February 2026

DIVE ON IN... Jaw-Dropping Good News ahead

The Conway Symphony Orchestra is marking the 50th anniversary of the movie thriller “JAWS” with an interactive concert. The audience will grip their armrests on March 7 at Reynolds Performance Hall when Music Director Izzy Getzov and the talented musicians bring together a classic film and a classic symphony. 501 LIFE has brought together good news stories about boomers in this edition.

At “501 LIFE,” we believe that living well isn’t about age – it’s about how people choose to invest their LIFE. That’s why this issue, themed “Living That Senior Lifestyle,” is dedicated to one of the most influential groups around – the Baby Boomers.

Boomers have helped advance technology, space exploration and environmental awareness. For decades, they fought against gender inequality and racial discrimination. They gave us rock ’n roll, video games and the internet. We can learn from this generation that grew up without the shortcuts that microwaves, cellphones and computers afford us. They are resourceful problem solvers who, in retirement, are taking their hobbies to extremes, sharing their expertise on nonprofit boards, and giving hours in fulfilling volunteer roles.

In this issue, we introduce you to Keith Lawson of Houston (Perry County), who is passionate about dirt track racing. Our Couple of the Month travels the country exploring both touristy and off-the-grid destinations – and she photographs them.

In an inspiring feature, we introduce you to a group of seniors from a Faulkner County church who traveled to Colorado to do upgrades at a church and, in the process, learned new skills that they can’t wait to use on their next mission trip.

Many seniors have beloved pets, and I know you’ll be delighted to meet Cathy Stout’s little “Angel,” who wore her Valentine’s Day dress to her photoshoot in Lonoke County.

From start to finish, the Boomers in this issue have taught us that it’s not time to retire, it’s time to refire!

On the cover:

Conway Symphony Orchestra musicians prepare to swim with the sharks on March 7 when they perform the music of “JAWS” during a live-to-film concert.

Photo by Makenzie Evans

4 Letter from the Editor

8 Upcoming Events 10 Loving LIFE Photos

12 Five-Oh-Ones IN FOCUS

20 Couple of the Month: Linda and Jim Henderson

24 Entertaining: The 12-Course Career of Jason Knapp By Donna L. Stephens

32 Keith Lawson: A 501 LIFE in the Fast Lane By Mark Oliver

36 JAWS In Concert By Kelli Reep

42 Time for a Praise Break Morrilton’s Annual Gospel Explosion By Diane Barnes

44 Learning to Fly By Mike Kemp

50 The Giving Table By Laurie Green

54 Mission of Hope: New Hope Baptist joins the Serve Tour By Rita H. Thomas

58 A Man at Home in History: Chris Dorer and Little Italy By Kelli Reep

64 Making the Most of Our Time By Vivian Lawson Hogue

66 Keith Perkins: Out to Pasture and Teaching College There By Judy Riley

72 Building the Future with Fiber Internet By Beth Jimmerson

74 Author of the Month: Gayla Grace By Susan L. Peterson

76 Connection is Care CareLink Tips to Preventing Senior Isolation

78 Kids of the Month: The Greenbrier Lil’ Dribblers By Colleen Holt

82 501 Hometown Hall of Famer: Van Compton’s 40 years with UALR By David Grimes

85 An Evening Fit for a King

Arkansas MLK Commission’s Scarbrough Receives National Award

86 Pet of the Month: Angel and Cathy Stout By Phyllis Ormsby

88 Person of the Month: Dennis L. Nelson

Arkansas Farm Bureau, 66

ASU-Beebe, 69

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Baker Eye Institute, 61

Barksdale Federal Credit Union, 8

Centennial Bank, 39

Chenal Pines, 51

Conway Corp, 73

Conway Regional Health System, 91

Conway Regional Rehab, 65

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Downtown Conway, 52-53

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First Security Bank, 92

Girl Scouts, 61

Greenbrier Public Schools, 79

Greenbrier Nursing & Rehab Center, 81

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Hartman Animal Hospital, 87

Harwood, Ott & Fisher, PA, 52

Heritage Living Center, 5

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Julie’s Sweet Shoppe, 31

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Karen Ferguson, 19

KAT Country 98.9 & 92.5, 85

Kilwins Little Rock, 31

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LifeQuest of Arkansas, 47

Methodist Family Health, 75

MSC Eye Associates, 40

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Ott Insurance, 29

Overton Insurance Solutions, 77

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Pafford Medical Services, 35

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Quincy McKinney, 49

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Renewal Ranch, 9

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Salem Place, 57

Shelter Insurance, 35

Sissy’s Log Cabin, 23

Spark Community, 15

StoneBridge Senior Living, 71

Superior Health & Rehab, 2

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UACCM, 63

UCA, 17

UCA Public Appearances, 41

Unity Health, 3

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Velda Lueders, 83

Winthrop Rockefeller Institute, 27

________________________________________________ Youth Advocate Resource Network, 43 501 LIFE would like to thank our advertising partners.

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For only $20 a year, you can have your favorite good news publication delivered right to your door with a subscription to 501 LIFE. Visit 501LIFEmag.com to subscribe to the magazine and weekly newsletter.

Diane Barnes is living her dream in retirement as a reporter for the “Petit Jean Country Headlight.” Morrilton honored her on Nov. 2, 2024, with “Diane Barnes Day.”

In 2025, the Arkansas Press Association awarded her 2nd place, and the NAACP awarded her a Community Leadership Award.

Susan L. Peterson holds a Ph.D. in secondary education and taught at UCA and Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania. This former reading and language arts teacher loves sharing information about local authors, hoping their stories will inspire others. Now retired, she spends her time painting, making pottery and playing pickleball.

Kelli Reep is the owner of Flywrite Communications, the premier public relations agency of Mabelvale, Ark. She also is the director of communications for Methodist Family Health, a complete continuum of care for Arkansas children and their families. She enjoys napping as much as possible, reading and eating pie.

BEAST FEAST ARKANSAS

February 7 • Conway

Guys of all ages will find food for the body and soul. Participants of the annual event can enjoy fellowship, play games, and listen to live music and inspirational speakers.

HEART IN CONCERT

February 25 • North Little Rock

Fans of 1970s and ’80s music will love these hard-rocking sisters who sold more than 35 million albums. Hits like “Barracuda,” ”What about Love” and “Magic Man” will bring back memories.

MARDI GRAS IN THE SPA

February 15 • Hot Springs

Join the revelry as Arkansas meets Louisiana for a day of live music, food and crowning the Mardi Gras king and queen. Proceeds from the fun event will benefit Jackson House Crisis Intervention.

RED GALA

February 28 • Conway

An unforgettable night of style, fun and fundraising is planned. Wear an after-5 dress to the gala at 6:30 p.m. at Willow Event Center. Presented by the Know Your Heart Foundation.

POLAR PLUNGE

February 21 • Throughout Central Arkansas

Channel your inner polar bear by jumping into freezing water and shivering for a good cause. This tradition is a unique opportunity to support Special Olympic athletes. Plunge solo or as a team.

CHOCOLATE FANTASY BALL

February 28 • Little Rock

This may be the sweetest event in Arkansas. Enjoy chocolate martinis and other decadent treats while dancing and bidding on auction items. Proceeds support families who rely on the Ronald McDonald House.

Students, faculty, staff and community members came together on Jan. 16 for the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Prayer Breakfast hosted by the University of Central Arkansas in the Ronnie Williams Student Center. Judge Tjuana Byrd Manning was the keynote speaker with the an address titled “Roots of the Dream, Fruits of the Future.”

Byrd Manning serves on the Pulaski County Circuit Court, Division 8, bringing to the bench a deep commitment to justice and community shaped by her upbringing in North Carolina and Arkansas. A graduate of the UA Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law,

Throughout her career, Byrd Manning has served as an advocate for children and families, earning appointments to state boards addressing child welfare and juvenile issues, including The State Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Board, the Arkansas Supreme Court Commission on Children, Youth, and Families Racial Justice Taskforce, Women’s Foundation of Arkansas and the Arkansas Commission on Juvenile Justice.

The annual event celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. After breakfast was served, the program also included several performances by members of the UCA Gospel Choir and Miss UCA Ana Brandon performed a song.

“Byrd Manning’s speech was moving,” said 501 LIFE Brand Ambassador Lisa Hutchison. “The crowd was moved as she spoke about the MLK legacy and how we all may continue to build on the foundation he created.”

Girl Power

Kemp named one of Cablefax’s Most Powerful Women; Mentor of the Year

Conway Corp Chief Marketing Officer Crystal Kemp was named one of Cablefax’s 2025 Most Powerful Women and honored with the publication’s Mentor of the Year award.

The recognition celebrates leaders who are driving meaningful results in the broadband and media industry and making a lasting impact through mentorship and community engagement.

“When I learned that Crystal was named to Cablefax’s list of Most Powerful Women of 2025 as Mentor of the Year, I was not surprised at all; it is well-deserved,” Conway Corp CEO Bret Carroll said. “She loves to pour into people of all ages in our business community to help them with leadership and communication. She and Mike are empty nesters, yet she still leads a Girl Scouts troop. That speaks to the kind of person that Crystal is, and those girls will be better for having been mentored by her.”

Kemp oversees Conway Corp’s marketing, customer service and business solutions, helping connect residents and businesses to the company’s essential services. She has led initiatives that elevate customer education, deepen local partnerships and showcase Conway Corp’s commitment to reliability, innovation and service.

Beyond her professional achievements, Kemp has long been dedicated to community service and youth leadership. She spent 20 years as a Girl Scout leader, volunteered for more than 20 years with the Conway Area Youth Leadership Institute and most recently on the Arkansas Women in Power Board of Directors.

“Being recognized alongside so many accomplished women is an honor, and the Mentor of the Year award is especially meaningful,” Kemp said. “I’m grateful to work with an incredible team and a company that believes in developing people and serving our community.”

Kemp joined Conway Corp in 2000 as Marketing and Communications Coordinator. She was promoted to Marketing and Public Relations Manager in 2010. She was named Chief Marketing Officer in 2018.

Cablefax’s Most Powerful Women list highlights women who are shaping strategy, championing customers and supporting the next generation of industry talent. The Mentor of the Year award recognizes leaders who make mentorship a core part of their work, helping others advance and succeed.

TPINK GIRL POWER

he cast of “Mean Girls the Musical” was “Loving LIFE” when they performed Jan. 21-23 on Stage 13 at Wildwood Park for the Arts in Little Rock. The bold, hilarious Broadway hit was written by Tina Fey.

Stage 13 is committed to innovation, education, and broad community impact. Their goal is to evolve the theatrical experience, empower artists and collaborators, and deliver an education program unparalleled in scope and excellence.

KATHLEEN KENNEDY KEEPS IT 100

Mayflower celebrity celebrates a century of life

Kathleen Kennedy was born in 1926, in New Rochelle, N.Y., a daughter of the late John Joseph Kennedy, who was born in New York and raised in Ireland, and Mary Jane O’Neill, who was born and raised in Ireland. She credits her mother for fostering her career as a singer and Irish dancer.

