Fall 2020 Faulkner Lifestyle

fall 2020 

ALSO INSIDE: 

Pumpkins for Home 

Decor for Autumn 

Mental Health: 

The Silent Epidemic 

Women in Business Profiles 

At Home with 

Judge Susan Weaver 

faulkner lifestyle 

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Understanding that simple fact 

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contents 

inside 

6 

30 

AT HOME 6 

PARK HILL HOME: FALL DECORATING WITH 

PUMPKINS FOR POPS OF COLOR AND TEXTURE 

ON THE COVER 14 

AT HOME WITH JUDGE SUSAN WEAVER 

MENTAL HEALTH 22 

THE SILENT EPIDEMIC 

EDUCATION 26 

MENTOR LEARNING ACADEMY: 

SHAPING LIFELONG LEARNERS 

GOOD TASTE 30 

COZY FALL SUPPER 

FEATURE 37–83 

WOMEN IN BUSINESS 

HEALTH 87 

OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA 

SPOTLIGHT 88 

STUDIO SKIN: ANGELA JACKSON 

PET CARE 91 

HOLIDAY HAZARDS FOR PETS 

98 

22 

COMMUNITY 92 

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD 

TRUTH ON THE GO 96 

A GOOD SHEPHERD 

FAULKNER FAM 98 

H&D TUCKER FARM 

26 

14 

4 faulkner lifestyle | fall 2020

Jennifer Stanley, Andrea Lennon, Mary Ruth Marotte, Mary Etta Qualls, Xochilt Hawks, Detra Clark, Patrick Jamerson, Brandy Strain-Dayer, 

Lori Quinn, Drew Spurgers, Jackie Mahar, Shari Hoover, Colleen Holt, Linda Mars, Robin Stauffer, Leah Ashby, and Courtney Bordeaux 

OUR PEOPLE 

PUBLISHERS / OWNERS 

Lori Quinn, Editor 

Brandy Strain-Dayer, Photography Director 

ART DIRECTOR 

Robin Stauffer 

ADVERTISING SALES 

Jackie Mahar 

Shari Hoover 

ADVERTISING DESIGN 

Jackie Mahar 

FEATURE WRITERS 

Jennifer Stanley 

Leah Ashby 

Colleen Holt 

FEATURE / FOOD WRITER / COPY EDITOR 

Leah Ashby 

FOOD ENTHUSIAST / CONTRIBUTOR 

Linda Mars 

FEATURE WRITER / ARTS CONTRIBUTOR 

Mary Ruth Marotte 

WELLNESS CONTRIBUTOR 

Detra Clark 

SPIRITUAL CONTRIBUTOR 

Andrea Lennon 

FITNESS CONTRIBUTOR 

Patrick Jamerson aka Dr. FiT 

TRAVEL CONTRIBUTOR 

Mary Etta Qualls 

CULTURAL COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTOR 

Xochilt Hawks 

EDUCATION CONTRIBUTOR 

Lindsey Jones 

SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR 

Courtney Bordeaux 

Conway Arkansas 

EMAIL faulknerlifestyle@gmail.com 

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Brandy Strain-Dayer 

and Lori Quinn 

Faulkner Lifestyle 

Publishers / Owners 

Welcome to Faulkner Lifestyle! 

The Faulkner Lifestyle mission is to entertain, inspire, educate 

and inform our community with a variety of articles that 

will provide something of interest for everyone. People, 

business, travel, food, home, wellness, spirituality, style, 

events, and the arts will be just a few of our featured topics. 

We will have a strong online and social media presence. 

Not only will we be distributed as a printed magazine in 

high-traffic retail and service locations — like medical and 

dental offices, fitness facilities, boutiques, salons, coffee 

shops, and restaurants throughout our community — but 

will also have live videos and regular interactions with our 

advertisers and our community, both in person and through 

social media. We will saturate the market on all levels so 

our advertisers will see direct results and our audience will 

stay connected. Owners and publishers, Brandy Strain- 

Dayer and Lori Quinn have more than 15 years of invaluable 

experience in the magazine, marketing, and advertising 

industry that they lend to this publication. 

faulknerlifestyle.com 5

at home 

Pumpkins Add Pops of Color 

and Texture to Fall Decor 


BY CHARLIE GROPPETTI 

PHOTOS BY BRANDY STRAIN-DAYER 

Creating a beautiful table setting or decorating 

spaces throughout your home or business is easy 

when you feature pumpkins like these. Their varied 

colors, textures, shapes and sizes will inspire your 

autumn home decor. 

We have been watching with 

anticipation as the pumpkins 

grew at the Strack Farm on 

Lower Ridge Road in Conway, Arkansas. 

This local produce grower pampers their 

pumpkins in the field and continues 

— up until you select one or many to 

take home. We were so inspired by the 

numerous varieties and the unique colors 

and textures. So much so we decided to 

create a photo shoot and create different 

uses for these seasonal beauties. 

We use these images for print ads as well 

as video content as lifestyle branding 

for Park Hill Home where we sell home 

accessories, furniture and gifts. Our new 

line of Todd & Charlie fragrance candles 


is featured in the table setting and of 

course the fragrance is Vintage Pumpkin! 

Creating a decorative table setting is so 

easy, especially when you feature these 

pumpkins. We chose a softer palette of 

colors and placed them down the center 

of our old farm table, tucked some straw 

in between and accented with candles 

for the evening. This centerpiece will 

easily last until it is time to decorate for 

Christmas. We’ve had pumpkins last 

until late spring! Farmhouse hand-made 

pottery dishes, and linen and flax 

napkins completed the styling. 

We came up with the idea for the 

pumpkin snack stack to elevate simple 

tooth-picked snacks, using a hollowed 

out top pumpkin to hold a roasted red 

pepper humus dip. We used a wooden 

skewer to create a hole first to make 

the toothpick easier to put in place. 



Todd also molded a cheese ball into the 

shape of a pumpkin to add to the party 

theme and dusted the outside with a 

dried basil and herb mixture. 

As seasonal potted patio plants are now 

fading in their containers, a quick fix is 

to add a base of hay or straw and fill 

these pots with nestled pumpkins. It is 

a great way to spruce up the landscape 

and quickly add seasonal color. 

You will be amazed with the overall 

pleasing effect these little creative 

touches can do to your home — your 

guests will want to linger and stay a little 

longer to enjoy the Autumn evening in 

the environment you have created. 


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on the cover 


“ 

Initially, I was very interested in 

estate tax and criminal law. I know, 

those are two very different things, 

but so are the Cubs, Cardinals, and 

Yankees, and I love all of them, 

” 

Judge Weaver laughs. 

At Home with 

Judge Susan Weaver 

BY JENNIFER STANLEY 


Susan Weaver serves as First 

Division Circuit Court Judge, 

Twentieth Judicial District 

for Faulkner, Van Buren and Searcy 

Counties. However, she did not initially 

set out to pursue a career in law or 

politics. “Oddly enough, I wanted to be 

a physical therapist when I first went to 

college. I changed my major and earned 

my Bachelors in Speech-Language 

Pathology,” she says. 

Upon graduation from the University 

of Central Arkansas; however, she 

pivoted toward law. “I began my 

graduate degree in criminal justice 

before switching gears to a law degree. 

I graduated from the University of 

Arkansas with my doctorate in law 

and made my way back to Central 

Arkansas. While in law school, I spent 

a summer in Cambridge, England, at 

Cambridge University, where I studied 

international law,” says Susan. Once 

she completed law school, she earned 

her certification in taxation from the 

University of Arkansas at Little Rock. 

“I was very interested in estate tax and 

criminal law. I know, those are two 

very different things, but so are the 

Cubs, Cardinals, and Yankees, and I 

love all of them,” she laughs. 

Susan began her post-law school career 

as a law clerk for a private firm in Alma, 

Arkansas. Next, she worked as a law 

clerk for the Arkansas Court of Appeals 

for Supreme Court Justice Karen Baker, 

who was then an appellate court judge. 

Following this, Susan worked in private 

practice while simultaneously serving 

as a deputy prosecuting attorney. Next, 

she worked full-time in private practice 

and served part-time as prosecutor for 

the City of Vilonia and later as their 

municipal judge. 

At this point in her career, the state 

restructured municipal judgeships; rather 

than having multiple city judges, they 

were combined into elected county 


district positions. “That is when I ran for 

a state district judgeship, which covered 

Faulkner and Van Buren Counties. I was 

on that bench in that capacity for six 

years before I began as a circuit judge on 

January 1, 2019,” explains Susan. 

As for her current areas of specialty, 

Susan says, “Right now I focus on family 

law, civil law, and dependency neglect. 

Criminal law was a huge part of my prior 

interests, but with the new docket agreements, 

I guess you could say I stumbled 

into these areas. I had no idea how much 

I would enjoy it all. The civil aspect is 

interesting in seeing business and contract 

aspects of cases, but the dependency 

neglect cases have opened a spot in 

my heart I didn’t know existed. The 

cases are very exhausting, mentally and 

emotionally, but helping these children is 

the most rewarding thing I have ever had 

the privilege of doing. I wish I could bring 

all these kids home with me to love, hug, 

and protect,” she says. 

Susan is involved in the community as 

well. “I am currently on the board of 

Daughters of Hope and Transformation, 

which is an addiction ministry 

for women. It is similar in concept to 

The Harbor Home, also for women, or 


Renewal Ranch, for men. I love all of 

these organizations deeply, and there is 

such a need for this in our communities. 

Dana Davin-Ward, with the Harbor 

Home, and Bryce McGee, with Renewal 

Ranch, have been mentors for me somewhat 

in this board position. Their positive 

energy and direction are inspiring. These 

ministries reflect where my heart has been 

the past few years. I also do food volunteer 

for Haven House; I want to provide 

the girls with a home-cooked meal for the 

holidays to give them something special 

when they are away from their own 

homes. I have also served on the board 

of the Boys and Girls Club of Faulkner 

County and Conway Noon Rotary.” 

In her rare spare time, Susan admits to 

being “a chronic over-committer. My 

favorite thing is riding horses; cooking 

and reading would be close seconds. The 

first two are usually with friends, and 

I have to admit, we are all really, really 

good cooks,” she says. 

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She loves spending time at home, 

where she provides a loving space for 

her animals. Susan owns Opalina, LLC 

and Opal Hill Farms. “I have horses, 

mini donkey, mini bull, goats, rabbits, 

dogs, and cats. Some of the animals 

are expecting, so it will be a fun spring 

on the farm. My love is with animals, 

especially mini-ones; some are available 

for pictures, parties, and sale,” she says. 

Of her home, she says, “My goal was 

to shelter all my animals and to make 

my home cozy and country style, so I 

can host dinners and entertain guests. 

I love to cook for others. My Dad 

built my farm table and bench for my 

dining room, which seats ten. He also 

refurbished my grandmother’s old table, 

which I use in my kitchen as well.” 

Susan recently upgraded her home 

furnishings. She also improved her 

outdoor space, largely for her animals. 

“My animals benefited from any remodeling 

and additions…Outside, I extended 

700 feet of water to an outdoor kitchen, 


my barn, and my dog house. I added an 

outdoor bathroom with a washing area 

for my pets inside. I had a goat shed 

built and electricity and water added to 

the existing barn. My dogs now have 

their own insulated, heated, and cooled 

home with windows, a ceiling fan, and 

a porch. Their house is still in progress, 

but the end result will look similar to my 

own home, just dog sized. It is also tall 

enough for dog bunk beds and, yes, that 

is a thing,” she says. 

When curating her personal space, Susan 

wanted to support other women in 

business and local small businesses. As 

such, Peggy and Dapple Eoff, owners 

of Bar O F Ranch and Western Store in 

Clinton, assisted with Susan’s design 

needs. “I love the farmhouse look, and 

their ideas created the beautiful home I 

have today. I pretty much owe my entire 

common areas to them.” 

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Ann Mann with Dear’s Decor provided 

some of the artwork. “She also made 

wreaths for my door and table centerfaulknerlifestyle.com 

19

pieces. She is great at helping put my 

ideas together and also helped with my 

glamper, which even houses some of 

her small artwork.” She also credits Sally 

Lieblong with Arkansas Peddler’s Mall in 

Springhill for ideas on incorporating fun, 

unexpected flea market finds. 

Susan visits Linda Weaver with Linda 

Marie’s in Vilonia for kitchen towels, 

seasonal decor, and home décor and Kim 

Treece with the Pottery Shop in Clinton 

for outdoor pottery. “I have more plants 

and pottery than I ever had in my life. 

They look beautiful, and I have managed 

to keep them all alive,” Susan says. Her 

plants came from Freyaldenhoven’s 

Greenhouse and the Plant Outlet, both 

of Conway. “I encourage everyone to 

take the beautiful, scenic drives to visit 

these places. I promise you won’t be 

disappointed!” 



health 

Let‘s work to end the stigma associated with seeking 

mental health treatment so when people encounter 

tough times, they seek help instead of suffering. 

The Silent Epidemic 

BY AYISHA CANANT, PHD 

This year of 2020 has really been 

historic. We are internationally 

experiencing a pandemic, economic 

turmoil, racial tension and political 

chaos. Nationally we are seeing spikes in 

suicide rates, overdoses, addictions, and 

marriage/family conflict. Statistics show 

us more first responders die by suicide 

than in the line of duty and police are 

being called to homes for domestic issues 

at almost twice the rate now. What about 

right here in our community? We are 

seeing these trends locally as well. With 

so much change and lack of predictability 

in our lives over an extended period of 

time, our mental health needs attention. 

Some are calling mental health issues 

the silent epidemic and mental health 

workers invisible first responders. Why 

silent or invisible? And by being in 

the shadows, what impact does that 

have on our community? Although 

improving, mental health is still largely 

misunderstood, and by sharing information 

we hope to move out of the 

silence and into the conversations. 

Here are some common 

questions we are asked: 

Does Counseling work? 

Take depression for example, since 

according to the World Health Organization 

it is the number one world cause of 

disability. Years of research all over the 

world conclude that a person seeking 

treatment is significantly improved 

compared to a person who does not. 

How does talking about things make 

it better? Talking in a session is not the 

same as talking to friends or family. 

Think about it like this, if you want to 

eat better, you can talk to friends and 

family and some may have great advice. 

But if you talk to a nutritionist who 

has years of education and experience 

directly related to diet and nutrition, 

your conversation will be completely 

different. In this conversation you are 

talking with someone who has in-depth 

knowledge about the research and 

treatment for that area and can help you 

create an individualized plan to make the 

improvements. Similar to so many other 

fields, you are not just talking about 

your concerns, you are working with an 

experienced professional trained to help 

you improve some area of your life. 

How long does it take? 

This is a common question but no 

straightforward answer. Just like any area 

you want to make a change in, people 

are different in regard to how fast that 

change occurs. If a person wants to 

manage their money better, some people 

can make quick budget changes while 

others take longer. Among other things, 


it may have to do with how severe the 

issue is, the person’s background and 

support system, and any barriers that 

need to be removed or supports put in 

place. In the treatment of depression, 

there are many studies that show people 

can make significant improvements 

within the first 4 weeks and substantial 

improvement within 16 weeks of 

consistent treatment with counseling 

only. However, each person is unique 

and therefore treatment lengths vary. 

What kind of 

treatments are there? 

Many people experiencing depression or 

anxiety might first talk with their primary 

care physician and seek medication. 

One of the struggles with medications 

are the side effects and trials to figure 

out which one and at what dosage will 

work for you. To help that issue, many 

offices like ours offer genetic testing to 

all of our clients. These advanced tests 

use a saliva sample to determine which 

medications are more likely to give you a 

better response. While medication is one 

option and necessary at times, research 

shows therapy is more effective in most 

cases. You may have heard of CBT or 

cognitive behavioral therapy, which 

is generally referred to as talk therapy. 

Although CBT is one very effective type, 

there are many kinds of talk therapy 

in which a client and highly trained 

therapist confidentially meet to develop 

goals and treatment plans. While talk 

therapy is what most people think of, 

there are many other options today that 

involve less verbal communication. For 

instance, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Art 

Therapy, Play Therapy, Neurofeedback, 

CPT, Movement Therapy, and Yoga 

Therapy. During a typical first session, 

you and your therapist will discuss all 

treatment options and create a plan. At 

any time, this plan can be revised. 

How can I afford counseling? 

This is a very real concern at any time, 

but particularly now with so many job 

losses which result in so many people 

losing their health insurance. The first 

option is to use health insurance if you 

have it. Many providers in our area accept 

different health insurance plans and 

are happy to help you determine what 

your plan pays and expects you to pay 

out of pocket. You can also find out this 

information by calling your insurance 

company and asking what your policy 

covers for mental health. Thanks to 

mental health parity laws, coverage under 

health insurance plans is better. If you do 

not have insurance or your deductible is 

very high, here are some options. Some 

practices offer sliding scale fees based on 

income or have grants to provide treatment 

to certain groups of clients; a great 

place to start asking about these options 

is your local mental health center. Others, 

such as our office, offer an internship 

program. In this case we offer extremely 

low-cost sessions (usually $5.00) through 

students who are completing their hours 

for graduation. These students are at the 

end of a master’s or doctorate degree and 

must complete practice hours similar to 

other health fields. They are still under the 

supervision of their training program as 

well as an on-site fully licensed supervisor. 

How do I get started and 

how do I choose a therapist? 

All you have to do to get started is call 

a practice and they will help you get 

scheduled. Choosing a therapist can be 

confusing with so many different types; 

Ayisha Canant: I have lived in Conway for more than 25 years. My 

husband I have five children, and own Conway Counseling & Wellness 

Center, Conway Tactical, and Canant Construction. 

in Arkansas there are Licensed Clinical 

Social Workers (LCSW), Licensed 

Professional Counselors (LPC), Licensed 

Psychological Examiners (LPE-I), 

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists 

(LMFT), and Licensed Psychologists 

(PhD, PsyD). All of these license types 

ensure the person has completed a 

minimum of a masters’ degree and 

3000 hours of clinical experience, so 

it is important to look for credentials. 

Also, just like any field, many therapists 

have specialty areas where they have 

advanced training and can usually be 

found on their website. 

Let’s work to end the stigma associated 

with seeking mental health treatment 

so when people encounter tough times, 

they seek help instead of suffering. We 

are fortunate to live in a community 

with so many options for mental health 

treatment, the right fit for you or 

someone you know is available. 

