Savvy | April 2015

THE LIFESTYLE MANUAL FOR THE MODERN MOM

MEET FIVE “MOMPRENEURS” WHO ARE BUILDING THEIR BUSINESSES AROUND FAMILY

APRIL 2015 · THESAVVYMOMS.COM

AUTISM IN ARKANSAS SUMMER CAMP IDEAS

Artistry in the Rock April 21-23 A celebration and showcase of LRSD student talent in the performing & visual arts.

Metroplex Event Center • 10800 Colonel Glenn Rd. • Little Rock, Arkansas Student Art Gallery April 21-23 9am-2pm Talent Schedule Metroplex Event Center Tuesday, April 21 9:30 am Western Hills 10:00 am Forest Heights Middle 11:00 am Otter Creek 11:30 am Mallory Baker, Piano Solo 11:50 am Meadowcliff 12:20 am Parkview Wednesday, April 22 9:30 am Dodd 10:00 am Washington 10:35 am Mann Middle Dance 11 am Dunbar Middle 12 noon Forest Park 12:30 pm Central Thursday, April 23 9:30 am Chicot 10:00 am Mabelvale Middle 10:30 am Pulaski Heights Middle 11:20 am Booker 11:45 am Mann Middle Band 12:10 pm Pulaski Heights Elem 12:35 pm McClellan

Thursday, April 23 Concerts & Silent Auction Fundraiser 6 pm AFRICA: From Whence We Came, Voices Without Borders Elementary Honor Ensemble 7 pm MUSED, with I..J. Routen 8 pm Jazz R US, with Danny Fletcher Refreshments will be served.

The silent auction will feature faculty and student artwork with proceeds benefitting the Dr. Morris Holmes Artistry Scholarship Fund.

For more information, see lrsd.org.

Congratulations to the 2015 Artistry in the Rock logo competition winner Howard G. Orlina, a 7th grade student at Henderson Middle School.

Little Rock School District

The NEW Little Rock School District Where WE Put Children First 2

APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

PERFORMANCE WORKPLAN

lrsd.org

RROW

ENCE FOR TOMO

CREATING EXCELL

Summer child care should help children stay physically fit and keep their minds engaged.

Choose quality summer child care that helps your child grow academically, socially, physically and emotionally all summer long.

Visit our website to download

4 deciding

factors for choosing summer child care

www.ARBetterBeginnings.com • 1-800-445-3316 Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

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APRIL

23 BOSS MOMS

ON THE COVER: LEANN WOLF WITH SONS (AND LEGOMANIACS) CRUZ AND BECKHAM. PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA BLANCETT REEVES.

MEET FIVE “MOMPRENEURS” WHO ARE BUILDING THEIR BUSINESSES AROUND FAMILY

In Every Issue

6 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR 34 HAPPENINGS 46 MOMSPEAK: SARABETH JONES

DEPARTMENTS 4

APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

12 nest

THE SOCIAL NETWORK

14 Thrive

CREATIVE TREATMENT PIECES OF THE PUZZLE

18 Nosh

BALANCED BREAKFAST

34 CULTIVATE

WAMA SUMMER PROGRAMS SUMMER CAMP GUIDE 2015

SARA BLANCETT REEVES

*Health coach Elizabeth Finch and her daughters, Emme and Mary Kate.

we

delivering the future

Stephanie Blackwood, Registered Nurse III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit UAMS Medical Center

Welcoming the newest member of the family is a special event that should happen in a very special place.

UAMS has an entire floor devoted to maternity with modern accommodations, private birthing suites and a staff of dedicated experts. Nationally known neonatology doctors and a world-class NICU are also on hand if additional care is needed. Head to toe, we have everything you need to give your baby a bright start.

It’s part of our commitment to creating a better state of health.

UAMShealth.com THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

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LETTER FROM THE

EDITOR

SARA BLANCETT REEVES

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

There’s no question about it: entrepreneurship is serious business in Arkansas. From food trucks and tech startups and literally everything in between, small businesses are thriving. Among this creative class of makers and doers are women who are building brands while raising families.

The term “mompreneur” isn’t new—it was coined in the 1990s by authors and leading authorities on women-owned businesses, Ellen H. Parlapiano and Patricia Cobe—and moms launching small and homebased businesses that give them more freedom and flexibility is certainly not just a trend. The five women profiled in this issue are as unique and diverse as the businesses they own, but their goals are the same: Have a fulfilling career that never forces them to choose between work and family. Their stories are honest and inspiring, and proof positive that “having it all” is a matter of perspective.

Now, after what seemed like a winter that wouldn’t just let it go already, the sun is shining and everything is getting green again. Before you know it, summer will be on our doorstep and (after all of those snow days are made up) school will be out. Then what? Check out our Summer Camp Guide—we’ve got tons of ideas for kids of all ages and interests, from art and science to outdoor adventures and college prep. The guide is also available on our website, and is continuously updated with new camp information.

April is also Autism Awareness Month, and writer Dwain Hebda takes a look at Autism in Arkansas on both the research and treatment fronts. According to the CDC’s 2014 Community Report on Autism, one in 65 children in Arkansas has an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Beginning on page 14, see how local organizations are providing treatment that is as individualized as the patient, and read what Dr. Richard Frye, director of autism research at the Arkansas Children’s Hospital Research Institute, has to say about the latest findings on autism, and why funding is more critical than ever.

Chances are, you know someone who has a child on the spectrum. Perhaps you’re a parent, grandparent, sibling or friend to an autistic child or adult. Arkansas has amazing organizations that work with people with autism, and we’ve included a starter list to help you learn more about them. Visit their websites to find out how they help families coping with autism, as well as how you can support them.

MEL JONES, EDITOR MEL@ARKTIMES.COM TWITTER @SAVVYAR

P.S. 6

APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

Be sure to keep up with us online! Visit thesavvymoms.com and sign up for our new and improved newsletter—launching soon!

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Pioneer Day CamP Expedition Arkansas!

PUBLISHER REBEKAH HARDIN | rebekah@arktimes.com EDITOR MEL JONES | melanie@arktimes.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR MANDY KEENER | mandy@arktimes.com ADVERTISING DIRECTOR ELIZABETH HAMAN | elizabeth@arktimes.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES SALEE BLACK | salee@arktimes.com JEFF DELONEY | jeff@arktimes.com BONNY GREGORY | bonny@arktimes.com LESA THOMAS | lesa@arktimes.com ADVERTISING TRAFFIC MANAGER ROLAND R. GLADDEN | roland@arktimes.com ADVERTISING COORDINATOR ERIN HOLLAND | erin@arktimes.com DIGITAL MEDIA PRODUCER BRYAN MOATS SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR LAUREN BUCHER | lauren@arktimes.com GRAPHIC DESIGNERS VINCENT GRIFFITH | BRYAN MOATS | MIKE SPAIN | KEVIN WALTERMIRE PHOTOGRAPHER BRIAN CHILSON PRODUCTION MANAGER | CONTROLLER WELDON WILSON

Monday to Friday 8 am – Noon

IT DIRECTOR ROBERT CURFMAN

June 15–19

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE KELLY LYLES

for kids entering 3rd & 4th grades

June 22–26

for kids entering 5th & 6th grades

200 East Third Street Downtown Little Rock 501-324-9351 A museum of the Department of Arkansas Heritage

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HistoricArkansas.org

@HistoricArk

BILLING/COLLECTIONS LINDA PHILLIPS CIRCULATION DIRECTOR SUSIE SHELTON

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

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I AM THE AEA Echo Miller serves her community by keeping students engaged.

cho Miller is what keeps all the moving parts of a school day on track. The in-school suspension teacher for the Ouachita River School District’s Acorn campus, Miller also is the study hall teacher, serves lunch duty for both the middle and high schools, and is the afternoon library aide. It is never a dull moment for Miller, and she likes it that way.

“I love the kids I get to work with,” she said. “I like talking to them and finding out about all the different lives they have.”

As an in-school suspension (ISS) teacher, Miller helps to keep more kids in school where they can be engaged rather than at home or in the community unsupervised. In-school suspension serves to be an effective learning tool, one that is part of the district’s strategy for creating and maintaining a positive, respectful and disciplined environment. When executed effectively, ISS helps students, teachers, faculty and parents realize that conflicts of all kinds will occur at school, and there are strategies in place to resolve those conflicts and address problems so students can continue to learn.

In addition to her many duties at the Ouachita River School District in Mena, Miller also serves as the local president of the Arkansas Education Association and is the National Education Association delegate for Region 6 in Arkansas. Miller says her participation in the AEA grew from membership to holding an office is because of what the organization provides.

“I started out joining the AEA for the insurance,” she said. “I also joined because I knew that if I need help with anything at my job, they would do whatever they could do. I then started attending the workshops they provide, and over the years, I have really enjoyed meeting other members. In fact, I just have fun whenever I am involved with AEA.” In particular, Miller appreciates that the AEA is open to everyone who works in education, not just teachers and faculty. According to the National Education Association, education support professionals (ESP) like Miller are the first and last school employees to see students in the school community. Through their various careers they touch the lives of students and ensure student success. The benefits of joining the AEA for education support professionals include the respect that comes with the support and backing

of the largest, most effective employee organization in the country—NEA and its affiliates; strong, effective representation if employment problems arise; leadership training for members and their local association; and professional development training on issues that affect ESP members, among others.

“AEA is a big family that looks out for you and teaches you along the way,” she said. “I think the AEA is a great organization because it doesn’t just help teachers but also aides, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, secretaries, custodians, school nurses and anyone else connected with education. I have learned so much, such as classroom management and how to communicate with the students, and as a member, you get to go to a lot of fun places and take part in a lot of helpful workshops. I got to go to a convention in Denver, Colorado, for a week, and it was a blast. I learned a lot about voting on amendments and laws, and everyone you meet is glad to have you as a part of the association.”

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

AN EDUCATION WITH EXPECTATIONS

contributors APRIL 2015

KD REEP

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

A SCHOOL AND A THERAPY CLINIC At the Academy at Riverdale, teaching methods and curriculum are designed to recognize the individual needs of our students from Kindergarten – Age 21.

We are committed to on-going collaboration between parents, teachers, and therapists. Our only goal is to provide the instruction and encouragement students need to work toward realizing their full potential.

Reading & Writing • Math & Science • Literature Social Studies • Character Education • Social Skills

IF YOUR CHILD HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH A DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDER:

DWAIN HEBDA

is a writer and editor living in Little Rock. He and his wife Darlene are the parents of four grown children. The empty-nesters spend their time traveling, working out and spoiling their two dogs.

Autism Asperger Syndrome Pervasive Developmental Disorder Down Syndrome Apraxia Other Language Disorders Sensory Integration issues

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

(501) 663-6965 · 1600 Riverfront Drive Little Rock, Arkansas 72202 We work with a variety of private insurance providers as well as ARKids 1st, Medicaid, TEFRA and TRICARE.

www.academyatriverdale.com

10 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

CALLIE STERLING

is a local photographer and co-owner of Sterling Imageworks. In addition to photography she has always loved to write. She received a journalism degree from the University of Central Arkansas. Originally pursuing broadcast, Callie has since found that print journalism is more of her passion. She enjoys playing with her two dogs and traveling with her husband.

Walk-in Clinic Most co-pays under $35

Come see us at Velocity Care, your neighborhood walk-in urgent care clinic for non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses.

With our board-certified, emergency medicine physicians, you couldn’t ask for better care.

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11600 Chenal Pkwy.

(Next to the Purple Cow)

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Be a superhero!