“My sister, Helen, and I danced everywhere in New York,” she said. “We performed in the St. Patrick’s Day parades down Fifth Avenue and with the Clann Eireann Irish Pipe Band in Brooklyn. When I was about 8, my mother took me to WFAS Radio Station in White Plains, N.Y., which had a program every Saturday morning for young talent. I would sing and dance.”

Years later, her family moved to Los Angeles because they liked the warm, sunny weather. This detour led her to the movie industry. She said a friend learned about her singing and dancing and told a movie studio about her.

O“The studio called and asked if I would audition as an Irish dancer,” she said, smiling. She auditioned and was cast in “My Irish Rose.” That led to a part in “Top o’ the Morning” and meeting Bing Crosby. She also arranged choreography for “The Luck of the Irish,” which was released in 1948 and starred Tyrone Power and Anne Baxter.

Later, she worked on electronics on airplanes and married. The family moved to Arkansas, and she never left. Today, Kathleen calls Mayflower her home and she goes to the Senior Center as often as she can.

Patricia Barnes, director of the Mayflower Senior Center, and friends hosted a birthday party on Jan. 13 to celebrate her 100th birthday. “Ms. Kathleen is a joy,” Barnes said. “She’s always smiling and is the happiest-go-lucky person you could ever meet. She likes to remember her past.”

CITY OF CONWAY walks the walk

Many 501 families come together for shelter pets in 2026

n New Year’s Day, Conway Animal Services (CAS) was closed, but volunteers came out to give the animals some love and long walks. “We were uncertain about how many would join us, but this community truly blew us away with an incredible turnout,” said Kelly Trimble, a volunteer for CAS. “Seeing so many people come together for the love of our dogs was heartwarming. Not only did the dogs enjoy the fresh air and exercise, but everyone had a fantastic time!”

The event was such a success, the organization held three more walking events during the month of January and plans to continue them on certain Sundays. In addition, the city came together during the recent ice storm to ensure all the shelter animals were taken to a warm home.

“Conway has really shown up for us in a big way!” said Trimble. Call 501.450.6160 or visit conwayarkansas.gov/conway-animal-services to learn more.

A grand ole celebration

Old State House Museum Celebrates 75 Years

The Old State House Museum will celebrate its 75th anniversary from 5-8 p.m., Feb. 13, during 2nd Friday Art Night. The museum will celebrate with live music, food and drinks from the early 1950s, and the opening of a new exhibit — Enduring Image: Arkansas’ Old State House will open on the first floor of the East Wing galleries and will feature historic images of the building and information about its 75th anniversary.

On Saturday, Feb. 14, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., the Old State House Museum will have a DJ playing music from the late 1940s and early 1950s. Punch and dessert will be served. At both events, official remarks will be given about the anniversary. Hands-on activities will also be provided.

The Old State House opened to the public as a museum on Feb. 14, 1951. During the opening, speeches were given, organ music was played and punch was served. Guests were invited to dress in costume representing the time period during which the building served as the State Capitol. Gov. Sid McMath and former Gov. Ben Laney attended, both dressed in period clothing. Arkansas Gazette editor J.N. Heiskell delivered the keynote address and the 58th Arkansas General Assembly unofficially met in the 1885 House of Representatives chamber. Honored guests of the day included 27 of the 40 plus surviving former legislators who served in the first state capitol building. A historical marker was also dedicated on the grounds of the museum. A formal ball was held at the Marion Hotel next door that evening. Over 2,500 people visited the museum on its opening day.

Since the Old State House became the state’s museum in 1951, it has been dedicated to preserving the history of Arkansas from statehood to today. It is nationally accredited and is part of Arkansas Heritage, a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. The museum is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and 1- 5 p.m. on Sunday.

COUPLE OF THE MONTH

Linda and Jim Henderson

CONWAY

Photos by Makenzie Evans

THEIR STORY:

Jim and Linda Hoggard Henderson have been part of each other’s lives since an early age, forging a friendship and marriage that has lasted through the decades.

“We have known each other since the ninth grade. As teenagers, we formed a friendship, which eventually turned into a love story. We were married on May 28, 1982.”

Now that they are both retired, the Hendersons have set a goal that should keep them on the road for years to come — to visit every national park in the continental United States. So far, they have visited 30 parks.

“Many of our journeys include visiting our son and daughter-in-law in Reno, Nev. Linda does the planning, and Jim does the driving. In 2025, our travels included photographing the Painted Churches of

Texas and bluebonnets in the Hill Country; Mackinac Island; Santa Fe; Route 66’s western end; the loneliest road in America (Highway 50) that stretches through Nevada, Utah, and Colorado; Nevada’s Valley of Fire State Park; and our very favorite spot, the Colorado San Juan Mountains.

In 2025, we added five national parks and two national monuments to our list of visited national parks. For 2026, we’re planning trips to the Oregon Coast, Redwood National Park, the Wichita Mountains in Oklahoma to see wild ponies and wildflowers, chasing the Union Pacific Big Boy Steam Train, and photographing the Milky Way.

And, their “travel bucket list” keeps growing! Last year, the Hendersons hiked 600 miles, and they want to hike further in 2026. “We hope to keep exploring as long as possible,” she said.

Read Linda and Jim’s individual stories on page 22

HER STORY:

I am a follower of Christ, a wife, a mother, a mother-in-law, a daughter, an aunt and a friend. My passions include being a nature photographer, a road tripper and hiker, a Route 66 fan, an old steam train chaser, and an IT person for the two men in my life (my husband and my dad). I am definitely type A.

NATIVE OF: Conway.

CHILDREN: One adult son, John Mark Henderson, and our daughter-in-law, Jenni Henderson.

EDUCATION: I hold a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Central Arkansas.

CAREER: For 37 years, I was a registered nurse at the Conway Human Development Center.

HONORS: My photography and writing have been featured in several travel magazines, including 501 LIFE magazine. My work has been a part of several calendars and advertisements for hotels and tourism in Arkansas. I have had a camera in my hands since I was 16.

HOBBIES: I love to hike, ride bikes and cook. I am a member of Antioch Baptist Church and a part of the event-planning committee for the 55+ ministry. I am also a member of the Patient and Family Advisory Council at Conway Regional Medical Center.

BEST PLACE FOR PHOTOS: Petit Jean State Park is perfect for a nature photographer. It has waterfalls, mountain vistas, sunrise and sunset spots, old rock buildings, fall colors and spring dogwood trees.

HIS STORY:

I am easy-going and a fixer of all things broken. We have rental property and we also help take care of my mother’s home. I tell people Linda is management and I am maintenance.

NATIVE OF: Arkadelphia

EDUCATION: Bachelor of Education from the University of Central Arkansas.

CAREER: I was the owner and CEO of JMH Construction.

HONORS: Making it alive to retirement.

SPECIAL INTERESTS: I like hunting, old Jeeps, hiking and spending time outdoors. I am also a member of Antioch Baptist Church and the bus driver for the 55+ ministry.

WHAT’S BEST ABOUT THE 501? It is home, and that means being close to family and friends.

‘We hope to keep exploring as long as possible.’

— Linda Henderson

From Waffle Irons to White Tablecloth Dining ...

of jason knapp

By Donna Lampkin Stephens • Photos by Makenzie Evans

At 18, a young Jason Knapp could never have imagined the places his unlikely career would take him by 46. From Conway, the district sales manager with Performance Foodservice, is a Certified Executive Chef through the American Culinary Federation who also holds a ProChef II certification through the Culinary Institute of America. He is a two-time Arkansas Chef of the Year.

And it all started at Waffle House.

He was a recent graduate of Little Rock Catholic in 1997, uncertain of his future, when a friend applied for a job at the ubiquitous chain restaurant. On a lark, he did, too. “Jokingly, I thought, ‘What do you have to do to get a job at Waffle House?’” he remembered.

He got the job and waited tables on the overnight shift until a manager asked him one night if he knew how to cook. He didn’t. But from that night on, he was on the grill.

“I did not know how to boil water,” Knapp said, recalling three Little Rock robbery/homicide detectives who came in every night and ultimately asked if they could bring him some food to cook for them.

“They brought in a package of hot dogs, and I told them, ‘I don’t have a microwave back here. How am I supposed to cook these?’ They told me to put them on the grill or in a pot of water.”

School hadn’t been too interesting to him, and he found that he loved working with his hands. He took great satisfaction when customers would come in and ask him to cook their food. After about two years, he moved to the venerable Zack’s Place on University Avenue in Little Rock.

“My grandfather (Dr. Fay Wardlaw) was an orthodontist in Little Rock, and it really bothered him that I was a cook at Waffle House, so they helped me get an interview,” Knapp recalled. “He loved to see people succeed. I wasn’t born with many things, gift-wise, but God did give me the ability to cook food.”

A friend was considering attending culinary school through what was then the Arkansas Chapter School of Apprenticeship with the American Culinary Federation, and Knapp decided to join him. (The program now is through Pulaski Tech.) It was a three-year, once-a-week, on-site program, with apprenticeship the major portion of the education. After Zack’s Place, he honed his skills at Pleasant Valley Country Club and Sonny Williams’ Steak Room while pursuing his culinary certification.

And that was where he came across the late Don Bingham, who would become perhaps his most important professional mentor. Bingham was then working as administrator and executive chef at the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion and inquired of school officials about potential recruits. Knapp credits Bingham for making him more than “a regular, run-of-the-mill cook.”

“Somehow Don Bingham saw through a snot-nosed brat and saw some potential in me. He was the main reason I saw an actual profession out of this career path.”

— Jason Knapp

and

MIDDLE: Knapp (center) and Sous Chefs Jack Daugherty (on the left) and Jay Baxter were waiting for a party to begin at the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion.

BOTTOM: Nicole and Knapp in 2012 when he won Arkansas Diamond Chef. At that time, she was the reigning Mrs. Arkansas America.

He worked under Bingham for five of his eight years at the Mansion. When Bingham moved to the University of Central Arkansas as director of special events, he got his protege an interview to work for Aramark on campus. The interview consisted of cooking a 12-course meal for Barbara Meadors, wife of then UCA President Allen Meadors. The meal consisted of three hot and three cold courses of beef and three hot and three cold courses of lobster. Some of the dishes he presented were lobster rolls, Beef Tataki, poached lobster with Beurre Monte and Steak au Poivre.

“That was the interview — ‘Cook me a meal, and if I like it, you’re hired,’” he recalled. She did, and he was.

After three years at UCA, other stops were Green Leaf Grill, a health food restaurant in Little Rock, Sysco Foods as in-house chef, and food sales with Performance Foodservice, where he is now district sales manager. He also returned to the Governor’s Mansion for several months following the election of Sarah Huckabee Sanders.

Through it all, he has remembered some advice from a fellow chef: “If you treat everybody like they’re cold, tired and hungry, you’ll be a success in this business.”

“That made sense,” Knapp said. “It’s the hospitality industry. People want to be treated a certain way. If I can deliver somebody a meal with an excellent experience in a fantastic setting, it really

doesn’t matter what the cost is because that’s what they’re there for, that experience.”

Knapp and his wife, Nicole, have two children. Their son, Taylor, is 18, and their daughter, Olivia, is 14. And he is “150 percent” the main cook at home. “She might make some muffins or cookies, but I do the rest,” he said, adding that as a chef, he cleans up along the way.