Ayisha Canant, LPC, PhD 

Owner of Conway Counseling 

& Wellness Center, PLLC 

Please feel free to reach out to 

me any time with questions or 

concerns about mental health 

at Ayisha@ConwayCWC.com 

CONNECT 

Ayisha Canant, LPC, PhD 

Conway Counseling & 

Wellness Center, PLLC 

855 South German Lane 

For Appointment 

501.358.6606 

ayisha@ConwayCWC.com 

www.ConwayCWC.com 


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education 

Mentor Learning Academy: 

Shaping Lifelong Learners 

BY: JENNIFER STANLEY 

Mentor Learning Academy (MLA) 

was founded by Conway 

resident Jenny Wallace as a 

homeschool option for junior high 

and high school students. During this 

unprecedented time, Jenny’s goal is 

to offer an alternative learning opportunity 

for those parents and students 

desiring to homeschool with a focus 

on critical thinking. 

The concept of MLA is not new for 

Jenny, who began brainstorming the idea 

two years ago; however, she initially 

intended for the group to meet in-person. 

Jenny is a problem solver, who is not 

easily deterred. Thus, given current 

circumstances, MLA is a virtual co-op; 

classes meet once per week for three 

hours. Jenny, a Guy native, is married to 

Cameron, and they have four children: 

Andrew, Parker, Joleigh, and Piper. 

Of MLA’s pivot to online instruction, 

she says, “When COVID-19 struck, I 

knew the best option would be to meet 

virtually. I love the possibility of having 

kids from all over the country.” Regardless 

of its delivery method, MLA provides a 

unique, practical alternative for junior high 

and high school learners. “All the co-ops 

in our area require parents to be involved 

in the co-op. There are a couple of other 

options, but they are very pricy. I wanted 

to offer an option for parents who were 

not able to participate in the co-op setting 

but who also struggled to afford the few 

options available,” she says. 

MLA is exceptional in its classical 

approach to education, which offers 

a means of learning using skills that 


should be fundamental, such as 

deciphering texts, having meaningful 

conversations with peers, and learning 

by immersion. “We focus a lot on 

breaking down texts to gain understanding. 

Our weekly online meetings 

will consist of conversations centered 

around our learning from the previous 

week. We use the five common topics 

to guide our discussions: definition, 

comparison, relationship, circumstance, 

and testimony. The ‘teacher’ plays the 

role of mentor/lead learner and helps 

guide discussions,” Jenny explains. 

Much deliberation and thought went 

into the texts/canon and assignments 

that made the final curriculum. “Our goal 

is for students to learn how to learn, to 

develop critical thinking skills, and to 

be constantly curious. The seventh and 

eighth grade course does not use textbooks. 

Their assignments were created 

around mapping the world. They will 

begin their studies in 4500 BCE and 

will draw the world throughout the 

year and will observe how the maps 

have changed throughout the course of 

history. Their science will be a study of 

general science that goes along, when 

possible, with the geography of the 

lands they are studying. Literature and 

writing will also overlap their mapping 

adventure.” 

Alternatively, the high school class 

does utilize texts. “I spent a lot of time 

combing through different textbooks for 

our biology and United States history 

classes. I chose an advanced placement 

history text because of the data-based 

inquiry questions. It provides a lot of 

opportunities for discussions while 

studying primary and secondary sources. 

We will also read and discuss several 

Supreme Court decisions as we learn 

U.S. history.” 

With MLA, as with homeschooling in 

general, the parent is the true teacher. 

The mentors lead the online sessions 

and provide assignments and support. 

This facilitator model is intentional and is 

based on the book The Thomas Jefferson 

Education, which focuses on teaching 

children how to learn. “They encourage 

mentors for students in upper grades. 

This means someone who is reading, 

writing, and discussing the same material 

as the student. We designed our co-op 

“ 

Our goal is for students to learn how to learn, to develop 

critical thinking skills, and to be constantly curious. 

” 

—Jenny Wallace, Founder, MLA 


at home | christmas 

after this model. The mentor’s purpose is 

to learn alongside the students and inspire 

them to dig deeper in their learning. The 

mentor will also provide feedback for 

writing and in-class presentations,” she 

says. Parents can modify assignments as 

needed and perform grading duties. 

When asked about the advantages of 

this specific style of learning, Jenny says, 

“This type of learning helps create lifelong 

learners. We have tried very hard to cut 

out any type of busywork. The students 

will be working a few hours a day on 

assignments but will have the rest of the 

day to explore new hobbies, read, spend 

time with family, etc.” She says most 

students can adapt to MLA. “In my high 

school history class, we will be reading, 

listening to podcasts, watching documentaries, 

and drawing through history in our 

sketchbooks,” she says. This multimodal 

method provides options for most 

learning styles and abilities. 

MLA is also designed with certain 

potential pitfalls in mind. Specifically, it 

strives to keep homeschooling simpler. 

“Parents often feel they aren’t doing 

enough, or they’ll compare their learning 

environment to the environment of 

someone else, and they’ll begin to heap 

on more workbooks, more subjects. 

This rarely adds joy or a love of learning 

to their home. You don’t have to spend 

a lot of money to model the love of 

learning. A priority in our home has been 

reading books aloud together. We have 

so many memories wrapped up into 

beautiful stories. They’ve provided us an 

endless amount of opportunities to ask 

questions and dig deeper.” 

Jenny will lead the high school course 

and brings 21 years of teaching experience 

to the role, including teaching her 

own four children for the past nine years. 

She has a Master of Education degree 

and her National Boards for Professional 

Teaching Standards. She loves all living 

things and has a passion to inspire others 

to be lifelong learners. Jenny cannot wait 

to learn alongside the students. 

Junior high students will have the 

privilege of learning with mentor 

Rebecca Brudner. Rebecca is an educator, 

writer, and performer from Brooklyn, 

New York. She graduated cum laude 

from Yale University in 2016, where 

she studied theater history and dramatic 

literature. Her experience includes 

tutoring in English and writing. Rebecca 

has performed around the country 

in musical theater and Shakespeare 

productions. Rebecca is excited about 

mentoring MLA students. 

To learn more about MLA, visit or 

message them on Facebook 

at Mentor Learning Academy. 

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and see us at 1089 Front St., Conway. 

WAYS TO LISTEN 

1089 Front St. Conway, AR 72032 | (501) 764-9640 

1089 Front St. Conway, AR 72032 | (501) 764-9640 

FirstCommunity.net | 501.764.9640 | Temporary Location: 1089 Front Street, Conway 


Flanagin 

Services 

We are excited to welcome 

Dr. David B. Riggs 

to our practice. 

800 Locust Ave. 

Downtown Conway 

501.327.4466 

Dr. James H. Flanagin III, DDS 

Dr. David B. Riggs, DMD

good taste 

recipes 

30 faulkner lifestyle | august/september 2020

scene | heard 

Cozy 

Fall 

Supper 

BY: LEAH ASHBY 


“ 

The heat of autumn / is different from the heat of 

summer / One ripens apples, the other turns them 

to cider. 

” —Jane Hirshfield, The Heat of Autumn faulknerlifestyle.com 31 

Perfect for a chilly Autumn 

evening, this meal comes 

together easily and can be 

made all season long. Sweet 

potatoes and Brussel sprouts are 

the perfect fall accompaniment 

to the melt-in-your-mouth pork 

tenderloin. 


Best Baked Pork 

Tenderloin 

This pork tenderloin is juicy, bursting 

with flavor and holiday-worthy, too. 

INGREDIENTS 

1 pkg. pork tenderloins, trimmed 

(comes with 2 pieces, approximately 

2 – 2 1/2 lbs. total) 

1/4 cup kosher salt 

4 cups warm water 

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 

2 tablespoons brown sugar 

1 cup ice cubes 

2 tablespoons lemon juice 

SPICE MIX 

1 tablespoon each – chili powder, 

garlic powder 

1 teaspoon each – salt, onion powder 

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 

1/4 teaspoon pepper 

Herbs to add later: 

1/2 tsp each – dried parsley, dried 

basil, dried oregano, dried thyme 

INSTRUCTIONS 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Lay two 

long pieces of foil on a baking sheet to 

fold up each tenderloin separately. 

In a gallon-size freezer bag, mix salt 

with warm water until dissolved. Whisk 

in apple cider vinegar, brown sugar and 

ice, followed by pork. Brine for exactly 

20 minutes then remove pork from 

brine, RINSE and pat very dry. The pork 

becomes mealy if left in the brine longer. 

Whisk together all Spice Mix ingredients 

(not the “Add Later Herbs”) in a small 

bowl. Evenly rub spice mix all over pork. 

Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a 

large skillet over medium high heat. 

When oil is very hot and just smoking, 

add pork tenderloins, you may need 

to work in batches. Sear each side of 

pork until golden, then transfer to foil. 

Evenly sprinkle tops of pork tenderloins 

with remaining herbs (parsley, basil, 

oregano, thyme) then rub into pork. 

Evenly drizzle each pork tenderloin with 

one tablespoon of lemon juice (2 tablespoons 

total), then top each tenderloin 

with 3 pats of butter. Bring up the sides 

of the foil to completely enclose each 

tenderloin (see photos in post). 

Bake at 400 degrees F until pork registers 

between 145- and 150-degrees 

F at the thickest part of the tenderloin, 

15-25 minutes depending on thickness. 

The pork will be juicy and slightly pink in 

the middle. To check the temperature, 

carefully unwrap the foil, then wrap it 

back up if it needs to continue baking. 

When pork is done, loosen foil (for 

steam to escape). Let stand 5-10 

minutes before slicing. Season with 

additional salt and pepper to taste and 

serve with accumulated butter sauce in 

the bottom of the foil. 


Sweet Potato Souffle 

This souffle is easy, not too sweet, and 

looks beautiful on the plate. 

INGREDIENTS 

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 

plus more for soufflé dish(es) 

Sugar, for soufflé dish 

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 

1/2 cup whole milk 

1 cup mashed sweet potatoes* 

3 large eggs, separated, 

and at room temperature 

1/4 cup maple syrup (for more 

sweetness, use up to 1/3 cup) 

1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 

(I used 1/4 teaspoon) 

Pinch of salt 

Confectioners’ sugar for dusting 

INSTRUCTIONS 

Wrap one medium/large sweet potato 

in foil and bake on a baking sheet in 

a 350 degree oven (I place the sweet 

potato in the oven while it is preheating) 

until softened, about 40 minutes to 

1 hour. Let cool and then remove the 

flesh and mash with a fork. 

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. 

Prepare soufflé dishes by buttering and 

then dusting with confectioners’ sugar, 

tapping out the excess. [You should 

have enough soufflé batter to fill four 

6-oz. ramekins; I used a large 5-inch 

diameter by 3-inch tall dish (a little 

over 2 cup capacity) and a 3 3/4-inch 

diameter by about 2-inch tall one.] 

In a medium saucepan, melt butter 

over medium heat. Add flour, and cook, 

whisking, until golden, about 2 minutes. 

Gradually add milk, whisking constantly, 

until thickened, about 1 minute. Remove 

from the heat. Stir in the mashed sweet 

potatoes and egg yolks, followed by the 

maple syrup and nutmeg. Set nearby. 

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with 

the whisk attachment, whip egg whites 

with a pinch of salt until it just reaches 

stiff peaks. Whisk 1/4 of the egg 

whites into the sweet potato mixture, 

then gently fold in the remaining whites 

using a rubber spatula. Spoon mixture 

into the prepared soufflé dishes, filling 

nearly to the top and smoothing the 

surface. Place onto a baking sheet and 

bake until puffed (and just slightly jiggly 

when moved), about 35-45 minutes. 

Carefully remove soufflé from the oven, 

set on a plate, dust with confectioners’ 

sugar. Serve immediately. 

NOTE: If you are in a hurry but still 

want sweet potatoes on your plate, 

try this simple, baked method instead. 

Baked Sweet Potatoes 

INGREDIENTS 

3 sweet potatoes 

1 tablespoon avocado oil, extra virgin 

olive oil or melted coconut oil 

Salt 

INSTRUCTIONS 

Preheat the oven to 400F. 

Cut sweet potatoes in half, lengthwise. 

Place on a rimmed baking sheet. 

Drizzle potatoes with the oil and rub the 

oil onto the flesh of each potato. Sprinkle 

each potato with just a pinch of salt. 

Flip the potatoes over, flesh-side down 

on the baking sheet. Some oil will spill 

over on the sheet pan. 

Bake the sweet potatoes, uncovered, 

for 30-35 minutes, until the skins begin 

to look shriveled and soft. Remove the 

potatoes from the oven. The baked 

sweet potatoes should be slightly brown 

and caramelized on the top of the flesh 

and soft throughout the potato. 


Balsamic Cranberry 

Roasted Brussel 

Sprouts 

These Brussel sprouts are amped up 

with the addition of balsamic glaze 

and cranberry flavors. 

INGREDIENTS 

3 pounds Brussel sprouts 

trimmed & cleaned 

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 

garlic salt to taste 

pepper to taste 

3/4 cup to 1 cup of balsamic glaze 

3/4 cup to 1 cup of dried cranberries 

INSTRUCTIONS 

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. 

You can choose to leave your Brussel 

sprouts whole or cut them in half. 

Arrange the Brussel sprouts on the 

baking sheet(s) and toss with olive oil. 

Sprinkle with garlic salt and pepper. 

Roast for about 25-30 minutes, but 

if you have small Brussel sprouts or 

you cut them in half, start checking 

on them after 20 minutes, as they 

could cook faster. 

Drizzle the Brussel sprouts with the 

balsamic glaze. Sprinkle on the dried 

cranberries. Toss together and serve 

immediately. 

Any way you slice it, 

I am here to make 

buying or selling 

34 faulkner lifestyle | fall 2020 

home... 

your 

EASY AS PIE! 

501-730-2857 

Realtor 

ABR, CRS, GRLA, GRI, MRP, SRES, SRS 

Velda Lueders 

609 Locust Avenue - Conway, AR 

robin stauffer | owner & art director 

501.730.6725 | conway, ar

Why spend extra time 

in the kitchen, when you 

can stop by PattiCakes 

for dessert? This Caramel 

Pecan Tarte is decadent 

and perfect for your 

holiday entertaining. 

Conway residents Leah Ashby and Linda Mars 

are longtime friends who love entertaining family 

and friends. Leah is a business analyst at Acxiom 

Corporation, and Linda is a registered nurse at Circle 

of Friends Clinic at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. 




2020 

WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Teri Murphy 

Teri Murphy Lifestyle/ Designer & Event Planner 

Teri, who has spent most of her life in 

Conway, is a Conway High School 

graduate, as well as a graduate of the 

University of Central Arkansas. “I married 

a Conway guy, and Conway is where we 

chose to stay and raise our family,” she 

says. “Family is everything to me! I’m a 

mom to two amazing young adults that 

make me proud every day. Luke is 22 

and graduated from UCA with a 

Finance degree in December. 

Lauren is 19 and is a sophomore 

at the University of 

Arkansas, majoring in 

International Business. 

We also have two 

dogs that are part of 

our family. Daxx is 

our Goldendoodle, 

and Scout is our lab. 

This year has been 

especially challenging 

for our family, as we lost 

my husband and their dad, 

Pat, to cancer in April of this 

year. We have a large, extended 

family who has helped us 

tremendously during this time. 

Again, family is everything!” 

When asked why she decided to start her business, 

Teri says, “I have always loved being creative 

and “making things pretty” for others, whether in 

their home or for a party/event. It’s rewarding to 

know that clients place their trust in me and that 

they trust my eye and my attention to detail and 

allow me to turn their house into a home. Home 

is where you live life, and where you raise your 

family and create so many great memories. It’s 

also where you start and end each day. I strive to 

create unique and unexpected designs that reflect 

and capture their style and taste, whether on a 

home project or for a party/event. I want clients 

to be proud of their home and love being there. 

Home truly is where the heart is! 

Community involvement is also a priority for 

Teri and evident in her daily life. “Community 

involvement is so important and such a 

great way to give back. I have been involved 

with several non-profits and have had the 

opportunity to serve on various boards. I am 

also involved with my church, Second Baptist 

Church - Conway. I have had the opportunity 

to go on several mission trips. They are truly 

live changing. If you ever have a chance to 

go — then go!” 

In addition to running her own business, Teri 

stays busy doing things she loves in her spare 

time. Her interests include traveling, spending 

time with friends, listening to music, and 

enjoying outdoors and being on the water. “I 

love any activity with my family, whether it’s 

cookouts, Arkansas Razorback football and 

basketball games, or beach trips. I recently 

started a new book club with a couple of close 

friends. I’m looking forward to meeting new 

friends through this book club,” she says. 

Teri’s advice to those just starting out is, “Keep 

your priorities in order. God, family and friends. 

Spend quality time and invest deeply in each of 

these relationships. Have a healthy home/work 

balance. Be present for your family and give them 

your all, but also be the best you can be to your 

clients. One thing I love about what I do is that 

after working so closely with some of my clients, 

many have become like family to me. I have met 

some wonderful people and have made some 

dear relationships from this line of work.” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Heather Sutterfield 

REALTOR ® at Roberts Real Estate 

Heather, a realtor at Roberts Real Estate, was born and raised in Greenbrier 

and graduated from Greenbrier High School. She also attended 

the University of Central Arkansas, where she studied psychology 

and business, and also received an associate degree from the University of 

Arkansas Community College at Morrilton. 

Deeply rooted in the 501 area, Heather aspired to join her family’s real 

estate business, “I am the daughter of Charlie and Dallas Sutterfield, 

granddaughter of both Jim and Floyma Sutterfield and Martha and Edward 

Roberts. There was no question where I wanted to work in real estate, 

as my family’s real estate business, Roberts Real Estate, has been 

serving Central Arkansas area for over 50 years,” she says. 

Of what she most enjoys about living and working in Faulkner 

County, Heather says, “I love being able to help people in my 

hometown community with all of their real estate needs. I 

wanted to pursue real estate because I loved seeing the joy of 

families when I helped them find a place to live in the three 

years I was a leasing agent here in Conway.” 

Heather’s interests include the outdoors, but she also 

has an artistic side. “In my free time, I love kayaking, 

canoeing, hiking, waterfalls, riding horses, being out 

on the lake and taking my dogs for walks. I also enjoy 

painting on canvases with acrylic paints, strumming 

my guitar and listening to music,” she says. 

When asked what the future holds, Heather replies, 

“I am excited to be working in the family business 

that my grandfather, Edward, started and would 

love for you to contact me today and let 

me help you with all of your buying 

or selling needs.” 

“ 

If you can think it and believe 

it then you can achieve it! 

” 

—Heather Sutterfield, REALTOR ® 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Jennifer Barnhill 

Jenn Barnhill Designs / Interior Designer 

Jennifer is a lifelong resident of Faulkner 

County, so doing business here was a 

no-brainer. “My world revolves around my 

girls and my grands. I have three daughters, twins 

Julie and Jill and Caroline. Julie is married to Brad 

Sanders, and they have two children, Josie and 

John Bradley. Jill is married to Bob Edwards, and 

they have one child, Hartley Douglas.” 