Help children's, help children by volunteering for clinical research at ACH. Learn more at archildrens.org/research or sign up for our text updates*!

To receive text updates, text RESEARCH to 411247. Message and data rates may apply. Terms & conditions at www.mobivity.com/411247terms. To stop, text STOP to 411247.

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

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NEST

KATHLEEN JOINER

PARENTING | FAMILY

The Little Rock Junior Cotillion holds formal dances twice a month (above), as well as classes that teach table manners and other etiquette essentials kids will use for the rest of their lives.

THE SOCIAL NETWORK TEACHING KIDS MANNERS NOT JUST FOR SHOW B Y D WA I N H E B D A

It is said that everything old is new again—from #ThrowbackThursday to retro fashion—except when it comes to manners and civility. Deemed too quaint and too elitist for modern society, manners and rules of etiquette have been discarded by many as too constrictive of individuality and as the code words of an antique, stratified order by which one group of people marginalized others.

Nonsense, says Kathleen Joiner, owner and director of Little Rock Junior Cotillion.

“Having good manners has nothing to do with snobbery or eliteness or anything,” she says. “It has to do with your heart. It’s just common courtesy— that’s all it is. It’s treating others like you want to be treated.”

Little Rock Junior Cotillion dates back to 1948, and has educated thousands in manners and social graces over the years, Joiner among them. The cotillion program—with its twice-monthly formal dances that culminate with the annual Holly Ball at Christmas—endures as a rite of passage for many youngsters and joins a slate of other programs including one-day manners tutorials and corporate consulting.

In fact, the organization—and the values it both represents and promotes— has been a part of most of Joiner’s personal and professional life. Meanwhile, the gradual erosion of manners, now in its second generation, has reached a level unseen in the nearly 30 years she has owned the business. “It’s only, in my opinion, getting worse and not better,” she says. “In the ’60s and ’70s is when it all sort of fell apart and we’re not heading back.”

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It may seem self-evident why parents should strive to raise mannerly children, but having had a front-row seat to the steady march toward coarseness, Joiner isn’t above listing the marketable advantages that good manners give a person.

“I know very well that people who are being interviewed for jobs go out and it’s done over a meal where table manners are your most visible way of knowing if people have been schooled in etiquette,” she says. “People who don’t demonstrate good table manners tend to indicate there are other social deficiencies somewhere down the line.

“When I worked with Stephens Inc. years ago, they said they were hiring young people to manage wealth and if they don’t even know how to pay a restaurant tab or order a bottle of wine, then what makes anybody confident that they can manage money.”

Children aren’t immune to reaping the benefits of well-honed manners, either.

Competition enters the picture earlier and earlier in the educational process and contrary to the popular saying nice guys (and girls) generally don’t finish last.

“Good manners and knowing the rules of etiquette will help very much even at the young age they are in their school,” Joiner says. “Teachers will respect them more and if they’re in competition, chances are that child will be selected over the child who doesn’t know how to abide some manners.”

Understanding the rules of etiquette can also work in reverse to signal potential danger in some situations. As part of manners training, Joiner

TO LEARN MORE

5K 2K

The Amy Vanderbilt Complete Book of Etiquette

by Letitia Baldridge The Girl’s Guide to Social Savvy

by Jodi R.R. Smith Soup Should Be Seen, Not Heard!

by Beth Brainard and Sheila Behr Manners Matter

by Hermine Hartley The Everything Etiquette Book

by Nat Segaloff

April 18, 2015 8 am

ping Hand Hel

North Shore Trail 4901 North Shore Dr. North Little Rock

CASH PRIZES!

Thank you to our 2015 sponsors!

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addresses proper cell phone etiquette that transitions into pointers for staying safe online, lessons that can be lifesavers even as the child grows older. “It used to be we had to say now, don’t answer the door when you’re by yourself, or, don’t ever tell anybody on the phone that you’re by yourself,” she says. “That seems so simple now and looking back on it, it was so easy compared to everything that deluges into kids right now. Parents have a hard time keeping their children safe. “(Knowing) cell phone etiquette, email etiquette and, heaven forbid, saying anything online that you don’t want your mother to know is so important. I know personally people who have lost jobs because of things that they put out on the Internet.”

Joiner says Little Rock Junior Cotillion has always enjoyed healthy coeducational participation. Some is by necessity—you can’t very well have a formal dance every month without couples— but the manners classes run roughly 50/50 as well. She takes pride in the fact that even though the majority is initially marched there by their parents, by the end of the day most have a different view of the concept.

“We make it fun,” she says. “I tell them that I’m giving them all these tools they can use when you need them. It’s not saying that from now on you have to cut your meat perfectly with a knife blade facing a certain way every time you eat from this day forward. But when you go to a meal where everyone does that, you can pull that out of your toolbox.

“My mantra is manners can take you places that neither money nor education can, and what I mean by that is you can be well-educated and not have any manners or any ideas of learned social graces or etiquette. And without that, it really doesn’t matter how educated or how much money you have.”

“I tell people I was not born with an extra etiquette gene, I was born just like everybody else. I just happened to pay more attention to it and I have a lot more books (on manners) on my bookshelf,” says Kathleen Joiner, owner of Little Rock Junior Cotillion. Below find a few of her recommended reads for raising mannerly children.

Medals awarded to the top 3 winners in each age category!

TO REGISTER: Go to www.helpinghandcc.com and click on the race link!

For further questions, call 501-791-3331 or email at Hannah.Washburn@helpinghandcc.com

Helping Hand is a developmental preschool for children ages 6 weeks to 6 years of age with special needs. We offer special education, physical, speech, and occupational therapy for children in preschool, and on an outpatient basis for children age birth to 21. Our mission is to provide the best appropriate educational and therapy services for children with diverse needs and abilities. In order to fulfill this mission, we are hosting our third annual 5K fundraiser. Profits will be used to purchase educational & therapy supplies in addition to helping make our playground equipment handicap accessible to better assist the children at our facility.

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

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THRIVE

ALLIED THERAPY

Fashion | lifestyle | health

CREATIVE TREATMENT Autism resources include THERAPIES AS DIVERSE and unique as the patient B Y D WA I N H E B D A

Autism is a mysterious and frustrating condition not only for the affected child, but for the parents and the professionals who are making it their life’s work to help provide treatment, as therapists and administrators of local treatment organizations attest.

“When working with children with autism we have a lot of tools in our belt, but it is a trial and error game,” says Lynne Hollaway, developmental preschool director for Conway-based Pediatrics Plus. “What works for one child is not always going to work for another. But we pull a team together that is constantly processing and problem-solving and trying new things until we hit the right thing.

“One thing I always tell parents, this is a marathon, it’s not a sprint. As long as we’re slowly showing progress, then we’re doing well.”

This sort of creative problem-solving mentality manifests itself in some innovative treatments being made available through local organizations.

Pediatrics Plus, for instance, has offered a dynamic developmental preschool program which continues to evolve in step with new discoveries and treatment paradigms. Launched in 2007, the preschool added Autism Spectrum Classrooms in 2011. Today, the company also boasts two of the only certified relationship development intervention consultants in the state.

Hollaway says investing in such expertise not only helps the child in therapy, but also helps parents and family members play a more active and consistent role in the autistic child’s therapeutic strategies at home.

“Our families are participants in our programs as well,” she says. “They are always going to be the primary caregivers and they’re always going to know what’s best for their child. What we give them is a group of people to support them and help them move out of survival mode where the child is guiding the

14 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

entire family and puts them back in that parent position that they are the guide for the child.”

This focus on integrating parents into the therapeutic process is something echoed by other treatment organizations. Julia Washburn, executive director and owner of Helping Hand Children’s Center in North Little Rock, says this is one of the more important trends in autism therapy over the past few years.

“It used to be that parents weren’t really trained to carry over behaviors into the community, and now we really strive to get the parents involved to carry over some of the goals and objectives,” she says. “That way the child can do it in any setting, not just in the typical therapy session.”

One such program of treatment in which Helping Hand has quickly become a leader in the state has been the Arkansas Autism Partnership, a Medicaid waiver program that launched as a pilot program in late 2012. The program provides a team of professionals for evaluation and one-on-one treatment up to 30 hours a week. Parents are included as active members of the team.

The program currently caps the number of children served at 100 statewide, of which 13 receive treatment through Helping Hand.

“We’ve seen great progress in that program,” says Washburn, noting the combination of expertise and an emphasis on community based therapy are two reasons why.

“They’ll take the child out into the community so they can have a change in environment in a one-on-one setting and be functional with it. Children who are on the autism spectrum often are fine when they are in the home but when they go out into the community, they’re not able to go into certain restaurants because of the noise or they might have difficulty if they want to sit in a certain place. This puts them into a functional setting where they can work on that.”

Another unique form of therapy available locally can be found at Allied Therapy & Consulting Services of North Little Rock. In partnership with the not-for-profit Beyond Boundaries, the organization effectively utilizes hippotherapy—use of horses—to help autistic children overcome delays in sensory development.

“Kiddos with autism have some pretty significant sensory processing issues,” says Lori Tankersley, occupational therapist. “They feel the environment around them in a different way than we do. A bright light or a movement or a smell or a texture, for them, can just be something that’s too much. It sends them over the edge.

Tankersley says hippotherapy provides the ideal combination of tactile stimuli. Under the skilled supervision of certified hippotherapists (of which Allied boasts 12) children learn to process the feel of the horse’s mane and hair or the various smells in the barn. Amazingly, learning to process these things on horseback carry over to a range of everyday activities as well.

“Physically, it improves their attention, it can be something that is very calming to them,” she says. “It can help them to focus on a self-care task. They might be able to button or zip their jacket because you give them normal sensory input targeting their sensory system. We’ve seen improvements through hippotherapy with everything from them leaving their shoes and socks on for their moms at home to better handwriting.”

JOIN US FOR OUR THIRD ANNUAL

5K FUN RUN/WALK! We are raising funds for community playground projects for children with special needs. Run or walk in this fun, family and pet friendly event!

Awards will be given to the top 3 male & female runners, and there will even be a costume contest for your four legged family members!

Register online at kidsourcetherapy.com/events/5k/ or Arkansasrunner.com or email Amy Diehl at adiehl@kidsourcetherapy.com for a form

May 30, 2015 • 8 AM Registration @ 7:30 AM Hurricane Lake Estates in Benton, AR Property Owners Association

17706 I-30 Frontage Road • Benton

LEARN MORE

501-315-4414

www.KidsourceTherapy.com

Central Arkansas is blessed with a variety of treatment and therapy options for families dealing with autism, although finding the right fit can take some advanced legwork. Experts stress visiting organizations in advance and to come armed with questions about the consistency of staffing, the length of time treating autistic individuals, relevant certifications and the range of available treatment options. A starter list of organizations includes:

Offices in Little Rock, North Little Rock, Benton, Arkadelphia and Malvern Easy Referral Process · Professional Staff Family Oriented · Assistance with Funding Options

ACCESS Little Rock • 501-217-8600 www.ACCESSGroupInc.org

Allied Therapy & Consulting Services, P.A. North Little Rock, Ward • 501-941-5630 www.allied-therapy.com Arkansas Autism Resource and Outreach Center North Little Rock • 501-682-2209 www.aaroc.org

SERVING Children WITH SPECIAL NEEDS SINCE 1971

Friendship Community Care, Inc. Bryant • 501-847-9711 WWW.fccare.org ■

Helping Hand Children’s Center North Little Rock • 501-791-3331 WWW.helpinghandcc.com Lonoke Exceptional Development Center Lonoke • 501-676-2786 WWW.lonokeexceptional.org Pediatrics Plus Little Rock, North Little Rock, Conway, Russellville • 501-821-5459 www.pediatricsplus.com

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Pathfinder, Inc. FOSTERING INDEPENDENCE

PATHFINDER PRESCHOOL 2400 West Main Street / Jacksonville / 501-982-4578 ext. 1400 PATHFINDER PRESCHOOL 2 1410 West Daisy Bates / Little Rock / 501-375-7811 PATHFINDER ACADEMY 2611 West Main Street / Jacksonville / 501-982-0528 ext. 1500 THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

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KELLEY COOPER/ARKANSAS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

nest | Thrive | NOSH | CULTIVATE

PIECES OF THE PUZZLE

In Arkansas and beyond, autism research and treatment continues to grow, but funding is sorely lacking B Y D WA I N H E B D A

Dr. Richard Frye’s view of the future of autism is decidedly two-sided.