His go-to meal at home is surprisingly simple. “After all the rich food I’ve eaten, I enjoy some grilled protein — chicken, beef or pork — and a salad, something light that doesn’t weigh me down,” he said. “When it’s not the holidays, I try to treat myself with healthier meals.”

And yes, the Knapp kids eat boxed mac and cheese.

The hardest thing he’s ever done as a chef?

“The ProChef II test or cooking for Mrs. Meadors,” he said. “That was one of the crowning moments of my career.”

On pages 28-31, Knapp has put together a Valentine’s three-course meal to inspire 501 cooks at home — cream of brie soup with crispy bacon and chives, pan-seared strip steak with gremolata topping, fondant potatoes, glazed carrots, and apple tarte tatin for dessert.

JASON KNAPP'S VALENTINE'S DAY THREE-COURSE MEAL

CREAM OF BRIE SOUP

¼ cup unsalted butter

1 small onion, diced

2 celery ribs, diced

¼ cup all-purpose flour

4 cups chicken stock

½ lb. Brie cheese, rind removed and cubed

½ cup heavy cream

2 Tbsp. cooked diced bacon

2 tsp. chives or green onion

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onion and celery until onion is translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in flour and cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Wait for the roux to develop a slight nutty smell. Gradually whisk in chicken stock. Simmer until soup is thickened. Add heavy cream and bring back to a simmer. Add the Brie cubes slowly, stirring a few at a time into the soup. Carefully transfer soup (in batches) to a blender. Puree until smooth and velvety. Ladle into bowls and garnish with bacon and chives.

JASON KNAPP'S

PAN-SEARED

BEEF STRIP STEAKS WITH

GREMOLATA

2 beef strip steaks 10-12 oz. each • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 Tbsp. vegetable oil (high smoke point) • 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter

1 shallot, quartered • 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme

Optional: 1 clove garlic, smashed

Pat steaks dry. The drier the surface, the easier it is to form an amazing crust. Season generously with salt and pepper. Using a heavy skillet (cast iron or stainless steel), heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Place the steaks in the skillet. Sear 2-3 minutes per side until a deep crust forms.

Lower the heat to medium-low, add butter, shallot quarters, garlic and thyme sprigs. Tilt the pan and, using a larger spoon, baste the steaks with butter and aromatics. Continue this process for 1-2 minutes. Check doneness with a meat thermometer (medium rare should be about 130 F). Remove the steaks from the pan and allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.

GREMOLATA

1 cup fresh, flat-leaf parsley (finely chopped) • 1 clove garlic (minced)

Zest of 1 lemon (finely grated) • 1 tsp. red pepper flake 1 Tbsp. good quality olive oil •Pinch of salt

Wash and finely chop parsley. Mince garlic. Grate lemon zest. In a small bowl, combine parsley, garlic, lemon zest, red pepper flakes and salt. Mix while adding olive oil. Serve with grilled meats, fish or vegetables.

Find Jason’s recipes for fondant potatoes and glazed carrots at 501lifemag.com

APPLE TARTE TATIN

A Tarte Tatin is a classic French upside-down pastry where fruit is caramelized in butter and sugar before being topped with pastry dough and baked, then inverted for serving.

6 medium apples, Granny Smith or another tart variety

1 tsp. lemon juice

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

¾ cup granulated sugar

1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)

A pinch of kosher salt

Preparing the apples: Peel, core and quarter apples, toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Preparing the caramel: Using a 10-inch, oven-safe skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sugar, swirl the pan occasionally, and cook until it turns a golden caramel color (about 5-7 minutes).

Assemble and bake: Have oven preheated to 375°. Arrange apple quarters, rounded side down, into the caramel in a circular pattern. Cook over medium heat until the apples soften, and the caramel thickens. Roll your puff pastry out to a round that is slightly larger than the skillet, lay it over the apples, tucking the edges down around them. Pierce the dough all over with a fork to let steam escape. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes until the pastry is golden and puffed. Cool the tart for 5 minutes, then invert onto a serving platter. Sprinkle a pinch of kosher salt over the apples. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

KEITH LAWSON

While many people his age are slowing down, 61-year-old Keith Lawson is revving up for another season on the road, still chasing the feeling that hooked him as a kid on the dirt track.

His father, a local track champion, was the first hero he ever knew.

“My dad just passed away a few months ago,” he said. “He was really good. I watched him as a 7-year-old kid and he’s who inspired me to start racing.”

By the time he was 18, Lawson was behind the wheel at Centerville Super Speedway, racing against drivers he still remembers today.

“They’re all retired now, but I’m still going,” he chuckled.

Lawson’s early years on the circuit led to a lifetime of competition. He won the 1987 state 500 expert four-wheeler championship in Heber Springs, then returned to cars, where he amassed multiple racing achievements, including 35 wins from 2002-2005.

As the wins piled up, Lawson learned he loved building cars and developing drivers just as much as racing. “I always made sure I had the best drivers I could find,” he said. “I was blessed.”

Lawson’s drivers quickly redefined the sport. Charlie Armstrong won 42 races and two championships in Lawson’s cars. Curtis Cook, one of his favorites, delivered wins in both modifieds and late models. Drew Armstrong won 63 races and five championships, including the All-Star race in Boone, Iowa.

“We won 75 percent of the races we entered,” Lawson said. “It was crazy.”

In 2023, he faced a crossroads when he realized he couldn’t race like he used to.

“I wasn’t as comfortable behind the wheel as I used to be,” Lawson said. “Maybe it’s age, but I started thinking more about building and sponsoring cars than driving them.”

Then, the phone rang. On the other end was Billy “Mr. Smooth” Moyer Sr., 68, the most accomplished late model driver in dirttrack history.

“I’ll never forget that phone call,” Lawson said. “Billy heard I was looking for another driver. We worked out a deal and it took off from there.”

‘When I go to a racetrack and everyone shakes my hand and knows my name, that’s what matters ... I used to think that winning was what happened at the end of a race.

Now I know this is what winning really looks like.’

With Moyer at the wheel, Keith Lawson Motorsports recently capped a historic 2025 season. The team ran 47 races across 11 states, capturing three wins, 14 top-five finishes, 21 top-10 finishes and the Comp Cams Super Dirt Series Championship.

“Our drivers are something special to watch,” Lawson said. “We love them.”

Behind the scenes, Keith Lawson Motorsports runs like a welloiled machine. Hall of Fame crew chief Steve Norris leads the technical side, while Bodee Branscum and Carla Rayburn help keep the cars competitive through a demanding travel schedule. Lawson’s wife, Elia, also plays a vital role, including managing the team’s fan-favorite merchandise trailer.

“My whole life is based on my wife,” he said. “She bosses me around sometimes, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

For Lawson, life in his 60s looks different than it did when he was a young racer fighting for every inch.

“There used to be so much pressure on me to be successful,” he said. “I had to win to make a living. I don’t feel the pressure anymore. I can finally just enjoy it and have fun.”

Over the years, what stands out the most to him isn’t the trophies, it’s the people. “When I go to a racetrack and everyone shakes my hand and knows my name, that’s what matters,” Lawson said.

— Keith Lawson

“Legendary driver Larry Shaw came to my trailer and asked to take a picture with me. I couldn’t believe it. I used to think that winning was what happened at the end of a race. Now I know this is what winning really looks like.”

The humility is what keeps Lawson grounded in Houston, where his family owns 500 acres along the Arkansas River, runs Lawson Farms and a construction business. At the center of it all is the race shop, where cars are torn down on Mondays, rebuilt by Wednesday and loaded up again on Thursday for another weekend on the road.

“It’s a lot of hard work,” Lawson said. “At the end of the day, you’re tired and dirty, but you go to sleep each night knowing you love what you do.”

Looking ahead, Keith Lawson Motorsports shows no signs of slowing down. Moyer returns to drive this season, and the team is now supporting a new generation of racers, including 6-yearold speedster Jett “Mr. Highside” Wall and 10-year-old sensation Bryer Rexwinkle. Drew Armstrong and sprint car driver Roger Crockett will also be racing Lawson-built cars.

Today, after 43 years in the sport, Lawson still feels like the kid who stood in the stands watching his dad and dreaming big. “We may be in our 60s, but we’re still kids at heart,” he said. “Even though our bodies say we’re not.”

A Baton with Bite

JAWS in Concert Makes Waves in Conway

Fifty years after a great white shark changed moviegoing forever, “JAWS” is surfacing once again, this time with a full symphony orchestra bringing its iconic score to life. In March, the Conway Symphony Orchestra and the University of Central Arkansas’s Reynolds Performance Hall will partner to present “JAWS in Concert,” a live-to-film experience that blends Hollywood suspense with the power of orchestral performance.

For Amanda Horton, executive director of UCA Public Appearances, the event is both a celebration and a continuation of a partnership that has flourished since the arts returned to campus after the pandemic.

“These live-to-film concerts have become one of our favorite ways to engage audiences,” Horton said. “They’re immersive, they’re accessible and they allow people to experience the symphony in a completely different way. Even if you don’t think of yourself as a symphony fan, you realize very quickly how essential the music is to storytelling.”

The March performance marks the 50th anniversary of “JAWS,” Steven Spielberg’s groundbreaking 1975 thriller that launched the modern summer blockbuster and cemented composer John Williams as a cinematic legend. With the film projected on the big screen, the Conway Symphony Orchestra will perform Williams’ Academy Award-winning score live all the way from the opening notes to the final credits.

“We drop the screen, and the orchestra plays the entire film,” Horton explained. “That includes the credits, which are a

substantial musical moment. We always encourage audiences to stay seated until the very end because that’s truly the final movement of the performance.”

The decision to host the concert at Reynolds Performance Hall (UCA Public Appearances’ 1,200-seat venue) was both strategic and necessary. Movie-with-orchestra productions require extensive licensing and rehearsal time, making them more costly than traditional concerts.

“We knew this was a show that would draw a large audience,” Horton said. “Reynolds allows us to reach more people, generate the revenue needed to pay the musicians and secure the rights, and still keep the experience affordable and welcoming.”

At the center of the performance is Conway Symphony Orchestra music director and conductor Israel “Izzy” Getzov, who will lead the orchestra through one of the most recognizable scores in film history.

“Getting to conduct ‘JAWS’ is truly a privilege,” Getzov said. “John Williams’ score is one of the most recognizable in film history. Those two notes have become a cultural symbol of suspense. To bring that music to life in a live setting is thrilling because it’s not just background, it’s a character in the story. The orchestra really becomes the heartbeat of the whole film.”

Unlike a traditional concert, live-to-film performances require precision timing and intense focus. Getzov conducts using a specialized system of visual cues and a click track to stay perfectly synchronized with the action on screen.

Continued on page 40

The orchestra prepares for eight to ten weeks for live-to-film performances, rehearsing extensively to synchronize the score precisely with the film, according to Amanda

Thank you to the members of the Conway Symphony Orchestra who were willing to go above (or maybe below) and beyond to pose on the floor of the Windgate Center for Fine and Performing Arts’ lobby to help us create a one-of-a-kind cover for this edition!

“It’s a bit of a high-wire act,” he said, “but that’s part of the fun.”