Of living and working in Faulkner 

County, she says, “I love 

our county, and I am fully 

invested in it. It has so much 

to offer and is growing in 

all directions, and I am 

blessed to work with 

so many diverse clients 

right here close to 

home.” 

Jennifer attributes her success to building 

relationships with clients. “I take time to get to 

know every family or individual I work with. 

This helps me understand them and really get to 

what they want and need for their home. When 

clients come to me for design or decor help, they 

are investing in me just as much as I am investing 

in them. They are trusting me to deliver, and I 

take that personally. No matter what the scope of 

the job is, when we get to the end, I feel like my 

clients are friends. When my clients refer me to 

their friends, that is the ultimate compliment and 

is how I measure my success.” 

In her spare time, you can find Jennifer and 

Caroline in the show barn. “This is where my 

hobby of show cattle comes into the picture… 

When I am in the barn, that is my happy place. 

It can be some of the hardest work I ever put 

in physically and mentally, but it’s where I’m 

grounded and have the most fun and memories 

made,” she says. Her entire family is involved in 

show cattle, making it a true family affair. 

As for the future of her business, Jennifer says it 

is right here in Faulkner County. “My roots are 

here and run deep. All of my family lives here, 

and I have land here that I am working on my 

own set of plans to build another home on. I am 

also working on plans to expand Jenn Barnhill 

Designs to include a storefront and showroom 

here in Faulkner County,” she says. 

Her advice to someone just starting out is, “Don’t 

be afraid to follow your dreams! I believe in vision 

boards and filling them full of dreams and goals. 

Put it where you will see it every single day. The 

old saying ‘Out of sight, out of mind’ is true. If you 

want to make dreams come true and reach goals, 

you have to have them front and center where you 

can see them and remember what you’re chasing.” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

LaTresha Woodruff 

Public Information Officer / Conway Police Department 

LaTresha moved to Faulkner County in 2004, when she accepted a position as a television 

news reporter. Married to Ricco, she grew up in Mississippi and graduated from Mississippi 

State University. 

“When I was a television news reporter, I often interviewed the Public Information Officer at 

Conway Police Department. Traditionally, the PIO had been a sworn, uniformed officer. I 

approached the Conway police chief about hiring me for the job. I felt my 16 years of media 

experience and my work in the community would make me an ideal person to help the department 

work with the media and build a stronger relationship with the community,” she says. 

Years later, she was clearly correct. Of living and working in Faulkner County, LaTresha says, 

“I love that people here are compassionate. I have seen that displayed a lot during 

the course of my work. Whenever I call on business owners or individuals in the 

community to assist the department with a project, they don’t hesitate to lend 

assistance any way they can.” 

She attributes her success to hard work and dedication. “I also believe 

I have been successful because the department and the community 

have supported me and embraced me and my ideas,” says 

LaTresha. “The wonderful part of my job is that it allows 

me to volunteer in the community and get police officers 

involved. I started several programs here at the police 

department, including the child safety fair, which draws 

hundreds of children and families; an annual fan giveaway; 

and our annual Cops and Coats program, where we provide 

children with warm coats.” She loves the opportunity to 

volunteer and give back to the community through her work. 

In her spare time, LaTresha enjoys reading and is part of a book 

club. She also loves exercising for the sense of calm it provides and 

the health benefits. As for her future in Faulkner County, “Conway 

is now home, and I hope to see it continue to grow and 

flourish. I want the same for the police department and 

its relationship with the community. I will continue 

to work hard toward that goal.” 

When asked of her advice for others starting out in 

their careers, LaTresha says, “Work hard, continue 

to educate yourself, ask for advice, take constructive 

criticism and enjoy what you do.” 

“ 

The wonderful part of my job is that it allows me 

to volunteer in the community and get police officers 

involved. I started several programs here at the police 

department, including the child safety fair, which draws 

hundreds of children and families; an annual fan 

giveaway; and our annual Cops and Coats program, 

where we provide children with warm coats.” 

—LaTresha Woodruff, Conway Police Department 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Emily Walter 

Executive Broker/Realtor ® with RE/MAX Elite 

Emily was born and raised in Jonesboro and 

moved to Conway to attend the University 

of Central Arkansas (UCA). Her family 

includes her husband and daughter. “I’ve loved 

Conway since high school. I attended choir 

competitions at UCA and thought it was the 

most beautiful campus. The weekend I moved 

here, I was introduced to my (future) husband, 

who is originally from Conway. We were 

married, and after college I was transferred to 

Franklin, Tennessee to work. We only lived 

there for about two years before realizing we 

missed Conway, our family, and Arkansas and 

said we would never leave again.” 

Emily did not begin her career as 

a real estate agent. Though, she 

says, “Someone told me when I 

was 21 years old that I would 

make a great real estate agent. 

I never had the nerve to do 

it back then. However, the 

drive to become a real 

estate agent stayed 

in the back of my 

head for the next 

ten-plus years 

before I made 

the leap of 

faith to go 

to real estate 

school.” 

Of what she most enjoys about living and 

working in Faulkner County, Emily says, “If you 

know me, you’ll know the number one thing 

I love about our county is its history. I love 

reading about Cadron Settlement when it was 

our original state capital and especially love the 

history behind the City of Conway, Downtown 

Conway, and the original churches that started 

in our community back in 1870.” 

She attributes her success to her husband, who 

is also her business partner, and her daughter. 

“Hands down, there is no way I could do 

this job without their support. They are my 

biggest cheerleaders and my support system. 

A close second would have to be my amazing 

circle of clients, family, and friends. I wouldn’t 

be anywhere without referrals from family, 

friends and especially sellers and buyers I’ve 

worked with throughout the years.” She also 

has professional designations from GRI, ABR, 

SRES, GRLA, SRS, MRP, and CRS. “Education is 

another key to success in real estate. I’m a firm 

believer in that!” 

Emily’s interests include touring homes and 

going to historic museums. She also enjoys 

visiting different communities and cities in 

Arkansas to learn about their way of life. “I love 

going to the gym. My time in the gym is one of 

the few moments in a week that I can unwind 

and relax and have me time.” 

She is the immediate past president of the 

Faulkner County Board of Realtors and serves 

as chair of the church council at Conway’s 

First United Methodist Church, as well as the 

church historian. In addition, she serves on 

the Conway Symphony Orchestra Board and 

is vice chair for the City of Conway’s Historic 

District Commission. She is also part of the 

Toad Suck Nation Pipeline group with the 

Conway Chamber of Commerce. 

Emily’s advice to those just starting 

out is, “Save your money before you 

get in the business. During your first 

few months, take advantage and get 

extra education to better your career.” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Jill McCollum 

Jill McCollum Catering, Chef 

Director of Dining Services, Central Baptist College 

Cooking and catering came naturally for Jill, who moved to Conway 

with her parents when she was two years-old. She is married to 

Kenny, who works for the City of Conway as Director of Permits and 

Inspections. She has three stepchildren; a son, Garrett; and two grandchildren. 

Jill received her certification from the American Culinary Federation 

National Apprenticeship Program in 2009. Her culinary prowess 

came as no surprise, as her parents were also in the industry. 

“I grew up learning from them as they juggled restaurant 

ownership, five children, and 15 years in the governor’s 

mansion. I grew up learning the business, and I continue to 

learn from my family, as all of my siblings help me in my 

catering business. There is nothing more rewarding than 

the ability to say I work with my family,” she says. 

“Whether in the corporate world or in the intimate production 

of a smaller staff, I fully believe anyone respects quality 

and excellence. I strive for this in all relationships as Director 

of Dining Services and Owner/Operator of Jill McCollum 

Catering. I consider my success to come from the 

ability to be a people-pleaser as I strive to make 

each event as perfect as it can be,” says Jill. 

Jill is very involved in the Faulkner County community. 

She served as director and cofounder of The 

Toad Daze Children’s Pageant from 1998 to 2013. 

She earned a certificate of recognition from the 

American Red Cross as a Community Supporter 

for 2009-2010. She is a past supporter of Circle of 

Friends Faulkner County and Arkansas Children’s 

Hospital. Jill has also been involved with Conway 

Noon Lions Club and Boys & Girls Club of 

Faulkner County as a sponsor. Professionally, 

Jill was Arkansas Culinary 

Federation, Arkansas Chapter’s 

Apprentice of the Year in 2004. 

As for her advice to someone 

getting started as a chef, Jill 

says, “Don’t be afraid to step 

out of your comfort zone. Listen 

to your clients’ needs, no matter how 

crazy they are, and start young!” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Michelle M. Phillips, CPA, PA 

Certified Public Accountants 

Michelle has worked in public & private 

accounting in Conway for 24 years. She 

began Michelle M. Phillips, CPA, PA 11 years 

ago. Her firm is located at 567 Locust Avenue in 

Downtown Conway. 

They have five employees, and Michelle credits 

them with much of her success. In addition 

to Michelle, those employees include Tasha 

Moffitt, CPA; Shelby Roofener, Accountant; 

Nicole Young, Bookkeeper; and Kayla O’Neal, 

Receptionist & Administrative Assistant. 

Michelle M. Phillips, CPA, PA is a public accounting 

firm, serving individuals and businesses. “Our 

services include income tax planning and preparation, 

entity formation, consulting services and 

accounting services such as contractors’ license, 

bookkeeping, payroll, and sales tax. We take pride 

in being dependable and building long lasting 

relationships with our clients,” she says. 

When asked how her business impacts 

Faulkner County residents. Michelle says, “We 

have the opportunity to work with a variety of 

different individuals, businesses and nonprofit 

organizations throughout our community. We 

strive to have a positive impact by providing 

assistance and knowledge of financial informa- 

L-R: Michelle Phillips, CPA; 

Nicole Young, Bookkeeper; 

Shelby Roofener, Accountant; 

and Tasha Moffitt, CPA; 

Kayla O’Neal, Receptionist 

& Administrative Assistant 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

tion, so our clients can make smart decisions 

and be successful.” 

CPA services have proven especially helpful 

during this trying year. “We have been a trusted 

source for individuals and businesses as they 

have dealt with the financial impact of COVID- 

19. We have helped clients navigate these times 

by keeping them informed, adding clarity to 

the chaos of new legislation, and helping gather 

information needed to apply for loans or other 

assistance,” she says. 

We have to also include Cassaundra Mierke 

(not pictured), who has been an integral part 

of our team. Cassaundra received her master’s 

degree from UCA in May and recently moved 

to Ohio to be close to family. While we miss 

Cassaundra, we are excited to have Kayla 

stepping into the receptionist position. 

“ 

We have been a trusted source for individuals and businesses as they have 

dealt with the financial impact of COVID-19. We have helped clients navigate these 

times by keeping them informed, adding clarity to the chaos of new legislation, 

and helping gather information needed to apply for loans or other assistance. 

” 

—Michelle Phillips, CPA 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Bank of England Mortgage 

Valari Bristol, Sales Manager/Loan Officer 

Megan Stewart, Loan Partner 

Bank of England Mortgage began helping 

Arkansans navigate the loan process in 

1898. They brought this time-honored 

service to Faulkner County when they established 

the local branch a little over five years ago. 

The branch is located at 1327 Main Street 

in Conway. Valari Bristol serves as 

residential mortgage sales manager 

for Faulkner County and has been in 

the mortgage industry since 1985. 

She began by servicing mortgages 

and progressed from processing 

to underwriting and now loan 

origination. Megan Stewart joined 

the team as a loan partner for the 

Bristol Team in October 2019; 

however, Megan has over three 

years in mortgage origination. 

Bank of England Mortgage 

provides mortgage loans for 

purchase and refinancing of 

primary, secondary, and investment 

homes. “Since our doors 

opened in 1898 in England, 

Arkansas, Bank of England Mortgage 

has taken pride in being there 

when our borrowers need us. Our mission is 

to deliver total value to our customers. This 

means competitive rates, stress-free closings, 

extensive product knowledge, and a friendly, 

helpful attitude.” 

The company impacts Faulkner County 

residents “by providing competitive, quality 

home loan products and exceptional customer 

service. It’s not just a loan; it’s a home.” 

“ 

Since our doors opened in 1898 in 

England, Arkansas, Bank of England 

Mortgage has taken pride in being there 

when our borrowers need us. Our mission 

is to deliver total value to our customers. 

This means competitive rates, stress-free 

closings, extensive product knowledge, 

and a friendly, helpful attitude. 

” 

— Valari Bristol 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Courtney Matyja 

Arkansas Hearing and Audiology / Audiologist 

Courtney is an audiologist at Arkansas Hearing and Audiology 

in Conway. She is married to Shay, who recently retired 

from the Arkansas Army National Guard. The couple has 

five children: Luke, Brayden, Laney, Noah, and Chloey. “We enjoy 

being outdoors, so when we are not home, we are at the ballfields, 

hanging out on the lake, or at the cheer gym,” she says. 

Courtney is originally from Marshall but has called 

Faulkner County home for over 30 years. She 

earned her Bachelor of Speech Pathology and 

Audiology, and her Bachelor of Science from the 

University of Arkansas Little Rock. Her Master’s 

Degree in Audiology is from the University 

of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. “After 

practicing for a couple of years, I decided to 

go back to college and received my Doctor of 

Audiology from the University of Florida.” 

Starting her practice here made logical sense, 

since she lived here and wanted to raise 

her family in Faulkner County. Courtney is 

involved locally, saying, “I serve on the Junior 

Auxiliary of Conway and will be finishing 

out my term as a member this year. I have 

really enjoyed working with an amazing 

group of ladies working to help the 

youth of Faulkner County.” 

Professionally, she is involved as 

past president for the Arkansas 

Academy of Audiology. “I am also 

a member of several national 

organizations, but I feel being 

involved in your state organization 

is so important,” she 

says. Arkansas Hearing and 

Audiology is located at 

2515 College Avenue in 

Conway. 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Cinda Montgomery 

Owner, Yours Truly Consignment, Inc. 

Yours Truly has been a Conway consignment 

staple for 21 years. Located at 

1052 Harrison Street, the store has 28 

employees and offers apparel for men, women, 

and juniors. Employees include Jennie Cash, 

production leader; Dorothy Denney, production 

leader assistant; Glo Bell, sales floor leader; and 

Kathleen Jones, sales floor leader assistant. 

The vision behind Yours Truly “Was to serve 

the masses, to intake and tag thousands of items 

each week, and to build a strong shopper base 

as a result of offering new items daily.” Yours 

Truly accepts a variety of clothing and accessories, 

and the store offers items from young 

adult/teen to maternity, plus size, women, and 

men. Yours Truly adjusts supply to meet the 

needs of their loyal shoppers and consignors. 

Despite being in business for 21 years, the 

staff constantly learns and evolves to meet 

customer needs. “We are a growing and 

changing business. We have expanded many 

times, and we are always adjusting and 

working on process improvement. Each year 

we learn new ways to serve our customers 

and consignors better; we process faster and 

are more organized than ever before.” 

Yours Truly impacts Faulkner County by 

building community and offering a needed 

service to its residents. “We offer a great place to 

shop, and I love to hear the comments of new 

shoppers who have just discovered the store. 

They are always amazed at how large we are 

and how much we look like a ‘new’ store. I like 

hearing that, because that is our goal.” 

L-R: Glo Bell, Jennie Cash, 

Kathleen Jones and Dorothy Denney 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Ayisha Canant, PhD 

Conway Counseling & Wellness Center, PLLC 

Ayisha’s intention in founding Conway 

Counseling & Wellness Center, PLLC was 

to create a practice that would encompass 

high quality mental health treatment 

with the best customer experience possible. 

She remained in Conway after attending the 

University of Central Arkansas (UCA) and 

considers Faulkner County her home. 

She grew up in Danville and earned her Masters 

of Counseling from UCA. “After practicing 

in the field several years, I decided to return 

to UCA and graduated with a doctorate in 

psychology in 2014. Not only have I graduated 

from UCA, most recently my son graduated 

from UCA and my oldest daughter is a UCA 

honors college sophomore, so we have turned 

into a Bear family.” 

After completing her doctoral degree, Ayisha 

decided to open a private practice. “I wanted 

every client to feel valued in a welcoming 

atmosphere and treated with the most up-to-date 

options. Luckily, this worked for us, and we 

were able to expand from starting with just two 

employees to now over 27 providers and three 

locations: Conway, Clinton, and Hot Springs.” 

Ayisha attributes her success to her staff. 

“Absolutely no doubt, our staff is incredible. I 

have been so fortunate to work with a team of 

people who are passionate about our mission 

to improve mental health in our communities. 

From the moment a potential client calls all the 

way to the end of the appointment, our staff 

works to make sure their experience is the best 

it can be. Of course, nothing would be possible 

unless it was God’s plan and with the support 

of my husband and family.” 

Her family enjoys being home in 

their spare time. “We live on 70 

beautiful acres and love to 

sit at our fishing dock, ride 

four-wheelers, have cookouts, 

and just be outdoors.” Ayisha 

is involved in ending the stigma 

of seeking mental health treatment. “In our 

communities we try to participate in outreach as 

much as possible. We often host first responder 

lunches, are part of STOP DV, participate in 

Project Homeless Connect, Charity Tracker, we 

speak to students and classes on campuses, and 

we try to take advantage of any opportunity that 

arises. On a more individual level, I have seen 

our staff meet the needs of so many, not as part 

of program, and with no recognition,” she says. 

Her advice for those just starting out is to ask 

someone who has been there. She says, “One of 

my favorite things to do is help a new practice 

get started or make changes. This community is 

fortunate to have so many 

great practices and more 

are always welcome, 

as mental health 

is underserved. It 

is really hard and 

expensive to get 

started; I learned so 

much the hard way 

and am always very 

happy to help 

someone else!” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Angela Campagna 

Face2Face Therapy / Mental Health Professional 

When stepping on a plane to serve her country as a United States Marine 

over twenty years ago, Angela, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and 

owner of Face2Face Therapy in Conway, always knew she would 

return home to provide the very best care to Arkansans. 

Angela grew up in Fox, Arkansas and attended the University of Southern 

California, where she earned her Master of Social Work and became a Licensed 

Clinical Social Worker. She credits her global journey for providing a depth and 

breadth of understanding and an exposure to human experiences from broad 

and diverse cultures. “It makes many smile, in awe, when they hear about this 

woman from the town of Fox, who has lived in California; Washington, DC; 

Virginia; Egypt; Poland; Kazakhstan; Romania; and Japan,” she says. 

Not surprising, Angela has made positive impacts on communities she has 

called home, and she continues this endeavor back home in Arkansas. 