On the one hand, research and treatment going on worldwide—including exciting work right here in Little Rock—affords the child neurologist and director of autism research at Arkansas Children’s Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI) a sense of optimism. On the other, the cold realities of funding breakthroughs cast a shadow on efforts to turn back what is now the fastestgrowing developmental disorder in the United States.

“I think (the future) is very hopeful in the sense there’s more and more researchers and doctors and clinicians and psychologists and health care workers who are getting involved,” he says. “They’re understanding and helping children with autism by finding out new information, trying new treatments and critically looking at what we’re doing right now to improve things.

“On the other end of that, like all areas of medicine and research, the basic areas of research and medical care remain seriously underfunded. There’s been a push to really fund these areas for over a decade with little improvement.”

16 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

According to Autism Speaks, a leading autism science and advocacy organization, the disease now affects one in 68 children, the care of each costing an estimated $60,000 annually. Boys are five times more susceptible than girls, as 1 in every 42 boys is affected.

Despite this, the National Institutes of Health appropriations reveal funding that’s out of step with the problem. Autism Speaks reports of NIH’s nearly $31 billion annual budget, only $169 million is earmarked for autism research, around 0.55 percent of the total.

“I think that, although it’s very powerful that a lot of people are diving in and trying to do what they can, we really need research dollars and health care dollars to provide the services and health care research to move this field forward,” Frye says. “For many, autism is a lifelong disease and if we don’t solve it now there are going to be a lot of adults who are still not functioning optimally who we’re going to have to care for.”

Not that Dr. Frye and his colleagues around the world are sitting still

waiting for the optimal funding scenario to take shape. A number of promising breakthroughs have been achieved over the past decade, much of it focused on cracking the code of what causes autism in the first place.

“For many years, it was suggested that it was more of a genetics-based disease,” Dr. Frye says. “More and more, we’re finding out genetics is just part of the problem. There are also environmental factors and prenatal factors that contribute to the development of autism. We’re also finding out abnormalities in children with autism are not just located in the brain but involve systems throughout the body and almost every cell in the body.”

ACHRI research has borne this out through a study that found children with autistic spectrum disorders are more likely to have a certain type of antibody. Published in 2012, findings point to three potential benefits including easier diagnosis, more effective treatments in young children and most exciting of all, potentially preventing the condition through targeted prenatal care.

“We’ve suspected for a long time there’s many —DR. RICHARD different subgroups of children with autism that may have developed this for many different reasons,” Dr. Frye says. “One of the exciting things is as we actively find out what’s going wrong with patients’ bodies, we are starting to define subsets and it’s probable each one of these subsets will respond optimally to different treatments. Regarding the subset of children with folate abnormalities, one of the exciting things we are finding

is they tend to respond to a special type of folate and they’re also the children who seem to not respond to behavioral therapy as well.

“So, by finding out this new information, we’re not only finding new treatments, but we’re also able to divide patients into different subsets so we know what treatment they may respond to best.”

Encouraging though that sounds, there’s a lot of research and clinical work yet to be done before initial findings stand as medical fact. And even when that does occur, it’s a small piece in a much larger puzzle, which is why therapists and researchers alike tend to parse terms like “cure” to fit individual situations.

“For a long time we believed there was no possible way of curing children with autism; now we talk about children who have obtained optimal outcomes,” Dr. Frye says. “We talk about children catching up to the norm so that they can develop like others and understand that they had something happen to them early on in life. What this entails is probably the brain reorganizing and fixing itself, so it’s not exactly what you would call a cure in the sense that it will erase everything.

It allows the brain to compensate for some of the delays that FRYE happened early on.”

“In children who do not attain optimal outcomes, we talk about improving core symptoms of autism, and those are things like communication, behaviors, social interactions. And in children who are very low functioning, we may talk about improving certain symptoms that may be very disruptive and by improving the symptoms, you improve their lives and their families.”

“MORE AND MORE, WE’RE FINDING OUT GENETICS IS JUST PART OF THE PROBLEM.”

LOOKING AHEAD TO SUMMER? LEAPING BEYOND, our nonprofit organization, is all about adaptive sports and sensory programs for kids with special needs and has started its first swimming program!

therapists with volunteers from the UCA Physical Therapy Department and includes therapeutic aquatic games, learning basic swimming techniques, and much more!

The class is led by Allied Therapy

Class is held at the North Little Rock

Athletic Club each Monday from 6-7pm for $15 per session.

Please join us. For more information, contact Cristina Mayne-Nicholls, PT, DPT at cmaynenicholls@allied-therapy. com or visit leapingbeyond.com.

1500 Wilson Loop Road, Ward, (501) 941-5630 • 5532 JFK Blvd., North Little Rock, (501) 588-3211

allied-therapy.com

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

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NOSH COOKING | DINING | NUTRITION

BALANCED BREAKFAST START THE DAY WITH A HEALTHY, MAKE-AHEAD MEAL

BY MEL JONES PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA BLANCETT REEVES

Avocado Egg with Pumpkin Seeds and Sweet Potato & Turnip Hash

18 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

Start the kids off with fresh fruit!

we

here for life’s little bumps

As spring blossoms, families everywhere are shedding their coats and gloves for short sleeves and outdoor fun. UAMS primary care physician Shreelekha Nallur, M.D. advises, “Whether you are playing baseball, soccer or riding a bike, be sure to take all precautions to make sure you remain safe.”

Using the proper gear for your activity – like wearing a helmet and pads for bike riding – is the best way to avoid injury. Taking simple, preventive steps can help ensure your safety so that the focus is on having fun.

Donnie Ferneau, owner of Good Food by Ferneau, is all about the science of food. To create the healthy dishes he offers at his Argenta restaurant, Donnie makes sure every plate is perfectly balanced in the protein, fat and carbohydrate departments. Empty ingredients that just add sugar—like sauces laden with high-fructose corn syrup—are very much off the menu. Donnie’s offerings are gluten-free, organic and locally sourced whenever possible, like eggs from Arkansas’ Killer Tomato Farm and turnips from Barnhill Farms.

This avocado egg with pumpkin seeds and sweet potato & turnip hash is Donnie’s go-to for a quick and balanced breakfast. Perfectly portioned with protein (egg and pumpkin seeds), fat (avocado) and carbohydrates (sweet potatoes and turnips), both the eggs and hash can be prepared the night before and easily reheated in the morning.

And if you do want a sugar rush in the morning, get it naturally with a plate of fresh fruit. Donnie prepared a selection of mandarin oranges, diced kiwi, pineapple and grapes for a variety of colors and flavors that will even please the kids.

C ONT I N UED O N PAGE 22

If a minor injury does occur, the UAMS Center for Primary Care recommends using the R.I.C.E. method: Rest – Rest to prevent further injury.

Ice – Apply ice, or a cold pack, to the injured area for 20 minutes, multiple times a day.

Compress – Compress or wrap the area with an elastic bandage to help decrease swelling.

Elevate – Elevate the injured area on pillows while applying ice, or when sitting or lying down.

If you or a family member sustains an injury serious enough to require medical attention, remember UAMS has convenient locations across Little Rock offering primary care for all ages.

For an appointment, call 501-686-8000 UAMShealth.com/centerforprimarycare THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

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nest | Thrive | NOSH | CULTIVATE

A rich, vibrant yolk is a sure sign of a farm-fresh egg.

20 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

Feeling broken is no way to live.

Behavioral issues in young people become increasingly difficult if not treated by age 14. We offer extensive in-patient and out-patient programs for all ages. Help someone reclaim their life.

Contact The BridgeWay for a no-cost assessment.

21 BridgeWay Road • North Little Rock, AR 72113 501.771.1500 • 800-BRIDGEWAY TheBridgeway.com Accepting most insurance plans, including Medicare and Private Option.

Local eggs fresh from the farm.

Connecting You to the Best in Care

Avocado Egg with Pumpkin Seeds and Sweet Potato & Turnip Hash (serves 1) Ingredients: 1 farm-fresh egg, poached 1/2 an avocado, sliced 5 ounces of pumpkin seeds Hot sauce, to taste Hash Ingredients: 1 cup diced sweet potatoes 1 cup diced turnips 1/2 cup diced onion Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine diced vegetables in a bowl. Spread evenly onto a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes. Transfer vegetables to a plate and top with poached egg. Garnish with avocado and pumpkin seeds, and add hot sauce to taste.

Tomorrow’s technology comes first to Snell Laboratory—now bringing you the convenience of video consultations with experienced O&P professionals from our network of Arkansas locations. Just one visit to any of our 9 offices connects you to experts at any of our other offices who can observe, assess and discuss your case—and your best options for a positive outcome— in real time, using our telemedicine link.

That means less travel, less time, and greater value for you. Join our patients who have tried and love this new system; call us for more information.

THE LATEST IN TECHNOLOGY. THE BEST IN CARE.

Statewide Toll-Free:1-800-342-5541 • www.snellpando.com Offices located in Little Rock, Russellville, Fort Smith, Mountain Home, Fayetteville, Hot Springs, North Little Rock, Pine Bluff and Conway.

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

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Wondering what direction to take?

How To Access Us

For a no charge assessment 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, simply call us at: 501-316-1255 or 800-264-5640 or

visit us on the web at: www.rivendellofarkansas.com.

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

We offer a mobile assessment that is available in most areas

RIVENDELL’S ADULT SERVICES UNIT (ASU) has a lot to offer! The ASU team will work with you on setting goals for yourself and aid you in the by appointment.

healing process. Our tailored therapeutic activities will help you make important lifestyle changes.

Find the treatment that’s right for you…

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

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

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

A Place For New Beginnings.

Directions to Rivendell:

DOMESTIC PEACE A supportive group that explores issues of family and domestic abuse. Types of abuse include emotional, verbal, physical, sexual and financial. Educational Rivendell Drive | Benton, AR 72019 information is presented on the cycle of domestic violence, signs 100 of domestic abuse, issues of power and control, and ways to deal with abuse. Held once a week.

From Little Rock, take I-30 West toward Hot Springs/Texarkana

Take address exit 121 (Alcoa Road) Since 1985, oursession goal hascovering been to provide bestfor discussion• that LIFE SKILLS Daily various the topics real-life issues you face once treatment is completed. Held daily. psychiatric and behavioral health care while

• Turn right onto Alcoa Road, at the stoplight turn right onto

Highway 5. Rivendell Drive isat thenutrition, first streetexercise, on the left.dress, sleep patterns, and more. Held four times a week.

HEALTH & WELLNESS Groups designed to help you develop healthy lifestyles by looking supporting the whole family. New beginnings are pos-

From Hot Springs, take Hwy 70 East to I-30 East

FOCUS GROUP to assist you with setting a daily for the day.