Beyond the technical challenge, Getzov sees the performance as an invitation, especially for those who may have never attended an orchestral concert.

“These concerts are a fantastic entry point,” he said. “You come for the movie you love, and you leave with a new appreciation for what a live orchestra can do.”

That spirit of community connection is one reason 501 LIFE magazine is proud to serve as the event’s media sponsor. Publisher Jeremy Higginbotham sees the night as more than entertainment — it’s a reminder of what makes Conway special.

“501 LIFE has had such fun sponsoring these nights out at the movies with UCA Public Appearances and the Conway Symphony Orchestra,” Higginbotham said. “I still remember seeing ‘Ghostbusters’ when I wasn’t even 10 years old, and I’ve never seen ‘JAWS’ on the big screen. I’m excited to see it in style. It’s on nights like this that we remember how lucky we are to live in a community like Conway that provides unique experiences we can all enjoy.”

For Horton, watching the audience may be her favorite part.

“I love seeing people react — cheering, laughing, looking back and forth between the screen and the musicians,” she said. “It’s a shared experience, and that’s what live performance is all about.”

“JAWS in Concert” will be presented Saturday, March 7, at Reynolds Performance Hall in Conway. Whether audiences come for nostalgia, cinematic thrills or the symphony itself, one thing is certain. When those first notes sound, the water will never feel quite the same.

Tickets range from $31 to $57, including fees. Student/child tickets are not available online, so contact the box office at 501.450.3265 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. To purchase tickets online, visit uca.edu/ publicappearances.

IT’S TIME FOR A PRAISE BREAK

Morrilton’s Annual Gospel Explosion Celebrates the History of Black Gospel

By Diane Barnes

The community of Morrilton is humming about its Second Annual Gospel Explosion event to be held later this month in honor of the origins of Black gospel music. The event is a part of the city’s recognition of Black History Month.

For a little background, the Black gospel music genre, also called gospel or African American gospel, was born from the roots of “spirituals” sung by enslaved Africans in the American South. Many of the songs used by the Underground Railroad expressed suffering, hope and hidden messages for enslaved runaways, and were often sung in the fields.

As a couple of examples of the many songs coded with messages, the song “Wade in the Water” warned runaways of pursuers and encouraged them to abandon the dry trails for water (dogs couldn’t follow their scents in water). The song “Steal Away to Jesus” had a dual meaning, depending on who sang it and under what context. It may have signaled secret meetings for escape, or a call to a secret meeting place. There were many cleverly coded songs created to guide runaway enslaved people or to signal what was to come.

The next major shift in Black gospel came after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, which brought on a new kind of praise. It changed from spirituals and turned more toward songs of praise in the form of hymns. The lyrics transformed from the coded expressions of pain and escape to direct songs of freedom, faith, and racial uplift, foreshadowing the freedom songs of the Civil Rights Movement. The songs kept their deep religious roots but shifted focus to celebrating and building community.

Black gospel had a major influence and continues to uplift, heal and inspire. It serves as a deep expression of faith, resilience and cultural identity. It is more than just music; it’s a worship experience, a cultural statement, and a source of hope that connects listeners to their faith and heritage, making it a timeless and influential genre.

Last February, in recognition of Black History Month, the City of Morrilton hosted its first Gospel Explosion event presented by the Conway County Community Visionaries (CCCV), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that I founded. The group’s inspiration for providing an evening of gospel was its opportunity to share the roots of Black gospel and its keen use during enslaved times. Stimulating others to visualize the power and impact of Black gospel during slavery in the 1700s up to now was our purpose, and Black History Month was a great opportunity to do so.

The evening was filled with excitement. Musicians and gospel singers of all ages streamed into the H.B. White Auditorium at Morrilton High School (MHS). Morrilton School Superintendent Shawn Halbrook provided the use of the auditorium, and high school choir teacher Tiffanie Manes led a group of her choir students to perform one of the coded spirituals. A community choir was organized by Morrilton High School Assistant Principal Jasmine Wilson, and there were church choirs, a soloist, a pianist, drummers, Black history poetry and more.

Because everything was so beautifully executed and because of its educational value to the community, the CCCV organization will present the Second Annual Gospel Explosion on Friday, Feb. 27, in downtown Morrilton at the Community Arts Center, 215 E. Broadway St. Doors open at 5 p.m., and vendors will be present. The event is from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and tickets will be available at the door. They are $10 for adults, $5 for students, and those 5 years and younger are free. African coded spirituals will be playing, and free handouts of coded spirituals will be distributed while supplies last.

LEARNING to

When it comes to the world of motorcycling, take a lesson from me education and training are the fastest route to success.

Iwatched from the sidelines for a while, I’ll admit. My riding career started much later than others. While friends around me were terrorizing the neighborhood on minibikes and small motorcycles in their teens, I didn’t get a chance to take to two wheels until my 30s.

And when I did, I did it largely on my own. With the help of David Hough’s “Proficient Motorcycling,” I made it through those early stages. Continuous study and practice got me through today, but there was definitely an easier route.

And that route is through education.

If you’ve ever daydreamed about getting out on the open road on two wheels, there is a chance to try it out with no previous experience. And, by completing it, you can even make the motorcycle licensing process easier.

The best part? You don’t even have to own a motorcycle or hold a motorcycle license to do it.

The Harley-Davidson Riders Academy offers potential riders the opportunity to learn how to ride without any previous experience or even motorcycle ownership. The two-and-a-half-day course is offered locally through Rock City Harley-Davidson in Little Rock. It consists of classroom time along with practical application in a controlled environment at the dealership.

For Rider Academy manager Frank Caridi, it’s more than just teaching people to ride; it’s a passion project.

“We want you riding something that you absolutely love to the point where we can’t get you off the thing,” he said. “And then other people are going to see you riding something and see you having your mechanical love affair out there. They’re going to be inspired to follow their dream and get their own bike, and have their own two-wheel love affair, too. The more of us that are out

there, the more bikers we can create, the more people we can enable and empower to ride a motorcycle, the safer we’re all going to be out there, because people start seeing us.”

He and his wife, Tatiana Somoza, coach new riders through not only Rock City Harley-Davidson, but also through their Hot Springs Moto Camp, located about an hour away from Little Rock at Hot Springs airport.

“Our mission is to get you on a bike that you love, because if you love it, you’re gonna ride it,” he said.

“Tatiana and I moved out here from Los Angeles, specifically with the intention of building more motorcycle and/or motorsports facilities here in Arkansas. So, step one is: Teach people how to ride, teach them how to do it safely, and build a community. Step two, buy some land, build a small circuit track, and then have more advanced classes there.”

Curriculum for both the Riders Academy and Hot Springs Moto Camp is based on what the Motorcycle Safety Foundation has developed. The classes start with an e-course that is finished by students prior to the start of class. Two days on a closed range allow riders to learn everything from how to start the motorcycle and how the controls work all the way up to emergency braking and swerving.

Upon successful completion of either course, certification is presented that allows graduates to skip the skills portion of the Arkansas motorcycle licensing exam.

“Take your written test after taking our class, because then you will have had two and a half days plus a five-hour e-course full of knowledge that will arm you for that test,” Caridi said. “Then you only have to go to the state police once. You go there once, present your completion card, do your written test after we’ve taught you all the things you need to know, they will give you a stamped piece of paper.”

Instructor Frank Caridi demonstrates the proper corner technique of countersteering and looking through the curve to go where the driver intends to go.

‘We want you riding something that you absolutely love to the point where we can’t get you off the thing.’

— Frank Caridi

With that paper, along with your current driver’s license, a trip to the DMV is all that’s needed to get a motorcycle endorsement added to your license.

Best of all, participants don’t even have to provide their own motorcycles. Harley-Davidson provides Riding Academy participants with two types of motorcycles, both of which are set up with crash protection in case of accidental drops. Additionally, the motorcycles are detuned so that power delivery isn’t too aggressive for someone learning the ropes. The Hot Springs Moto Camp also has its own fleet.

“Hot Springs Moto Camp provides a fleet of dual sport, cafe-racer style, and stripped-down Suzukis for participants to sample,” Caridi said.

The atmosphere of the classes is welcoming as well. Rock City events coordinator and marketing director Brannen Tipton makes

sure of that, including providing a grilled lunch for participants.

“We’ve always got something cool going on, and we’ve always got food,” he said.

Along with food, amenities such as phone chargers, sunscreen and helmet cleaning stations are provided at the Riders Academy.

Although Harleys aren’t used for the Hot Springs Moto Camp, the course also provides its own motorcycles. “And you have the option to ride your own bike, within the limitations (of the class standards),” Somoza added.

Classes will start in March, and Caridi said he hopes to add courses in Conway and Searcy during the year. He is also planning a course to train those interested in becoming rider coaches, which will be the first time it will be offered in Arkansas. Learn more at rockcityhd.com and click on the “Learn To Ride” option.

No matter what life sets in front of us, there’s always a place for kindness

By Laurie Green

In December, my whole world took a hit when my husband went for a routine checkup that progressed to triple bypass surgery. Mind you, he has never had a surgery or even broken a bone in his 70 years, so this was quite an adventure.

I’m pretty sure the first week was nothing but a blur for me. Watching the person you love in pain and hooked to all kinds of machines is hard. After a week in Little Rock, we were released to Conway Baptist Health Rehabilitation Hospital. We made the decision to go there because we wanted Will to have the knowledge and confidence to do the activities he used to, while feeling comfortable doing them.

I’ve had a lot of quiet time to sit and reflect, and after several conversations in the middle of the night with Jesus, I started to feel my own heart heal. I don’t talk about this much, which I really should, but I’ve had to learn that I can love Jesus and go through difficult mental health issues. They can reside together. I walked through some really dark places and, in my mind, believed I was unworthy of the goodness and grace He has to offer. I reached a place where it felt like I couldn’t even pray anymore, yet here I was, pleading with God to let Will be okay.

Tragedy has a way of opening those lines of communication with our Creator. After all, it does say the Lord is close to the brokenhearted.

The more I talked, the more I became aware of everything happening around me. Look, I’m going to share something, and I hope it doesn’t come off rude, but years ago, when we first started going to church, I took a spiritual gift test. It sounded so fancy, and I felt like I was going to find out what God created me for. The test said that encouraging others was my gift, and when others discussed having the gifts of leadership or teaching, I felt like I was handed a participation award. It felt small and unimportant in the grand sense of purpose — until the last few weeks of 2025 as Will recuperated in the hospital.

As I would stagger downstairs to the café to find a meal at 2 a.m., I started seeing the nurses, techs, housekeeping staff, etc., and I began asking, “What can I do for you?” I offered simple things — an energy drink or something to snack on. With it being the holidays, I was overrun with sweet treats, so I started offering them to anyone who entered our room. Then I decided to set up a “giving table” in Will’s room.

The simple acts of kindness were becoming twofold: I was encouraging the workers, and that was encouraging me. I began to interact with individuals who were working long shifts during the holiday season. It’s not intentional, but it’s easy for us to forget that healthcare workers have lives and loved ones outside of work, and everyone just needs to feel “seen” and appreciated.

