazing Miranda from Wildroot Photography for this gorgeous photo (@wildrootphoto). Also, head over to my Instagram @thestyletransplant so we can be friends, and subscribe to the blog at thestyletransplant.com. 68 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Georgie McCarthy is enjoying spring wearing a Zara top and boots, Miss Selfridge jeans, a Style Encore blazer and Express tights.

BEAUTY

Spring clean your skin routine With spring’s arrival, many of you will emerge from your indoor caves to spend more time preparing for the outdoors. As you bid farewell to the cold weather, a change of season typically means a change in the way the skin behaves, so our skincare routine has to change along with it. You don’t need to overhaul your Susan Isom skincare routine entirely, but you do need to make Susan is well known for her personal attention to each and some minor tweaks to every client and for developing your regime to ensure that a treatment program or skin care regime just right for that your skin stays healthy individual. Since beginning her during the season. career in 1990, Susan Isom has One way of maxireceived ongoing education and training in the latest developments mizing the benefits of for skin care products and transitioning your winter treatments. She has received advanced training as a cosmetic skin to a spring skincare injector with certifications from regime is scheduling a Allergan, the creators of Botox and Juvederm injectable gel fillers. seasonal skincare conSusan has received numerous sultation and treatment awards and special recognition during her career. plan. This is the perfect one-on-one time to update, educate and plan for the season ahead to revive and renew you both personally and esthetically. Product themes for spring may include shifting from creams to lotions and complexes to serums, with ceramides and products with hyaluronic acids, which deliver effective water binders to the skin, particularly for combination/oily types. These types can seem to blossom suddenly with warmer weather and increased humidity. Another suggestion is to increase antioxidants and anti-inflammatory formulas for more time spent outdoors in the spring.

Cloudy or sunny, hot or cold, wearing SPF should be part of your daily routine, especially during spring and summer, just as it is all year round. You can either use a daily moisturizer with sunscreen in it, or you could layer a sunscreen on top of your regular moisturizer if you know you are going to be outside for a long period of time. Also, many makeup foundations contain sunscreen protectors. Remember, anytime you add a product or change your routine, your skin will need time to adapt. Use your new routine for at least a couple of weeks before determining that it’s not working. Give it the time it needs to level out before you make your next change. Spring is a time to remove dead cells so you can have rejuvenated skin at the surface. For deeper renewal of the skin, see a dermatologist or skincare specialist for a seasonal chemical peel. In this treatment, a chemical solution is applied to the skin, ultimately causing the outer layer to peel off. The new layer of skin underneath is typically smoother and less wrinkled. Chemical peels can also combine different brightening agents that lighten brown spots and age spots. If you are using any products that contain retinols and prescription retinoid, you might want to put them on the back shelf until fall if you plan to participate in activities requiring long sun exposure. Some ingredients that are recommended for this season — such as kojic or alpha hydroxy acids — are also effective for brightening weathered skin. Along with a series of treatments, you can also plan any injectable services or device treatments. Dry, windy weather is also dehydrating to your skin. Water is part of creating a balance in how our skin performs, and, on occasion, we need a little extra topical hydration to fight that external battle. Finally, the “spring cleaning” theme should include tossing out cosmetics, products and sunscreens that have been around a little too long. The FDA does not regulate expiration dates for skincare products, but it is important to be observant about swapping out products regularly because they do have a shelf life.

May 2018 501lifemag.com | 69

501 kids

Tips to prevent accidental poisoning

The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that more than 2 million people are affected by poisoning each year with over half of those young children. There are numerous potential poisons in our homes. Some of the more common products that can cause serious injury or death Katelin are medications, cleanWhiddon ing products, laundry products, pesticides, A native of Conway, Katelin paints, alcohol, batteries, Whiddon is a family nurse practitioner at Central Arkansas automobile products and Pediatrics. She and her husband, even some plants. Daniel, have two daughters. A graduate of the University of It is wise to keep Central Arkansas, she has her any potentially harmful bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degrees. substances in high and locked cabinets so that children cannot have access to them. Even what may seem like a common medication can be deadly to children. Never leave children unattended. I joke and say children are often in stealth mode and in no time they can be into something quite dangerous. If you think your child may have come in 70 | 501 LIFE May 2018

contact or eaten something potentially dangerous, the first thing to do is to take away the rest of the product and call poison control. The number for poison control is 1.800.222.1222. Stop right now and put that number in your phone contacts so you will have it should you need it. The operators at poison control are experts and will guide you through what to do next. Never give activated charcoal or induce vomiting without instruction from poison control or your doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office. Some products are caustic and can cause more damage if thrown back up. Contrary from in years past, it is no longer recommended to keep ipecac syrup at home. If you still have ipecac syrup, I would recommend that you properly dispose of it. Poison control may advise you to take your child to the emergency room or call an ambulance. Be sure to bring the substance that may have led to poisoning for reference for medical personnel. We can try our best to keep our homes a safe and loving place for our children. As children get older it is important to teach them not to eat anything that a stranger gives them or anything without a parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s permission. Always keep a close eye on your children and be alert to any possible changes in them. You will not regret calling poison control and being told a product is not harmful to your child so if in doubt, always seek professional guidance.

Possible signs of poisoning: The following are some possible signs and symptoms of poisoning: â&#x20AC;˘ Unknown stains on clothing â&#x20AC;˘ Burns around the mouth â&#x20AC;˘ Unusual drooling, tear production, sweating or other behavior changes â&#x20AC;˘ Sudden nausea or vomiting â&#x20AC;˘ Increased heart rate â&#x20AC;˘ Flushed skin â&#x20AC;˘ Change in muscle control or seizures â&#x20AC;˘ Trouble breathing â&#x20AC;˘ Loss of consciousness

Kristopher â&#x20AC;&#x153;Boogieâ&#x20AC;?Wiley AGE: 3. CITY: Conway. SCHOOL: Pediatrics Plus Developmental Preschool. FAVORITE SUBJECT: Reading. FAMILY: Dad (Cameron), Mom (Jessica) and big sister (Katalyn). FAVORITE SNACK: Cookies. MOST CHERISHED POSSESSION: Marvel Spider-Man book. MORE INFORMATION: Kristopher is a sweet and adventurous little boy who is always on the go. He does not let his hearing loss stop him. Despite many obstacles, he still has time to be a precocious toddler who loves to explore the world around him.

May 2018 501lifemag.com | 71

501 kids

Gift-giving guide for moms memories, such as breastmilk, locks of hair, memorial ashes, umbilical cord, placenta, dried flowers, fabric and more. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know any mom who wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t love this thoughtful gift. Check them out on Facebook or at madewithlovekeepsakes.com.

Moms, here is your chance! Conveniently leave this magazine sitting in front of your husband and kids, open to this page. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leave a hint for ways they can spoil you on Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. By no means do we expect elaborate gifts, but we also know Brittany how difficult it can be to shop for the moms Gilbert in our lives. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Brittany Gilbert is a former completely happy with FACS teacher at Maumelle High School. She and her husband, homemade treats, Levi, have three children and thoughtful cards and live in Conway. Brittany can be reached at coupons for back rubs, b.gilbert37@gmail.com. but Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d love to help drop a few hints to take gift-giving over the top this year.