Held daily. sible atDesigned Rivendell where our mission is “changing lives goal/focustoward Little Rock through compassionate healing.”

• Take exit 121 (Alcoa Road)

DISCHARGE PLANNING Provides both individual and group assistance in identifying resources for your aftercare. Held three times a week.

• Turn left onto Alcoa Road (follow directions above)

AA “Alcoholics Anonymous® is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others recover…” This community led group is strictly voluntary.

Held 1-2 times a week.

1-800-264-5640

1-800-264-5640

100 Rivendell Drive • Benton, AR www.rivendellofarkansas.com

FACT: Vaccines save lives.

Learn more at archildrens.org/vaccines

Left to right: Robert Stodola, Grace Hambuchen, John Mark Stodola, Jase Burton and Sydney Brazil.

22 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

MEET FIVE CENTRAL ARKANSAS WOMEN WHO ARE BUILDING BUSINESSES AND FAMILIES

BY KD REEP

*Clockwise from top left: Jessica Zimmerman, LeAnn Wolf, Elizabeth Finch, Amy Bradley-Hole and Kameelah Harris.

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

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*Sons Finn and Jack have become expert garlic peelers.

24 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

SAUCY MOM Details make the difference for AMY BRADLEY-HOLE’s small business PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA BLANCETT REEVES

Imagine a whirling dervish with blue eyes, blonde hair and a Louisiana accent, and you have Amy Bradley-Hole.

The proprietor of Bonta Toscana pasta sauce, mom to Jack and Finn, wife to Nick and caregiver of Beignet, the family’s Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Amy started her own specialty food line after she made her garlic tomato sauce for friends.

“I had lots of requests for it so I started selling jars here and there,” she says.

“Then before I knew what was really happening, I had so many orders for it that I had to move into a commercial kitchen. It was an accidental business in a way, but I’m glad it found me.”

Amy became familiar with the recipe for her garlic tomato pasta sauce during trips to her family’s home in Italy. Just as she was taught in Tuscany, she makes her products by hand and in small batches, using only simple, quality ingredients. She didn’t think about making Bonta Toscana a formal business until a few factors fell into place, either by accident, providence or both.

“My kids were at a point where they needed me to be around more and more, and my boss at that time was inflexible and usually unwilling to let me perform work duties around parenting duties,” she says. “Also, I was working hard to create someone else’s success, boost someone else’s brand and make someone else lots of money. I began to think, ‘Why can’t I work this hard to make those things happen for myself?’”

At this same time, she began getting more and more requests for the Bonta Toscana sauce. She began selling at a farmers market and a specialty foods store in Little Rock, and today, she shares commercial kitchen space with Arkansas Fresh Cafe in Bryant and sells online as well as in several outlets throughout central Arkansas. While being a one-woman business is hectic and harrowing at times, Amy says she likely won’t be working for anyone else again.

“Being my own boss, while incredibly difficult at times, has made being a mom a million times easier,” she says. “I set my schedule, I decide how much or little I need to work, I decide which activities I will prioritize. But as a boss of others, I will always be more aware of how others need flexibility when it comes to handling personal needs. Being a mom will hopefully make me a better business owner.”

When asked how she balances her family, home and work lives, Amy is quick to say she doesn’t. But, she notes that if she does have any balance in her life, it’s because she has no qualms in telling someone “no.”

“Saying no keeps me from getting sucked into commitments that I don’t really have time to do, or from doing things that I’ll dread or regret,” Amy says. “I typically work seven days a week, and the nature of my work does not allow for grabbing a coffee or going for lunch during business hours,” she says. “Once I’m off work and pick up my kids from school, they are my focus. Then when my husband gets home, it is family time. I’m always tired and craving my bed, and this leaves almost no time for friends and social activities, which I really regret. My house is a wreck, and I’m months behind on my to-do list.”

Her to-do list notwithstanding, Amy is adept at maximizing her resources. Her husband and sons help her in the business whenever they can.

“Nick, Finn and Jack help with work tasks.

They are excellent garlic peelers!” she says. “My kids also help out at the farmers market some weekends. They chat with customers, tell them all about the sauce, and they’re even great at making change. My husband has also helped with making deliveries to stores for me, and he’s a great salesperson, talking up my sauce to anyone who will listen. Best of all, he knows I’m busy so he’s always willing to help with cleaning the house or shuttling the kids to sports practices or any other things that keep our household running. He’s a true partner for me, and I love him for that.”

Of all her occupations—wife, mom and business owner among them—Amy says the fundamental aspect to being successful is paying attention to the small things.

“I see people share inspirational quotes all the time about following your dreams or dreaming big, that kind of thing,” she says. “Chasing dreams is great in theory, but in reality, it isn’t usually beautiful or inspirational or share-worthy. What it does involve is a daily grind of doing millions of small tasks and executing things that are challenging or uncomfortable. That means physically and mentally difficult, nose-to-the-grindstone stuff. But if you have the personality for it—if you can stick it out through the hard work and tough times—then the rewards can be immeasurable.”

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*Mary Kate and Emme love to help mom make afterschool smoothies.

26 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

HEALTHY MOM Elizabeth Finch flips the script on health and wealth PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA BLANCETT REEVES

If true wealth is good health, Elizabeth Finch is one of the richest women around. A certified health coach, Elizabeth practices what she preaches.

“As a wife and mother, I had to ask myself: In all of the many things to be done in the day, where did I fit in? I had to take a step back and figure out where to find the time to make room for my health and my well-being without taking away from the most important part of my day—my family. I found myself back at that very frustrating answer that there are never enough hours in the day.”

Elizabeth told herself that she was taking care of what mattered most, which was her husband, Brandon, daughters Mary Kate and Emme, and the family’s toy Australian shepherd, Scout.

Something kept nagging at her, however, and she finally determined it was because she was leaving herself out of the equation.

Elizabeth is a certified health coach with an online business that includes her website and blog, where she shares healthy recipes and free healthcoaching tips She also runs online nutrition and weight loss programs, and is an independent distributor with USANA Health Sciences, her product partner for her online programs.

“Ultimately I started my own business so I could have the freedom to spend time with my little girls whenever I wanted. My work is somewhat untraditional, and I work from home, but this gives me incredible freedom to run to school to eat lunch with them, accompany them on field trips and run them to after-school activities,” she says. “I have learned to use my time wisely when they’re at school so time management is definitely something I’ve worked on since first starting three years ago.”

Her passion for health and nutrition led to health coaching, which led to another passion: Inspiring people to take charge of their health and make positive changes in their lives. “I truly love helping others so for me, the testimonials and excited emails I get from my clients make it all worth it,” Elizabeth says.

While seeing the progress her clients make is the best part of her career, Elizabeth views the negative pressure placed on women as a challenge.

“Women have so many demands placed on us every day, and the pressure to look a certain way is hard on us mentally, physically and emotionally,” she says.

“I want women to realize the importance of feeling healthy, having tons of

energy, a lifted mood and freedom from craving unhealthy foods. This is what better nutrition can offer women, but I want the focus to be more on the way it makes us feel and being happy with ourselves and less on how we look and what other people think.”

Elizabeth got out of this rut herself by prioritizing her family and herself first. “I wake early to get time in for myself— exercise, reading and quiet time. Then it’s all about the girls when they’re here unless I have the occasional late afternoon phone call or computer task. I find that power hours work incredibly well for me during the day when I have the house to myself, and I stick to my todo list as closely as possible to stay on track.”

While Elizabeth and her business have flourished, it’s her husband and daughters who have benefited, too.

“My husband is incredibly supportive,” she says. “He’s amazing and does everything he can do to help me with the girls. I really love to cook dinner, which is one of my favorite things to do each day, but he’s also wonderful in the kitchen and more than happy to step in and take over the dinner duties if I’m tied up with a task. My whole family has been really supportive, and my oldest daughter even says she wants to be a health coach when she grows up.”

As an entrepreneur, Elizabeth believes that money and happiness are not mutually exclusive, and wealth isn’t only defined by money and possessions.

“Too often, wellness professionals get discouraged because they love what they do, but they aren’t making any money at it,” she says. “I’ve decided to flip the script. You can have both a passion for what you do and monetary security.

It’s about how good you feel every day, how much fun and free time you have, and the overall quality of your life. This contributes largely to my business model, and I’m proud of it.”

The bottom line for Elizabeth is that following your passions and living a life full of purpose is one of the best things you can do for your health.

“Health is about more than just the foods we put in our bodies,” she says.

“Life is short, and it’s important to do what inspires you and makes you truly happy. A wise person once said that if you find something you truly love to do, you never have to work a day in your life, and I really do believe it.”

Get the recipe for her smoothie on our blog.

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

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*Creative kiddos Cruz and Beckham keep themselves entertained while mom takes a call.

28 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

CHAOS & CONTROL A passion for organization brings out LEANN WOLF’s entrepreneurial spirit PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA BLANCETT REEVES

Organization seems a luxury these days. Electronics, gadgets and remotes of every kind tout how they can make life easier, but what to do with them and where to put them once their task is done has spawned a new problem.

Enter LeAnn Wolf, the mastermind behind Mind Over Matter. A professional organizing company, Mind Over Matter consults with residential, small business and contractor clients for organization, staging for sale and moving services.

Mind Over Matter works directly with contractors to create computer-drafted plans and design closets for new construction and remodels, and it works with clients to inventory items and develop a plan to make a space its most functional.

While organizing has always been in her blood, the mom to sons Cruz and Beckham and wife to Russell left her careers as a registered nurse and pharmaceutical sales representative to launch her professional organizing company.

“As an entrepreneur at heart, I followed my dream by stepping out of my conventional career to create Mind Over Matter,” LeAnn says. “After 15 years in the medical field, I decided I could no longer deny my calling to step out of the box and start my own business. To say I’m passionate about organizing would be an understatement.

It just comes naturally and intuitively to me, and after years of helping friends and family get organized, I quickly started to realize my love for organizing is a rarity—most people find organizing intimidating and perplexing. I learned that by doing something that comes easily to me, I was significantly transforming the lives of others. The positive impact I was having on people’s lives was amazingly fulfilling and gratifying, and that’s when I knew I had to follow my dream and start organizing professionally.”

Material organization isn’t the only way in which LeAnn is organized. After working for a large corporation for almost a decade, she listened to what her mind and heart told her were the best next steps for her career.

“I’m a 110-percent kind of person so I was continually going above and beyond,” she says. “I offered my ideas and dedication to a large corporation because it was the ‘safe’ and ‘structured’ thing to do. Then one day I turned 36 and realized that life is too short to be putting so much time and effort into

a career that I didn’t love while continuing to sit on my vision and dream of creating Mind Over Matter. I didn’t want to wake up one day and say, ‘I wish I had taken that chance.’ That’s when I decided to make it happen, and it’s been the best business decision I’ve ever made.”

Owning and managing your own business can be hairy all on its own, but couple that with having a family, and time can seem like an enemy. LeAnn applies her organizational skills to this conundrum to keep both her professional and personal lives on track.

“Owning my own business allows me to create a schedule that works for the dynamics of our family,” she says. “Sometimes it gets tricky, but I’m lucky to have a very involved husband who in just as much time and effort as I do to make it all work. With both kids being involved in multiple extracurricular activities, we have to really plan out our week and all stay on the same page. I fit in as many Mind Over Matter hours as I possibly can while the kids are at school, and when I pick them up, we focus on school, soccer, baseball, basketball, hip hop dance class, volunteering— whatever the season brings. Tailoring my schedule to facilitate their activities is something that’s really important to me.”

While LeAnn finds the most satisfaction in helping her clients get organized and relieve that source of stress in their lives, her own satisfaction comes from creating and pursuing a career that she loves.