Over time, my giving table grew as I added candy, snacks, pens, highlighters and protein bars — little things that I could easily afford (because I’m not rich, and I didn’t win that dang lottery, LOL). I said I could spend “mama money.” I would tell them, “I can grab you something, but we’ve got to keep it under $20.”

We were isolated from family during the week of Christmas and until New Year’s Eve because, let’s face it, the crud was running rampant, and Will couldn’t afford to be sick. But our hearts were full each time we had a knock on our door and had a chance to offer items from the giving table. As we gave what we had, I received hugs, I saw exhausted tears and confused looks. I’ve heard more than once that this has never happened before, and what a blessing it was.

I have even had the opportunity to talk about how a simple nobody like me gets to be a top representative of the way Jesus asked us to love others — no judgment, just kindness wrapped up tightly in encouragement. My heart has undergone its own kind of healing transformation while I’ve walked alongside those people during Will’s heart journey.

Kindness is free, and there’s no such thing as giving too much of it. What I once thought was a participation award now feels a whole lot more like a superhero cape — and it turns out God knew exactly what He was doing all along.

Attention art lovers!

Experience an art gallery downtown:

The Central Arkansas Collective Gallery showcases stunning artwork by professional artists from the region. There is no cost to visit the Gallery, located inside The Studio Downtown at 1100 Oak Street. It is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays, with an artist available to meet and walk you through the gallery.

“I love the hometown feeling. The stores are not huge, clerks are friendly, and occasionally I know them from a previous acquaintance. Owners know my taste and suggest items that are just my style.”

MISSION HOPE of

Conway’s New Hope Baptist joins the Serve Tour with a mission trip to Colorado

By Rita Halter Thomas

For decades, the idea of retirement has been depicted as a time for senior adults to step back, slow down, and enjoy less strenuous activities while a younger generation steps up to take over. However, perhaps the reference to “the golden years” should be recoined as “the greater impact years.” It would certainly describe a handful of mission-minded senior adults who proved they have so much more to give.

“No believer should say, ‘I’ve done all I need to do. It’s time for me to sit back and let someone else take over.’ He may redirect your focus, but there is always something to do until God takes you home,” said Pastor Roy Jutze of New Hope Baptist Church, Conway.

New Hope’s small congregation, which is made up primarily of older adults, is proving this truth. In September, Jutze, along with his wife, Shelly, and their special needs daughter, Brittany, accompanied seven members of their church on a mission trip to Calvary Baptist Church at Derby Hill in Loveland, Colo. The church was one of several participating in the Serve Tour mission effort organized by the North American Mission Board of the

Southern Baptist Convention and locally coordinated through the Faulkner County Baptist Association.

Strip, scrape and glue. Even though the team didn’t necessarily have all the skills for the jobs they tackled, they were eager, willing to learn, and not afraid to dive in. “We replaced carpet in the entire sanctuary, fellowship hall and in the hallways leading to the classrooms,” Jutze said. “That meant we had to go in first and strip out the old carpet, scrape it and glue it. So, we got an education on how to lay carpet. None of us had ever laid carpet before.”

While some were handling the carpet caper, others sprayed a bit of joy working on the church’s sprinkler system or swung over to the children’s playground to spruce it up. Jutze said it was quite an adventure. “We’ve got pictures that are hilarious. I’m watching those 60-pluses on the floor, behind a scraper or using a trowel spreading glue. Talk about bonding together, because once the glue got on them and they touched each other—,” he laughed, implying the obvious. Although there were lots of jokes about literal bonding, that’s exactly what stuck with this crew: the bonding.

Continued on page 56

“I think the most significant impact for our church came from the fact we spent time together. We were hand-in-hand, getting the job done. At the same time, we laughed, we joked and we kidded each other,” he said. “I believe friendships and relationships have exponentially grown, even among those who have been [members] for years.”

While spending four days riding in a van together (two days there, two days back) might be tricky for some groups, this team had a great time laughing and joking with each other. Plus, mission trips can’t be all work and no play. The team took a side trip to the Rocky Mountain National Park for a little sightseeing, a great reward after working so hard.

New Hope’s mission team not only bonded over the whole experience, but they also bonded with the members of Derby Hill Church, who worked alongside the mission team, and spent time talking and sharing with each other during breaks. Jutze and Dave Herre, the pastor of Derby Hill Church, remain in touch, offering encouragement to one another. “I’m a big believer in relationships. I believe you can teach doctrine all day long. You can preach and pound scripture over their heads, but if they don’t know you care about them, they won’t listen,” Jutze said.

In a time when senior adults are often overlooked, this group thrived and reminded others of their value as they demonstrated what they are capable of learning and doing. The senior adults were not the only ones invigorated by the experience. The Jutzes’ special needs daughter dove right into the grunt work by helping pull up old carpet. “She was able to feel productive and valued because she was a part of something,” Shelly said.

The Jutzes each expressed how members of their mission team had no idea what blessings they would receive. “Almost every one of them have asked what we are doing this year,” he said. “That’s good. This is the first time this church has ever attempted something like this, a purpose with a focused mission effort. Some weren’t sure they wanted to do it, but they did. They stepped out and they did it.”

The congregation at New Hope Baptist Church may be smaller, and a little older, but they made a big impact on the Colorado church, and the experience made an even bigger impact on their own.

History a man at home in

Chris Dorer not only shares the stories of Central Arkansas’s Little Italy, he lives it.

FBy Kelli Reep • Photos by Makenzie Evans

or more than two decades, Chris Dorer has stood at the front of a classroom at the iconic Little Rock Central High School, guiding students through sweeping world narratives, long-forgotten stories and the subtle cause-and-effect chains that shape civilizations. Yet even with the daily demands of teaching Advanced Placement World History and AP European History, Dorer’s impact reaches far beyond the walls of the school. His life’s work, which is deeply rooted in storytelling, community and a profound belief in the power of human connection, has quietly shaped one of Central Arkansas’s most unique enclaves: Little Italy.

“I was always drawn to history because it is a giant story that fits together like a puzzle,” he said. “I knew early on I wanted to teach. I wanted to share the amazing untold stories that exist.”

Dorer’s professional title, chair of the history department at Little Rock Central High School, captures only a fraction of what he means to generations of students. For him, teaching has always been much more than delivering content or preparing students for exams.

He recalled a favorite quote from Henry Adams: “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” It’s a line he not only admires but embodies.

“There are always going to be people who are smarter or more likeable, but what makes me passionate about my work is the act of sharing,” he explained. “I believe every teacher, and really every human being, has an obligation to share pieces of themselves with others. I try to leave each encounter meaningful. When I teach, I learn as much, if not more, from my students.”

Continued on page 60

Nothing brings him more pride than the messages he receives from former students years later. Those notes, he said, are proof that the ripples he sends out into the world continue long after the classroom lights are turned off.

To understand Dorer is to understand Little Italy, the place he described as “our own little slice of heaven,” where quiet hills, tight-knit families and a shared heritage make life feel both simple and deeply meaningful. His connection to the community is lifelong, and his investment is intentional.

“Little Italy is a prime example of one of those untold stories,” Dorer said. “For the last 25 years, I’ve tried to bring its storied past to the forefront.”

In 2018, he helped found the Little Italy Arkansas Heritage Society, and just one year later, he played a key role in opening the Little Italy Arkansas Heritage Museum. Today, he serves as the museum’s curator and the president of the Heritage Society.

For a privately funded, volunteer-driven museum, the achievements are remarkable. Through carefully curated exhibits, original artifacts and lovingly researched displays, the museum preserves the history, culture and customs of the Italian immigrants who settled in the area at the turn of the 20th century.

“In many ways, Little Italy’s history mirrors the stories of families coming to America today — people searching for opportunity, facing hardship and working relentlessly for a better life,” Dorer said. “They deserve to be remembered.”

His scholarly contributions, which include a trio of published books, multiple academic articles and continued research, further strengthen Little Italy’s historical footprint, ensuring its people, customs and challenges are never lost to time.

He has also helped organize the community’s beloved Italian Festival since 2002, an event dating back nearly a century to 1927. The festival has become both a celebration and a bridge connecting generations. When asked what he loves most about his hometown, Dorer did not hesitate.

“Resilience,” he said. “I’ve always rooted for the underdog. The people of Little Italy have never really received the attention they deserve, yet they continue to work hard and take care of each other.”

He likens the community to a family, one that is strong, connected and unfailingly supportive. “This place is defined by perseverance and cooperation,” he said. “That doesn’t mean there aren’t troubles, but at the end of the day, neighbors help neighbors. Family does for family.”

Through his teaching, community leadership and preservation work, Dorer has cultivated an enduring legacy, one built not on accolades but on authenticity, humility and service. He credits much of his grounding to his own family: his wife, Samantha, to whom he has been married 22 years, and their daughter, Allison, a student at the University of Central Arkansas.

In 2026, he hopes to continue improving both his professional impact and the lives of others by deepening the museum’s offerings, connecting more people with Little Italy’s cultural story and continuing to mentor and teach the young people who fill his classroom each day.

“I want to be known as a person who was always willing to work and to learn,” Dorer said. “Someone who valued understanding and people’s individual stories. A person who never shied away from hard work and was proud of the people he influenced and the people by whom he was influenced.”

Take a leisurely drive out Arkansas HWY 300 to experience the unincorporated community of Little Italy. The original St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church was established in 1922.

The privately funded Little Italy Arkansas Heritage Museum features carefully curated exhibits and original artifacts from the Italian immigrants who settled the area.

www.GirlScoutsDiamonds.org/FindCookies

A compilation of excerpts from

“Little Italy”

By Chris Dorer

The families who settled Little Italy (in Perry and Pulaski Counties) in 1915 were among the political and cultural refugees of post-unification Italy. As young adults, they abandoned the tumultuous environment of their homeland in search of freedoms they believed were only attainable in America. Like many of their countrymen, the founders of Arkansas’s Little Italy arrived in the United States and settled in Chicago.

Most immigrant men arrived alone; they found work, settled into dwellings, and sent for their families. Despite the new setting, the cycle of oppression they abandoned across the Atlantic reemerged in America. Poor earnings from factory jobs provided only enough for essentials. Without the availability of land in cramped neighborhoods, there was no possibility of supplementing the food they purchased with homegrown vegetables; they yearned for an opportunity to leave Chicago.

Meanwhile, at the turn of the 20th century, the promise of quality farmland drew interested buyers to Arkansas. Land agents promoted the possibility of “colonization” or the settling of an area by a particular ethnic group. Agents advertised land in the “Highlands of Perry and Pulaski Counties” for as little as a few dollars per acre. Five men traveled to Arkansas in the summer of 1915, and the Italians were astonished to find that the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains greatly resembled the hills of their Italian homeland.

In December 1915, five families traveled from Chicago by train to a small town named Ledwidge located along the Arkansas River. The immigrants loaded their belongings onto wagons and made their way to the land they had purchased two miles away, to an area originally called Alta Villa (the high place). They settled into a shell of a home, which they had ordered built, and while other houses were constructed, the families cohabited, one in each corner of the home and one upstairs. By spring, they began cultivating the land. Using their knowledge of grapes, they planted hundreds of acres of vineyards and established four wineries.