Keepsake jewelry I want to shout about this gift from the rooftops. Three words: breast milk jewelry. I wish someone wouldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve told me about it years ago so I could have a keepsake from each of my babies. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m very thankful I will at least have something to commemorate the labor of love that breastfeeding has been for me as a mom.

Self-care packages

Special keepsake jewelry is always a favorite for moms.

There are so many things that moms want but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to spend money on for themselves. Self-care items tend to fall in that category. Selfcare includes things that make you feel better about yourself and have more confidence. It is important because moms need to take care of themselves, too. Makeup, skin care, massage and spa experiences are all examples of self-care. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to give a gift that includes self-care items, there are lots of ways to create a package. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve created packages of skin care and makeup for husbands wanting to treat their wives. Hair stylists, massage therapists and nail salons are able to give gift certificates. Brow threading is a great idea and a big trend right now as well.

A friend invited me to join a group for keepsake jewelry over a year ago, and ever since, I have been following the pictures and the reviews. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m really impressed with their work. Made With Love Keepsakes creates one-of-a-kind, handmade, uniquely crafted jewelry out of your precious

Speaking of gift certificates and coupons, how about give a gift of a day off? I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know a mom out there who wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t love to come home to a clean house or wake up to breakfast in bed without having to get up and do it herself. You could

Give a day off

ENROLLING NOW St. Joseph School

A Foundation Based in Faith - A Future Focused on Success

501- 327-1204

72 | 501 LIFE May 2018

www.stjosephconway.org

purchase a one-time house cleaning, take over laundry and other house duties for a day or give her the night off from bedtime routine or other responsibilities so she can have the night off. Most moms would also love a date night with either their spouse or their friends. Hire a sitter and surprise her with a date night! One year, my husband gave me a gift of 20 hoursâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; worth of a babysitter paid in advance. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not forget about sweet and precious gifts that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cost a thing and leave lasting memories. Homemade cards, hand prints, breakfast in bed served by our kiddos, hand-picked flowers and coupons for hugs are the gifts that give us joy, while the other ideas are the whipped cream and cherry on top. Keep in mind that the women in your life may be hinting about other gifts. I know one friend is wanting a fire pit! Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a fire pit, a piece of jewelry, furniture, new clothes because sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been wearing the same leggings for three years and complaining how nothing fits or some new makeup and skin care because she struggles with buying these things for herself, giving the perfect gift can meet a need in your special womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives!

Children enjoy making homemade gifts for special occasions.

May 2018 501lifemag.com | 73

ARTS in the 501

Celebrating 20 years Conway Men’s Chorus plans May 15 concert A person’s dream can one day become a reality. A dream of a group of men singing together for the people of the Conway area began almost two decades ago. This year marks the 20th anniversary year of the Conway Men’s Chorus. At 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 15, the chorus will present its 20th Annual Spring Pops Concert at Reynolds Performance Hall at the University of Central Arkansas. Doors open at 6:30, with free admission and free parking. Songs will range from sacred and inspirational to classical and popular. Selections include “Be Still My Soul,” “Hey There Delilah,” “Rise Up O Men of God,” “Shenandoah,” “Softly As I Leave You” and “The Awakening.” “The men’s chorus members invite anyone who enjoys music to come join us at our next concert. You will be glad you did,” said board chairman Mike McCullars. For more information about the concert and the chorus, visit conwaymenschorus.org. Nearly 20 years ago, the seed of the dream of a men’s chorus was planted in the mind of then state Rep. and local attorney Tom Courtway. That dream took root and began to grow in the fall of 1998 when he invited five of his friends – Jim Beal, Bill Johnson, Richard Hardin, Bill Ward and Arch Jones – to have lunch with him at his Conway law office. All of these men had some musical affiliation and appreciation. Courtway declared, “I think we should start a men’s chorus. Conway needs it, and it would be a lot of fun.” From that simple beginning, Hardin, a choral director with the Conway Public Schools, began to direct rehearsals and shortly a group of nearly 60 men sang the National Anthem at a Conway High School football game. The group later appeared at the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce’s Second Monday Luncheon before presenting carols as part of the annual Downtown Conway Christmas Parade. Their group’s first official concert followed a few months later by a second concert at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Conway. All concerts have been presented as a free musical gift to the public. Hardin directed the group for seven seasons before turning over the baton to then state Sen. and former university music professor Gilbert 74 | 501 LIFE May 2018

The Conway Men’s Chorus will present its annual Spring Pops Concert at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 15, in Reynolds Performance Hall at the University of Central Arkansas. Baker, who directed it for two seasons. Next came Bill Ward, a church choir director, along with his wife, Suzy, as pianist, who directed the chorus for five seasons. Directors who followed Ward were former church choir directors Darrell Spigner, Carlos Ichter and Kelley Erstine. In January 2009, Sam Huskey, choral director with the Conway Public Schools, became the director for nine years until handing the chorus over to Jordan Bennett in February. Paul Bradley became the fifth person to serve for the past 12 years as primary accompanist beginning in 2006. There have been three assistant directors, including Jordan Bennett for the past five years until he assumed the position of choral director in February. During its history, more than 270 men from Conway and the surrounding Central Arkansas area have sung with the chorus at some time, with about 55 participating each concert season. Three original charter members of the Chorus have performed at all 39 concerts to date – Phil Boudreaux, Jim Lane and Mike McCullars. Two others – Freddie Williams and Dale Wyncoop – having only missed one concert each. “That’s quite something to have such dedication from these men,” said McCullars, Chorus chairman.

Chorus members have been men from high school age into their 80s. They have had a full range of musical abilities and knowledge. They have been men from all walks of life and in various fields of employment including agriculture, arts, broadcasting, business, construction, education, finance, labor, law, medicine, music and sales as well as retired. Simply put, members of the Conway Men’s Chorus have been and continue to be men who simply love to sing and want to give the joy of music back to their community. There have been four board chairmen since beginning in 1998: Tom Courtway (one year), Jim Beal (two years) and Bill Ferguson (nine years). McCullars has been the chairman for the past nine years. Current board members are McCullars, Kelly Boswell (vice-chairman), Phil Boudreaux (treasurer), Jim Lane and Tom Courtway (board emeritus). The Conway Men’s Chorus is mostly selffunded through donations of time and money from its members as well as partial funding through the generous sponsorships from local businesses and donations from concert patrons. Information about how people can financially support the chorus can be found at conwaymenschorus.org/supporters.

Art on the Green announces recent changes in positions Art on the Green’s Gallery Director Brenda McClain recently announced several staff changes. “Parilee Croft, assistant gallery director, has decided to take a step back to work on new projects, with emphasis on her creative endeavors,” McClain said. “We were fortunate to have Parilee on staff since the Gallery’s inception. Her contribution was significant to the success Art on the Green continues to enjoy. Her painting has been taking a back seat to the Gallery. We love her art and look forward to seeing more of her work in the Gallery.” Kelly Booy has been named gallery manager. Booy will assume many of Croft’s duties, continuing her role working within the art community, teaching and spearheading children’s art contests, art classes and the Gallery’s newest initiative, City Talks. “Kelly and her family – four children and her husband, Stefan – are well-traveled and bring a different perspective to our artists’ works.” Booy can be reached at kelly@artonthegreen.net to schedule a tour for groups or students. Kate Hoopchuk is now creative director. “This promotion is well-deserved,” McClain said. “We feel fortunate to have Kate on our team. She has an eye for what works for the Gallery.” Hoopchuk will be working with the Gallery’s photographers to create an online store of artists’ works. Photographers interested in Art on the Green’s representation should

Kate Hoopchuk is now creative director at Art on the Green.