“Being a mom and an entrepreneur has changed my life by showing me the incredible happiness and fulfillment I get from creating a business that allows me to do what I love every day,” she says. “It has shown me that it’s imperative to teach my kids it is okay to step out on a limb and take chances as well as encourage them to create a path in their lives that will allow them to do the things they are passionate about, even if it’s not the most conventional route. It’s made me want to be an example to them by letting them see what building a brand involves and how it affects all aspects of life so they will always feel confident to make their own opportunities in life instead of waiting on opportunities to come to them.”

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*The family that works out together: Daughter Londyn and son Jace get ready to rumble in mom’s gym.

30 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

FAMILY & FITNESS KAMEELAH HARRIS ENGINEERS NEW CAREER THROUGH FITNESS PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA BLANCETT REEVES

The road to success is not a straight line, and for Kameelah Harris, that road began in chemical engineering and arrived at a gym.

A mother of two with one on the way, Kameelah enjoyed her career as a chemical engineer, but it didn’t feed her passion.

“I loved the opportunity of working and traveling as a chemical engineer, but one day I realized it didn’t fill me with passion or purpose,” she says. “Improving processes and production output had its amazing rewards, but nothing as fulfilling as seeing someone’s life change. My part-time personal training sessions helped me realize life is more than a job; it’s about making a difference. The personal gratification I get from teaching someone how to improve their health and level of fitness is over the top.”

What ultimately confirmed Kameelah’s decision to become a fitness professional was a profound message from her pastor one Sunday morning. “He preached a sermon titled “Don’t Wait for it to Make Sense” from John 2:110, meaning that sometimes you have to obey the Lord before you have all the details; so I took a leap of faith,” she says. “While things didn’t instantly happen, all of the right people and situations came into my life at the right time to make all of my dreams come true.”

Today, Kameelah owns and operates WOW Fitness in southwest Little Rock. What makes her facility different from others is the focus on education, motivation and individual coaching to improve a person’s overall lifestyle.

“WOW stands for War on Weight, and I have expanded that philosophy from the fitness center to a nonprofit foundation,” she says. “The WOW Foundation began in 2013 to create partnerships with schools and other nonprofits to provide health and fitness activities for the community.”

While it is clear that Kameelah is committed to her clients and community and helping them achieve overall health, she takes issue with people who view fitness as a trend.

“The fitness industry is almost like a fad to many people,” she says. “Most are not really about changing and improving their quality of life. The peak times in the fitness industry are the first of the year when people make New Year’s resolutions and in the spring as most people are preparing for beach trips or upcoming special

events like weddings or a class reunion. Most people want ‘microwave’ results, and unfortunately, they get these unrealistic expectations from shows like the Biggest Loser or advertisements from supplements or diets. My goal is to exemplify a lifestyle. Even if you reach your weight loss goal, the journey continues.”

Kameelah’s long-haul approach is one she uses throughout all aspects of her life, including being an entrepreneur, mother and wife.

“There were mixed emotions from my family and friends,” she says. “WOW Fitness wasn’t an overnight decision, but it did come about suddenly. My life was literally turned inside out, and it wasn’t until a full year after leaving my engineering career that things flourished into what you see today. In 2013, I had a new baby, and babies require all of your time and attention. I was able to successfully manage being a mom and entrepreneur because I was able to set an optimal schedule. This benefit along with the relaxed nature of my daily activities at WOW made caring for a newborn a beautiful experience.

I would literally wrap him up on my chest and workout, which is perfect for mom and baby.”

Balancing her occupations as business woman, wife to Jarrod and mom to Londyn, Jace Cruz and her soon-to-be newborn isn’t always easy, but Kameelah notes that being an entrepreneur allows her to be her best at all roles.

“I have time to be the mom I want to be, all while managing a business that makes me want to jump out of bed in the mornings,” she says. “I have early morning workouts when it is convenient for me before the kids wake up. Once the kids are up, I’m in mom mode, and it truly is the best of both worlds. I am from a big family—I’m the sixth of eight children—so family is very important, and spending quality time with my amazing parents, siblings and close friends make life worth living. These relationships also provide priceless support in raising my children.”

Kameelah notes, however, she could not have accomplished what she has without a life view grounded in faith. “God will truly give you the desires of your heart,” she says. “Not that following your passion is easy, but it certainly makes life worth living.

One of my favorite quotes is by Frederick Douglass: If there is no struggle, there is no progress. I keep this inspirational thought in mind every day.”

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*Baby Stella joins Jessica in her design studio.

32 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

PROOF POSTITIVE OWNING A BUSINESS MAKES JESSICA ZIMMERMAN A BETTER MOM PHOTOGRAPHY BY JA SON MA STERS

Talk to Jessica Zimmerman for just a few minutes, and you will get a clear picture of why she is a success. Focused, diligent and talented, Jessica owns a floral and event design studio called ZIMMERMAN in Conway. Formerly A Southern Tradition, Jessica decided to rebrand the business in November 2014.

“It was the biggest risk I’ve ever taken in business, but I knew what I wanted my business to look like,” she says. “A Southern Tradition was 20 years old and had a reputation for rentals. Transitioning from that into a full floral and design service studio was a big risk, but it’s been the best decision. Business is better than ever, and I enjoy my work more than I ever have because I’m able to really service my clients the way I want.”

Jessica is expanding her home life, too. In July, she’ll give birth to twin boys who will join her daughter Stella, husband Brian, and bichon Sophie to become a family of six.

“For me, working makes me a better mom,” she says. “I want every single time my daughter sees me to feel how incredibly excited I am to see her. I look at her and genuinely feel it a privilege to be her mom, and I feel if I were home with her every single day—all day—my perspective would be different. I think every mom has to define what is best for her, and I spent a lot of time intentionally thinking about ZIMMERMAN and Stella. I realized that, for me, it’s good to have something of my own, my career, and then I can come home and be overjoyed to spend time with my family. The main reason for rebranding my business was to incorporate a more flexible schedule for my family.”

Jessica notes that being a mom and an entrepreneur simultaneously are rewarding but challenging roles, but roles she likes. “I feel like the past 10 years have really been preparation for this present time in my life,” she says. “Stella is only 18 months old, but I worked towards this goal of a successful business to call my own for nearly eight years before I had her. It was always a strategic plan with children in mind.”

From an early age, Jessica knew she wanted to own her own business. She always wanted to be a mother and accomplish a career of her own.

“The only way I knew how to accomplish having a career of my own and having the flexibility to attend my children’s events without having to ask someone for permission was to own my own business,” she says. “I get to be in the driver’s

seat, take control and make decisions on how to best steer my company. Because of this, I feel like I get things accomplished a lot faster. I have the advantage of having an idea, reacting and being proactive rather than waiting for approval or waiting for guidelines to be written on how to proceed.”

Even with everything she has going on, Jessica says she is able to accomplish it all by setting and sticking to boundaries.

“People think balance is all about equal parts rest and work, and that it should come naturally, when in reality, balance is one of the hardest things to achieve,” she says. “It takes great preparation, constant effort and dedication. I created a schedule for myself that I work very hard at sticking to and often have to be unapologetic about. For me, I know I need an hour to myself before my family wakes up. This means I get up at 5 a.m. every morning. This isn’t something that came to me naturally, I had to work at it, but now I love it.

“When creating my schedule I had to ask myself, ‘What am I willing to give up in order to achieve my goals?’ In this case, I had to give up sleeping in. I have a work cell phone and a personal cell phone. My work cell is turned off when I leave in the afternoons, and I’m unapologetic about the fact that it doesn’t get turned back on until 9 a.m. the next business day. I’m up front and honest about this with my clients, and I’ve found as long as my clients have a clear understanding of my schedule, they are not only respectful of it, but also incredibly supportive. For me, having a ‘quit time’ and having a separate cell phone for work allows me to be able to define the necessary boundaries between work and family. Ultimately, I get to create my own work/life balance. I get to set my own schedule allowing me to spend my time with the people who mean the most to me.”

When asked what her bottom line is, Jessica says it’s about doing what she loves and being available to whom she loves.

“It’s possible to do what you love and be a present mom. You just have to work hard at it. It’s something that doesn’t come easily, and it’s not about making a lot of money. For me, it’s about enjoying what I do, creating, working with people I enjoy and creating a life where I can be with my family. People truly can define their own adventure—I’m living proof.”

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

33

ACCESS GARDENS APRIL PLANT SALES

KICKOFF WEEKEND APRIL 10, 7:30 A.M.-5:30 P.M., APRIL 11, 8 A.M.-3 P.M.; FRIDAY PLANT SALES, APRIL 17 & 24, 8 A.M.-3 P.M. ACCESS STELLA BOYLE SMITH CAMPUS Grab some eye-catching container plants and other garden beauties at ACCESS Gardens! ACCESS Gardens helps individuals with language and learning disabilities achieve their highest level of independence in activities of daily living, leisure skills, vocational development, social skills and community integration. Students participate in every aspect of the semi-annual sales, from planning what to grow and caring for the plants to pricing and logging inventory and providing customer assistance. Plant sale proceeds benefit ACCESS.

MAC ‘N’ CHEEZ MANIA

APRIL 11, 11 A.M.-2 P.M., WAR MEMORIAL AT&T STADIUM Mac ’N’ Cheez Mania, Little Rock’s inaugural mac and cheese festival, is a fundraiser benefiting missions that serve children, hunger, health and education. Hosted

by Trinity United Methodist Church, this family-friendly event offers play space and booths for kids, a yummy tasting, a mascot, t-shirts and some good music.

Admission is $10 for adults and free for kids 18 and younger. For more information visit Facebook.com/Mac-N-CheezMania.com.

MAGIC SPRINGS OPENING DAY APRIL 11, 11 A.M.-6 P.M., HOT SPRINGS

APRIL

HAPPENINGS OUR PICKS FOR COOL TO-DOS AROUND CENTRAL ARKANSAS for a complete calendar of events, visit our website at thesavvymoms.com.

The theme park section of Magic Springs Water and Theme Park opens for the season, with $19.99 admission for the first four weekends—April 11-12, April 18-19, April 25-26 and May 2-3. Season passes are $69.99, and include the entire concert series, which kicks off May 30. The water park will open on Saturday, May 9.

Tickets are available online at magicsprings.com.

BOOSTERS & BIG RIGS

APRIL 18, 9 A.M.-1P.M., UALR JACK STEPHENS CENTER

The Junior League of Little Rock, in partnership with UALR Children International, presents Boosters & Big Rigs, a free, family-friendly community event that provides children with immunizations and dental, hearing, vision and wellness screenings.

The event also offers children a fun, educational opportunity to explore community vehicles such as ambulances and fire trucks. Children can participate in a variety of games and activities, and free lunch will be provided.

2015 ARKANSAS EARTH DAY FESTIVAL APRIL 18, 11 A.M.-4 P.M., HEIFER INTERNATIONAL

Celebrating its 12th year, the Arkansas Earth Day Festival’s theme for 2015 is “Let’s Get Back to Our Roots.” Information booths, food vendors, entertainment by Paul Morphis and the “Great Cloth Diaper Change” are just a few of the reasons to visit the festival. For more information, visit arkansasearthday.org.

JACK-N-BACK HALF MARATHON AND RUN DOWN JACK 5K APRIL 25, 8 A.M., HOT SPRINGS

Presented by CHI St. Vincent, the 2nd Annual Jack-n-Back Half Marathon, and the new Run Down Jack 5K will benefit The CooperAnthony Mercy Child Advocacy Center and Higher Peaks Outdoor Experience for Veteran Families. Online registration is open and currently available at jack-n-back.com.