A mental health advocate for our Military Veterans, Angela has lent her 

experience and expertise to other philanthropic organizations, attempting 

to mitigate veteran suicides in Arkansas. Angela also hosts a popular podcast, 

Crazy Talk Podcast, in an effort to break the stigma of mental health. 

Angela provides her clients with latest interventions and evidence-based 

therapy in her practice, Face2Face Therapy. “In addition to traditional 

individual, group, and family psychotherapy services, we use art and yoga 

therapy to allow patients to express their feelings in ways they might not 

be able to articulate with words. Hypnosis can be used to treat trauma 

in instances where a situation might be difficult to discuss. We also use 

integrative medicine, such as nutrition, herbs, CBD, and exercise to supplement 

full mental health support. DBT, a Dialect Behavioral Therapy, 

focuses on multiple small changes over time and can dramatically 

improve a number of mood patterns,” says Angela. 

A mental health advocate for our Military Veterans, 

Angela Campagna has lent her experience and expertise 

to other philanthropic organizations, attempting to 

mitigate veteran suicides in Arkansas. Angela also 

hosts a popular podcast, Crazy Talk Podcast, in 

an effort to break the stigma of mental health. 


Tess Palazolo 

Face2Face Therapy / Executive Assistant 


WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Tess Palazolo is Face2Face Therapy’s executive assistant. She 

enjoys working in Downtown Conway and is dedicated to 

her work. “Sometimes life throws you in the weeds, and it 

is up to you to get back up and try again,” she says. In her 

spare time, Tess can be found in her raised garden bed or 

sketching and drawing. 

For her part, away from work, Angela enjoys a variety 

of outdoor family activities. “We spend almost every 

weekend morning kayaking on Beaver Fork Lake. As an 

avid outdoor hiker, I am steadily working on hiking 

to all the notable Arkansas waterfalls. In fact, when 

I arrived back in Arkansas just over two years ago, 

my very first day back home, we found ourselves 

sitting at the base of beautiful Cedar Falls in Petit 

Jean State Park.” 

“ 

Sometimes life throws 

you in the weeds, and it 

is up to you to get back 

up and try again. 

” 

—Tess Palazolo 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Elizabeth Hall 

Executive Broker / Realtor ® with RE/MAX Elite 

Elizabeth attended the University 

of Central Arkansas, where 

she received a Bachelor of Arts 

degree in Communications. After 

college, she decided to stay and 

make Faulkner County her home. 

“Even though I live in the “Big” city 

of Conway, a part of me still longs 

for the small-town life I grew 

up loving. You never forget 

where your roots come from. 

Faulkner County is constantly 

expanding, erecting, and 

evolving as a community. 

And as a close-knit community, 

we take care of our 

neighbors. Faulkner County 

remains one of the friendliest 

and safest places to reside.” 

Family is everything to 

Elizabeth. “My family is my 

life! My father and two older 

brothers farm around 6,500 

acres in Monroe and Phillips 

Counties. I have four overachieving 

nephews, a gorgeous 

niece, and three beautiful stepdaughters. 

And my amazing Mom 

and intelligent sister-in-law are the 

glue that help keep us all running 

smoothly. I am truly blessed!” 

When asked how she achieved success, 

Elizabeth says, “That’s simple. God 

and Family. I couldn’t make it through 

the day without the love and grace of 

God. Having faith that it’s all in God’s 

hands and His timing, keeps me going. 

‘I can do all things through Christ who 

strengthens me.’ Philippians 4:13 And 

my family has supported me every 

single step of this journey we call life. 

They encourage me, lift me up, and 

make me a better person. Also, just 

be kind to one another. When I quit 

focusing on making money, and turned 

my attentions to helping others, my 

business doubled, and I was a much 

happier person.” 

Elizabeth’s interests are endless with a 

big emphasis on the outdoors. “There’s 

not a mountain in Arkansas I haven’t 

climbed, or a waterfall I haven’t 

chased. I simply try to enjoy life to its 

fullest. Be it new adventures, traveling 

to places unknown, or simply putting 

my kayak in the water and reflecting. 

Elizabeth’s advice to those just 

starting out is, “Dream. Dream 

BIG!! Regardless of what life throws 

in your direction, keep going and 

always believe in yourself.” 

“ 

Dream. Dream BIG!! Regardless of 

what life throws in your direction, keep 

going and always believe in yourself. 

” 

—Elizabeth Hall, RE/MAX Elite 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

First Community Bank 

Jackie Bennett, Tara Mallett, Lori Melton 

Jackie, Tara, and Lori work at First Community 

Bank at 1089 Front Street in Conway. The trio 

joined First Community Bank after realizing 

the bank’s dedication to their customers and their 

employees. 

Jackie Bennett is the newest experienced banker to 

join the First Community Bank family. “She has 

an incredible work ethic that has proven to 

make her very popular with her customers 

and any board she has served on.” 

As branch manager, Tara can help 

with all your deposit account 

needs. You can find her at 

the bank Monday through 

Friday. When she is not 

banking, you can probably 

find her at a local ballpark 

with her kids after hours. “Just 

look for her big smile. 

Lori serves in business development 

and marketing, but she has been around 

the banking block for some time and can 

help with pretty much anything you need – 

“in the bank or out. If she can’t help, she has 

a friend or family member who can.” 

First Community Bank recently celebrated 

its 23rd anniversary. Founded in Batesville, 

the organization has been successful with 

their banking model of simply doing what 

is right for the community. These ladies are 

thrilled to bring their style of banking to 

Conway and Faulkner County. They invite 

you to keep an ear out for exciting news on 

behalf of the bank soon. 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

St. Francis Veterinary Clinic 

Sharon Stone, DVM, Ashley Custer, DVM, 

Hannah Mason, Practice Manager 

St. Francis Veterinary Clinic is located at 3180 

Dave Ward Drive in Conway. Dr. Sharon 

Stone, DVM, opened the doors of Nutters 

Chapel Veterinary Clinic in 1995 at Nutters 

Chapel Plaza. After five years of growth, the clinic 

was relocated to its current location and given the 

name St. Francis Veterinary Clinic. “The move 

afforded us the opportunity to increase our size 

and better serve our clientele,” says Dr. Stone. 

A companion animal practice that offers 

preventative care, surgery, dentistry, and general 

medicine, the doctors have special interests in 

advanced dentistry and exotics. St. Francis is also 

a certified Cat Friendly Practice with the AAFP 

(American association of feline practitioners). 

“Not only do we provide care to pets who are 

family members, we help prevent the spread of 

contagious diseases spread by animals, help to 

decrease the animal population within the county 

by spaying/neutering, and provide education. We 

also host a donation drive each year to help stock 

supplies for our local animal shelter in Conway.” 

Dr. Sharon Stone, DVM, received her B.S. 

in biology from UCA, and her D.V.M. from 

Louisiana State University. She has practiced 

medicine since 1991, with a specialty in feline 

medicine. When not working she enjoys 

gardening, reading, and being with her family. 

Dr. Ashley Custer, DVM, received her B.S. in 

biology from Kennesaw State University and her 

D.V.M. from Oklahoma State University in 2016. 

Her special interests include acupuncture and 

rehabilitative medicine. When not working she 

enjoys running, reading, traveling, trivia nights, 

and cheering on the Dallas Stars Hockey team. 

Hannah Mason, Practice Manager, joined the 

clinic in 2016 with a background in both finance 

and management. While growing with the 

clinic, she has organized countless events each 

year to keep St. Francis involved in the community. 

When not working she enjoys crafting, 

traveling, hiking, kayaking, and spending time 

with her fiancé and their dogs. 

“ 

Not only do we provide 

care to pets who are family 

members, we help prevent 

the spread of contagious 

diseases spread by animals, 

help to decrease the animal 

population within the county 

by spaying/neutering, and 

provide education. 

” 

—Dr Stone, DVM 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Cindy Webb 

Owner and Operator – Francis M. Fine Jewelry 

Cindy is the owner and operator of Francis 

M. Fine Jewelry, located on Front Street in 

downtown Conway. She was born and 

raised in Conway and is a graduate of Conway 

High School and the University of Central 

Arkansas. After receiving a scholarship from 

Jewelers of America, she did course work through 

the Gemological Institute of America to receive a 

Graduate Gemologist diploma by correspondence 

and through laboratory studies in Las Vegas, 

Nevada and Washington D.C. 

Of what she loves about living and working 

in Conway, Cindy says, “Being able to give 

back to organizations and to individuals who 

helped me in my life along the way. Being 

involved in the community is so important. 

A bonus of being in a retail store is being able 

to visit and work with 

friends who I have 

known for years and 

friends of my family 

and just being able 

to keep in touch 

that way.” 

“ 

If you know in your 

heart that it is your 

calling then do a lot of 

praying, take a deep 

breath and go for it! 

” 

—Cindy Webb, Owner 

Cindy’s family has deep roots in Faulkner 

County. Francis M. Fine Jewelry is named after 

her late father Francis Marion (Frank) Hudson, 

who was a professor of Mathematics at UCA for 

32 years and was chairman of the department for 

17 years. Her mother, Sandra Hudson, is a retired 

teacher of Mathematics and taught at UCA, 

Vilonia High School and Mount Vernon High 

School. Donald Webb, her husband and business 

partner, is a respiratory therapist at Arkansas 

Children’s Hospital. She and Donald live in 

Conway with their three adopted cats — Jonesy, 

The General and Big Sam. 

When asked what makes her successful, Cindy 

says “I don’t know that I truly know about 

success yet, I feel like the fun of it is to keep 

pushing, learning and trying new ways to make 

a brick and mortar retail jewelry store run well 

and offer outstanding service. I have been up 

and down many times in my life, and one thing 

I strive for is to surround myself with the best 

talent around, because we cannot do it all on our 

own. So, I try to find the best team of co-workers 

that I can, they are your face as well as your 

name in a small business. I also like to follow the 

golden rule and treat people the way I would like 

to be treated.” 

Along with Francis M. Fine Jewelry, Cindy is 

involved in many nonprofit and professional 

organizations. “We are currently involved 

with Alzheimer’s Research, CASA, Boys and 

Girls Club of Faulkner County, HAVEN house, 

CARTI, Conway Regional Women’s Council 

and Renewal Ranch. In addition, the fine jewelry 

industry is blessed to have so many wonderful 

professionals in it and it’s really a small industry, 

and it’s a pretty helpful community to be in, 

as well. Either myself individually or my store, 

Francis M. Fine Jewelry is a current member 

of the Arkansas Jewelers Association, Jewelers 

of America, the Women’s Jewelry Association, 

Gemological Institute of America Alumni Association 

and American Numismatic Association. 

Cindy’s advice to those just starting out is, “Do 

not wait for others to tell you to do it! If you 

know in your heart that it is your calling then do 

a lot of praying, take a deep breath and go for it!” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

L-R: Jessica Barnett, Misty Cain, Gina Tusson, Alisa Quinn and Dawn Salvitti 


Jay Bernard, State Farm 

Jessica Barnett, Misty Cain, 

Dawn Salvitti, Alisa Quinn, Gina Tusson 


WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Jay Bernard, State Farm is proud of its 

stellar Customer Care team, including 

Jessica Barnett, Misty Cain, Dawn Salvitti, 

Alisa Quinn, and Gina Tusson. Located at 

1150 Bob Courtway Drive in Conway, the 

agency consists of 10 knowledgeable team 

members. 

Jay Bernard, State Farm opened its doors 

in December 2000. “Since that time, we 

are honored to have earned the Lifetime 

President’s Club and Chairman’s Circle 

awards. Currently, we are ranked 34 out 

of 19,000 agents nationwide. Our biggest 

honor; however, is being recognized as the 

Best Insurance Agency in Faulkner County. 

This recognition by our community means 

the world to us.” 

The agency focuses on auto, home, business 

and life insurance throughout Faulkner 

County. “In an ever-changing and busy 

world, our aim is to ease the stress that can 

come with insurance by putting a premium 

on personalized service. We believe people 

prefer to have someone they know help 

guide them through both good and bad 

times. It is this belief that stands behind 

everything we do.” 

The staff at Jay Bernard, State Farm make it 

their business to be “like a good neighbor. 

We are here locally to help manage the risks 

of everyday life and help our clients recover 

when unexpected things happen. In addition, 

we strive to give back to our community 

through volunteer work with nonprofit 

organizations; Bethlehem House, Milestones, 

and Angel Tree to name a few. We also 

support our youth by sponsoring a sports 

team each year. We have built a trusted brand 

by staying true to our values and keeping our 

promise. By holding ourselves to the highest 

standards, we can continue to be there for all 

of Faulkner County.” 

“ 

In an ever-changing and busy world, our aim is to ease the 

stress that can come with insurance by putting a premium on 

personalized service. We believe people prefer to have someone 

they know help guide them through both good and bad times. 

It is this belief that stands behind everything we do. 

” 

—Jay Bernard, State Farm 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Vickey Kirkemier 

Administrator Superior Health and Rehab 

Vickey, administrator at Superior Health 

and Rehab, grew up in Hector, Arkansas, 

and is a graduate of the University of 

Central Arkansas and UACCM School of Nursing. 

In 2018, Vickey was recognized by the Chamber 

of Commerce as one of the Outstanding Women 

in Business from our community. “This is really a 

lifetime honor,” she says. Vickey and her husband, 

Steven, share three children – Dr. Andrew and 

Kelsey Robertson of Fayetteville, Dylan and 

Mallory Venable of Conway, and Brody Kirkemier 

of Conway. 

Vickey’s advice to those just starting out is, “My 

advice to others would be to always remember 

why you chose this line of work. This profession 

is much more than a job. When you are driven 

to provide high level care and a pandemic hits 

or things get tough if you can remember what a 

difference you can make in people’s lives it will 

help see you through these difficult times.” 

Of what attracted Vickey to her career, she says, 

“I have always been interested in caring for 

others. I attended UCA thinking that I wanted 

a job working with abused children. During my 

college years I worked at a nursing home as a 

C.N.A. and fell in love with the patients and 

co-workers. Through this experience I knew that 

I was drawn to take a more hands-approach to 

care and then attended nursing at what is now 

UACCM. After working in nursing, I was given 

the opportunity to work in management with 

Long Term Care and obtain my Adm’s license. 

This job is like putting together all the experience 

I had obtained and being able to apply that 

experience in one location. 

Vickey takes pride in making an impact daily 

in the lives of others. “I would really like to 

be remembered for making a difference in 

people’s lives. I want to provide the kind 

of care where people consider me as a 

trusted caregiver. I want to be someone 

you can call and ask questions even if 

you are not planning to admit soon. It 

thrills me to get calls where someone is 

preparing me that they are going to need 

long term care or rehab help and know that 

by calling me I will be there to walk this path 

with them,” she says. “The best part of my day 

is the interactions that I have with my patients 

and staff. It is especially a great day when we 

get to send someone home to their loved ones 

because they are better.” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Jennifer Boyett 

Executive Director of the United Way of Central Arkansas 

Jennifer, the Executive Director of United Way of 

Central Arkansas, is deeply rooted in Faulkner 

County. Born and raised in Conway, she is a 1997 

graduate of Conway High School and 2001 graduate 

of the University of Central Arkansas. “I went to 

work for UCA 10 days after graduating and worked 

there for 12 years. I took a brief detour to Arkadelphia 

to serve at Henderson State University but returned 

home in February of this year,” Jennifer says. 

When asked what brought her back to Faulkner 

County, Jennifer says, “I came back to Faulkner 

County because it’s the best place to live, work 

and raise a family. Last fall, when our family was 

thinking about our next chapter, we knew we could 

go anywhere in the world, but what we ultimately 

decided was that we longed to come home. While I 

was looking for the next step in my career, I learned 

that the United Way was in the early stages of 

looking for a new executive director, so I reached out 

and decided to apply. My love for my hometown 

combined with my background in public relations, 

marketing, fundraising and nonprofit management 

made working for the United Way the perfect opportunity 

to make a meaningful impact back home.” 

The United Way is a worldwide organization that’s 

been around since 1887, and The United Way of 

Central Arkansas has been in existence for more 

than 60 years. “I’ve found that a lot of people are 

like I was and know that the United Way is a local 

nonprofit, but sometimes aren’t clear on what 

we do. We raise funds that are given as grants to 

many local nonprofits that are working to make 

positive change in the areas of health, education 

and financial stability. We are really involved with 

our nonprofit partners. We recognize that we must 

work together to ensure our collective success 

in helping those in need in the community. I am 

blessed to have the opportunity to lead this organization 

in my hometown,” Jennifer says. 

Jennifer’s husband, Corey, is also a Conway native 

and works for the state. Their son, Hunter, is a 

student at Ellen Smith Elementary. “I think my 

family will be here for a very long time. We moved 

away for a few years, but there’s no denying 

the comfort of being back home. I want to be 

involved in programs and projects that make a 

positive lasting impact on Faulkner County. I love 

being where I grew up. It’s so familiar, but it’s also 

progressive. All of Faulkner County is growing and 

change in so many positive ways.” 

Jennifer’s interests include running and bicycling. 

“I prefer long distance. I’ve done 3 marathons, but 

an ultra is on my bucket list. I love being back in 

Conway because I’ve been able to 

rekindle my love for bicycling. 

We are so fortunate to have 

such a bike-friendly community. 

I hope that continues to 

grow. I don’t do well sitting 

still, so when I’m at home, 

I’m generally crocheting.” 

Jennifer’s advice to those 

just starting out is, 

“Be authentic to 

yourself and to 

others. Authenticity 

is key in building 

relationships that 

will last a lifetime 

— whether in 

your personal or 

professional life. 

I think that will 

carry you further 

than just about 

anything else.” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

WACO Title 

WACO Title and its former entities are one of 

Conway‘s oldest continually operating businesses. 

WACO Title’s Faulkner County locations are in Downtown 

Conway and Greenbrier; however, they have 24 locations 

companywide, spanning Arkansas and Missouri. 

WACO Title acquired Conway Title in 2007, which marked their 

debut in Faulkner County. They now have 18 associates locally who 

each love working with customers. WACO Title provides full-service 

closing services for residential and commercial real estate transactions. 

“Nearly a third of real estate transactions in Faulkner County 

are handled through WACO Title Conway. From large, commercial 

transactions to single family homes, WACO Title can handle a 

variety of transactions with confidence and professionalism. Working 

in conjunction with realtor and lender partners, WACO focuses on a 

solutions-oriented approach to close real estate transactions.” 