Kelly Booy has been named gallery manager at Art on the Green.

email photo samples to Hoopchuk at kate@artonthegreen. net. Art on the Green is an artistic vortex drawing skilled artists and art lovers alike. The 3,000 square-foot gallery not only showcases the works of internationally acclaimed artists in every medium, but it also transforms art into a living, breathing thing. It’s a symphony of artwork that touches the heart and inspires the mind. “Call us, and we’ll open just for you. 501.205.1922 or artonthegreen.net.”

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nce e i r e xp

T the

FAV

REC O R I T E DEST REATION INAT ION

Events planned during May at art gallery

On beautiful Greers Ferry Lake

Art on the Green has several special events and activities planned in May: The wedding registry at Art on the Green will feature The Conway Collection throughout May. Art on the Green will host an artist reception for Wendy Leonard from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Friday, May 4. Wendy uses swift, lively strokes to create unconventional watercolor compositions with enchanting colors. Conway Mayor Bart Castleberry will be featured in the next installment of City Talks from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 24, at the gallery. The gallery is located in Littleton Park at 1100 Bob Courtway in Conway. For more information, call 501.205.1922 or visit artonthegreen. net.

Bl&ue BBQ AY IN THE B

Saturday

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• Classic Car Show VisitFairfieldBay.com Ozark Mountain Lake LAKE PLAY • NATURE TRAILS • GOLFING • FISHING •Resort TENNIS&•Community 501.884.4202 • V ISIT F AIRFIELD B AY . COM May 2018 501lifemag.com | 75

LIFE PICS

Sacred Heart School Trivia Night a success Sacred Heart School recently hosted its Fifth Annual Trivia Night fundraiser in the school gym/ Ruff Auditorium. This year’s event attracted a packed crowd of more than 400 people. Guests were treated to dinner and complimentary beverages throughout the evening – all provided courtesy of El Penjamo, Church Street Deli, Arkansas Beverage, Dad’s and ArkaValley. Roger Scott of Little Rock radio station 103.7 The Buzz acted as emcee for the evening and led the 50 participating teams through six rounds of trivia on topics ranging from Broadway musicals to physics. The title of Trivia Champion went to the “Nacho Average Squad” (Justin and Melody Dixon, Michelle and Kyle Dixon, Brandy and Thomas McCoy, Charles Penick and Sarah Howard) who took home bragging rights and the option to create a new category for next year’s competition. Based on popular vote, prizes were also awarded for Best Team Name, Best Table Decorations and Best Costume. Organizers expressed their appreciation to sponsors Koontz Electric Co. Inc., ArkaValley Glazers, Green Bay Packaging, McGee Monument, Petit Jean State Bank, Conway County Farm Bureau, Petit Jean Meats, Crow Construction and Hoyt Stone. Door prizes were donated by Clover Alley, Merle Norman, Triangle Carwash, State Farm/Ancel Carlon and members of the Sacred Heart Development Advisory Board. With very little expense, the majority of proceeds directly benefit the school. Additional Trivia Night photos are available on the school’s Facebook page.

76 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Nacho Average Squad: Justin and Melody Dixon (seated, from left), Michelle and Kyle Dixon; Brandy (back) and Thomas McCoy. Not pictured: Charles Penick and Sarah Howard.

Deacon Steve and the “Altar” Egos – Candice (from left) and David Watkins, Barbara and Deacon Steve Mallett, Kyle and Sarah Stobaugh, Ashley and Bart Stobaugh

David Drilling (from left), Jon Drilling, Harley Williams, Stacy Drilling, Denis Drilling, Alan Hoelzeman, Todd Hoyt, Wes Williams, Phillip Thomas; and Roger Scott

Lori Beck (from left), Cindy Ellis, Regina Erwin, Suzanne Grant, Teresa Stell, Valerie Womack, Angie McCarter and Connie Grote.

Judges ready to rule: Kara Jones (from left), Susan Dumas, Stephanie Buckley and Susan Buser.

AUTHORS IN THE 501

Thomas finds success as fantasy writer

Susan Peterson Susan Peterson holds a PhD in education and taught at the University of Central Arkansas and Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania. She retired in 2004 and now spends her time doing artwork (painting and pottery). She is the executive secretary of the Arkansas Reading Association, a professional organization for educators that has about 800 members statewide.

By day, Remy Thomas is a student at the University of Central Arkansas majoring in secondary education. At night, she works as a critical care worker at Conway Regional Medical Center. She is married and is the mother of two young girls, ages 2 and 4. But during the quiet times when her children are asleep, Remy assumes the role of Angel Blackwood, a writer who has two published novels — “Kindling” (2016) and “Waxing” (2017) — under her Obsidian Embers series. Book three of the series, “Devouring,” will come out later this year. These fantasy works combine romance, dark comedy, brute force,

her readers, and she uses a Facebook page, her website and a Twitter feed to respond to their questions. For inspiration, Remy keeps an extensive Word file feminist strength, destruction and magic. Dark fantasy is a genre she is drawn to and loves to explore. The readers of her series draw comparisons to “Game of Thrones.” Getting published was not an easy process. She’s learned to persevere and said that getting rejection letters has only increased her persistence and desire to write. Now she has an agent who shops her work to publishers. She enjoys getting validation about her writing through feedback from

filled with ideas. She doesn’t do a lot of plot mapping but does know how the story will start and end. The action and characters develop along the way, and sometimes even she is surprised at the decisions her characters make. Reviewers compliment the complexity of her characters and the believability of even the magical scenes. She takes pride in researching topics in order to make scenes more authentic and credible. Angel has signed a book contract with The Ed Greenway Group (TEGG), a newly-formed powerhouse specializing in publishing fantasy. After graduating from UCA, Remy hopes to teach high school English. Eventually she would like to get her Ph.D. and teach at a university where she will assume another moniker, Dr. Thomas. She says it’s good she can operate on very little sleep and lots of caffeine. To find out more about Angel Blackwood’s novels, short stories and anthologies, visit her website (angelblackwood.wixsite.com/angelblackwood). Her books are available from Amazon and other online book sellers. May 2018 501lifemag.com | 77

BUSINESS ROUNDUP

UCA, Conway Regional announce grants The University of Central Arkansas and Conway Regional Health System recently announced a partnership aimed at addressing shortages in the numbers of registered nurses. The Conway Regional Health Foundation is providing a total of $390,000, with $240,000 for student scholarships and $150,000 for faculty development and School of Nursing initiatives. The “Partnership for Clinical Excellence” (PCE) will award a $2,500 scholarship to an average of eight students in the UCA School of Nursing. Funds will be granted per semester for four semesters for students pursuing a bachelor of science in nursing. “UCA continues to be a leader in producing exceptional clinical professionals for the healthcare industry in Arkansas, and we recognize the growing need for quality nursing graduates. We are uniquely positioned to meet the growing demand in our state and region,” said UCA President Houston Davis. “Our leadership role in nursing will only increase as we partner in growth and development with the industry.” “As longtime neighbors and partners working together to positively impact this community and state, Conway Regional is proud to be a part of the solution to the growing demand for quality nurses. This partnership with UCA will ensure that we can continue to provide the community and our patients with excellent and compassionate care for years to come,” said Conway Regional CEO Matt Troup. “Health care providers across the country are looking for ways to tackle this critical nursing shortage, and we see this investment in education as an important step along with the added benefit of a focus on clinical best practice and other areas such as research and staff development.” Susan Gatto, director of the UCA School of Nursing, said, “UCA and Conway Regional have a long history of partnering. This latest initiative not only strengthens our partnership, but it is also a local approach to the national issue of the nursing short-