34 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

by L. West, Jr.

501.779.1540 lwestjr@me.com

WORLD CLASS PREP FOR ART STUDENTS AT WILDWOOD PARK Think back to your childhood performance dreams. Were you conducting a 100-piece orchestra, bowing to a crowd of thousands as roses landed at your feet? Did you bask in the applause of world famous opera houses after delivering yet another pitch perfect aria? Fast-forward to reality in the present day, where world-class music training is accessible to the children of central Arkansas at Wildwood Academy of Music & the Arts—WAMA. Launched in the summer of 2014, WAMA is designed to provide highcaliber music instruction and arts engagement to central Arkansas youth ages six to 18 as they study and perform with professional artists and teachers from Arkansas and across the U.S. Wildwood educational programs coordinator Sofia Gonzalez explains that for a vast majority of students in central Arkansas, the music education available to most school age youth is left to shrinking discretionary budgets of schools, and private lessons are often cost prohibitive for families. “We believe that art, creating it and expressing yourself through it, are gifts that every child should be able to access,” she says.

In 2015, WAMA runs from June 8 through July 31 and is split between a four-week instrumental component and a four-week vocal component.

“After starting last year with a strong foundation in instrumental music, we’re thrilled to add a new vocal program led by Dr. Bevan Keating,” Gonzalez says.

“We know that there are students at all levels of experience in the community, so we worked to design classes that are tailored to fit each one. We’ve designed a program that really encourages every student to explore the world of music and to remarkably advance his or her skills.”

While focusing on music, WAMA is also designed to expose students to a wide variety of artistic disciplines. Classes in visual arts are available to students, spanning a range that includes the fundamentals of sketching and drawing to painting and mixed media. Theatre arts classes are also available —using Wildwood’s Cabe Festival Theatre, students are offered experience with improvisation, scene studies, and auditioning workshops. A Movement for Musicians component combines yoga and dance to create body awareness, coordination and stage presence, with the goal of providing posture support, breathing and balance.

“WAMA’s objective is to cultivate a roster of instructors that is noteworthy locally and will draw regional attention,” notes Leslie Golden, Wildwood Park’s executive director. “Beginning in central Arkansas through partnerships with the school districts, we’re focusing on student outcomes and the ways that the skills our students develop will help them throughout the school year.

Wildwood also looks forward to building a program that serves students from across Arkansas and then from the region.” Golden adds, “After seeing and hearing the positive responses from our students and their families during the inaugural year in 2014, we’re very excited to be expanding WAMA this summer and increasing opportunities for more students.”

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Caring For An Older Family Member In Your Home?

Th e S c h m i e d i n g Home Caregiver Training Program educates individuals to care for older adults in the home. Whether your goal is to help care for an older family member or friend, we want to help.

F I N D

Learn more today at www.arcaregiving.org.

Call 501-526-6500 to register.

Free family caregiver workshops are available at the UAMS campus: Caregiving Skills • Feb 2-3 Dementia Care • March 30-31 Caregiving Skills • April 6-7 Dementia Care • June 8-9 Caregiving Skills • June 15-16

SOCIALLY U S

O N

Schmieding home caregiver Training Program Supported by a grant from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation.

Lake Catherine State Park

My playground

Arkansas state parks are yours to enjoy. Choose from 52 parks where you can connect with nature, experience new adventures, and play in Arkansas’s big backyard.

My park, your park, our parks

36 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

A r k a n s a s S t a t e Pa r k s . c o m

# A R S t a t e Pa r k s

2015

FROM ART AND SCIENCE TO SPORTS AND OUTDOORS, WE’VE GOT SUMMER CAMPS FOR EVERY INTEREST.

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

37

Arkansas Symphony Summer Strings Camp

Activities include chamber music ensembles, music theory and listening classes and sectionals, led by Arkansas Symphony Orchestra members.

Private lessons are also available. The camp is held at the new symphony offices on Main Street.

Ages: Call for details. Dates and times: June 22-26, 1:30 p.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $125 before June 5; $150 afterwards Sign up: Contact Barbara Burroughs at bburroughs@arkansassymphony.org for information. A registration form is available at arkansassymphony.org.

Ballet Arkansas Junior Intensive Dance Camp

Students will learn the fundamentals of dance from professionals in the field. Ages: 6-9 Dates and times: June 15-19 Cost: $150 per student Sign up: Call 501-223-5150 or visit balletarkansas.org.

Ballet Arkansas Summer Intensive

Students will learn the fundamentals of dance from professionals in the field. Ages: 13-18+ Dates and times: July 6-10 & July 13-17 Cost: $325 per student (1 week); $550 per student (both weeks) Location: UALR Center for the Performing Arts, 2801 South University Ave., Little Rock Sign up: Call 501-223-5150 or visit balletarkansas.org.

Junior Arts Academy

This annual Arkansas Arts Center summer program has provided visual and theatrical arts instruction for more 20 years. Inspired by the exhibition, “Earthly Delights: Modern and Contemporary Highlights from the Collection,” students are offered fun and creative classes that explore connections to the earth through the arts.

Ages: 6-9 Dates and times: June 8-19, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $396 for members; $495 for nonmembers Sign up: Register atarkansasartscenter.org

by May 25.

Old State House Museum Summer Fun Youth Enrichment Program

Students will explore the history of Arkansas in a fun interactive way! Ages/grades: Rising grades 4-10 Dates and times: July 20-24, 8 a.m.-noon Cost: TBD Sign up: Register by June 27. Call 501324-8643 or email daniel@arkansasheritage.org.

Matisse—Spirited Art Summer Camp

Kids will create a brand-new painting each day!

Matisse is simply a name we have given to our camp and his work will not be reflected in our

38 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

paintings but he will be discussed while we learn about color mixing and brush work. Ages: 5-8 Dates and times: June 22-25, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Cost: $110 Sign up: Register online at myspiritedart.com, click on “Little Rock Calendar.” Call 501-296-9903 for additional information.

niques! Snacks and lunch will be provided daily.

Ages: Girls, ages 7-12 Dates and times: July 7-9, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Cost: $175 Sign up: Register online at myspiritedart.com, click on “Little Rock Calendar.” Call 501-296-9903 for additional information.

Mosaic Music Camp

Spirited Art Calendar Camp

Lorenzo Smith, a renowned local musician and music educator, is offering this music camp drawing on his years of music performance and experience. Students will learn a variety of musicrelated topics, including how to properly tune instruments, stage presence and music fundamentals. Smith will also offer advanced instruction for woodwind, percussion, string and bass students.

Held at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center.

Grades: 6-12 Dates and times: July 14-Aug. 4, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Cost: Free Sign up: Registration begins June 1. Call 501-683-3592 or visitmosaictemplarscenter.com.

Mosaic Summer Camp

This summer camp at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center highlights a visual artist from the museum’s fifth anniversary and Creativity Arkansas collections. Each day will feature a different kind of visual artwork—sculpture, watercolor, oil-based and printing. Children should attend every day of their session. Artwork will be taken home at the end of the week. Snacks are provided.

Ages: Sessions for ages 5-7 & 8-10 Dates and times: June 23-26, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. (ages 5-7); July 7-10, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. (ages 8-10). Cost: $20 Sign up: Pre-registration is required. Call 501683-3592 or visit mosaictemplarscenter.com.

(Registration closes at 25 campers)

Movie Martial Arts Camp

Learn about fight scenes and movies at Unity Martial Arts, and then shoot your own masterpiece, which will be screened at the end. Maximum of 20 students. Grades: 2-7 Dates and times: July 6-10, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: $250 Sign up: Call 501-664-0604 or email info@unitymartialarts.com.

Musical Theater Camp—Instrumental Immersion

At this First United Methodist Church camp learn music and instrumental technique. Grades: 3-7 Dates and times: June 22-26, 12:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Cost: TBD Sign up: Register online atfumclr.org or call Lesley Andrews at 501-372-2256 ext.

207.

O’Keefe—Spirited Art Summer Camp

At this three-day camp, girls will create two paintings each day. They will also learn about color mixing, blending, brush techniques and art history. O’Keefe is simply a name we have given to our camp and her work will not be reflected in our paintings but she will be discussed while we learn about color mixing, blending, and brush tech-

This brand new camp has the kids painting 12 paintings (one themed each month of the year).

We will be providing a holder for the kids to bring home so you can rotate out the paintings each month! Kids will bring their own lunches and Spirited Art will provide a snack.

Ages: 5-12 Dates and times: Aug 3-6, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (Doors open at 10:00 a.m.) Cost: $160 Sign up: Register online at myspiritedart. com, click on “Little Rock Calendar.”

Summer Theatre Academy

The Arkansas Arts Center’s Summer Theatre Academy is a three-week, audition-only theater training program. Students learn theater performing techniques under the direction of skilled theater professionals from across the United States.

Ages: 10-18 Dates and times: Session 1, June 22-July 10; Session 2, July 20-Aug. 7. Cost: $575 for a three-week program. Sign up: Students must audition in order to be accepted into the academy. Auditions are March 8 at 5 p.m., April 12 at 5 p.m. and May 3 at 5 p.m. Students wishing to audition should bring a headshot and come ready to dance! Visit arkansasartscenter.org for details.

Call 501-372-4000 for more information.

Wildwood Academy of Music and the Arts Wildwood Academy of Music & the Arts (WAMA), Wildwood Park for Arts’ music festival and summer programming, is designed for students who are interested in studying music. Ages: 6-18 Dates and times: Dates vary, see individual programs for details. All programs are 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

(Drop off begins at 8:30 a.m.) Sign up: Register online at http://wama.wildwoodpark.org/applyhere/ (includes $25 application fee) or email info@ wildwoodpark.org for more information. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.

WILD Music Beginners Instrumental Program: Four one-week sessions Dates: Week 1: June 8-12; Week 2: June 15-19; Week 3: June 22-26; Week 4: June 29-July 3 Cost: $250 per week Introduction to Orchestra: Dates: June 15July 3 Cost: $250 per week Orchestra and Chamber Music & Piano and Chamber Music Dates: June 15-July 3 Cost: $750 per session WILDMusic Singers for Beginners: Two oneweek sessions Dates: July 6-July 10; July 13July 17 Cost: $250 per week Intermediate Singers: One two-week session Dates: July 20-31 Cost: $500 per session Advanced Singers: One two-week session Dates: July 21-31 Cost: $500 per session

EDUCATIONAL

Agri-Adventure Day Camp

At this three-day adventure camp at the Plantation Agriculture Museum, kids will leap into the exciting life on the Delta. Activities include gardening, canning, games and “green” crafts.

Ages: 8-12 Dates and times: June 17-19, 9 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Cost: $30; fee covers snacks and day camp supplies. Sign up: Space is limited and reservations are required. Deadline is June 1. Call 501-961-1409 or email plantationagrimuseum@ arkansas.com to register.

Alternative Break at Heifer Ranch

This five-night program combines experimental learning programs, such as team building and service activities. The service allows participants to give back while experiencing something for the first time, like milking a goat or harvesting vegetables. Grades: 6 and up; groups only. Dates and times: Available any time with a reservation.

Cost: Call for pricing Sign up: Call 1-855-3434337 (option 2) to register.

Arkansas Teen College

Arkansas’ premier summer enrichment program

at Pulaski Technical College for middle school and at fumclr.org or email Pam Snider at psnider@ fumclr.org. high school students. Ages: 11-18 Dates and times: June 15-26, 8 a.m.-noon, 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Cost: $50 non-refundable deposit; $200 per First United Methodist Church—Bible week half-day session Sign up: Email cnesmith@puBoot Camp laskitech.edu for more information and registration.