Closing Staff from left to right: 

Allison Price, Administrative Assistant 

Tori Brock, Closing Processor 

Sydney Smith, Administrative Assistant 

Tiffany Brockington, Closing Processor 

Kayla Cothren, Closing Processor 

Danah Cody, Closing Agent 

Jesse Warren, Closing Team Lead 

Jayla Jones, Closing Agent 

Jeanna Branson, Closing Agent 

Mallory Hargrove, Closing Agent 

Stephanie Nicholson, Closing Agent 


WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Kimberly Paladino 

Owner, Classic Touch 

Kimberly is the owner and lead floral and 

event designer of Classic Touch, located 

on Prince Street in Conway. She grew up 

in Southwest Arkansas and graduated from the 

University of Arkansas in 2010 with a Bachelor 

of Arts degree. Kimberly says, “I always loved 

every aspect of the artistic world and am so 

thrilled to have been able to incorporate my 

love for art into a career. That’s a true blessing, 

and a rare one at that. I never saw myself 

becoming a floral designer. That part found me, 

and I could not be more grateful it did!” 

Kimberly is the proud wife of 10 years to Andy 

Paladino. Kimberly says, “He works a full 40+ 

hour week for Reliance Healthcare and still 

finds time to clean buckets or chop flowers at 

our store. I could not manage this businessowner 

life without him. We make a great team, 

and he picks up my slack wherever it is needed, 

except maybe flower arranging. He draws the 

line at that!” Kimberly and Andy have three 

sons, Beckett-9, Bennet-6, and Bash-5, who 

all attend Woodrow Cummins Elementary. 

“Each one is full of their own personality and 

keeps us running at all times. Their favorite 

time at the store is when no one is around and 

they can play hide and seek amongst all the 

beautiful, mind you, very breakable objects, we 

have for sale. It’s a real thrill for this momma, 

but we love them with all our being!” 

Andy’s career brought them to Conway six 

years ago. “We wanted to be a part of a great 

school district for our three boys. I started out 

as a stay-at-home mom, working part time as 

an event coordinator. After our boys got to be 

of school age, Andy and I decided it was time 

for me to try something new and expand my 

career and passions. When we heard Classic 

Touch was open to being purchased, we 

knew it was the right fit for our family and fit 

perfectly in line with where I saw my career 

heading,” Kimberly says. 

“I love working with the people in this 

community. We’ve made so many great 

friends. Everyone has been so supportive 

and amazing to us concerning our new 

business. It’s hard not to get attached 

when your work life and home life cross 

paths perfectly with great people.” 

As for the future for Classic Touch, 

Kimberly says, “I see Classic Touch 

as a continued staple of Conway 

and Faulkner County, but growing 

and becoming more and more of a 

family-owned and loved business. 

I want to see us collaborating with 

more local shops for events and projects. 

I want to reach out to other organizations 

in our community to see how we can help 

enhance their own goals and ideas. I’m ready 

to start several new projects we’ve had on 

our bucket list to give our community some 

new teaching opportunities 

with floral classes and design 

workshops. I think the 

future for us is what we 

are willing to make it and 

we’re ready to push to 

the next level.” 

Nicole Hurst 

Administrator, Superior Senior Care 


WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 


Nicole, who is the Administrator for 

Superior Senior Care in Conway, moved 

to Conway in 1993 and is a graduate 

of Conway High School. Nicole says, “I have 

worked in the healthcare industry for 22 years. 

I was the office manager for Abundant Health 

Chiropractic for 16 years prior to becoming 

the administrator for Superior Senior Care 

in 2014. I have always had the mindset, 

if you want it, make it happen! Do not 

be scared, do not let anyone or anything 

stand in your way of being happy. After I 

was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017, 

this became even more apparent to me. 

Do not live in fear, because when you live 

in fear, you are not living.” 

Superior Senior Care was founded 

in 1985 in Hot Springs, Arkansas, in a 

one-room office with one telephone. Fast 

forward 35 years later, Superior Senior Care now 

has 24 offices throughout the state of Arkansas. 

SSC’s mission has always remained the same. 

To provide quality caregiving assistance to 

individuals who want to stay in their homes 

either because they do not need full time skilled 

care, or they are not comfortable leaving their 

homes to live in a residential care facility. 

When asked what the future holds, Nicole 

says, “I have called Faulkner County home 

since 1993. I intend to grow Superior 

Senior Care even more as the need for help 

increases, especially as clients are wanting to 

stay home now more than ever.” 

“I have one son, Logan, who is 17. He is a 

senior at Vilonia High School. We also have 

a very spoiled French Bulldog, Dolce’ I have 

been so blessed with a wonderful circle of 

family and friends that I love spending time 

with. I also enjoy traveling, even if it is just a 

quick weekend getaway! I always try to have 

a trip planned, big or small!” Nicole says. 

Nicole’s advice to those just starting out 

is, “Honesty! Being honest with your 

coworkers and with your clients is key. This 

sets the tone for your business, it provides 

consistency at your workplace, and builds 

loyalty and trust with your clients.”


WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Tami Marsh 

Realtor with RE/MAX Elite 

Tami, a realtor with RE/MAX Elite is a 

lifelong resident of Faulkner County, 

graduated from Conway High School, 

received a bachelor’s degree from University 

of Central Arkansas and a master’s degree from 

Arkansas Tech University. “I am a third generation 

Faulkner County resident. My grandfather 

moved here in the late 1800s,” Tami says. 


working in Faulkner County, Tami says, “The 

people are what make it such a great place to live 

and work. They are always doing what is needed 

to help others no matter the situation. When 

there is any need whether it be natural disasters 

like flooding and tornadoes or small businesses 

fighting to stay in business, the citizens of 

Faulkner County rally to make a difference. I 

watched that first-hand when COVID hit and 

our small businesses had to close; people rallied 

to find ways in which to keep them open.” 

Tami and her husband, Steve, married this past 

May. “I married in May of this year despite 

COVID and all the problems that have come about 

due to social distancing and number limitations on 

events. Our original plans were postponed until 

this is over, but we had a small ceremony in our 

friends’ driveway, and it was perfect! COVID has 

flipped our world upside down. I try to find the 

good in every situation. The most positive thing 

that I have seen are families spending more time 

together — quality time and slowing down to 

enjoy each other. When I taught, I was saddened 

by the way families were so over-scheduled that 

they didn’t have time to be a family. Our boys, 

Ethan and Mitchell Davis, are grown and living 

away from home, but some of my favorite times 

are when they come home for dinner or to hang 

out. My husband, Steve, lost his job because of 

the pandemic, yet as stressful as that is for a 

newly married couple, we know that God is 

in control and will help us ride through this 

storm. My mantra the last 10 years is: “Life 

is not about waiting for the storm to pass. 

It’s about learning to dance in the 

rain. I’m living proof of this.” 

Tami is a member of the Faulkner County Board 

of Realtors and the Arkansas Realtors Association, 

where she serves on several state committees. 

In addition, Tami says, “I am on the Conway 

Public Schools Foundation Board. It keeps me 

connected to education in a way I feel I can help 

teachers who work selflessly every day to teach 

our children. The future of not only our country 

but our world lies in the hands of today’s young 

people. The position a teacher holds for a child and 

for all our future is so significant. They need all the 

support we can possibly give them.” 

Tami’s advice to those 

just starting out is, “Stay 

true to yourself and 

your convictions – be 

authentic. Don’t allow 

anyone to convince 

you to think, feel, 

believe, or react a way 

that isn’t right with 

you. When you 

make decisions or 

choices, be sure 

you can live with 

them because 

you will.” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Michelle Parsley 

& Elizabeth Tucker 

The Parsley-Tucker Team, RE/MAX Elite 

women in business 

Michelle and Elizabeth 

work with buyers and 

sellers to complete various 

real estate transactions. Michelle 

has been in business for 37 

years, and Elizabeth has been 

in business for 11 years. 

And looking back, 10 years 

ago in September, the Parsley 

family didn’t know if the 

dream of working together 

would ever become a reality. 

Elizabeth was in a car 

accident and diagnosed with a 

traumatic brain injury. There 

are no words to describe what 

she went through, but she 

surprised many in the medical 

field that she was indeed 

a miracle whom countless 

prayed for. She is now selling, 

selling, selling! Michelle and 

her husband, Bill, did not 

initially plan to live in Conway. 

However, “After the sixth day 

of shopping for a home in 

1987 all over Little Rock and 

Maumelle, we stumbled upon 

Conway,” she says. She began 

her real estate career in San 

Antonio, so Conway felt small 

at the time. “Even though I 

grew up in a town of 10,000 in 

Kansas; we believed the Lord 

led us to drive over on our 

last day of house hunting, 

and we fell in love with 

this fabulous city. We 

have lived here 32 very 

happy years.” Elizabeth 

was truly born into the 

business, as she arrived 

after Michelle started 

in real estate. 

The duo loves what 

they do. “We count 

among our most 

cherished assets the 

confidence and goodwill 

of those whom we 

have served.” One look 

through The Parsley-Tucker 

Team’s reviews confirms 

this security and appreciation 

for their work. In fact, the team 

estimates 85 percent of their 

business is from past clients and 

their referrals. 

The Parsley-Tucker Team feels 

their clients say it best: “…They 

made me feel right at home and 

made the buying process easy. 

I wouldn’t have it any other 

way; when we needed to sell 

our home recently, Michelle and 

Elizabeth worked with me and 

got my home sold within three 

days,” says one client. Another 

adds, “Michelle and Elizabeth 

were fantastic. Their level of 

service and attention to detail 

at every step was meticulous. 

They listened carefully to our 

needs and wish list. Then they 

used their experience and vast 

knowledge of the local market… 

They were dream agents who 

made us feel like family!” 

Michelle and Elizabeth work 

with buyers and sellers and 

offer superior negotiation 

skills and market knowledge. 

“Those are keys to our success. 

We love what we do, and it 

comes as second nature.” Their 

work directly impacts Faulkner 

County, as, “We ‘sell’ Faulkner 

County to potential residents 

and have for years. We know 

Faulkner County is the best, so 

that is an easy task. We love our 

community and have a desire to 

help others,” they say. 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Annette Aikman 

Cadron Valley Dental 

Annette founded Cadron Valley Dental 

in an effort to establish an environment 

that would be relaxing and comfortable 

for patients and staff. She and her husband, 

John, quickly seized the opportunity to return to 

Arkansas after years away for his career. They 

have two children. Lexi, 15, is a sophomore at 

Conway High School and Matthew, 12, is in 

seventh grade at Ruth Doyle Middle School. 

Annette grew up in Paragould and went on to 

graduate from the University of Arkansas for 

Medical Sciences with a Bachelor of Science in 

Dental Hygiene and later from the University 

of Mississippi Medical Center – School of 

Dentistry in Jackson with a Doctorate of 

Dental Medicine. She is a member of the 

American Dental Association and the Arkansas 

State Dental Association. She is also a member 

of the Academy of General Dentistry, where 

she is working toward her AGD Fellowship. 

“Arkansas had always been our home, and 

deep down we knew we wanted to return… 

Conway was at the top of the list! We love the 

size, the beauty, the mix of new and old, the 

college atmosphere, the variety of community 

involvement, the schools, the location, the 

people, the list could go on and on. Conway 

has been perfect for us,” says Annette. 

Of starting her own dental practice, she says, 

“Upon entering the dental field years ago, 

it didn’t take me long to realize that most 

people did not want to be at the dental office. 

It was for that reason I wanted to incorporate 

as many relaxing elements into the practice 

as possible, starting with the name. I wanted 

it to be something that related to Faulkner 

County and the surrounding area. I also 

wanted the name to be original.” 

“As I continued to build on my practice concept, 

I tried to gather as many pearls from previous 

experiences, filter out any negative, and establish an 

environment that would be comfortable for both 

my patients and my staff. I couldn’t be happier with 

the outcome.” Cadron Valley Dental offers hand 

paraffin treatments to patients during appointments, 

ambient music, and essential oil diffusers to help 

provide a more relaxing atmosphere. 

Annette loves giving back to the community. “It 

brings me such joy knowing I have the opportunity 

to give back to the community. I have many 

opportunities to provide dental services to the people 

of Faulkner County by participating with a variety of 

local outreach programs. I thoroughly 

enjoy building relationships 

with both the people I serve 

and the people who work 

next to me. The people of 

Faulkner County are such 

a blessing.” Her family 

is also active at Second 

Baptist Church. 

She is excited for her 

future. “I may have 

only lived here for three 

years, but I am excited to 

be here and appreciate 

the many wonderful 

things Faulkner 

County has to offer.” 

As for her advice to 

those just starting 

out, Annette says, “It 

may be a long, hard 

journey to get where 

you are going, but it 

will all be worth it in 

the end.” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Amanda Bledsoe 

Bledsoe Chiropractic 

Amanda established Bledsoe Chiropractic 

in 2017 and is excited to help Faulkner 

County stay healthy. Her family includes 

husband Adam, and children Audrey and Hunter. 

Bledsoe Chiropractic uses chiropractic, rehabilitation 

therapy, massage therapy, laser, Kinesio 

taping, and custom orthotics to give hope 

through healing. “We get our patients out of 

pain as quickly as possible and help them safely, 

affordably, and comfortably stay in great shape 

for the rest of their lives.” 

Amanda credits her strong team of 18 

employees for their success. “We proudly 

employ women and men of all races and ages. 

We have three chiropractors, four massage 

therapists and many amazing assistants from 

billing to the front desk. The Lord sent us an 

amazing team,” says Amanda. 

Amanda is a graduate of Cleveland Chiropractic 

College in Kansas City and has a Bachelor of 

L-R: Dr. Amanda Bledsoe, Kim Crow, Emily Pennington, 

Ashlyn Osborne, Susan Skinner, Lauren Alexander, 

Dr. Caitlin Corona, Abby Herring 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Science in Biology from the University 

of Central Arkansas. The practice 

most commonly treats conditions 

such as low back pain and radiating 

lower extremity pain, neck pain, 

sinuses, allergies, dizziness/vertigo, 

ear pain, TMJ pain, and foot pain. 

“I really love helping patients correct 

their feet, which are the foundation, 

and seeing that change their life 

by avoiding knee surgery and hip 

replacement. I enjoy giving them 

mobility back and helping them 

work without pain. Most of all, I 

love seeing them enjoy life…We hear 

stories of hope and healing daily, 

which is the best part of our jobs!” 

Bledsoe Chiropractic sets itself apart 

through its patient interaction. “We 

love our patients like family. We 

go above and beyond and offer 

more bang for your buck than other 

chiropractors,” says Amanda. She is 

especially grateful for the community’s 

support this year. “I am honored 

to get to employee many residents 

of our county, serve patients from 

this county, and give back a portion 

of what we’ve been blessed to many 

worthy organizations in Faulkner 

County, such as the Bethlehem 

House and Deliver Hope.” 

As for the future of Bledsoe Chiropractic, 

Amanda and company plan 

to continue offering the best care 

with the latest technology. “We want 

to offer hope through healing to 

more patients. We strive to support 

our community more each year, 

finding new partner organizations to 

help and creating jobs for amazing 

team members to impact lives in and 

out of our clinic with loving service.” 

“ 

I really love helping 

patients correct their feet, 

which are the foundation, 

and seeing that change their 

life by avoiding knee surgery 

and hip replacement. I enjoy 

giving them mobility back 

and helping them work 

without pain. Most of all, I 

love seeing them enjoy life. 

” 

—Dr.Amanda Bledsoe 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Megan Morris 

Chief Executive Officer at Conway Behavioral Health 

Conway Behavioral Health fills a gap in mental 

health care by offering an acute psychiatric 

hospital providing both inpatient and outpatient 

services to Faulkner County. Megan is the mother of 

two boys and is excited to be in Conway. 

A native Arkansan raised in Paragould, she graduated 

from the Arkansas School for Mathematics and 

Sciences in Hot Springs and has a Bachelor of Science 

in Biology from Lyon College in Batesville and Master 

of Science in Social Work from the University of 

Tennesseein Knoxville. “I’ve spent the last 16 years 

working with children, adolescents, and adults in the 

field of mental health in Arkansas.” 

Megan came to Faulkner County when Conway 

Behavioral Health opened in January 2018. “The 

community was especially welcoming to us and 

provided a talent pool for building a remarkable team 

to serve our patients,” she says. “Suicide is the tenth 

leading cause of death. Over 48,000 people died by 

suicide in the United States in 2018, and Arkansas 

accounted for 547 of those deaths. Suicide is preventable, 

and I feel privileged to be part of the Conway 

Behavioral Health team in bringing change to the 

lives of those we serve,” she says. 

“We are always looking to invest in the services our 

community needs,” says Megan. As such, Conway 

Behavioral Health partners as a learning institute 

for several colleges and universities to provide 

educational opportunities to future nurses, 

therapists, and physicians to build a professional 

workforce in those who are potential future 

employees. “Our Partial Hospitalization Program 

and Intensive Outpatient Programs help adults 

who need greater than individual therapy but 

don’t need to be in the hospital. We expect 

we will continue to grow in these areas.” 

Megan attributes her success to surrounding 

herself with mentors, colleagues, and other 

professionals in the field. “I’m not afraid to 

ask questions or get guidance. No one can do 

it alone! I try to stay open to new ideas and 

think outside the box. As a clinical social 

worker, I have an advantage of understanding 

the clinical perspective along with 

the business perspective in my market.” 


WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Beth Reed 

Design Actually / Interior Designer 

Beth’s specific brand of interior design includes providing high customer service 

standards. She earned her Bachelors of Interior Design from the University of 

Central Arkansas in 2005, and is an active member of IDS, Interior Design Society. 

Part of her excellent customer service is starting each project with a lengthy questionnaire 

that helps her get to know her clients on a personal level, which sets expectations 

and helps ensure a smooth experience. “I truly value my clients’ opinions, but I never 

shy away from offering new and exciting directions to meet their objectives. I like to 

say, ‘Good design is a combination of yours, mine and ours,’” she shares. 

Beth describes her own style as classic, traditional and chic with saturated colors. 

“I like to incorporate things that are on trend, but I try to implement them in such 

a way that my clients don’t feel like they need to re-do their home in five years. 

Although, if they want to, I consider that job security!” In her rare spare time, 

Beth loves playing tennis with friends and family. 

As for her favorite aspect of her work, she says, “Walking into someone’s home and 

knowing immediately the things we could do to make a big impact to improve the way 

they live. By listening to what they think they need, I help them understand their style. 

Once I have crafted a concept that is right, my team and I implement and manage all 

phases of the project. From knocking down walls to installing furniture with white 

glove delivery service, just like you see on HGTV. 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Debbie Goodwin 

Co-owner / Arkansas Roofing Kompany 

and Arkansas Outdoor Concepts 


Arkansas Roofing Kompany is a 

residential and commercial roofing 

company. Arkansas Outdoor Concepts 

is a one-stop outdoor living destination 

location. Both are owned by Debbie and 

Tim Goodwin, who have been in business in 

Faulkner County for over 10 years. 