College of Health and Behavioral Sciences Dean Jimmy Ishee (from left), Conway Regional CEO Matt Troup, Conway Regional Chief Nursing Officer Angie Longing, UCA School of Nursing Director Susan Gatto, UCA Board of Trustees Member and Conway Regional Board of Directors Chairman Cornell Maltbia and UCA President Houston Davis. age. Together, we can begin to address this issue.” Nursing students will be admitted with the standard admissions requirements in the UCA School of Nursing. The university and Conway Regional will jointly select students for the PCE scholarships. PCE students must commit to working for Conway Regional for a minimum of two years after graduation and passing licensure requirements. UCA will also receive support for nursing faculty development and School of Nursing initiatives through the Nursing Enhancement Fund, a $150,000 grant with $50,000 paid annually over three years. “This is a unique approach to providing affordable access to a nursing degree. As a UCA nursing graduate myself, I understand the challenges faced

not only by the health care provider in great need of nurses, but also by the educational institutions striving to produce more graduates to meet the demand of the market. Our hope is that this new program can help more students pursue their dream of becoming a nurse,” Conway Regional Chief Nursing Officer Angie Longing said. Since its establishment in 1967, the UCA School of Nursing has played a leadership role in nursing education. Programs offered include the bachelor of science in nursing, masters of science in nursing and the doctor of nursing practice. Consistently responding to the needs of students, changes in health care and education standards, UCA’s nursing degree programs ensure that students are prepared for a quickly evolving health care environment.

Middleton Heat & Air given Top Dealer Award Middleton Heat & Air recently was awarded Trane’s Top Ten Dealer Award for 2017. Ben Hedenberg, Southern Division Sales Director of Trane Residential Solutions, a division of Ingersoll Rand, presented the award. The announcement was made at Trane’s annual DSO spring meeting at the Capitol Hotel in Little Rock. Accepting the award was Ron Humphrey, Middleton’s residential operations manager. “We were in competition with approximately 350 Trane dealerships throughout Arkansas and a portion of Louisiana, so we are very honored with this award and proud to be a Trane Comfort Specialist,” said Humphrey. Adam Weaver, MidSouth DSO General Manager said, “Again this year, our award spotlights Middleton Heat & Air. Your team has made quite an accomplishment. They have diligently been devoted to installing and maintaining quality heating and cooling systems in a large portion of Central Arkansas for 42 years — and we’re proud to have provided residential and light commercial products for many of these years.” The Conway office is located at 55 Nabco St. Middleton Heat & Air founder and president is Chuck Middleton, and his son, Mark Middleton, is managing director. 78 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Ron Humphrey of Middleton Heat & Air (center) accepted the Trane Top Ten Dealer Award from Ben Hedenberg (left), sales director of Trane’s Southern Region, and Kris Marks, territory manager for Arkansas.

Baptist Health announces use of Halo Sleep Sacks Baptist Health is taking a strong step toward helping reduce the incidence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) with the use of Halo Sleep Sacks and safe sleep education for all parents. As an extra layer of safety for newborns and added peace of mind for new mothers, sleep sacks have replaced traditional baby blankets at Baptist Health medical centers. Sleep sacks, which are recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, are wearable blankets with built-in safety measures to prevent suffocation. To further promote this patient-safety initiative, every baby born at a Baptist Health hospital will go home with their very own sleep sack. Even swaddled babies can wiggle out of regular blankets or pull blankets over their faces. These loose and/or bulky blankets, along with other bedding, stuffed toys and bumper pads, in the crib can smother an infant. The adjustable sleep-sack wrap immobilizes the baby’s arms to prevent blanket movement and to remove the hazard. The wrap also makes for an easy transition when it is time to stop swaddling. Though SIDS cases have decreased over the years, 2,500 U.S. newborns still die of SIDS each year. According to latest statistics, Arkansas ranks third in the country at 141.1 deaths per 100,000 live births compared to the average nationally 39.7. Experts speculate that promoting babies sleeping on their backs is working, but bed sharing (which has been associated with SIDS) is up. Another risk factor for SIDS is overbundling the baby or tucking the baby in with a blanket. “Some hospitals across the country have replaced baby blankets with sleep sacks in their newborn areas,” said Troy Wells, president and CEO of Baptist Health. “We want to take a step further and not only utilize sleep sacks in all of our hospitals but provide one to every mother to promote the use of these sleep sacks at home. It is one thing to promote safety in the hospital, but allowing a mother to take the wrap home helps to ensure it will be used even after discharge from the hospital.” Baptist Health is using the new safety blanket at all of its medical centers where babies are delivered, which includes Little Rock, North Little Rock, Conway, Stuttgart and Arkadelphia. “We’ve gotten a wonderful response from the families using them in the hospital, and they are super excited to find out that they get to take a sleep sack home with them,” said Brenda Goodhart, director of Baptist Health’s Women’s Center. “They come in two sizes as well as two colors – pink for girls and blue for boys. Using them in the hospital is a great way for our caregivers to help teach parents about safe sleep for infants.” Baptist Health estimates they will provide around 6,000 sleep sacks during 2018 based on the number of deliveries in all of their hospitals. For more information about Baptist Health, call Baptist Health HealthLine at 1.888.BAPTIST or visit baptist-health.com.

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Every baby born at a Baptist Health hospital will go home with their very own sleep sack.

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May 2018 501lifemag.com | 79

FEATURE

Best Buddies

Program promotes friendship, inclusion

“Loving LIFE” at Conway High School: Greg Andrews (from left), Kylee French, Seni Quintana, Miller Myers, Arlando Stiger, Zander McNeal and Cheryl Daniels. Story and photo by Sonja J. Keith

Conway High School students are promoting understanding and acceptance of people with disabilities through a new program – Best Buddies. A non-profit organization established in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver, the mission of Best Buddies is to establish a global volunteer 80 | 501 LIFE May 2018

movement that creates opportunities for one-toone friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Seniors Kylee French and Miller Myers are leading the effort for the Best Buddies Friendship Walk, planned Saturday, April 28, at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School. (For more information, visit bestbuddiesfriendship-

walk.org/Conway.) Proceeds will be used to support a state Best Buddies office as well as the local program. Organizers also hope to also raise enough money to send a Conway representative to the national Best Buddies conference. Best Buddies, an extension of the Caring Cats club at the high school, pairs students with and without disabilities that becomes a lifelong friendship.