Learn more about the bible with an in-depth look in terms a child can understand. Grades: 3-4 College Boot Camp Dates and times: Aug. 21-22 (overnight) Cost: This camp, held at Little Rock Christian Academy, TBD Sign up: Register online at fumclr.org or call helps rising seniors prepare their college applica- 501-372-2256. tions for submission in early fall. Camp activities include essay writing, professional editing, mock Global Challenge at Heifer Ranch interviews, resume crafting and editing, applicaThis two to three night challenge pairs the Global tion processing and completion, panel discusGateway experience with globally-themed teamsions with college admissions representatives and building exercises that develop communication scholarship searches. Grades: Rising high school skills within your group while exploring Heifer’s seniors Dates and times: Session 1: June 23-25; guiding principles. Grades: 6 and up; groups Session 2: July 7-9; Session 3: July 21-23. All sesonly. Dates and times: Available any time with a sions are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesreservation. Cost: Call for pricing. Sign up: Call day, and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Thursday. Cost: $295 1-855-343-4337 (option 2) to register. per session. Sign up: Visit littlerockchristian.com or call Carla Kenyon 501-975-3441.

Experience the Rock

This First United Methodist Church camp includes field trips and activities designed to help experience our city as a tourist, a person living on the margins, the differently-abled, a child and as a millionaire. This is a fun way to learn about the community in which we live, grow and serve.

Grades: 5-6 Dates and times: June 15-18 (Times TBD) Cost: $20 Sign up: Register online

, Saturday, June 6

Global Gateway at Heifer Ranch

This one to two night overnight experience creates an existence in which nothing—shelter, food, water or cooking fuel—can be taken for granted.

Participants prepare a meal with limited resources and spend a night in the Global Village.

Grades: 6 and up; groups only. Dates and times: Available any time with a reservation.

Cost: Call for pricing. Sign up: Call 1-855-3434337 (option 2) to register.

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Pediatrics Plus Summer Day Camp

Pediatrics Plus Summer Camp is facilitated by a group of teachers and volunteers. The summer camp supports families by offering a place where children can receive therapy services, full-time day treatment, and nursing services all within the program hours. Camp is held at Little Rock Christian Academy. Grades: School-aged children with special needs. Dates and Times: June 15-Aug. 7 Cost: Please call. Sign up: Call 501-821-5459 to register.

Pioneer Camp

At the Historic Arkansas Museum’s camp, kids can have fun exploring what life was like in Arkansas more than 150 years ago. Learn about blacksmithing, explore the log house on the museum’s farmstead, cook on an open hearth, do craft projects, learn pioneer dances, play on stilts and more. At the end, campers host a frolic for their families showing off their new pioneer dance steps and the crafts they’ve made.

Grades: Rising grades 3-6 Dates and times: June 15-19 (rising grades 3-4); June 22-26 (rising grades 5-6); 8 a.m.-noon. Cost: $85; $65 (museum members) Sign up: For more information, contact Joleen Linson at 501-324-9351 or Joleen@arkansasheritage. org.

Summer Laureate University for Youth (SLUFY)

SLUFY is an educational program that offers unique learning experiences for high-ability students to

explore and expand their talents and abilities.

SLUFY presents students with a unique, enriched opportunity to learn through hands-on experiences under the guidance of enthusiastic teachers.

Grades: K-8, during the 2013-2014 school year; other requirements listed at ualr.edu Dates and times: Monday-Friday, July 13-24, 12:30-5:30 p.m. Cost: $300 Sign up: Applications accepted after March 8. Applications are available online at ualr.edu or call 501-569-3410.

Vacation Sensation

Arkansas Outdoor School Summer Day Camp

This camp, held at the Child Development Center of First United Methodist Church, is in its 29th year. It encourages creativity and exploration with activities and weekly field trips. Ages: 4-12 Dates and time: Camp begins June 15. Sign up: Registration begins April 6. Email arrena@childdevelopmentcenterlr.com or call 501-372-2327.

With 15 separate camps over eight weeks, there is something to interest any camper. Held at the 4-H Center, kids will learn, explore and have fun with lots of hands-on activities. Ages: 7-15 (unless noted) Dates and times: June 15-August 7; 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. (extended hours available) Cost: $190-$346 Sign up: Call Mike Simmons at 501821-6884 or msimmons@uaex.edu.

Vacation Bible School

Camp Aldersgate

Kids can feel weird, different or lost in a crowd, yet nothing compares to the extraordinary love of Jesus. Children will laugh, learn and create as they discover that weird is wonderful at this program at First United Methodist Church in Little Rock.

Ages/Grades: 4 years to 6th grade Dates and times: June 22-26, 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Cost: $20 Sign up: Register online atfumclr.org or call 501-372-2256.

Arkansas’ only nonprofit uniquely dedicated to serving kids with special needs and medical conditions in a residential overnight camping environment. Ages: Varies by camp session; call for details. Dates and times: Sessions are June 7-July 31 Cost: Varies by camp session; call for details. Sign up: Call 501-225-1444, or visit campaldersgate.net.

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Camp Ozark

This residential camp features one, two and three week sessions. Activities include crafts, sports, outdoor fun and lots more.

Ages: 7-17 Dates and times: One, two and three week sessions throughout the summer, starting May 31 and ending Aug. 8 Cost: $1,595-4,290, depending on the session. ($225 deposit required with registration) Sign up: Visit campozark.com.

Call 870-867-4344 for more information.

Camp Solgohachia

This 21-year-old Christian summer camp offers one-week sessions for overnight and day camp.

Located just off I-40 near Morrilton on Jenkins Mountain at Ozark Conference Center, an hour north of Little Rock. Grades: Overnight camp, completed grades 3-8; day camp, completed grades 2-7. Dates and times: Overnight camp sessions, June 15-19, June 22-26, July 13-17; day camp session, July 6-10. Cost: Overnight, $380; day camp, $120 (includes lunch). (Deposits required with registration for both day camps as well as overnight camps.) Sign up: Register at campsolgohachia. com or by calling 501-354-3959.

Camp Subiaco

Go-karts, fishing, camping, hiking, zip lines and lots more. This is a boys-only, residential, activitybased camp. Ages: Boys 9-13 Dates and times: June 14-20 or June 21-27. Cost: $100 nonrefundable deposit; $475 by May 15; $525 after

May 15. Sign up: Visitcampsubiaco.org or call 479-934-1003.

Camp Winnamocka Summer Adventure Camp

Children will spend a week or weeks in Fort Jackson, participating in treasure hunts, jungle cruises, ropes, dances, campfires and more at this old-fashioned camp. This is an overnight camp.

Ages: 7-15 Dates and times: Weeklong sessions, beginning May 31-Aug 8. Cost: $1,050 per session. Sign up: Register online at winnamocka. com or call 870-246-4599.

Discover Fishing Camp

Spend a day on the water at the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center, and learn new skills, have fun and connect with friends, family and nature. Learn habitat and fish identification skills, understand fish management techniques, visit a fish hatchery and get exposed to conservation career options. Grades: Completed 5-8 Dates and times: June 16-19; 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Cost: Free Sign up: Space is limited and registration is required. Call Hollie Sanders at 501-9070636 or email hrlisk@agfc.state.ar.us.

Ferncliff Summer Day Camp

This day camp program is a week full of awesome activities in a natural setting where campers can play outside, make friends and grow their faith.

11218 N. RODNEY PARHAM RD. / LITTLE ROCK

501.223.4929

Each day includes swim time, and lunch/snacks are provided. Attend one week, multiple weeks or all seven! Transportation is available. Grades: Entering grades 1-6 Dates and times: MondayFriday, June 8-July 31; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: $190-$250 Sign up: To register, visit ferncliff.org or call 501-821-3063.

Ferncliff Summer Overnight Camp

Located just 10 miles west of Little Rock, Ferncliff has over 75 years of experience in providing overnight camping programs in an atmosphere of caring and acceptance. Campers are free to be themselves while experiencing new and exciting activities under the direction of Christian role models, while making friends, having fun and learning about their faith. Grades: Entering grades 1-12 Dates and times: Monday-Friday, June 7-July 31 Cost: $225-$525 Sign up: To register, visit ferncliff.org or call 501-821-3063.

Halberg Ecology Camp (Junior Camp)

At the Arkansas Audubon Society’s overnight camp, held at Camp Clearfork in the Ouachita National Forest, youngsters study mammals, snakes, birds, insects, geology, botany and aquatic biology.

Students must be interested in science and have a teacher recommendation. Ages: 11-12 Dates and times: Session 1 is June 14-19; Session 2 is June 21-26. Cost: $325-$375 per week; partial and full scholarships may be available. Sign up: Visit www. arbirds.org or email efulton114@sbcglobal.net.

4822 N. HILLS BLVD. / NORTH LITTLE ROCK

501.978.3154

THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

41

Midland Farm Summer Camp

Campers will enjoy horseback riding, barn activities, arts and crafts, games, swimming, fishing and learning about horses. Ages: 6-15 Dates and times: Sessions are June 8-12, June 22-26, July 6-10, July 20-24, Aug. 3-7 and Aug. 10-12. The camp is 9 a.m.-4 p.m. each day. Before and after care is available. Cost: $255 per camp; discount for siblings and friends is available. Sign up: Email mpgods@sbcglobal.net or call 501-590-0784. Visit midland-farm.com.

Nature Explorers Day Camp

Four days of hikes, visiting live animals, nature programs and more at Pinnacle Mountain State Park. Maximum 10 campers. Ages: 7-10 Dates and times: June 9-12; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: $100 Sign up: Call 501-868-5806 or email pinnaclemountain@arkansas.com to register. Advance registration is required.

Wilderness Explorers Day Camp

Explore nature at Pinnacle Mountain State Park with canoeing, kayaking, hiking and learning survival skills. Ages: 11-13 Dates and times: June 16-19, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: $100 Sign up: Call 501-868-5806 or email pinnaclemountain@arkansas.com to register. Advance registration is required.

4-H Military Techno-Robotics Camp

This camp, held at the 4-H Center, focuses on engineering, robotics and technology. Ages: 10-12; military youth, 4-H members, then other youth.

Dates and times: Aug. 4-6 Cost: Call for pricing Sign up: Contact Maureen Rose at mrose@uaex. edu or 501-671-2066. Register by July 7.

Amusement Park Engineer Extraordinaire at Museum of Discovery This camp was such a hit last year that we are bringing it back, but we’re building a bigger and better amusement park. Who knew physics and engineering were this much fun? Dates and times: July 6-10, call for specific times Cost: Call for pricing Sign up: Call 501-396-7050 or visit museumofdiscovery.org.

ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Science Camp

students to college life and stimulates their interest potential careers in science and engineering.

Students currently in grades 5-7 who have an interest in science and mathematics, at least a B average in those courses and a passing score on the state’s standardized science and mathematics tests are eligible to apply. Students and parents must complete the application process, which includes a 250-word essay. Grades: Rising 6-8 Dates and times: July 5-17 Cost: Free Sign Up: The deadline for application materials is May 3. Call Vernard Henley at 501-569-8203 for more information or visit theharrisfoundation.org.

7-12, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cost: $175, members; $200, nonmembers Sign up: Call 501-767-3461 or visit midamericamuseum.org.

Harding University Pharmacy Camp

At this Mid-America Science Museum camp, explore the color spectrum and the science behind art. This is perfect for those creative hearts.