Debbie attributes their success to “The 

highest quality work and greatest team. 

They are family to us, and we appreciate 

how dedicated they are...We truly work 

as a team,” she says. In addition to being 

the most awarded roofing company, 

we have a louvered solar patio covering 

company called Equinox. 

Rain or shine, hot or cold, our stylish 

Louvered Roof makes any outdoor space a 

year-round outdoor living area that’s perfect 

for entertaining or relaxing. With the touch of 

a button, louvers go from fully open to fully 

shut for the ultimate shade/cover solution. 

Jo Moorehead serves as office manager 

for Arkansas Roofing Kompany and says, “I 

love the quality of work the company stands 

behind. I also love that we are all like family 

and care about one another. It’s a joy to work 

each day for owners who are Christians 

and who care about us.” Natalie Horton is 

Arkansas Roofing Kompany’s controller. “... 

We are like family. We have many different 

personalities, talents, and viewpoints, and 

we make them work together...We are 

treated like part of a team; our owners value 

our input and opinions.” 

“From the start, we planned to have the 

highest ethics, customer service, and quality 

workmanship in the construction industry in 

Arkansas. Tim vowed to hold the company 

to higher standards by documenting each 

phase of every job and staying in close 

contact with the homeowner throughout 

the life of the project,” she says. 

“Remodeling, restoring, or building can be 

one of the most stressful aspects of home 

ownership. We developed a system for 

avoiding the frustrations and aggravations 

of construction and remodeling. Convenient 

communication is the number one priority.” 

Customers deal with the same point of 

contact for the duration of their project, for 

starters. They also have additional staff to 

inspect ongoing projects. 

The company has a crew of trained, 

certified technicians, who are comfortable 

with the materials and 

products they install. 

In addition, “every 

Arkansas Roofing 

Kompany employee 

is bonded and 

insured, as is the 

entire company, which also holds an A+ 

rating from the Better Business Bureau. 

Whether you need roofing, siding, 

windows, gutters, or a complete exterior 

make-over, call Arkansas Roofing Kompany 

and place your project into the competent 

hands of a company that will take the worry 

out of the job.” 

The Goodwins also own Arkansas Outdoor 

Concepts in Conway off Hwy 65 just past 

Pickle’s Gap A longtime dream for Debbie. 

“For more than 27 years, we have nurtured a 

strong business relationship with the Amish 

communities and are proud to feature an 

entire line of their quality made outdoor 

living products. Many products are now 

produced from recycled materials, such as 

post-consumer milk containers collected in 

community recycling programs,” she says. 

“We feature daybeds, Adirondack chairs, 

gliders, dinning and patio sets, outdoor pool 

tables, gazebos, pergolas, windchimes, bird 

feeders, hot tubs and everything you would 

need for your outdoor living space.” 

Katelyn Bratton manages Arkansas 

Outdoor Concepts and says, “Every 

day, I fall a little more in love with our 

outdoor products...I love getting to help 

people realize the true potential of their 

outdoor space, while offering eco-friendly 

products.” Elizabeth Quattlebaum is sales 

and design coordinator manager and enjoys 

the people she encounters through work. 

“I am able to meet people from all walks of 

life that allow me to help them make their 

environment beautiful and relaxing. 

L-R: Elizabeth Quattlebaum, Katelyn, Bratton, 

Debbie Goodwin, Jo Moorehead, Natalie Horton 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Kim Slaughter 

The Blue Focus Marketing 

Kim owns The Blue Focus Marketing 

and enjoys all aspects of design 

work. A native of Gravel Ridge, she 

graduated from the University of North 

Carolina at Wilmington with a Bachelor’s 

Degree in Business. 

She designs home remodels, pools, 

and outdoor living spaces for 

her husband, Johnny’s business, 

Conway Remodeling and More. 

“This makes it possible for our 

clients to see a 3D rendering of their 

project before it begins.” 

After living in Dallas for a time, the 

family made the decision to return 

to Arkansas. “After much thought and 

consideration, Faulkner County was at 

the top of our list. I fell in love with it from 

the moment we moved here a little over six 

years ago. The community has welcomed our 

family with open arms,” says Kim. 

As for her work, Kim says, “I believe success 

takes a passion for what you do. Many 

people call me a workaholic, but if 

you love what you do, it isn’t work. 

Being creative and providing my 

community a service is what drives 

my ambition. Johnny and I are very 

active in our community. We are 

contributors to Harbor Home, Bethlehem 

House, Deliver Hope, and The United Way. 

I donate promotional product to local schools 

and churches. I am a member of the Chamber 

of Commerce, a Chamber Ambassador, and 

pipeline member.” 

Kim is launching a new business next year as 

well. “I plan on building a mini golf for Conway. 

Toad Suck Mini Golf is set to open in Summer 

2021. I hope it will bring a fun family environment 

for the county I have come to love.” To any young 

entrepreneur, Kim would say, “Follow your dreams; 

do what you love; and be fearless in your pursuits.” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Teneicia Roundtree 

Owner, Treehouse Cleaning, LLC 

Teneicia, owner of Treehouse Cleaning, LLC, 

is originally from Blytheville, Arkansas but 

spent much of her childhood in Jonesboro. She 

attended the University of Central Arkansas briefly. 

“My goal is to graduate and (as my mother would 

say) finish what I started by 2024.” Teneicia is a 

mother of 4, ages 14, 9, 9 and 7. “That’s right, twins! 

One boy and 3 girls, in that order. They are a sweet 

bunch. I am thankful for them every day,” she says. 

According to Teneicia, TreeHouse was built out of 

necessity. “I was unemployed and struggled to find 

a reasonably paying job that would also be flexible 

enough to care for my family. There were many 

times we would scrape change to buy discount bread 

or make decisions between paying the light bill and 

buying my children’s shoes. Let’s just say we had 

many candlelight dinners. One day, my mother and 

I were speaking over the phone, and she asked if I 

ever thought of cleaning houses. I was not a fan of the 

idea at all. But over time (and more struggles later). I 

embraced the idea and instead of scraping change for 

bread, we scraped change for cleaning supplies. And 

with a $20 bill TreeHouse Cleaning was born. 

Of what she most enjoys about living and working 

in Faulkner County, Teneicia says, “First, there is a 

natural sense of belonging. I love how this community 

embraces you where you are and are diligent about 

developing programs for you to become the best 

version of yourself. There is a great balance 

in our ecosystem. I enjoy the stillness 

that is provided in our many parks and 

nature trails to be present with my 

family while also experiencing the 

excitement of growth and new 

opportunities in our cities.” 

When asked to what she 

attributes her success, 

Teneicia responds “The 

best choice I ever made 

in business was prayer. I 

asked the Lord to align me 

with the right people. And, he 

was faithful. Alignment matters. There were 

many times I was tired. I wanted to give up. I 

wanted to just put my head in the sand to make 

it all go away. But, because I have the right people 

supporting me, speaking life into me and my business, 

and helping me navigate my way through to push 

forward. I am stronger than my struggles. Therefore, 

consistent positive results are inevitable.” 

The current president of the Noon Rotary’s Young 

Professionals, Teneicia is also a participant of multiple 

leadership think tanks, including Representative 

French Hill Venture Ecosystem Summit in Conway. 

In addition, she is a mentor for the UCA Women’s 

Leadership Network and a sponsor for a host of 

nonprofit organizations. In addition, she serves on the 

board of directors for the Conway Area Chamber of 

Commerce and Minority Business task force. 

Teneicia’s advice to those just starting out is, “Be 

willing to ask for direction from a credible source. 

Oftentimes new business owners are excited about the 

idea of the business but are not always prepared when 

unforeseen circumstances arise. Maybe 

they’ve hit a rocky point or have 

experienced astronomical growth. 

Both are equally daunting. If you 

surround yourself with great 

mentors with experience or join 

entrepreneurial programs such 

as The Conductor in Conway, 

those hurdles won’t seem as 

challenging to climb over and 

you’ll more likely stick to 

your path to attain 

your goals at hand.” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Sharri Wyatt Jones 

Executive Secretary / Events Coordinator / Sissy‘s Log Cabin, Inc. 

Sissy’s Log Cabin is a name 

most Arkansans will 

recognize. The Pine Bluff 

originated store has grown into 

a legendary jeweler in Arkansas 

and the surrounding states. 

While they’re known for their 

brilliant diamonds and extraordinary 

service, Sissy’s Log 

Cabin is exceptionally unique 

because of their family involvement. 

One family member 

you will find in-store is Sharri 

Jones, Executive Secretary, 

Events Coordinator, and wife 

of CEO Bill Jones. Sharri grew 

up in Pine Bluff and attended 

both the University of Arkansas 

and the University of Arkansas 

Little Rock before graduating 

from the University of Arkansas 

Pine Bluff. She was a teacher 

before ultimately joining the 

family business alongside her 

husband, sons, mother-in-law, 

and a host of other relatives. 

She and her husband Bill 

recently came to Faulkner 

County to open another Sissy’s 

Log Cabin store. “Bill actually 

had the idea to open our fifth 

Sissy’s Log Cabin location in 

Conway. We love Arkansas 

and were excited to spread 

our reach further in Central 

Arkansas with the Conway 

store,” she says. “We love 

working in Faulkner 

County. The people are 

so wonderful and 

kind! Conway is truly 

filled with southern hospitality 

and charm.” 

Sharri attributes her success 

and the success of Sissy’s to 

good customer service. “At 

Sissy’s, we strive to treat every 

customer who walks through 

our doors as if they’re a treasured 

part of our family. That’s 

‘The Sissy’s Experience.’” 

In her spare time, she enjoys 

cooking, riding horses, reading, 

and quality time with her 

family. “Bill and I are extremely 

family oriented. We love 

spending time with our evergrowing 

family. Being a family 

owned and operated business 

has given us so many unique 

opportunities to connect and 

grow together,” says Sharri. 

As for her advice to those 

getting started in business, 

Sharri says, “The customer is 

always right. This is part of our 

dedication to customer service 

at Sissy’s Log Cabin. It’s even 

inscribed on a plaque in all five 

of our store locations.” 

“ 

We love working in Faulkner 

County. The people are so 

wonderful and kind! Conway 

is truly filled with southern 

hospitality and charm. 

” 

—Sharri Jones, Sissy‘s 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Lisette Washispack 

CPA, First Security Bank 

Lisette Washispack is a Certified 

Public Accountant (CPA), licensed 

in the state of Arkansas and works 

full-time in the banking industry. She 

currently manages the Credit Administration 

department of a privately-owned 

Arkansas based commercial bank, First 

Security Bank. Her primary responsibilities 

are overseeing the commercial and 

consumer loan underwriting process 

and providing support/training for the 

bank credit analysts statewide. She has 

a Commercial Banking/Finance degree 

from Louisiana State University (Baton 

Rouge, LA) and a Master of Accountancy 

from the University of Central Arkansas 

(Conway, AR). She is a member of the 

following professional organizations: 

American Institute of Certified Public 

Accountants, Arkansas Society of 

Certified Public Accountants, Risk 

Management Association, and Arkansas 

Bankers Association. 

Lisette was born and raised in Thibodaux, 

Louisiana. She was one of six children 

and loved to climb trees, work in the 

yard with her mom, cook meals for the 

family and sew clothing for herself. She 

was an adapted aquatics instructor for 

many years, teaching swim lessons to 

children and adults with disabilities. After 

graduating from high school, she moved 

to Baton Rouge to attend Louisiana State 

University (LSU), where she obtained 

a bachelor’s degree in Commercial 

Banking. It was while attending LSU she 

met Quentin. After graduating from LSU, 

Quentin and Lisette were married and 

moved to Metairie, Louisiana to begin 

their respective careers. Lisette was hired 

by a local bank as a commercial credit 

analyst intern. 

Two years later, Lisette and Quentin 

moved to Dallas, Texas where Quentin 

attended Dallas Theological Seminary, 

and Lisette worked full-time at NorthPark 

National Bank as Assistant Controller. 

While in Dallas, their first child, Abigail 

“Abby”, was born and Lisette traded 

her banking career for her new role as a 

stay-at-home mom --- best job ever!! Fast 

forward 18 years, which included 3 more 

beautiful children, 6 moves, 4 cities, and 

10 years of homeschooling… and Lisette 

re-enters the banking world. 

Lisette was hired by First Security 

Bank in August 2007 to manage their 

newly formed Credit Administration 

department. It was a perfect fit with her 

educational background, organizational 

skills and leadership capabilities. During 

her time with First Security Bank, she 

attended the University of Central 

Arkansas part-time to earn a Master of 

Accountancy degree. She then made a 

career move to public accounting for a 

couple of years, became a licensed Certified 

Public Accountant and returned to 

First Security Bank to resume the position 

of Credit Administration Manager. It was 

like returning home to family. 

For the past five years Lisette has also 

taught business classes at New Life 

Church College (formerly Ouachita 

Baptist University at NLC). Courses 

include Personal Finance, Intro to 

Economics and Business, Managerial 

Finance and Principles of Accounting. 

When asked what attributed to her 

success in life, she stated, “My faith, my 

family and my friends!” Her personal 

mantra is — NEVER STOP LEARNING! 

Intentionally strive to improve yourself, 

whether through reading, going back to 

school in your late 40’s or relationships. 

Surround yourself with people you want 

to learn from. Remember: Some of the 

most important life lessons are learned 

in the struggle. Embrace the journey, 

learn from your mistakes and 

continue to move forward. 

Lisette is married to Quentin 

Washispack (also known 

as Dr. Q), the Missions and Outreach 

Pastor at New Life Church. She has been 

married to Dr. Q for 36 years. They have 

four children: Abby 30 (husband, Ryan 

30), Hope 28 (husband, Zack 27), Seth 

26, and Ethan 23; and one ADORABLE 

grandson (parents, Abby & Ryan), McCoy 

18 months old. They moved to Conway 

in 2001 from Mountain Home, AR. 

However, both Lisette and Dr. Q are true 

“Cajuns” from south Louisiana. 

Pre-COVID 19, Lisette travelled to China 

1 to 2 times a year (with Dr. Q) and has 

visited China 19 times. She is involved 

in the community through New Life 

Church – Local Outreach, Arkansas 

Dream Center, CityServe of Arkansas, 

and Conway Strategic Planning Steering 

Committee. She enjoys gardening, 

painting, cooking and spending time with 

family and friends. Lisette loves to open 

her home for good food and fellowship! 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Erica Speer 

Infection Preventionist / Conway Regional Health System 

Erica serves as infection preventionist 

for Conway Regional Health System. 

She grew up in Cabot, attended 

Arkansas State University at Beebe, and 

went on to complete the nursing program 

at the University of Arkansas for Medical 

Sciences. She and her husband are 

expecting their first child in November. 

“I love working at Conway Regional 

because of the family atmosphere. Conway 

Regional is small enough to maintain those 

important ‘work family’ relationships; the 

leadership really makes a proactive effort to 

get to know the staff, and that makes a big 

difference,” says Erica. 

She is a member of the Association for 

Professionals in Infection Control and 

Epidemiology. In her spare time, Erica loves 

to craft. “I think you can learn pretty much 

anything on YouTube. I have been able to 

teach myself to sew, cross stitch, knit, and 

crochet,” she says. 

Erica’s advice for those just starting out is, 

“Don’t give up. Even if things get hard, you 

just work harder and stay consistent.” 

“ 

I love working at Conway Regional 

because of the family atmosphere. 

Conway Regional is small enough to 

maintain those important ’work family‘ 

relationships; the leadership really makes 

a proactive effort to get to know the 

staff, and that makes a big difference. 

” 

—Erica Speer, Infection Preventionist 


Andrea Harrison 

Director of Quality Resources, Registered Nurse 

Conway Regional Health System 


WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Andrea is director of quality resources for Conway Regional 

Health System. She is married to Kevin, and they have a son, 

Paxton. A Benton native, she attended nursing school in Virginia. 

“My husband had the opportunity to transfer to Arkansas, and we 

jumped at the opportunity. His [new] territory was based out of 

Faulkner County, and we settled in Vilonia. Our son was four when 

we moved here, and he is now a senior at Vilonia High School. I really 

wanted to stay in this area for work. I think a lot can be said about 

working in the community you live in,” she says. 

Andrea began her career at Conway Regional working as a bedside 

nurse. “I love that I get the opportunity, daily, to serve my neighbors 

and my community. For nearly 100 years, Conway Regional has 

provided high-quality, compassionate healthcare to the communities 

we serve, and I am blessed to be part of this great organization. 

Conway is the biggest small town, so it is rewarding to see recovered 

patients out-and-about and know you had part in their healing.” 

She attributes her success to hard work and determination, saying 

these are “critical components to success. There are no shortcuts in 

healthcare. I chose nursing because I wanted to make a difference 

in people’s lives. Conway Regional has given me the opportunity 

to grow into a leadership position from a bedside nurse. Also, my 

husband is very supportive in my goals and aspirations; he has 

picked up the slack on multiple occasions!” 

In her spare time, Andrea is an avid concertgoer. “I love live 

music of all kinds. Also, I love Razorback football.” She 

is also involved in the community. “I recently joined 

the board for Stop DV, an organization in Faulkner 

County focused on improving safety for domestic 

violence victims and increasing access to resources 

for survivors.” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Lori Harwell 

Owner, Harwell Designs/Boutique 

Lori opened Harwell Designs in 

Vilonia, where she lives with her 

family. She is married to Kevin, and 

they have two children, daughter Baylea 

and son Brandon; they also have their 

“little yorkie, The Razz.” 

Lori grew up in Conway and attended 

the University of Central Arkansas. She 

loves living and working in Faulkner 

County and would never want to be 

anywhere else. “The people in Faulkner 

County are the best. We always knew 

we wanted to work and raise our family 

where we grew up, and we have.” 

She attributes the success of her boutique 

to “The Good Lord, hard work, integrity, 

and the support of my family,” she says. 

Harwell Designs offers women’s clothing, 

shoes, and accessories. Lori’s goal is to 

help women look and feel their best. 

She is active on the Boys and Girls Club 

of Faulkner County board and in the 

Vilonia community. In fact, they are 

currently raising funds for local schools. 

As for her advice to those starting out, 

Lori shares a Roy T. Bennett quote, 

“Listen with curiosity. Speak with 

honesty. Act with integrity.” 


WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Whitney Long 

Mortgage Loan Originator at First Service Bank 

Whitney, a mortgage loan originator at First 

Service Bank, moved to Faulkner County in 

2010 when she married, and has lived here 

ever since. She and her husband, Ryan, have one son, 

Harrison, who is three years old. Whitney attributes 

her success first and foremost to the blessings of God, 

as well as working hard and serving well. 


in Faulkner County, Whitney says, “I love that in 

Faulkner County you can experience a small town 

feel and closeness in a community, but still have the 

amenities (shopping, restaurants, entertainment, 

culture) of larger metropolitan areas.” 

In addition to riding horses in her 

spare time, Whitney is involved 

in many ways in the community. 

I am very involved in my church, 

The Church Alive. I also serve on 

the Haven House board. Through 

our mortgage department we are 

involved in many community 

events and support as 

many of the local nonprofit 

organizations that we can,” 

she says. 

Whitney’s advice to 

those just starting out 

is, “Work hard, dream 

big and believe God!” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Karen Bernard 

Events Rental and Floral 


Karen enjoys coordinating events, and 

providing rentals and florals through Events 

Rental and Floral. She is a proud mother of 

three “amazing, grown children,” and she grew 

up in Faulkner County. “I moved to Dallas right 

after high school and started my first business 

there when I was 20 years-old. My dive into 

entrepreneurship was prompted by opportunity 

and necessity. I’ve been self-employed ever since.” 

Karen operates by her company’s mission 

statement, ‘All About You.’ “Even though I give 

suggestions and guidance, it is ultimately the 

client’s event or wedding. In all my years of 

planning and decorating events, I can honestly say 

I have never done one event the same,” she says. 

She adds, “Parent entrepreneurs have dual responsibilities 

to their businesses and to their families. 

Finding ways to devote time to both is key to 

achieving that elusive work-life balance, especially 

in a business that isn’t always nine-to-five.” 

In her spare time, Karen enjoys the great outdoors. 

“I was raised in rural Faulkner County, so when I’m 

not creating magic with all the pretty stuff, I spend 

my time hiking, kayaking, and chasing waterfalls. 

It is where I find my inner peace and recharge.” 

As for her future in Faulkner County, “In this 

industry, it is all about reinventing and keeping up 

with the times/trends. I am excited to announce 

“ 

In this industry, it is all about reinventing and 

keeping up with the times/trends. I am excited to 

announce a private consult and planning business 

in Downtown Conway to give Events Rental and 

Floral clients our undivided attention. Our other 

location at 3230 Vail Avenue will still provide 

service for walk-ins and rental pick-ups. 

” 

—Karen Bernard, Owner 

a private consult and planning business in Downtown 

Conway to give Events Rental and Floral 

clients our undivided attention. Our other location 

at 3230 Vail Avenue will still provide service for 

walk-ins and rental pick-ups,” says Karen. 

Her advice for someone just starting out, is, “Do 

something you love. Don’t do it for the money. 

In business, there will be good times and bad 

times. Some you can control, and some you 

can’t. If you don’t have that passion, you will 

look at your experience as a burden instead of 

the joy you intended it to be.” 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Nabholz 

Jayme Mayo, Samantha Thomas, Destany Rorick 

Nabholz, headquartered 

in Conway, has been 

in business in Faulkner 

County since 1949. A multi-service 

contractor specializing in construction, 

industrial, civil, specialty, and 

environmental services, they now 

have 1,200 employees in 13 locations 

across seven states. A unique 

benefit afforded to all employees 

is the Nabholz Wellness Program, 

a results-based incentive program 

with an emphasis on the top five 

drivers of health insurance 

claims: cholesterol, blood 

glucose, blood pressure, obesity, 

and nicotine use. Jayme Mayo, 

Samantha Thomas, and Destany 

Rorick are a key part of managing 

this successful program, along with 

Dr. Steve Long, and Northwest 

Arkansas team members Mallory 

Swan and Yajaira Rodriguez. 

Jayme Mayo, Wellness Director 

Jayme is the heart and soul of 

Nabholz’ wellness program. She 

developed the program when she 

joined the company in 2007 — a 

time when corporate wellness 

wasn’t a buzz word. Her ability 

to connect with Nabholz’ 

workers and convince them 

to improve their health has 

made this program successful, 

so much so that it has 

kept the company’s 

healthcare costs much 

lower than the 

industry average. 

From 2010 to 

2018, Nabholz 

premiums 

have only 

increased an 

average of 1.62 percent 

per year. In comparison, 

average health care 

costs across the U.S. 

rose by 4.3 percent 

a year. In the same 

time frame, Nabholz 

employee statistics 

show high blood pressure 

and cholesterol have 

fallen from 40 percent to 

15 percent and 46 percent 

to 26 percent, respectively. 

Tobacco users have 

dropped from 49 percent 

to 26 percent. 

Of course, Jayme’s qualifications 

go far beyond relatability. She 

has an M.S. in Medicine and 

a B.S. in Kinesiology. She is a 

licensed Physician Assistant, 

Physical Therapist Assistant, and 

is certified in group fitness, CPR, 

and first aid. 

Samantha Thomas, 

Wellness Coordinator 

Wellness Coordinator Samantha 

Thomas has been with Nabholz 

since 2013. She specializes in 

fitness, and has a B.S. in Health 

Education, with an emphasis 

in Wellness and is an AFAA 

Certified Personal Trainer. With 

certifications in Heartsaver First 

Aid CPR and AED, Samantha also 

helps educate many of Nabholz’ 

employees in basic first aid. She 

passes this knowledge on to 

Nabholz’ employees, especially 

those in management in the field. 

After receiving training such as 

this, these employees have saved 

lives on and off job sites. She 

loves seeing people’s faces light 

up when they see results from the 

healthy changes they have made. 

Destany Rorick, 

Medical Assistant 

Medical Assistant Destany Rorick 

joined the Nabholz Wellness 

team in 2016. She is often the 

first face or voice Nabholz 

employees encounter when 

seeking medical advice from 

one of the company’s on-site 

providers. She has her Medical 

Assistant Certificate, CPR 

certification, and is a graduate 

of the Eastern College of Health 

Vocations Mental Health Education 

program. 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Destiny Lankford 

Centennial Bank / Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS #1961683 

Destiny, a Mortgage Loan Officer with Centennial Bank, grew 

up in Mount Vernon and completed her education at Arkansas 

Tech University with a degree in Public Relations. Her husband 

completed flight school at Fort Rucker, Alabama, and, once completed, 

the opportunity became available to call Faulkner County home once 

again. “We knew it would be the perfect place to raise our family,” 

Destiny says. Destiny and her husband have two sons, Dyson 

and Denver, with another on the way. “They keep us on our 

toes and make life so fun. My husband is a Blackhawk pilot 

for the Army. With his work, mine and the boys’ activities 

lives are crazy, but the beautiful kind of crazy.” 

Of what she most enjoys about living and working in 

Faulkner County, Destiny says, “Everything! I love the school 

systems, the fact that it’s big but feels like such a small, close 

community. Mostly, I love the people. I love that people from 

all over Arkansas come here, and they never want to leave.” 

She attributes her success to her amazing support system, “I 

have an amazing support system in my family and a mother 

who taught me an incredible work ethic. A company that is 

always providing growth and opportunity. One that also 

has some incredible role models and leaders who have 

helped guide and teach me along the way.” 

Destiny’s advice to those just starting out is, “Never 

give up! I started at Centennial Bank in Loan Operations 

and have had four different positions before 

landing where I am now. Hard work, dedication, and 

loyalty go a long way and will get you where you 

want to be; just be patient and have faith.” 


working in Faulkner County: 

“ Everything! I 

love the school systems, the fact that it‘s big 

but feels like such a small, close community. 

Mostly, I love the people. I love that people 

from all over Arkansas come here, and 

they never want to leave. 

” 

‐Destiny Lankford 


Angel Duncan 

Owner of Angel‘s Boutique 


WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Angel is the owner of 

Angel’s Boutique, located 

in the Conway Commons 

Shopping Center. Her husband 

is a utility inspector, and Angel 

finished her education in 

Kentucky after leaving Greenbrier 

in the 8th grade. Her son 

is a professional golf caddy 

at Alotian, and her daughter 

is a photographer and on 

the social media team for 

Angel’s Boutique. Angel 

says, “Fun fact – one 

of my best friends 

growing up in 

Greenbrier is now 

my dentist. Dr. 

Jennifer Weaver is 

the best!” 

When asked what led her 

to open a business here, 

Angel says “My dad was 

a pastor in Conway for 

many years, and we met 

so many wonderful people 

through our church and just 

fell in love with the town. 

One of the families that visited 

our church quite often had a 

fragrance store for sale, and we 

wound up buying it from them. 

It has now turned into a boutique 

with an online store, and we also 

have an app. Since my store was 

mainly a fragrance store, I just 

wanted to expand to be more of 

a one stop shop. We try to offer a 

little bit of everything.” 

Of what she most enjoys about 

living and working here, Angel 

says, “I have had multiple out 

of town customers tell me that 

Conway is one of the best cities 

they’ve ever visited. I just feel like 

we have wonderful people, great 

restaurants, and amazing churches. 

It a great place to raise a family.” 

She attributes her success to not 

only a lot of prayer and hard work 

but also to several important people 

who contribute to her achievements. 

“I have the best attorney, 

Skip Davidson, banker, Skip Colvin, 

and accountant, Lisa Stephens. 

They are truly amazing and are 

miracle workers! I’m so thankful to 

have them in my corner. God said 

to always get advice from godly 

people, and that’s what I try to do.” 

Angel attends Central Baptist 

Church, and her interests include 

swimming, playing tennis and 

enjoying Baggo with her family. 

Through her business, she 

also supports Harbor Home, a 

residential community that provides 

training and assistance to women 

whose lives are in crisis. 

Angel’s advice to those just starting 

out is, “Work hard, keep God first 

in everything you do, and don’t 

stray from your standards. Surround 

yourself with a good support group, 

and people who will help you 

become better. Build a great team!” 

Maret Wicks 

Vice-President, Marketing Manager / Arvest Bank – Central, NE, SW Arkansas 


WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 


Maret grew up in Tempe, Arizona but has lived in 

Conway for 16 years. She and her husband, Jeff, 

both work for Arvest Bank. “We are a blended 

family with five children between us, Andy Moore, Ethan 

Moore, Grace Moore, Kyle Wicks and Jordan Wicks. 

We live in Conway with two of our kids currently 

in residence, Ethan and Grace. We share our home 

with three pets, Cali, Stella, Miss Kitty and 2 

grand-dogs, Nash and Presley.” 


in Faulkner County, Maret says, “I have worked 

and lived in Faulkner County for 16 years. It has 

a small town feel but offers the amenities of a 

much larger town. I loved raising my kids here. 

I met my husband here. I fell in love with a 

community that is willing to give back with 

their passion, their talents, their time and 

even their funds. I saw this firsthand when 

I worked at United Way and, now, I see it 

from a slightly different side. Arvest gives 

back in all the ways described above, and I 

am proud to continue to be able to be part of 

a transformational organization.” 

Maret attributes her success to many 

in her life. “They say it takes a village 

to raise a child, but it also takes a 

village to move through the world 

with any kind of success. I attribute my accomplishments 

to many great friends and mentors who help me understand 

my strengths and my opportunities for learning. I 

must give a nod to my parents who instilled in my siblings 

and me an extremely strong work ethic. That strong ethic 

will drive one to seek out answers and skills to help them 

thrive in almost any situation.” 

Many in the community are aware that Maret is also an 

artist. “My favorite medium is acrylics although I like to 

draw with charcoal, as well. I am working on a painting 

for Corey and Emily Shumate and their lovely little boy 

John Ryan. After that, I will begin one for my brother, 

Brendan, and his wife, Nora and their little bundle of joy. My 

husband, Jeff, and I are also avid DIYers. This hobby keeps 

us very busy. We also love cycling and kayaking.” 

Currently, Maret sits on the Conway Art board. She 

says, “We are tasked to find opportunities for public art 

in Conway. Additionally, I am on the steering committee 

for Bank On Arkansas Plus, an organization that strives to 

bring banking to the non-banked and under-banked. Both 

organizations fit my passions nicely.” 

Maret’s advice to those just starting out is, “Find something 

you are passionate about and the rest will follow!”


WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Raegan McGhee 

Oak & Ash Home Décor / Owner 

Oak & Ash is inspired by a love and 

passion for all things design. Founded by 

Raegan McGhee, the boutique offers the 

latest in home decor, furniture, and accessories. 

Raegan is married to Bryce, “a huge supporter 

of my dreams and a great business partner.” 

Raegan grew up in the Conway area and graduated 

from the University of Central Arkansas 

with a Bachelors in Logistics and Supply Chain 

Management. On her decision to open her 

business, she says, “I love supporting small 

businesses but found myself shopping outside 

Conway to find those unique decor pieces to 

complete my spaces. I always dreamed of a 

place close to home where I could find them. 

Sensing this need, I wanted to bring that to 

Faulkner County. With that, I’m excited to see 

what the future holds for Oak & Ash.” 

Starting a business was 

not a new concept for 

Raegan. “My family 

is full of entrepreneurs 

who have 

always encouraged 

me to pursue my 

dreams. My 

grandmother, 

Linda Linn, 

has been my 

role model; 

I hope to give back to the community as she 

has done,” she says. 

Raegan loves the people of Faulkner County. 

“This community is an incredible group of 

people who are invested in our city. From 

small businesses to local nonprofits, this area is 

brimming with support and love. My husband 

and I are very involved in the community. 

We attend The Summit Church and work for 

Renewal Ranch, where Bryce works full time 

as Director of Marketing and Fundraising. We 

also love bringing pieces of the community 

back to life by restoring homes through our 

business Urban Mortar,” says Raegan. 

As for her advice for someone just starting out, 

she says, “Follow your dreams and passions 

and simply have fun. Remember to find joy in 

each step of the process, so your dreams never 

become just a job.” 

L-R: Katie Bernard, 

Raegan McGhee, 

Cassandra Greenfield. 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

St. Joseph School 

Carrie Simon, Christy Pasierb, Jackie Elsinger, Amy Rehm 

St. Joseph School, located at 502 Front Street 

in Conway, has been part of the community 

since 1879. The mission at St. Joseph School is 

empowering students academically and spiritually 

to become advocates of Catholic social teachings 

rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ. With a student 

enrollment of approximately 500 students PreK-12, 

St. Joseph is proud to employ these women who 

make education fun and meaningful for their 

students daily. Here’s what they said when asked 

why they chose education as a profession: 

Carrie Simon - Pre-K Teacher and 11th year at St. Joe 

I love working with my preschool kiddos. One of 

the joys in teaching is working with my students 

and doing experiments. When doing experiments, 

I love to see their minds working and learning 

while using multi-sensory skills. I want them 

to get hands-on experience, so we do a lot of 

sensory bins. Preschool is an area where you 

never know what they’re going to say or do, they 

are extremely entertaining! When working with 

preschoolers there is never a dull moment!! 

Christy Pasierb - Library Media, K-6, 

9th year at St. Joe and is also a St. Joe graduate 

My love for working with children and my 

passion for reading inspired me to change careers 

and pursue degrees in the field of education. I feel 

blessed to be working in the library, at the school 

my daughters attend, and my alma mater. 

Jackie Elsinger - 3rd year at St. Joe, 

Food Preparation, Science 7, & Science 8 

High School, St. Joseph Honorary Alumni - 2017 

Why teach? I love children; I love learning, so I 

love to teach! I had several college professors who 

told me I should be a teacher after high school, but 

it wasn’t my plan at the time. I graduated with a 

degree in computer science. After working, raising 

my children, and substitute teaching for many 

years, I felt the calling. I went back to school and 

earned my master’s degree in Education. Learning 

should be fun--I teach science and a Basic Food 

Prep Class...how fun is that? I feel truly blessed to 

be doing what I love. 

Amy Rehm - Elementary First Grade teacher - 

3rd year at St Joe 

There is something so rewarding about witnessing 

the spark in a child’s eye when they understand 

what they are learning. God gave me the passion for 

teaching and there is nowhere else I would rather be. 

St. Joseph School serves 326 families from the 

Central Arkansas area. The school offers students 

opportunities for service through several classes 

and clubs, and much of that service work impacts 

the Conway community—Feed My Starving 

Children Mobile Pack, Salvation Army Bell 

Ringing, and the Angel Tree Program to name a 

few. To foster future leaders in our community, 

St. Joseph student representatives participate in 

Teen Court, the Conway Area Youth Leadership 

Institute, Boy State, Girls State, and HOBY each 

year. Apply today at www.stjosephconway.org. 



WOMEN in 

BUSINESS 

Velda Lueders 

Realtor / Coldwell Banker RPM Group-Conway 

Velda is an accomplished realtor with Coldwell 

Banker RPM Group in Conway. She 

has been married to “Coach” Barry Lueders 

for 28 years and has two daughters, Elisabeth and 

Catherine, and a granddaughter, Zoe. 

“What I love most about working and living in 

Faulkner County is the community. The relationships 

and friendships both in my personal and professional 

atmosphere have been extremely meaningful. In real 

estate, I most love the connections I have with my 

clients, the relationships I have built with my fellow 

colleagues, and the joy I have from working in a 

career I truly enjoy each and every day,” says Velda. 

In her spare time, she enjoys sports, reading, camping, 

traveling, and baking. She also believes in giving back 

to the community. “I am on the Board of Directors for 

Faulkner County Home Builders, the Board of Directors 

for Bethlehem House, and am a lifetime member 

of the National Association of Junior Auxiliary. I am a 

member of the Conway Chamber of Commerce, the 

Greenbrier Chamber of Commerce, and the Conway 

High School Booster Club. I love helping with our 

local school 5Ks, reading to kids, and giving back to 

our teachers and educators,” she says. 

Professionally, Velda says, “I am very involved with 

the local, state, and national Associations of Realtors. 

I currently serve as a Director for the Faulkner County 

Board of Realtors. At the state level, I serve on the 

Professional Standards Committee, Legislative 

Committee and as an ARPAC Trustee. At the 

national level, I’m serving a three-year term on the 

Board of Directors for the national association…I 

enjoy traveling to the annual mid-year meetings in 

Washington, DC and our national conventions held 

each November. Being involved is an important part 

of my business, and the networking is an opportunity 

to send and receive referrals. I was inducted 

to the Faulkner County Hall of Fame, awarded 

the 2019 Faulkner County Board of Realtors 

Realtor of the Year, Arkansas Realtors 2019 

Realtor of the Year, and received the medal 

of service for the National Association of 

Realtors - Omega Tau Rho.” 

As for her future in Faulkner County, Velda 

says, “I plan to continue growing my business; 

being active in local, state, and national 

associations; and traveling more with my 

husband and family.” Her advice for someone 

just starting out is, 

“Stay true to yourself. 