Special Education Teacher Cheryl Daniels, who is retiring this year from teaching after 36 years, started Caring Cats in 2005. It was created to integrate special education and general population students while providing an avenue for students to do service for others. There are no requirements for membership. “We’re helping people that no one else is helping and reaching others that don’t qualify (for other services),” she said. In the past, Caring Cats has helped with a variety of needs, including tornado relief. Currently, the club is helping a student whose father has no insurance who has been diagnosed with cancer. Caring Cats is the umbrella and Best Buddies is one of the club’s programs, which started last year. “Best Buddies took it to a whole new level,” Ms. Daniels said. “They were integrating and they were doing stuff, but it was on their own. When you have that one person you know you can be totally honest with and tell them what’s going on in your life, they can help that need.” Conway High School was approached about adding Best Buddies, which offers local and national support. Last year, there were about 20 students involved in Best Buddies and that number has grown to about 120 this year. Kylee and Miller have been involved with the club Caring Cats at Conway High School since they were sophomores. Kylee is president of Caring Cats and Best Buddies. Miller is vice president for both. Kylee said she was encouraged to join Caring Cats by one of her teachers who said special education teachers were often not recognized. Kylee helped with Angel Paws, one of the club’s activities, which provides Christmas gifts to students in need. “I got to really connect with the kids and I really started getting involved, when I got to see what they did. It was really cool. The difference in makes in the school really made me want to do it.” As Best Buddies, students have regular contact with the special education student they are paired with while at school and away from school. Miller said buddies are supposed to hang out and enjoy activities at least twice a month and make contact at school at least once a week. “They do so much more than they would ever tell you. It’s not just at school. They are in contact with them on the weekends, they are taking them to movies, bowling, the zoo,” Ms. Daniels said. “Always before, I would have to orchestrate. It’s not like that. They come up with these things and then they tell me about it. Because of them, it’s going to keep going and getting better and better. “It just makes my heart explode.” Best Buddies utilizes a matching process to pair the students. Miller points out there are more general population students who want to be paired than there are special education students. There are currently 26 Best Buddies pairings. Kylee said there are “associate buddies” for those who want to be involved but aren’t paired or who don’t have enough time to be fully involved. Ms. Daniels and her students point out that while they do hope to raise money, they hope the walk accomplishes something more important – awareness. Different businesses as well as school person-

“

They do so much more than they would ever tell you. It’s not just at school. They are in contact with them on the weekends, they are taking them to movies, bowling, the zoo. Always before, I would have to orchestrate. It’s not like that. They come up with these things and then they tell me about it. Because of them, it’s going to keep going and getting better and better. It just makes my heart explode.

”

— Special Education Teacher Cheryl Daniels nel have provided support for the event. “People have been so great to us. Our community has been amazing,” said Ms. Daniels. She and the students are particularly appreciative of Principal Jason Lawrence. “He has been such a great asset to Best Buddies and our school. His heart for kids, whether it be us or the special ed kids or kids who don’t have any friends, he is always there. He has supported us so, so much. He’s great.” Ms. Daniels also expressed appreciation to Athletic Director Steve Daniels for his help and support of the walk. In talking about Caring Cats and Best Buddies, Kylee said she enjoys most getting to connect with the special education students. “They have made such an impact on my life. I really mean that when I say that. They can completely light up a room. Miller also enjoys the interaction with the special ed students, in particular the “buddies.” “They are so much fun to be around. I feel like being involved in this I have found a calling in my life in a way. I love being around them so much.” Miller is undecided about his education or career path after high school graduation but he anticipates that he will be involved with special education students, perhaps as a teacher or a therapist. “I can’t imagine a career without them involved.” Kylee, whose mother and grandmother are teachers, is considering a career as a special education teacher. Ms. Daniels said Kylee and Miller have a big heart for special education students and she is confident they have the ability to do well as teachers. “They’ve talked about how the kids light up the room, but when they walk in, they light up. They see it as our kids are lighting up the room, but I see how the kids light up when they come in.”

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SPORTS

The Wonderview Lady Daredevils were “Loving LIFE” at the state championship game against Mount Vernon-Enola: Rylea Ward (front, from left), Abby Gullett, Elainna Carr; Alexis Allen (back), Hadley Jones, Faith Byers, Mallory Jones, Taylor Zimmerman, Emily Gunderman, Shelby Reynolds, Brooke Zimmerman, Bre Gottsponer, Kailey Gullett, Bailey Wright, Audrey Beck, Alexis McCleran and Mckenzie Tinsley.

3rd time a charm for Wonderview by Levi Gilbert

After falling short in the state finals two out of the last three years, the third time truly was the charm for the Wonderview Lady Daredevils, who defeated Mount Vernon-Enola, 56-40, in the 1A girls’ state championship. Wonderview (37-3) flipped the script on a key statistic that doomed them in the 2017 1A final. “Last year during the final, we were 0-for-17 from the 3-point line, and that was usually what got our game rolling,” said Shelby Reynolds, a senior post for Wonderview. “This time, our shots fell. So, to see those shots falling boosted our confidence and intensity throughout the game.” The 3-point shooting didn’t start out pretty for Wonderview — they started 1-of-8 — but a key series of plays in the second quarter turned the tide. “We had so many shots go in and out in the first half, but we couldn’t seem to get any momentum going,” said Coach Jeremy Simon. “I believe it was around a seven-point lead when (senior) Brooke Zimmerman hit a 3-pointer with two minutes to go in the second quarter. (Junior) Faith Byers made another 3-pointer about a minute later, and we were able to stretch our lead to 13 at half. After starting the game 1-of-8 from the 3-point line, we made six of our last 10 3-point attempts. “It was great to see us shoot it well from the 82 | 501 LIFE May 2018

“

Last year during the final, we were 0-for-17 from the 3-point line, and that was usually what got our game rolling. This time, our shots fell.

”

— Shelby Reynolds outside after we struggled so badly last year. It is very difficult to shoot in that arena, especially for small schools who are used to playing in small gyms. Mount Vernon-Enola struggled from the 3-point line. I felt like we did a good job on forcing them to shoot deep shots that were contested.” Rebounding was another key factor for Wonderview. The Lady Daredevils out-rebounded Mount Vernon-Enola 41-28. Zimmerman led Wonderview with 19 points. Byers and Reynolds both finished close to a doubledouble. Byers had 17 points and nine rebounds, and Reynolds had eight points and 12 rebounds. “Brooke got us going early in the game and played a great first half,” Simon said. “She hit some

big shots and made some great passes that assisted her teammates into scoring. Faith did a great job handling the ball for us and also grabbed nine rebounds. Faith also was clutch down the stretch going 7-of-8 from the free throw line in the second half. “Shelby rebounded the ball as well as I have ever seen. She was all over the place and got us several extra possessions.” For the seniors — Zimmerman, Reynolds and Breanna Gottsponer — the win erased years of frustrations from losing in the championship game in 2015 and 2017. “This win means the absolute world to us,” Reynolds said. “It feels unreal that I can actually call myself a state champ, but we did it. This is what we worked so hard for all season, and it is the absolute best way to finish my high school basketball career. We could not be more blessed.” “It’s hard to put into words what this means to us,” Simon said. “My three seniors played with so much determination during the second half of this season and throughout our post-season run. It is so difficult to make it to the championship game, and after losing in last year’s finals, I did not know if we would ever make it back. “But these seniors were determined to bring home a state championship before they graduated. I couldn’t be prouder of them.”