Ages: 7-13 Dates and times: July 6-10, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cost: $175, members; $200, nonmembers Sign up: Call 501-767-3461 or visit midamericamuseum.org.

Hosted by the Harding University College of Pharmacy and sponsored by Walgreens, this weeklong, residential program for high school juniors and seniors who are interested in pharmacy will explore the profession through classes, hands-on learning experiences and other activities, including field trips, pharmaceutical laboratory experiences, campus scavenger hunt, group health project activity, games and recreational activities, shadowing, introduction to pharmacy curriculum and current topics in pharmacy. The goal of the program is to familiarize high school students with the profession of pharmacy and the many opportunities available in this field. Students who are accepted to attend the camp will be notified by mail and will receive additional information, including a list of what to bring and a detailed camp schedule.

Ages: Grades 11-12 Dates and times: June 14-19 Cost: $350 Sign up: Students interested in attending the camp must submit a camp application with deposit, a letter of recommendation from their high school counselor or a teacher, and a copy of their high school transcript. Call 501279-4407 or visit www.harding.edu/pharmacy/ pharmacycamp.

Laboratory Lunacy

At this Mid-America Science Museum camp, explore and analyze chemicals in the creek. Create bubbling chemicals, putrid potions and explore dancing good. Ages: 7-13 Dates and times: July 27-31, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cost: $175, members; $200, nonmembers Sign up: Call 501-767-3461 or visit midamericamuseum.org.

Mysteries at the Museum

From the mysteries of nature to a crime scene in the classroom, at this Mid-America Science Museum camp, you’ll learn the scientific processes used to solve them all. Ages: 7-13 Dates and times: July 20-24, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cost: $175, members; $200, nonmembers Sign up: Call 501-767-3461 or visit midamericamuseum.org.

Power Trip!

Discover the power of electricity at this MidThis is a two-week, academic, residential camp America Science Museum camp. In the air, in your held at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock hair, electricity can be anywhere. Harness that that promotes science, technology, engineering electricity and create circuits on paper, build a bot and (STEM) introduces Leftmathematics to right: Robert Stodola,education, Grace Hambuchen, John Mark Stodola, Jase Ages: Burton and and more.

7-13Sydney DatesBrazil. and times: July

42 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

Science Sampler Week at Museum of Discovery

Can’t decide on just one topic? Then try a science sampler! Each day we will explore something different! Dates and times: July 27-31; call for specific times Cost: Call for pricing Sign up: Call 501396-7050 or visit www.museumofdiscovery.org.

Smart Art

Three EEEs

Learn about engineering and energy! Learn the art and science of tinkering at this Mid-America Science Museum camp. Get your gears in motion, create gizmos, light and gadgets and use surprising science to make artistic creations. Ages: 7-13 Dates and times: July 13-17, times TBD Cost: $175, members; $200, nonmembers. Sign up: Call 501-767-3461 or visit www.midamericamuseum.org.

Wiggle Worms Wednesday Camp at Museum of Discovery

On Wednesdays throughout June and July, little ones can go on a series of adventures including World Safari, Kitchen Chemistry, Lights Colors Shadows, Space Camp, Adventures in Archaeology, Tinkering Academy and Superhero Science.

Ages: 4-6 Dates and Times: Wednesdays, June 10, 17 and 24 and July 8, 15, 22 and 29; 9 a.m.noon. Cost: Call for pricing Sign up: Call 501396-7050 or visit museumofdiscovery.org.

GOING TO SUMMER CAMP? Share your stories and photos with us at facebook.com/ SavvyArkansas

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www.icm-inc.org THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

43

Arkansas Golf Center Junior Camp

Adventure Quest 1, 2 & 3

At this Unity Martial Arts camp, kids will construct padded weapons, solve puzzles and problems, and learn to battle safely with a variety of padded weapons as they become a group of tiny bandits ready to impact an empire. Grades: 1-6 Dates and times: June 15-19, June 22-26 and Aug 3-7, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: $250 per session Sign up: Call 501-664-0604 or email info@ unitymartialarts.com.

Arkansas Football High School Overnight Camp

Held in Fayetteville, this camp allows students to work directly with coaching staff and lower division coaches to improve overall football skills specific to a position. The camp also includes seven-on-seven games, and weight and instruction training. Shoulder pads and helmet are required.

Grades: Entering grades 9-12 Dates and times: June 14-16 (Check in 10 a.m. on June 14, checkout 11 a.m. on June 16) Cost: $330, overnight; $280, commuter. Sign up: Visit razorbacksfootballcamps.com.

Arkansas Football Junior High Day Camp Held in Fayetteville, this is a non-padded, skills, technique and fundamentals camp with sevenon-seven games by age group. Grades: Entering grades 5-8 Dates and times: June 11 (8 a.m.3:45 p.m.) Cost: $105 Sign up: Visit razorbacksfootballcamps.com.

Arkansas Football Specialist Camp

Held in Fayetteville, this day camp features nationally recognized kicking coach Jamie Kohl and his staff. The camp is for kickers, punters and long snappers. Grades: Entering grades 9-12 Dates and times: June 13 (9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.) Cost: $105 Sign up: Visit razorbacksfootballcamps.com.

Arkansas Football Youth Half-Day Camp

Held in Fayetteville, this half-day camp features age-appropriate drills run by current football student athletes and coaching staff. There will also be an autograph session with current players.

Grades: Entering grades 1-4 Dates and times: June 18, 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m.) Cost: $55 Sign up: Visit razorbacksfootballcamps.com.

44 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

Each day, learn a different facet of the game of golf and win prizes. Open to all experience levels: beginning juniors, experienced juniors and those who’ve played individual tournament rounds of golf. Dates and times: June 8-11, 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Cost: $125 Sign up: Register at arkansasgolfcenter.com; call 501-327-0171 for details.

Build Your Own Super Hero 1 & 2

Excitement for our youngest students. Activities, games, crafts, and story play as they construct their own super hero and then learn about teamwork as they battle a super villain to save the city!

Grades: K-2 Dates and times: June 8-12 and July 13-17, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: $180 per session Sign up: Call 501-664-0604 or email info@unitymartialarts.com.

Hero Wars 1 & 2

Model UN meets Skyrim. To navigate their way through an epic role-playing game, participants will earn extra development points by assisting the Adventure Questers who will be meeting simultaneously. Grades: Teens only Dates and times: June 15-19 and June 22-25; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: $180 per session Sign up: Call 501-664-0604 or email info@unitymartialarts.com.

Steve Shields Basketball Camp

This basketball camp will be held at the Jack Stephens Center on the University of Arkansas at Little Rock campus. There will be three sessions, featuring a mini camp for grades K-3 and regular camp for grades 4-12. Grades: Mini Camp (grades K-3); Regular Camp (grades 4-12) Dates and times: Session I, June 22-25 (K-12); Session II, June 29-July 2 (K-12); Session III, July 13-16 (K7). Cost: $110-200; $50 nonrefundable deposit.

Sign up: Call 501-569-8927 or email steveshieldsbasketball@gmail.com.

Summer Day Camp

Huff ‘n Puff Fitness, Dance and Gymnastics Center’s daily camp features gymnastics, indoor/outdoor play, dance, swimming pool outings, games, arts and crafts. Open to boys and girls. Campers may attend five, three or one day a week.

Ages: 4-12 Dates and times: June 8-Aug. 14; 7 a.m.-6 p.m. (dates and times are subject to change). Cost: $110 for five days a week; rate varies for other camps. Registration fee is $15 per child, $20 per family. Sign up: Visit JaxGymatHnP.com. No registration fee, if registered by May 3.

Last but not least...

Junior Learn to Sail Camp

The Grande Maumelle Sailing Club (GMSC) offers summer sailing classes for both members and the public. The camp strives to promote the sport of sailing in central Arkansas, teach water and boating safety and good sportsmanship.

Ages: At least 7 years old Dates and times: June 8-12 or June 16-20; beginner camp is 9 a.m.-noon; intermediate camp is 12:30-3:30 p.m.

Cost: $120 for GMSC members; $160 for nonmembers. Sign up: Register by May 15. Classes are limited. Registration forms available at gmsc. org or email marcellameyer@att.net.

The Little Gym Summer Day Camp

Day camps feature a variety of activities, including gymnastics, dance and more. Campers can attend one or several days throughout the summer.

Ages: 3-8 Dates and times: Monday-Thursday, June 15-Aug. 14, 9 a.m. to noon each day. Cost: $25 a day for members; $30 a day for nonmembers. Sign up: Call 501-225-5437 or visit thelittlegym.com for more information.

Zoofari at Little Rock Zoo

Explore your creative side with animals as your guide. See what’s hiding in nature through games and more. Maximum 15 students. Ages: 5-10 Dates and times: June 15-17, June 29-July 1, July 13-15 (Ages 5-7); June 22-24 and July 6-8 (Ages 8-10). All sessions begin at 9:00 a.m. Cost: $100, nonmembers; $85, members (includes all three days). (Sibling discounts will be given) Sign up: Call 501-666-7229 or visit littlerockzoo. com (click on the Learn tab).

Wild Artist at Little Rock Zoo

Draw, paint and sketch your way through the zoo. Animals and nature will be your subjects as you let your inner artist come alive! Campers will need a digital camera. Maximum 15 students. Ages: 10-12 Dates and times: June 30-July 2 (register by June 23) and July 21-23 (register by July 14); 9 a.m.-noon.

Cost: $100, nonmembers; $85, members.

Sign up: Call 501-666-2406 or visit littlerockzoo.com (click on the Learn tab).

Every attempt is made to gather and verify this information. If you have a summer camp that isn’t listed, let us know at savvy@arktimes.com.

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501.234.2000 THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2015

45

MOMSPEAK SARABETH JONES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARA BLANCETT REEVES

AGE: 43 OCCUPATION: CREATIVE AT A CHURCH, FELLOWSHIP NORTH | BLOGGER AT SARABETHJONES.COM CHILDREN: ELIZABETH, 17; JONATHAN, 16; AND WILL, 13 ONE OF MY FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WITH MY KIDS IS…

Watch a great movie or favorite TV show, or go and see a play. It’s so great to enjoy those things with them; they are old enough to get all the jokes and really talk about any issues that come up. We love stories at our house, and right now those are good ways for us to experience them together.

THE BEST PART OF MY JOB IS…I get to work out my faith through art. My job involves a lot of different things: Photography, writing, design, performance. In all of it, I get to wrestle with and try to express this beautiful, mysterious thing that is faith.

I GET INVOLVED WITH PROJECTS LIKE LISTEN TO YOUR MOTHER BECAUSE…Everyone has a story to tell. LTYM is a

live-reading show featuring original stories read by the local people who wrote them. What I think is amazing is how it pulls people in who might not normally tell their story. For five minutes they stand on stage under the lights and share their story and the rest of us listen. It’s so powerful, both for the audience and for the storyteller.

THERE ARE SO MANY REASONS TO COME SEE THIS YEAR’S LTYM SHOW, INCLUDING…Hearing those wonderful sto-

ries, of course! You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll be touched. The show is about motherhood, so it’s a perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day with family or friends. Also, a portion of the ticket sales goes to support a wonderful cause, the Arkansas Coalition Against Domestic Violence. You can get tickets at listentoyourmothershow.com/littlerock.

I LOVE TO TRAVEL, BECAUSE…What’s not to love? I love the

adventures of new places, and the restfulness that comes with someplace dear I’ve been a million times. I love the way I can lose myself in a bustling city, and how going somewhere wakes up part of me that is different from everyday me. I love to take pictures of it all and then find a place to sit with a nice cold drink at the end of the day.

46 APRIL 2015 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM

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