By the following December, four more homes dotted the countryside, and more families soon followed. Within 10 years, 15 families populated the countryside of rural Pulaski and Perry Counties. They raised grapes, established a Catholic church, and slowly adjusted to the pioneer lifestyle.

Life within Little Italy changed when Prohibition began in 1919; the Eighteenth Amendment threatened the colony’s chief product, alcohol. Though it likely appeared detrimental to the settlement’s prosperity at the time, this law advanced Little Italy’s prominence in Arkansas history. Before and during Prohibition, the Italian winemakers produced thousands of gallons of alcohol yearly.

During Prohibition, Little Italy’s winemakers provided the state’s most populated region with a reliable [safe] source of alcohol. The settlement became a popular destination for many of the state’s most powerful politicians who secretly imbibed the wine or cognac.

The wine industry dwindled in the 1940s and 1950s, sending the younger generation to seek jobs elsewhere. By the 1970s, all of the original adult settlers were deceased, signaling the return of their children to reclaim familial homes in retirement. More than a century after it was founded, many descendants of the original families continue to live in Little Italy.

1. The Solda beer joint at Little Italy, ca. 1940. This store and tavern sold alcohol, tobacco, candy, etc., and was a gathering spot for the people of Little Italy and the surrounding area.

2. The Vaccari family and Gelindo Solda pick grapes in their vineyard. All members of the family were expected to work in the fields to harvest the crop. ca. 1927.

3. A crowd gathers outside the Chiaro Dance Hall in Little Italy. The Little Italy Orchestra, complete with an accordion, entertains the crowd. ca. 1930.

4. Some children from Little Italy pose on a Model T Ford. They were from these families: Belotti, Segalla, Perin, Granato, Vaccari and Busato. Circa (ca.) 1920

5. Irma (Vaccari) Belotti on Accordion.

6. Two different scenes from the Little Italy Grape Festival, ca. 1928. People gathered at the festival from all over the state because everyone knew Little Italy was a place where you could purchase alcohol during prohibition. In 1927, a newspaper estimated that 5,000 people were in attendance.

7. The five families who founded Little Italy pose in front of a sign which reads, Alta Villa, ARK which was the name before it became colloquially known as Little Italy. ca. 1917.

By Vivian Lawson Hogue

Words move around a lot. You’d be surprised to know how old the Latin word “senior” is and how many changes it has undergone. In the 1200s, it was mainly to differentiate between sons and fathers with the same name. That has not changed. In the 1500s, it acquired the meanings of “higher in rank, longer in service” and indicated wisdom and authority.

By the 1900s, it was further changed to mean “elderly” as a path to removing the hint of “old-ness.” Today, it means you can be a senior citizen, which the government considers us to be once we reach age 65. What happened to wisdom and authority? My dad, who was actually born in 1900, insisted that we address anyone as “sir” or “ma’am” if they were above 30, or in a higher position. Things can be seniors, too! I have my Aunt Ina’s “senior” iron skillet. No one in the old days ever gave or threw away an iron skillet. Aunt Ina was 95 when she died, so my skillet could have been handed down for more than 200 years. No brand name is

on the bottom, and the bottom was apparently once cracked and repaired. All I know is that she baked “pinched biscuits” in it and I bake cornbread. Well-seasoned by now, it’s as slick as a ceramic skillet and never sticks.

Other “seniors” in my possession are my grandmother’s purple irises that are also likely more than 100 years old. In the last three years, we have sadly lost two giant oak trees pushing 350-plus years old. I have one fig bush I call the “Centenarian” as it is about 110 years old. One treasure found while gardening was a timeencrusted metal commemorative token. I could see the profile of a man, and after scrubbing I saw the inscription, “23rd President, U.S.A., 1889-1893, Benjamin Harrison.”

I have discovered plenty of “vintage trash,” including broken colored glass, some appearing to be hand-blown pharmaceutical or spice bottles. A more recent dig produced a porcelain leg from a small china doll. I assume it belonged to a daughter of Col. George Bruce, or his granddaughter who lived in our house, but who died in 1930 at the age of 8.

My husband grew up in Mount Vernon. No, not Thomas Jefferson’s Mount Vernon, but the one just up the road from Conway. The elderly four-room home of his youth lacked the comforts of running water or an indoor toilet, and their dogs slept under the house’s open foundation. There was no heat except in the kitchen and living room. For the latter, his dad would go to Massey Hardware every year and buy a new tin wood-burning heating stove. The house still stands and is occupied.

My 115-year-old house in which I grew up knows me as well as I know it. Regardless of its age, we are only the fourth owner, with my parents being the third. The first was attorney Roy George Bruce, son of Col. Bruce. We sometimes speak with humor of the ghost of Col. Bruce. In fact, other owners of old homes have told me of their own friendly ghosts.

This began one night in 1962 when my mother and I heard footsteps in our 30-foot hall — at midnight, of course. We assumed it was my brother, a student at Hendrix College, and ignored them. Imagine our wonderment when he actually came home at 1 a.m. Even now, when we can’t find something, we grin and say the colonel must have taken it.

Several who lived a measure of their lives in our home left a part of their own histories. I have always heard and noticed that when a house is left empty long-term, it is almost as if its own life withers away. It begins to disintegrate. Nails loosen and the inside develops a distinctly different smell. The lawn grows into tall weeds. Science explains that a house actually thrives and maintains “flexible joints” when there is interior humidity and even minimal movement from a human’s dayto-day living.

At this moment, this senior house, its senior citizens and perhaps a very senior but kindly ghost, appreciate its sound structure. Like Benjamin’s presidential token, it’s a little rough around the edges but maintains its place in history.

KEITH PERKINS IS

OUT TO

And he’s teaching precision agriculture for Arkansas State University-Beebe while he’s out there.

By Judy Riley • Photos by Makenzie

PASTURE

What does a lifestyle of learning, teaching and giving back look like? Keith Perkins of Lonoke lives that every day. He was destined to continue a legacy that started in a humble cotton patch in Northeast Arkansas. Both of his parents were picking cotton when his mother spotted his dad, thought he was handsome and picked quickly so she could meet him, according to family legend. That same grit was passed down to their five children. Jimmy and Betty Sue Perkins were the first in their family to graduate from high school. All five of their children were first-generation college graduates.

It is no great surprise that his life’s work continues in agriculture. His degrees are both from Arkansas State UniversityJonesboro, a bachelor’s in agriculture and a master’s in business administration. His career spans jobs in nearly every phase of agriculture: truck driver, heavy equipment operator, catfish farmer, diesel mechanic, research assistant and county extension agent through the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture (UADA). After more than 30 years of teaching in higher education when most would retire, Perkins chose another career. He taught high school agriculture in Deer-Mount Judea (Newton County).

He recently returned to Central Arkansas to teach precision agriculture at Arkansas State University-Beebe (ASU-Beebe).

Precision agriculture might sound like something more futuristic than reality. This process of integrating global positioning technology (GPS) with electronic sensors, drones and computercontrolled farm equipment is here and now in the field of agriculture. Those systems, working together, collect data to help farmers make better decisions. The advantages are legion. Farmers spend less on inputs: chemicals, water, energy, labor and equipment, allowing them to produce crops at less cost. Valuable environmental resources like water and soil are used more efficiently.

The common thread among Perkins’ jobs follows the 4-H motto “Make the Best Better.” He has helped thousands of young people do just that. And he has no end in sight. His life plays out through his advice for students. “I hope they learn that education is a lifelong experience. You have to be able to adapt as the world changes. You don’t have to be the best, but you have to do your best.”

‘Cherish every moment with family, friends, coworkers and students.

Life is short but gets sweeter every day.’

— Keith Perkins

Perkins and his wife, Renee, who is director of business operations at ASU-Beebe, have four living children. His oldest child’s death in infancy left a lasting impression on the importance of family. Their children have college degrees, following the family legacy path. Daughter Hannah teaches middle school science in Springdale and has made Keith and Renee grandparents. Dustyn is an engineer with Simmons Foods in Siloam Springs. Graycen is the director of the occupational therapy assistant program at Arkansas Tech University, and Mallory is a digital production associate at Dillard’s corporate office. “My biggest legacy is, and always will be, the success of my children. I want to be remembered as their father,” the proud dad said.

Giving back is not just performative, but bone deep. All their children live lives of service because they grew up in 4-H, (UADA’s) youth development program. Graycen and husband Kyle started volunteering at Royal Family Kids Camp for foster children. “They convinced Renee and I to help. Graycen and Kyle are now foster parents, and we are foster grandparents to two of the cutest little boys,” Perkins said.

The takeaway from this senior’s lifestyle is simple. Learn to work with and appreciate a wide variety of people. Enjoy what you do and keep doing it. Treat everyone equally and with respect. “I tell my students that everyone they meet is part of their network and can be valuable to them in many ways,” he said. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Be willing to help others when given that opportunity. Every day is a blessing from God. Cherish every moment with family, friends, coworkers and students. Life is short but gets sweeter every day.”

A teenage romance in a humble cotton field yielded “high cotton” for this family and its legacy.

other

By Beth Jimmerson

From checking email in the morning to streaming movies at night, internet access has become as essential to daily life as electricity and water. What was once a simple connection has evolved into a constant demand for speed, reliability and capacity — supporting everything from work and school to entertainment and staying connected with loved ones.

At Conway Corp, planning for the future and those connections have always been central to our mission.

Understanding Today’s Internet Needs

The way households and businesses use the internet has changed dramatically. A typical home might have multiple people online at once — streaming shows on smart TVs, gaming on consoles, attending virtual meetings, scrolling social media or downloading large files. Even everyday appliances, from printers to refrigerators, now rely on connectivity.

To meet those demands, Conway Corp offers a range of internet packages designed to fit different lifestyles and usage levels — from reliable 300 Mbps service for basic browsing and streaming to blazing-fast 2-gig service for homes with heavy streaming, gaming and multiple connected devices.

Choosing the right speed depends on several factors:

• How many devices are connected at the same time;

• How many users are gaming online at the same time;

• How often video is streamed in HD;

• How often large files are downloaded regularly

For businesses, reliable internet is just as critical. From processing credit card transactions and video conferencing to file sharing and online backups, Conway Corp’s business internet options are built to support everything from small offices to high-demand commercial operations — including custom fiber solutions.

Getting the Most From Your Connection

Speed isn’t just about the package you choose — it’s also about how your network is set up. Newer devices typically support faster speeds, while older equipment may limit performance. Wired connections deliver the fastest results, while Wi-Fi speeds can be affected by distance, walls and interference.

To help customers get the most from their service, Conway Corp offers Managed WiFi for residential customers and SmartBiz for business customers. These smart systems adapt to how you use your network, improves coverage, reduces dead zones and offers added features like parental controls and enhanced security.

Building for the Future With Fiber

While Conway Corp’s current internet service remains strong and dependable, we know the demands on our network will continue to grow. That’s why we’ve embarked on one of the largest infrastructure projects in our history: overbuilding the entire city of Conway with fiber.

This multi-year investment — expected to take three years — will ensure every home and business in Conway has access to state-of-the-art fiber service.