Guy-Perkins claims state title

The Guy-Perkins Thunderbirds were “Loving LIFE” at the State 1A Basketball Tournament in Hot Springs: Ashton Gines (front, from left), Brandon Brech, Dawson Beaudin, Wyatt Spires, Brycen Brown; Maddison Cunningham (middle row), Brittany Willson, Jared Davidson, Austin Barnett, Coach John Hutchcraft; Payton Pridmore (third row), Brooks Tipton, Tre Minton, Hunter Williams, Carson Petrucelli; Bryar Thorn (back), Caleb Delph, Dylan Aldridge, Ambrose Rodriguez, Duane Boncheff and Colby Malone.

by Levi Gilbert

Trailing by 12 points in the second quarter, the Guy-Perkins Thunderbirds rallied for a 71-66 win over Izard County, closing out John Hutchcraft’s legendary coaching career with an 11th state title. “It was one of the best wins of my career,” Hutchcraft said. “I could tell my boys were playing extra hard for me on my last game. This state tournament win will always be one of my greatest memories.” Entering the fourth quarter, Guy-Perkins trailed by two points. The teams exchanged leads until seniors Carson Petruccelli and Tre Minton took over with 3:40 remaining in the game. The seniors combined for 10 of Guy-Perkins’ last 12 points down the stretch, taking the lead and never surrendering it. Petruccelli led the Thunderbirds with 24 points. Three other starters finished in double figures. Senior Wyatt Spires posted 16 points and 21 rebounds (more than half of the team's 40 total rebounds), senior Brooks Tipton put up 13 points and Minton finished with 10. Ambrose Rodriguez, Guy-Perkins’ fifth starter, hit two 3-pointers in the first quarter to help the Thunderbirds get started.

“All my players had a good game, especially in the second half,” Hutchcraft said. “They all have certain jobs to do, and they did it. It was a great team effort. They played good defense, and all five starters can score.” Izard County came out hot, putting up 26 points in the first quarter. Guy-Perkins keyed its comeback in the second quarter, outscoring Izard County 18-11. In the second half, free throws proved to be the difference. The Thunderbirds were 9-of-12 at the line in the fourth quarter. Izard County didn’t get to the line one time in the fourth quarter. Overall, Guy-Perkins attempted 12 more free throws than the Cougars, and made twice as many (14). “Tre Minton and Brooks Tipton made crucial free throws toward the end of the game,” Hutchcraft said. “I feel like our team plays their best game in the second half and especially in the fourth quarter.” As is usually the case for Hutchcraft, his championships tend to be a family affair. This year was no different as his grandson, Wyatt Spires, won his second-straight championship. “I would say two of Wyatt’s biggest games have been during the state tournament finals,” Hutchcraft said. “He had a big game last year as well, and he

broke the rebounding record for the state tournament this year. It was really something special. My daughter, Coach Ashley Nance, was also coaching the Conway Lady Cats in the 7A girls’ championship. Coaching my three kids and now my grandson has been the highlight of my career.” And to top it all off, his final win came on his birthday. Hutchcraft will retire from coaching high school basketball with 2,014 wins and 11 state championships (six boys’ titles and five girls’ titles). What will probably come as no surprise to anyone, Hutchcraft doesn’t plan to slow down in retirement, and basketball is still in his future. “I own an auction business, so I will stay busy with that,” Hutchcraft said. “I plan to play more basketball with the [Team USA 60s] men’s team and travel. I may not hang the whistle up just yet. I did have someone suggest I take up refereeing. Who knows, that may be an option? “I’m looking forward to being able to follow and support Ashley and her team. Of course, I'll always follow the Guy-Perkins Thunderbirds. It will be a little different sitting in the stands instead of coaching from the sidelines. I also look forward to doing a lot more fishing and hunting.” May 2018 501lifemag.com | 83

SPORTS

Just breathe

Athletic trainer’s split-second decision saves a life by Mark Oliver Mike Kemp photos

Sept. 22, 2017, started out like any other day for University of Central Arkansas graduate assistant Allison Susa. Hard at work in pursuit of her master’s degree in exercise science, the 24-year-old athletic trainer remembers it as if it were yesterday. “It was a busy day for me,” Susa said. “I spent the morning working my morning treatments with other athletes and students. I remember having to send one of our strength staff to the emergency room for an injured toe, and I remember thinking how random that was for that to happen that day.” Later that day, as Susa worked through her afternoon treatments with UCA’s men’s basketball team practicing nearby, a normal Friday would turn into a life-changing challenge in the blink of an eye. “I’ll never forget hearing the basketball players running down the hall yelling my name,” Susa said. “They were shouting, ‘SK is down, SK is down!’ They thought that he was having a seizure.” Just moments before, UCA men’s basketball player Sikiru “SK” Shittu had collapsed in the practice gym. In an instant, everything Susa had learned from her studies would be put to the test. “I took off running immediately, but stopped and went back for our emergency kit, which contains our automated external defibrillator, oxygen and other various items for life-threatening situations.” With her emergency kit in tow, Susa arrived at the scene and knew that her next moments were critical. “I had to force myself to stay calm and just breathe,” Susa said. “One thing that you are taught in undergraduate studies is that if you start freaking out and lose control, you’re going to make mistakes. You have to keep calm and work through the process that you’ve been taught to do. One of my students was right next to me, helping me, and we put the AED on right away.” Shittu’s heart had stopped, and he was no longer breathing. The clock was ticking. While Susa and her team tended to Shittu, other athletic trainers called 911. “In my undergraduate classes, before becoming an athletic trainer, we would do simulations of real-life situations as part of our training requirements,” Susa said. “One simulation was of a football player who stopped breathing and didn’t have a pulse. While I was working on SK, 84 | 501 LIFE May 2018

UCA graduate assistant Allison Susa and Bears basketball player Sikiru “SK” Shittu, who collapsed in the practice gym on campus.

For more information on athletic training, visit the National Athletic Trainers’ Association at NATA.org.

I had that lesson in the back of my mind. After I shocked him, he still didn’t have a pulse, so I went into chest compressions. That’s when he came back.” Susa’s quick thinking worked — Shittu was alive. “Once the paramedics arrived and carried him out, I remember feeling blank,” Susa said. “I didn’t know how to react. All of the basketball players were hugging me, I was holding back tears and there were so many things rushing through my head. I couldn’t process what had just happened. Once he was gone, I told myself that I did everything I could and had to let the hospital continue from there.” That night, after finishing her duties at the university, Susa went to the hospital to visit the man whose life she saved. “I didn’t know what to expect,” Susa said. “When I walked into the room, there were a number of players in there with him. He was alert, aware and talking. It was a huge relief. I hugged him and told him I was happy to see him. He had a lot of questions about what happened to him, and we talked for a long time. It was a good reunion.” To this day, the cause of Shittu’s heart attack stumps medical professionals. A defibrillator was implanted into his chest a week after the incident, and he continues to support the Bears in hopes of rejoining them on the court one day.

Allison Susa is pursuing a master’s degree in exercise science at the University of Central Arkansas. “There are days where I’ll see something on Facebook about another athletic trainer saving a life or another athlete having a heart attack, and it all hits me again,” Susa said. “For me, it’s not just something you hear about in class anymore — it’s real life. Honestly, having the AED with us was probably the reason that we had such a favorable outcome. The sooner you can get it on, the better the outcome, in the end.” These days, Susa is busily involved with baseball season at UCA, but regularly sees the man who lived to see another day. “I still see SK a couple times a week,” Susa said. “We both work out in the same athletic training room. A week after the incident, he walked back into the training room, gave me a big hug and thanked me. I was ecstatic because he was walking like a normal athlete just one week after a life-threatening event. He’s recently

started shooting at practice again. When I walk by, he’ll say things like, ‘This shot’s for you, Allison.’ We don’t talk about that day much anymore. We focus on the future instead.” Susa hopes her experience helps prepare others to expect the unexpected. “Athletic trainers around the world are put in positions like this every single day,” Susa said. “It’s part of our job. The recognition is humbling, and good for the profession in general, but this is what we’re trained to do. Whether it’s in the military, in an industrial setting or in a physician’s office, we’re healthcare professionals who are there for the prevention, reaction and rehabilitation of injury. You can sit through a class, read the book and have the knowledge, but you need to be able to put that knowledge into action because you’ll never know when you might need to use it.”

May 2018 501lifemag.com | 85

ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE in the 501

White County: Terri Conder-Johnson by Bob Reising

Her front yard was important. Recognizing that his 11-year-old daughter had a penchant for basketball, and that Romance, an unincorporated White County community in which they resided, had no public courts that she could hone her skills, Terri Conder-Johnson’s father erected a makeshift goal just a few yards from the main entrance of his family’s modest home. There, able to practice hour-after-hour and day-after-day, his 4-foot-11 daughter advanced on the path to national stardom in women’s basketball, a multi-season intercollegiate All-American, as well as to recognition as one of Arkansas’ most accomplished female athletes ever. Within a few years of her parent’s handiwork, the front-yard foes Terri imagined into existence yielded their place to Rose Bud High School opponents, and the latter fared no better against her than had the former. For four seasons, from 1978 through 1981, she was a dominant force in girls’ high school basketball in Arkansas, amassing a host of county, district and state honors. Three times she earned a place on Arkansas’s All-State Team, twice a berth on the nation’s High School All-American Team and, in 1980, selection as the Arkansas Gazette’s Player of the Year. Illustrating the numbers justifying those honors were three compiled in her final seasons at Rose Bud: her scoring average as a junior was the seventh highest ever in Arkansas history, 26 points a game; as a senior the fourth highest ever, 29, to which Terri added 15 rebounds per game, the second highest season total ever in Arkansas. But her hardwood achievements fail to account for all of her high school athletic excellence. Never one to enjoy idleness, she was content only when she had added softball, volleyball and track and field to her credentials. Thus, in three consecutive years, she won the state championship in the high jump. In 1981, she claimed a unique distinction, one whose demands on versatility few athletes attempt in an era of specialization: Terri became the state’s first Pentathlon champion. In the spring of the same year, she was sorely tempted to opt for the University of Arkansas while weighing the several full-scholarship offers sent her way in attempts to gain her athletic talents. The Fayetteville school, she knew, was her native state’s “Flagship University,” with nationally respected athletic programs. But its distance from Romance gave her pause. She could seldom travel home if in Northwest Arkansas. Nor would her family and friends be able to see her play frequently. The University of Central Arkansas, hardly 35 miles from Romance, was a much better fit, she concluded. And never has she reasoned more wisely. 86 | 501 LIFE May 2018

White County native Terri Conder-Johnson received numerous honors and recognition for her play with the University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bears.

The Johnson Family: youngest son Garrett (from left), Terri with dog Bear, her husband, Randy, and eldest son, Ryan. Garrett is graduating from the University of Central Arkansas in May and Ryan is a video game design artist for Sony Entertainment in Bend, Ore.

In Conway, the by-then 5-foot-11 Terri fell under the influence of a human with whom she enjoyed uncommon rapport. If her father had encouraged her basketball play, Ron Marvel, her UCA Coach, perfected it. During her baccalaureate experience, from 198185, she earned what no other player for the Sugar Bears could ever claim: a place on the All-Conference Team in four consecutive seasons. She also became the lone UCA player to garner All-American honors in three back-to-back seasons, while landing a spot on the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics All-American first-team in 1983 and 1985 and on its second team in 1984. Kodak AllAmerican honors fell to her in her final season under Marvel, who weeks earlier had watched her set the NAIA’s national free-throw record by pouring 20of-23 attempts through the nets in a contest against Arkansas Tech. During Terri’s four UCA seasons, her play was key in adding 96 triumphs in 116 games, as well as four post-season tournament appearances, to her affable mentor’s already impressive coaching record. Although uninterested in playing professional basketball, Terri refused to abandon athletics after completing her accounting degree. Distance running consumed her free hours, and in record time, it earned her state and national accolades, including designation as the Arkansas Female Runner of the Year in 2000 and qualification for the prestigious Boston Marathon in four springs. Currently serving as executive director of the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame, Terri is as proud of her White County roots as that county and the 501 are of her and her athletic excellence.

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This is the final installment in an ongoing series profiling noteworthy athletes from Central Arkansas, one from each of the 11 counties in the 501.

CPA

May 2018 501lifemag.com | 87

The view of the Arkansas River from Petit Jean State Park in Conway County.

TRAVEL

A different perspective of the 501 by Linda Henderson Tim Donar photos

Up to this point, all of my â&#x20AC;&#x153;Travel the 501â&#x20AC;? articles have been about the adventures that my husband, Jim, and I have had in the 501. This month, I want to feature a friend of mine, Tim Donar. He has just completed an extraordinary project that showcases the 52 Arkansas State Parks using drone photography. Along with completing the task of visiting and photographing each of the 52 state parks, he has selfpublished a beautiful book highlighting each park. The book is compiled of large aerial photographs and a short introduction to the park. Just visiting each park was a very time-consuming project, but being there at the perfect time to take a beautiful photograph required lots of photography knowledge and a little bit of luck. Tim expressed that presenting an aerial perspective of each park had been a long-term goal for him. Tim is a solution engineer in the software group, a division of HP, for a data analytics product called Vertica. Responsibilities include programming and development of demos. Through data visualization and finding effective ways to communicate complex information to sales and customers, Tim has created 88 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Woolly Hollow State Park in Faulkner County.

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a number of big data illustrated infographics for the product. Tim grew up in California and moved to Arkansas to work for Acxiom and later HP. He lives with his family in Conway. Tim took many different paths with photography. Aerial photography started with a large, radio-controlled balsa wood airplane he built in high school that carried a small 35mm camera. At the time, the camera could be controlled from the ground to trigger the shutter without any idea of framing and composition of each photo. As soon as the plane landed, it was off to find a film processing lab and look at the photos. Model aviation continued to advance, as well as camera technology. Tim started using digital cameras in the early 2000s and continued to refine his skills in landscape and architectural photography. Next, the drone revolution started to happen and was really a continuation of much more advanced radio-controlled airplanes and unique helicopters capable of using GPS technology for stabilization and positioning. Although some of the early drones were still far away from capturing the amazing photos we see today, they were still a learning process. Next, Tim built a drone from a kit with German instructions and a lot of soldering along the way. This drone flew and captured good photos. The very early models of GoPro cameras without stabilization yielded interesting photos, but not really book production quality. Just a few years ago, the technology advanced to a point that made it possible to photograph high-quality images suitable for printing to a poster size and capable of going into a book.