Fiber isn’t just about faster internet today. It’s about preparing our community for what’s next — from telemedicine and advanced learning tools to smart home technologies and business applications that haven’t even been imagined yet. Fiber provides the flexibility and bandwidth needed to support innovation for decades to come.

While we’re excited about the future of fiber, it’s important to note that our current internet service remains strong. Thousands of families and businesses depend on Conway Corp every day, and we are committed to providing excellent service throughout this transition.

This investment is not about replacing something that isn’t working — it’s about building a stronger foundation for the future.

A Commitment to Community

Projects of this scale take time, and we understand construction may cause occasional inconveniences. Our teams are committed to minimizing disruptions and keeping customers informed every step of the way.

This investment isn’t about replacing something that isn’t working — it’s about building a stronger foundation for the future. A robust fiber network supports economic development, attracts new businesses, empowers entrepreneurs and gives students and educators the tools they need to succeed.

Just as our water and electric systems were built with long-term vision, this fiber project reflects Conway Corp’s continued commitment to the people we serve. Nearly 100 years after our founding, we remain motivated by the same purpose: investing today so the Conway of tomorrow can thrive. For help choosing the right internet speed or to learn

AUTHOR OF THE MONTH

GAYLA GRACE

By Susan L. Peterson • Photo by Makenzie Evans

Conway resident Gayla Grace is an author, speaker and coach whose life’s work has grown out of her deep Christian faith and her calling to serve blended families. Her newest book, “Beautifully Blended: 101 Devotions to Encourage Couples in Blended Families” (2025), will be available nationwide in Cracker Barrel stores beginning this month, bringing her message of hope and God’s faithfulness to families across the country.

Grace wrote “Beautifully Blended” to fill a need she personally felt. “I longed for a devotional that offered encouraging words for my unique needs and help for marriage in a blended family,” she said.

Although the book is aimed at blended families, its more than 100 devotions speak to anyone seeking strength, healing and a deeper walk with God. With titles such as “One Day at a Time,” “Moving Past Grief,” “Experiences Change Us,” “Expect the Unexpected,” and “Trusting God’s Promises,” the topics resonate with anyone.

Grace grew up in a traditional Christian home in the Texas Panhandle, the daughter of parents who were married for 65 years. Her father, a college professor and textbook author, nurtured her love of writing early on. That foundation of faith and family stability would later become a steadying force as she walked through difficult chapters of her own life.

After what she describes as “a messy divorce,” Grace found herself leaning deeply on her church family, who supported her and her two young daughters for a full year. Seeking to better understand human behavior and to help others through their own struggles, she earned a master’s degree in psychology and counseling. Through it all, she said God continued to guide her steps.

She did not expect to remarry, but more than 30 years ago, God brought Randy Grace — and his two children — into her life. Even his last name felt like a divine message, signaling the beginning of a new chapter filled with healing and blessing.

“I didn’t step into adulthood with aspirations of being a stepparent,” she wrote. Yet she came to see stepfamily life as a calling — an opportunity to be a Christlike influence and a vessel of God’s grace within her new family. Together, she and Randy created a family of four children under the age of 10 before welcoming their own son.

Drawing on her personal journey, her professional training and the stories shared with her through counseling and coaching, Grace began writing in 2005. Since then, she has published more than 500 articles centered on parenting, marriage, wellness and faith.

Her early books — “Unwrapping the Gift of Stepfamily Peace” (2012, co-written with Heather Hetchler) and “Quiet Moments for the Stepmom Soul” (2015, with Hetchler and Laura Petherbridge) — grew out of her desire to help other stepmoms feel supported and anchored in Christ.

Determined to grow as an author, Grace attended writers’ conferences and joined critique groups. At the 2015 Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference in California, she met and later signed with her literary agent, Karen Neumair, a turning point that allowed her to step away from self-publishing and into the broader Christian publishing world.

With that support, she released “Stepparenting with Grace” in 2018 through Worthy Publishing, offering practical guidance, real-life examples and biblical encouragement for newly blended families.

Today, Grace continues to use her gifts to serve the Lord. For the past six years, she has worked with FamilyLife Blended, a ministry

of FamilyLife, whose mission is “spreading God’s Word through the family, making every home a godly home.” She writes, speaks at events, appears on podcasts, hosts a monthly livestream and offers Christ-centered coaching to couples navigating stepfamily life.

Her website, gaylagrace.com, provides additional resources, devotionals and insights for families seeking support.

Grace and her husband, Randy, make their home in Conway. They enjoy traveling, hiking national parks and spending time with their five children, two sons-in-law, two daughters-in-law, and two grandchildren, with a third on the way.

“Beautifully Blended” will be available in Cracker Barrel stores and is also found on Amazon. With its soft, leather-like blue cover and uplifting message, it makes a meaningful gift — especially for new blended families or anyone needing a reminder of God’s unending grace. Her other books are available through online booksellers.

CONNECTION IS CARE

Preventing senior isolation and depression across Central Arkansas

Experts are encouraging families, neighbors, caregivers, and community partners across Central Arkansas to recognize the impact of social isolation among older adults, particularly in rural parts of Arkansas, where geographic remoteness can reduce day-to-day connection and access to care.

“When older adults are included in activities, they gain more than participation — they gain connection, purpose and joy,” said Todd Price, director of outreach for CareLink. “Inclusion reduces isolation, strengthens well-being, and helps them remain active, valued members of their communities.”

For many older adults, common drivers of isolation include living alone, mobility limitations that make leaving home difficult, and reduced access to social activities due to health or transportation barriers. Prolonged disconnection can gradually trigger loneliness and despair, which may spiral into depression if not addressed.

When transporting older adults with mobility challenges, safety begins with patience, according to Price. Proper assistance and respect ensure every ride is secure, comfortable, and dignified.

Signs to Watch for In Older Adults

CareLink recommends watching for depression indicators that may be easier to miss in seniors, especially when emotional distress is masked by changes in routine or physical complaints. Examples include:

• Changes in sleep patterns

• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities that were previously enjoyed

• Persistent feelings of sadness

CareLink encourages families and friends to pay attention to patterns over time, not just a single “off day,” and to take concerns seriously when changes persist.

Practical Ways Communities Can Help

Older adults can participate in everything from light yoga to painting, sewing, cooking and creative writing. Activities like these offer older adults opportunities to move, create, learn and connect, nurturing both body and spirit.

CareLink outlines several actions that can reduce isolation and support senior mental health, especially to help close the gap created by distance and limited mobility.

• Be observant, and look for sustained changes in interest, sleep, appetite, or mood that may signal depression.

• Reach out consistently, because regular connection, including a simple phone call, can reinforce belonging and support.

• Encourage professional help early when symptoms persist, rather than waiting for a crisis point.

• Telemedicine can support routine check-ins and therapeutic conversations, and may help reduce feelings of loneliness through regular contact.

Immediate Help

For anyone feeling overwhelmed or in emotional distress, CareLink urges Arkansans to use the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.

The hotline is staffed by behavioral health professionals who are trained to provide crisis intervention and emotional support. They understand the unique challenges seniors face when dealing with isolation and depression, and they are ready to provide immediate assistance. It’s a safe, confidential, and efficient way for seniors or their loved ones to reach out when emotions become too much to bear.

“Every senior deserves to feel connected and cared for,” Price said. “In a society that often overlooks older people, let’s make a conscious effort to be there for them and remind them of their value. Through empathy and understanding, we can bridge the gap, one call at a time.”

CareLink, a local nonprofit and the Area Agency on Aging for Central Arkansas, connects older people and their families with the information and resources needed to meet the challenges and opportunities of aging. CareLink has provided services for active older people, homebound seniors, and family caregivers in Faulkner, Lonoke, Monroe, Prairie, Pulaski and Saline counties since 1979.

By Colleen Holt • Photo by Makenzie Evans

Greenbrier School District has found a great way for its youngest students to develop their basketball skills in fun and exciting ways, while learning how to work together as a team.

Through the Lil’ Dribblers after-school program, students can learn ball-handling skills, perform before their fellow students and parents, and grow confidence in their abilities for the future. Lil’ Dribbler teams at Eastside Elementary, Westside Elementary, Springhill Elementary and Wooster Elementary are open to students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Coaches include Cassie Wilcox at Eastside, Natalie Reynolds at Westside, Tracy Moseley at Springhill and Leslie VanPelt at Wooster.

“The Lil’ Dribbler program is designed to help students understand how to properly dribble and handle the basketball. We don’t practice shooting, just dribbling and other ball handling skills, but these are crucial skills for future basketball players,” said Reynolds.

Moseley said the groups perform at halftime of the junior high and high school games, along with performances at some of the surrounding colleges.

“I love watching the kids’ eyes light up when they can do the ‘fancy moves’ and to see how much they improve with each performance. The team loves to get out in front of the crowd at basketball games and perform for them. Some students have done Lil’ Dribblers from kindergarten through fifth grade, and it brings me great joy to see the difference in them from when they started to when they finish,” said VanPelt.

At Eastside, Wilcox works with assistant coaches Alexi Burcham and Tori Wickless, and with Audrey Paladino, an eighth-grade student and former Dribbler. “I have 44 members on our team with all skill levels. My older Dribblers are a big help with my younger new beginners. We break out into groups at the beginning so that the ones that need help have a little bit more one-on-one or small group instruction,” she said.

Continued on page 81

‘I love watching the kids’ eyes light up when they can do the “fancy moves” and to see how much they improve with each performance.’

Reynolds said she has one large team at Westside. “Some Dribblers may be able to dribble between their legs, while others roll the ball on the floor because they haven’t developed that skill yet.” She became involved with the Lil’ Dribblers several years ago when the person who had been doing it at Westside left. “At this time, I was a classroom teacher. Now, as the Westside PE teacher, being in charge of this program is one of my job responsibilities.”

Moseley said the Springhill team typically has 25 to 45 kids. “I try and do skills with a way to make it more of a challenge. In years past, I had some Dribblers use two balls instead of just one. I have also used different ball sizes to help offset the skill level difference. As a PE teacher, we teach a ton of different skills that kids can use into adulthood to keep them-selves active. Lil’ Dribblers is geared more towards being a sportsspecific skill, but could also be something they continue to play into adulthood to keep themselves active as well.”

“We do not teach the game of basketball, but what we do does help in the development of their basketball skills,” said VanPelt. “Many of our team members play pee-wee basketball and go on to play basketball in middle school and high school.”

This year, Wooster Elementary has 40 team members.

All the coaches said building relationships is their favorite part of Lil’ Dribblers. “Some of the students do not play basketball or anything else, and this lets them be a part of a team and hopefully lets them develop a love for the game and

— Leslie VanPelt

play in their future,” said Wilcox. “I also love how much they improve from the beginning of the year until the end, as well as the excitement they get on their faces after being able to successfully complete a challenging skill for them.”

Reynolds said the growth of confidence she sees in her students is priceless. “I love seeing students who have no prior knowledge of basketball not only learn to dribble, but have confidence in themselves,” she said. “I also love how excited they get when people in the stands cheer for them and when they have that sense of accomplishment. My main goal is to see each student leave dribbling better than when they came to me, having more confidence in themselves and their skills, and loving the game of basketball.”