Jacksonport is located in Jackson County, along the White River.

s r a e Y 101

908 E. Oak St. I Conway, AR 72032 I 501.329.9881 SmithFord.com

May 2018 501lifemag.com | 89

The 101-acre Historic Washington State Park is located in Hemsptead County,

Petit Jean State Park in Conway County (middle/below).

90 | 501 LIFE May 2018

The lodge located at Mount Magazine State Park.

At this point, Tim knew a project like photographing the state parks was possible. Technology had improved to a point it made a book project probable. The camera and drone platform advanced to a point that large, good quality images could be produced. To obtain a permit to fly in each of the state parks, Tim had to secure a FAA small drone license and insurance. Then came the matter of completing paperwork with the state Photographer Tim Donar parks office and waiting to receive final approval. This is the very first time any project like this was undertaken and resulted in a book covering all 52 of the Arkansas State Parks. The project started in April 2017 and was completed in October when the final files were sent off for printing. One of the challenges was just the sheer amount of distance between all the different park locations, which often meant visiting some of the parks multiple times. The weather is always a key factor in outdoor photography, and that is especially true for aerial photography. Along with scheduling time with each individual park, he had to work around special events to find the least busy time to work on photographing, often very early in the morning and sometimes late afternoon. Before he started taking any photos, work began by talking to a print shop to understand standard book sizes and paper options. Tim did all the design, page layout and digital preparation before sending final documents for printing. Tim felt it was important to print this book in the U.S. because so many publications are sent off to China for printing. The value of this was a faster turnaround time and also the ability to drive and watch the first pages come off the printing press. The book can be purchased online directly from Timâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website at upn7.com, at many of the Arkansas State Park gift shops and in Conway at Jeniferâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Antiques and the UPS Store. In Little Rock, it is available at the State Capitol gift shop, WordsWorth Bookstore, Bedford Camera, Ozark Angler and other locations coming soon. Timâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book has inspired me to have a goal of visiting each of the 52 state parks within the next two years. Arkansas parks are a treasure and a rich opportunity to enjoy our natural state. May 2018 501lifemag.com | 91

NEIGHBORS special friends

2018 Chase Race ‘best ever’ Sonja Keith photos

Organizers are describing this year’s Chase Race and Paws in Downtown Conway the best event to date. “The 2018 Chase Race & Paws was the best ever race event,” said Don Potter, Chase Race founder and race director. The event was started in 2006 in memory of the unexpected loss of Potter’s 13-year-old son, Chase. “The event still honors and memorializes his short life of running and his love of dogs.” Proceeds from the 13th annual event, held March 10, raised money for HAVEN (Help for Abuse Victims in Emergency Need) and Friends of the Conway Animal Shelter. Chase Race and Paws promotes and raises funds for non-adopted pets and funding for a residential group home for adolescent females who have come into foster care through no fault of their own. Organizers believe that every dog deserves a life and every child deserves a home. “The first race had 105 participants and was able to give $4,000 back to the community,” said Potter. “This year’s event had 629 participants and was able to give $25,000 back to the community.” The event has raised $154,000 since its beginning. “The race started out with an atmosphere of reverence and respect for Chase without a lot of noise, pictures, awards and refreshments,” said Potter. “But now, 13 years later, the race still commemorates Chase’s short life, but has turned into one of the more popular and unique events in the state of Arkansas.” This year’s race had 70 sponsors, a record number. “I believe it is a record number for any race in the state of Arkansas.” For more information, visit chaserace.info. “We had the best weather, the best of everything this year. The race loves the city of Conway, the race loves Arkansas and its people for making a tragic event turn into a life celebration of a 13-year-old boy who is still missed every day. Thank you to the Chase Race board and all of the volunteers who make this event happen each year.”

Ty Brannon with Mickey. 92 | 501 LIFE May 2018

Jenna Frintz and Layla.

Heidi Thompson and Zoey, who was adopted during a previous Chase Race.

Sydney Castle with Ranger.

Sean Kennedy and Roxie.

Amanda and Laz Castillo with Diesel, adopted three years ago at the Chase Race.

Jax Hink and Holly Hink with Sadie.

Julie Kaylor and Sweet Tea.

Gavin Teague and Rocky.

Kendall Fillippino (left) and Ginger with Tonja Fillippino and Rudy.

Jennifer Tanui and Jake.

Subrena and Mike Morris with Twister, Cinder and Cooper.

Kelly Higgins (from left), Loren Dang and Annie Bridges with Zeus.

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May 2018 501lifemag.com | 93

NEIGHBORS person of the month

Roe Henderson

CITY WHERE YOU LIVE: Conway. WORK: Shelter Insurance agent. COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Faulkner County

Editorial Board for 501 LIFE, Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center Advisory Board, Renewal Ranch campaign committee. Previously served on the K-Life and Arkansas Community Foundation boards, as a Conway High School Band parent volunteer and as a member of the Ola and John Hawks Senior Wellness Center Campaign Committee. Also a member of the 2004 class of the Faulkner County Leadership Institute.

CHURCH ACTIVITIES: Woodland Heights Baptist Church, greeter ministry, substitute small group leader, mission trips. FAMILY: Wife, Missy; daughter and son-in-law,

Haley and Daniel Lowery, and their children (my grandchildren) Holt Lowery and Evie Lowery (and they are GRAND!); daughter and son-in-law, Hannah and Kirby O’Meara; dog, JoJo.

EDUCATION: Business degree from the University of Central Arkansas, 1987. LAST BOOK YOU READ: “Ava’s Man” by Rick Bragg.

FAVORITE BOOK: “My Southern Journey” by Rick Bragg.

FAVORITE MEAL: Crawfish and cornbread from Pasta Grill.

MOST CHERISHED POSSESSION: I have too much

stuff!

MOST ENJOYED WEEKEND ACTIVITY: Football, grandkids and being outdoors.

NO. 1 VACATION SPOT: Seagrove, Fla. A resident of Conway, Roe Henderson has been a member of the Faulkner County Editorial Board for 501 LIFE, since the beginning of the magazine. (Mike Kemp photo)

FAVORITE PLACE IN ARKANSAS: Conway and

Northwest Arkansas.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN THE 501: The people here are the best. There are lots of

things to do, see and enjoy. We live in a great place!

94 | 501 LIFE May 2018

We are all on the same team. Yours. At Conway Regional, fighting breast cancer is only part of completing the journey. Join us in welcoming Dr. Michael Spann, whose expertise in breast reconstruction surgery provides yet another layer of comprehensive breast . with 3D mammography to surgery and breast reconstruction, look care in your community. From detection no further than Conway Regional.

Pictured above (L to R)

Dr. Keith Bell, Radiology Dr. William McColgan III, General Surgery Dr. Micahel Spann, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Dr. Michael Stanton, General Surgery

One Team. One Promise.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

501 LIFE Proud to support the publication that’s only in Arkansas – just like us. Congratulations, 501 LIFE, on your 10-year anniversary!

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