Moseley emphasizes having fun in her goals for the Lil’ Dribblers at her school. “My goal is simple … help kiddos have a better ball-handling skill set than they did when they first started and then can use those skills to help them be more successful when they are playing basketball. I also want them to have fun doing it and gain confidence in themselves along the way. It’s not easy to do new things, but they are able to see the growth that comes from continuing to work at something.”

For VanPelt, the continuation of the program in the Greenbrier School District is vital. “As long as I’m at Wooster Elementary, the Lil’ Dribbler program will continue and hopefully grow with even more students getting involved.”

By David Grimes

VAN COMPTON

Van Compton left an indelible mark on the University of Arkansas at Little Rock athletic program after spending almost four decades with the Trojans.

Compton will be inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (ASHOF) in 2026 as part of the 68th class, along with D. Wayne Lucas, Nathan Brown, Louis Cella, Jim Haney, Lee Hardiman, Buck James, Dallas Keuchel, Erica Smith Leak, Alex Collins and Peter Doohan.

Born Van Gore on July 9, 1944, she graduated from Arkansas State University in 1965 before returning home to teach physical education at Forrest City High School. After eight years with the Mustangs, she accepted a position at Arkansas College, now Lyon College, in 1974, where she would lead the new women’s sports programs. Her duties included coaching the volleyball and basketball teams. Her basketball teams went 257-202. Compton was inducted into the Lyon College Athletic Hall of Fame in 1996.

In 1986, she moved on to UALR to lead the women’s basketball program. But in 1988, the school dropped women’s basketball and replaced it with volleyball. So, Compton transitioned into the role as head volleyball coach, as well as director of women’s athletics. Her team finished just 6-20 that inaugural season, but she quickly had the Trojans headed in the right direction, going 27-11 in 1989.

Continued on page 84

In 1990, the Trojans finished at 21-3 and finished second in the NAIA District 17 Tournament. Then in 1991, the UALR athletic program moved up to the NCAA level and the Sun Belt Conference.

Compton’s volleyball teams found great success in the Sun Belt, winning four regular season conference championships, five Sun Belt Tournament titles and making five NCAA Tournament appearances. In 1993, Compton was named the Sun Belt Coach of the Year after directing the Trojans to a 24-12 mark and a runnerup conference finish.

In the 1997 NCAA Tournament, UALR lost 3-0 in the first round to the Arkansas Razorbacks. Her 2021 team would exact a measure of revenge, recording a historic 3-2 victory over the Hogs at Barnhill Arena in Fayetteville.

UALR opened the new multipurpose Jack Stephens Center in 2005, moving out of the old Trojan Fieldhouse. Compton’s volleyball squad played the first official event in the new facility, defeating Florida International, 3-1. Also in 2005, the Sun Belt named its all-time volleyball team, and Compton was named their all-time coach, which is fitting as she is the winningest coach in Sun Belt Conference history.

Her most successful season came in 2014, when the Trojans finished 30-5. They ran the table in conference play, finishing with a remarkable 20-0 record. They had the nation’s longest winning streak heading into the postseason, where the Trojans defeated No. 16 Kansas in the opening round for the program’s

first NCAA Tournament win. Little Rock finished No. 24 in the final AVCA poll, which was the first Top 25 ranking in program history. Compton earned both Sun Belt and AVCA Southwest Region Coach of the Year honors that season.

Compton’s Trojans made another postseason appearance in 2018 with a bid to the National Invitational Volleyball Championship. Little Rock left the Sun Belt Conference following the 2021 season to join the Ohio Valley Conference. The school recently announced it would join the United Athletic Conference in July 2026, where they will join the University of Central Arkansas, which will create a natural conference rivalry in all sports that is long overdue.

Compton announced her retirement in December 2025. She was the eighth-winningest active NCAA Division I coach in career wins at the time. In 38 years at Little Rock, she finished with a record of 603-527. All told, she won 675 volleyball games.

For the second consecutive year, the ASHOF induction festivities will be held in Hot Springs, with Oaklawn serving as host. The Meet the Stars VIP Reception will be held on Thursday, April 9, at the racetrack’s Mainline Sports Bar. This is a great opportunity to interact with the honorees in a casual and relaxed setting.

The 68th annual induction banquet will be held the following evening, Friday, April 10, at the Oaklawn Event Center Ballroom. Ticket information for both events can be found at arksportshalloffame.com.

AN EVENING FIT FOR A KING

Dr. DuShun Scarbrough Sr. receives national accolades from The King Center for his commitment to justice.

The King Center’s 2026 Beloved Community Civic Leadership Award was presented to Dr. DuShun Scarbrough Sr., executive director of the Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Commission, on Jan. 17 at the 2026 Beloved Community Awards hosted by The King Center in Atlanta, Ga. The Award recognizes those who embody the philosophy of nonviolence and work toward social justice.

This prestigious honor, presented during the annual King Holiday Observance, recognizes individuals who exemplify the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through exceptional leadership, service and commitment to justice. Other honorees included the LeBron James Foundation; Billie Eilish, artist/songwriter; Viola Davis, actress and producer; and the Sesame Workshop.

The recognition marks a historic milestone, as the organization is only the second with Arkansas ties to receive this distinguished

honor from The King Center. The first was legendary poet, author and civil rights icon Dr. Maya Angelou.

“The Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Commission is deeply humbled and honored by this recognition from The King Center,” Scarbrough said. “To be acknowledged in a space that embodies the moral courage and spiritual leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is both a privilege and a responsibility. This honor belongs to the people of Arkansas who continue to believe in nonviolence, service and the power of community.”

Scarbrough emphasized that recognition reflects a collective effort. “This moment is a shared commitment to building the ‘Beloved Community,’” Scarbrough added. “Our work through the Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Commission is rooted in love and action. We remain steadfast in ensuring that Dr. King’s dream is not only remembered but lived out every day through meaningful impact.”

PET OF THE MONTH

ANGEL AND CATHY STOUT

By Phyllis Ormsby • Photo by Makenzie Evans

The beautiful relationship between Cathy Stout of Ward and her little Maltipoo named Angel almost didn’t come about. After sharing life with a Shih Tzu for nearly 15 years and then losing her, Stout was hesitant to open her heart to another dog.

“I went several months and had decided I wasn’t going to get another dog, but I was so lonely,” Stout said. “So, I told my neighbor I was looking for a puppy, and she told me about a lady near Beebe who had a litter. I think I went to see them that day or the next. I told myself the first one that comes up to me and starts licking on me is the one I’ll get. And that’s what I did. She’s white, and I wanted a white one. She was just a little bitty furball. I was so happy to have a little puppy and I named her Angel. She was born June 10, 2020, and I’ve had her since she was eight weeks old.”

Angel is a Maltipoo, a cross between a Maltese and a Poodle, often referred to as a designer dog. For Stout, it was love at first sight. Angel shares every aspect of her owner’s life, including her love of television.

Now 76, Stout has had some health challenges, so she is often at home, watching television. “I’ve always liked game shows, and one day I was going to watch Wheel of Fortune and I started getting excited, and Angel did, too. She spins around when they spin the wheel.”

It’s not just game shows. Stout swears Angel just loves to watch TV. “She loves those funny home movies, too,” Stout said, laughing. “Sometimes she’ll just look at me like she’s asking to watch something. She knows when I pick up the remote that she’s about to get to see something and she gets excited.”

Even when Stout goes out to run errands, she leaves the TV on for Angel. “I turn on either Wheel, because I’ve got them recorded, or funny home videos.”

Why would a dog enjoy watching TV? “I think it’s because they’re sharing with us. She’s interested in what I’m interested in,” Stout said. “I love it when she gets excited. She’s very entertaining. Even an old Perry Mason movie, which got her attention. One night she sat at the foot of the bed and watched it for 20 or 30 minutes.”

If Stout has both the TV in her living room and the one in her bedroom on at the same time, Angel will run back and forth between them. “It makes me laugh, and it entertains me. I can tell she’s enjoying it. She’ll be somewhere in the house and if she hears a commercial about dog food, she will run in here and watch it. She’s just amazing.”

For Christmas and other holidays, Stout has special outfits for Angel. “She likes for me to wash her face. She’ll be up on the sink, and she’ll just close her eyes and let me wipe her face, and she’ll let me wash her feet. They’re not paws, they’re footies, and when I ask to wash her footies, she knows what that means.

“She absolutely knows what I say,” Stout said. “If you have words you say consistently, they learn that word. And they learn your voice, the way you say it. If I’m holding her and tell her I love her, she’ll turn around and want to give me sugar. If I’m on the phone with my niece, Angel recognizes her voice and she gets excited.”

Another funny habit is that she likes to get an “appetizer” before she is fed. “When I eat ice cream, she has to have some, too, and she eats it out of a little spoon. When I get to the last bite, I’ll say, ‘That’s it, no more,’ and she knows what that means. Then she will go and eat her own food.”

Stout is selling some vintage jewelry on eBay and when she takes photos of the jewelry on her couch to post, Angel is right there with her. “When I have a dog, that’s my baby. They’re family. I get very attached,” Stout said.

PERSON OF THE MONTH

DENNIS L. NELSON

SEARCY

“Dennis radiates warmth, friendliness and cheer. His smile and sense of humor are contagious. He is also thoughtful, caring and helpful. As Unity Health Auxiliary President, he puts the well-being of our patients, visitors, associates and volunteers first.”

Jamie Laughlin,

Director of Volunteer Services, Unity Health

HOMETOWN: I grew up on a small farm near Amherst, Wis. I attended a one-room country school for grades 1 through 6. Our bus drove 9 miles to Waupaca for junior and high school.

FAMILY: My wife is Donna K. Nelson, and we have three sons: Carl, Charles and Aaron. We also have five grandchildren.

EDUCATION: After graduation, I enrolled in the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. In 1968, I joined the U.S. Air Force and was stationed at Little Rock AFB in Jacksonville (Pulaski County). While in the Air Force, I learned how to repair radios at Keesler AFB at Biloxi, Miss. I was stationed there during Hurricane Camille in 1969. I was in Combat Control at LRAFB and was a paratrooper. I packed parachutes and repaired and maintained radio equipment that was used in the field for missions. For further education, I attended Arkansas College of Technology in Little Rock for 21 months and received an associate degree in electronics.

CAREER: I worked for years in construction and as a subcontractor building homes. Then I worked for Simplex Time Recorder, later called Simplex-Grinnell as an electronics technician. I was a lead inspector for fire alarm systems, sprinkler systems, backflow preventer tester and a special systems inspector. I retired after 29 years of service.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: I attend Christian Life Church in Searcy. In 2017, I joined Unity Health Auxiliary as a volunteer. In June 2025, I was elected Auxiliary President. In addition to my duties as president, I serve in the Surgery/CCU Waiting Department and in the Materials Management Department. Previously, I served as vice president and as a member of the Leadership Council. Besides serving the Unity Health Auxiliary, I am also a member of the American Legion Post 106 in Searcy.

Before I started volunteering at Unity Health Auxiliary, I was unsure about it, but now I enjoy working with other volunteers and associates and simply making new friends.

If you are thinking of volunteering, it is a blessing. God has given us a purpose to serve and to share with others, while we give them great encouragement.