Always respect your 

colleagues that you 

work with day-in and 

day-out. Work hard 

and never give up!” 


TOGETHER FOR Better. 

Arkansans appreciate community. We work 

and raise families. Care for our neighbors. 

And come together in good times and bad. 

At First Security, that local strength is what 

we love best about our home state. There is 

commitment here. And heart. And hope. 

Thank you to everyone who is standing 

together, learning from one another, and making 

Arkansas a place we all love to call home. 

Member FDIC 

We’re proud to be your community bank. 


Now Booking Fall 

photography 


Put your home’s equity to work with a 

Home Equity Line of Credit. 

From renovation plans to life’s surprises, it’s there for whatever you need. 

Stop by one of our convenient locations to see if a HELOC is the right solution for you. 

Benefits: 

• Competitive interest rates* 

• Accessing funds is as easy as writing a check 

• Interest may be tax-deductible** 

• Quick & simple application process 

Visit one of our Conway offices today. 

Conway Main ⋅ 551 Harkrider ⋅ 501-932-3000 

Conway East ⋅ 1104 E. Oak St. ⋅ 501-932-3060 

Conway North ⋅ 1745 Old Morrilton Hwy. ⋅ 501-932-3020 

Conway Salem ⋅ 545 Salem Rd. ⋅ 501-548-0206 

Member FDIC. Bank NMLS# 464037 

*Interest rate and Annual Percentage Rate (APR) are based on borrower credit criteria and collateral. Interest rate and APR are variable and subject to 

change. Subject to credit approval. **The interest on the portion of the credit extension that is greater than the fair market value of the dwelling is not tax 

deductible for Federal income tax purposes. Please consult a tax adviser for further information regarding the deductibility of interest and charges. 

faulknerlifestyle.com 85 

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9/23/2020 12:58:12 PM

EQUAL HOUSING 

OPPORTUNITY 

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Experience 

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Call Today to Start Your Mortgage Application 

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health 

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea? 

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a 

common disorder where the muscles of 

your throat and tongue relax while you 

sleep, closing off your airway and blocking 

your breathing. As this happens throughout 

the night, your blood oxygen levels drop and 

you repeatedly wake up from sleep. 

How is Sleep Apnea diagnosed? 

Most patients present to their doctor with 

loud, disruptive snoring, often accompanied 

by an irritated partner. Other symptoms 

include witnessed apneas (or cessation of 

breathing), excessive daytime sleepiness, 

non-restorative sleep, poor concentration, 

morning headaches, and mood changes. After 

a history and physical are performed, a sleep 

study is needed to determine if sleep apnea is 

present, and if so, how severe it is. These can 

be performed in a sleep center or at home. 

What causes OSA? 

There are many causes of OSA, and for most 

patients, it is a combination of things. The 

number one cause is obesity. In many cases, 

patients also have a smaller throat or larger 

tongue that predisposes it to collapsing. A 

long palate or small jaw can also contribute 

to OSA. In children, the number one cause 

is enlarged tonsils and adenoids. While not 

necessarily a cause, nasal congestion can 

also contribute to sleep apnea. 

What happens if it isn‘t treated? 

Patients generally experience a decreased 

quality of life due to excessive daytime 

sleepiness, chronic fatigue, or poor attention. 

This can lead to increased traffic or 

workplace accidents. 

Due to the increased 

stress on the heart and 

lungs, patients have 

an increased risk of 

heart attack, stroke, 

high blood pressure, 

or abnormal heart 

rhythms. 

How do you treat 

sleep apnea? 

The first line of treatment 

for OSA is a CPAP 

(continuous positive 

airway pressure) device. This is a machine 

that connects to a mask worn over the nose 

or mouth that blows air into your throat to 

keep it open. For milder cases of OSA, an 

oral appliance that pulls your tongue or jaw 

forward while you sleep is also an option. If 

patients are unable to either of these, surgery 

is an option. Traditional sleep apnea surgery 

includes multi-level airway surgery to address 

nasal congestion and enlarge the throat. This 

can include nasal surgery, tonsillectomy, 

tongue reduction, or a hyoid suspension. 

Inspire Surgery 

The most recent advancement in sleep 

surgery - and the most effective - is hypoglossal 

nerve stimulation therapy, or Inspire. 

Inspire is an implant that works inside your 

body with your natural breathing process 

to treat obstructive sleep apnea. While you 

sleep, Inspire delivers mild stimulation 

to key muscles in the tongue and throat, 

allowing the airway to remain open. The 

Inspire system is controlled by a small 

handheld remote. You simply turn on the 

device before bed and off in the morning 

when you wake up. It is done as an outpatient 

procedure with less pain and recovery 

time than traditional sleep surgery. General 

qualification criteria for Inspire are moderate 

or severe sleep apnea, unable to use or 

get consistent benefit with CPAP, and not 

significantly obese (BMI

spotlight 


Angela Jackson 

Studio Skin 

Angela Jackson draws upon over 

21 years in the beauty industry, 

beginning her career as a Licensed 

Aesthetician in 1998. After training and 

working directly under two different 

Board Certified Plastic Surgeons in 

Fayetteville for 15+ years, she went on to 

establish her own business- Studio Skin. 

She opened Studio Skin in 2008. Angela 

also served two consecutive terms on the 

Arkansas Department of Health Advisory 

Committee. Not only does Angela bring 

her profession inside Studio Skin she also 

brings her passion for the industry. 

After earning a diploma in Aesthetics 

in Fort Smith, Angela continued her 

education and pursued extensive 

education. She has additional certification 

and education in microcurrent 

“facelift” treatments, microdermabrasion, 

microneedling, acne treatments, lasers 

(hair removal, spider vein treatment and 

ablative treatments), hair removal, brow 

shaping artistry, advanced chemical peels, 

anti-aging treatments, advance exfoliation 

technique including ultrasonic-peels and 

dermaplaning. Treating all skin types and 

conditions using the most advanced skin 

care systems on the market today, among 

her expanding and continuing education. 

Angela’s passion for knowledge in 

the dynamic, ever-changing skincare/ 

beauty industry ensures that she stays 

informed with the latest technologies 


and cutting edge ingredients in skincare, 

which she loves to share with her 

clients. Every product at Studio Skin 

has been tried, tested and hand-chosen 

by Angela herself. 

Her approach is one that encompasses 

all of the technical knowledge with a 

relaxing and soothing touch. Because of 

her dedication and love for the beauty 

industry, she has gained the credibility 

and loyalty of all her clients. A true master 

of all services offered. All of your skin care 

needs can be met simply by putting your 

face in Angela’s hands. 

Angela’s 21 years as a Licensed Aesthetician 

make her very particular about 

her work. These professional skills and 

experiences provide her with a keen sense 

for this specialty trade. She is currently 

enrolled and finishing up classes to receive 

a diploma for permanent cosmetics. 

Angela’s conservative approach and 

attention to detail will help you look and 

feel your best permanently. 

“ 

I truly love helping my clients achieve their 

skin care goals so they can always put their best 

face forward. It is a wonderful feeling knowing 

I’ve helped a client achieve far more 

than what they were hoping for. 

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Skin Rejuvenation 

Microdermabrasion 

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Waxing 

Studio SKIN 

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501.358.4653 

StudioSKIN.SkincareTherapy.net 

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Centennial Bank Mortgage Loan originators: (Left to right) 

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pet care 

HOLIDAY SEASON IS APPROACHING 

For your furriest family members, the holidays 

may bring unfamiliar faces, loud noises, and the 

temptation to eat potentially hazardous things. 

Know what to look out for and the steps to take 

in an emergency. 

CHOCOLATE 

Although it poses a well-known danger to 

pets, chocolate remains one of the most highly 

reported pet toxicities. The Animal Poison 

Control Center addressed 17,540 chocolate 

toxicity cases in 2017—about 48 per day. 

Chocolate becomes a heightened concern during 

the holiday season because of the increased 

volume of candies, baked goods, and chocolatecovered 

treats. During the week of Halloween, 

calls to the Pet Poison Helpline—most regarding 

pets accidentally ingesting candy—increase by 

12%, making it the center’s busiest time of year. 

DECOR 

For pets, some decorations look like toys and 

could lead to injury. One major culprit: tinsel. 

Shiny and stringlike, this is a major temptation 

for cats—and a major threat. Because tinsel is 

thin and long, it can be swallowed easily and 

become lodged in a cat’s stomach and unable to 

pass through the intestines. Most veterinarians 

recommend skipping the tinsel if you have a cat. 

Christmas trees should be anchored securely so 

it cannot tip over, potentially injuring a pet or 

child. Keep an eye on the water in their tree’s 

stand. Some pets drink the stagnant water, 

which is a breeding ground for bacteria, and can 

quickly become ill. 

Holiday Hazards for Pets 

NOISE 

From a pet’s perspective, many holiday 

traditions aren’t exciting—they’re scary. On 

Halloween you might rejoice in the stream 

of costume-clad trick-or-treaters at the door, 

but your pet just notices that the doorbell has 

rung dozens of times, only to reveal oddlooking 

strangers each time. This can result in 

unexpected aggression or an attempted escape 

through the open door. The best way to avoid 

this stress is to put your pet in a secure crate or a 

room as far away from the front door. 

On New Year’s Eve, the fireworks that mark 

the start of a fresh year produce an unwelcome 

barrage of noise that may send your dog into 

hiding. If you know that your dog or cat suffers 

from noise aversion or anxiety, speak with your 

veterinarian about extra measures you can take. 

XYLITOL 

It’s very likely that the sugar-free sweetener 

Xylitol lurks in your pantry. A common ingredient 

in baked goods, gum, and even peanut 

butter, the additive is particularly dangerous for 

dogs. Xylitol can cause their blood sugar to drop 

and lead to liver failure. Check the ingredient list 

of the foods you serve or prepare at home, and 

keep all baked goods out of your pet’s reach. 

PLANTS 

It’s widely believed that Poinsettias are toxic 

to pets, but that’s not entirely true. Although 

eating large amounts of the plant has the 

potential to sicken an animal, mistletoe and 

holly are actually much more toxic. If ingested, 

either plant could lead to vomiting, diarrhea, 

and heart arrhythmia in both dogs and cats. 

Halloween decorations such as pumpkins and 

cornstalks can cause gastrointestinal upset or 

intestinal blockage, and jack-o’-lanterns or other 

decorations with lit candles could burn a curious 

pet. So be sure to keep a watchful eye on your 

pet—or use alternative decorations. 

GUESTS 

Unfamiliar faces may increase your pet’s level 

of anxiety or aggression and pose a safety risk. 

Also, guests entering and exiting your home 

may not notice your pet slipping out the door 

behind them. To help prevent mishaps, tell 

visitors in advance that you have a pet. You 

should also set up a comfortable, quiet place 

as retreat for your cat or dog if the socializing 

becomes too overwhelming. Don’t forget to 

check in on her from time to time. 

If you host overnight guests, be leery of their 

medications. Visitors might leave pills in their 

suitcase or on a nightstand where pets can 

access them easily. This applies to prescription 

and over-the-counter medications, supplements, 

and vitamins. Last year, the APCC received 

nearly 35,000 calls about the accidental ingestion 

of medications. 

BE PREPARED 

Being a responsible pet owner means taking 

precautions to keep your pet happy and healthy. 

If, despite your best efforts, you suspect that 

your cat or dog has ingested a potentially toxic 

decoration or food item, immediately call a pet 

poison hotline, such as the APCC (888-426- 

4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661). 

Specially trained staff can help identify what 

your pet ingested and alert you to any danger. If 

you notice that your pet seems sick or acts odd, 

don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian. 

DR. THOMAS CABANTAC 

2725 COLLEGE AVE • CONWAY • 501-329-2940 

TUCKERCREEKVET.COM 


community 

Operation Christmas Child 

It‘s Time to Start Packing! 

What is Operation 

Christmas Child? 

The Samaritan’s Purse project 

Operation Christmas Child collects 

shoebox gifts—filled with fun toys, 

school supplies and hygiene items—and 

delivers them to children in need around 

the world to demonstrate God’s love in a 

tangible way. For many of these children, 

the gift-filled shoebox is the first gift they 

have ever received. 

Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child, 

the world’s largest Christmas project of 

its kind, has collected and delivered more 

than 178 million shoebox gifts to children 

in more than 160 countries and territories. 

In 2020, Operation Christmas Child 

hopes to collect enough shoebox gifts 

to reach another 11 million children 

in countries like Peru, the Philippines, 

Rwanda and Ukraine. More than 10.5 

million shoebox gifts were collected 

worldwide in 2019, with more than 8.9 

million collected in the U.S. The Area 

Goal for the Arkansas River Valley Area 

for 2020 is 18,060 gift-filled shoeboxes. 

How Can YOU Help? 

Conway and the surrounding 

communities have been participating 

in the collection of these shoebox gifts 

since 1999. Scores of churches, groups, 

teams, classes, businesses, families and 

individuals from our local community 


have contributed thousands of boxes 

since 1999. 

The entire community is invited to join 

in this gift giving ministry. The 2020 

Collection Week is November 16th-23rd. 

The drop off location this year is 1051 

Hogan Lane (Fellowship Bible Church). 

Drop off hours are from 10-2 Monday 

through Friday with additional hours 

from 7-9 p.m. on Wednesday, 10-12 on 

Saturday, 1-6 on Sunday and 9-12 the 

last Monday. 

What Do You Pack In A Shoebox? 

Anyone can pack a shoebox. Individuals, 

families, churches and groups fill empty 

shoeboxes with school supplies, hygiene 

items and fun toys, such as dolls or 

soccer balls. 

DO NOT INCLUDE candy; toothpaste; 

used or damaged items; war-related 

items such as toy guns, knives or military 

figures; seeds; chocolate or food; liquids 

or lotions; medications or vitamins; 

breakable items, such as snow globes or 

glass containers; or aerosol cans. 

a shipping donation of $9. Shipping 

donations can be made online on the 

Samaritan’s Purse website by clicking on 

the Follow Your Box tab and receive a 

tracking label to discover its destination. 

Participants who prefer the convenience 

of online shopping can browse online at 

www.SamaritansPurse.org/buildonline to 

select gifts matched to a child’s specific 

age and gender, then finish packing the 

virtual shoebox by adding a photo and 

personal note of encouragement. 

“This is an exciting week that we plan 

for all year. We love seeing the faces and 

hearing the stories of the people who 

donate shoeboxes each year and we 

count it as such a privilege to share these 

gifts with these children in desperate 

situations!” said Dawn Wilson, Arkansas 

River Valley Area Coordinator. 

For more information, in addition to 

the websites, you can contact 

Dawn Wilson at 501-269-0434 

Remember! 

The Go Store is a one-stop location in 

downtown Conway where you can 

find quality items at discounted prices 

for your Operation Christmas Child 

shoebox gifts! The GO Store is located at 

807 Court Street in Conway, Arkansas. 

The GO Store Mission: 

To offer quality merchandise at discount 

prices to individuals and groups wishing 

to pack shoeboxes to benefit Operation 

Christmas Child and to make items 

cheaper and more accessible - allowing 

those packing to send more shoeboxes 

for the same amount of money; therefore, 

increasing their impact in spreading 

The Gospel and making disciples of the 

nations. You can get more details online 

at www.ConwayGoStore.com 

More information on what to include 

and what not to include in your shoebox 

is at www.SamaritansPurse.org/occ. 

Operation Christmas Child suggests 



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truth on the go 

A Good Shepherd 


BY ANDREA LENNON 

When I was a little girl, I learned 

a song. “My God is so great, 

so strong and so mighty, 

there is nothing my God cannot do... 

for you!” Sometimes we need to 

remember this simple, yet profound, 

truth. God is great. He is mighty and 

there is nothing too hard for Him! 

In the book of John, we learn that Jesus, 

God’s Son, is great and mighty. He 

described Himself as a good shepherd. A 

shepherd always takes care of His sheep. 

The reason why is simple. The shepherd 

is invested in his flock. He loves them. 

He cares for them. He protects them. 

When danger comes, the shepherd puts 

his life on the line to save his sheep. Jesus 

used the analogy of a shepherd and his 

sheep to describe the type relationship 

He desires to have with us. Jesus stated, 

“I am the good shepherd. The good 

shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 

(John 10:11, New International Version) 

For just a moment, think about all 

the ways we are like sheep. We need 

direction in our lives. We don’t always 

know the right decisions to make. Left to 

our own devices, we will mess up. 

It’s easy for us to put our hope in the 

things of this world even though the 

things of this world have no power or 

ability to truly save us. We look to our 

careers, relationships, and even ourselves 

to try and find our way. Many of these 

things are good and needed; however, 

each of them falls short of providing the 

ultimate direction we need. 

Thankfully, Jesus never falls short. Jesus 

laid down His life in order to provide the 

only way for us to be saved. Not only 

did Jesus lay down His life, He willingly 

takes on rescue missions for His sheep. 

Jesus told a story in the Bible about a 

shepherd who owned one hundred 

sheep. One of the sheep wandered off 

from the flock. The shepherd looked for 

the lost sheep and celebrated when the 

sheep was found. Jesus then explained 

that there is celebration in heaven when 

a lost person is found. This means that 

heaven rejoices when a person turns to 

God and asks for help and forgiveness. 

I wonder if you feel like a lost sheep. 

Do you need direction and guidance in 

your life? You can know that Jesus is 

willing and able to meet you where you 

are and save you. He gave His life for 

you. Today you can respond to Him by 

saying, “Jesus, save me!” 

If you already have a relationship with 

Jesus, but you are living a life that is 

not right, you are not beyond His love 

and forgiveness. Jesus has a plan for 

you! The great and mighty thing Jesus 

will do is forgive you and redirect your 

life. He wants your life to be full of 

meaning and purpose. 

Today, you can know that Jesus is willing 

to be your good Shepherd. The question 

is, are you tired of trying to figure out life 

on your own? If so, ask Jesus to lead you, 

protect you, and care for you. 

Let’s talk to Jesus, right now. “Lord, 

thank you for being our good Shepherd. 

You gave your life for us. In return, we 

want to live our lives for you. Show 

us the plans you have for us. Teach us 

how to desire your love, direction, and 

protection. We really want to follow 

you! Amen.” 

Andrea Lennon: An “on the go” kind of girl who loves Jesus, Andrea’s life 

calling is to teach women to know the truth, live the truth, and share the 

truth. Her passion is honest conversation about the topics that drive our 

lives and how we can weather the storms through the love and power of 

our Lord and His Word. Connect with Andrea at AndreaLennonMinistry.org. 


faulkner fam 

Our Faulkner Fam: 

H&D Tucker Farm 

L-R Back: Brad Sanders, John Ray Evans, John Hartley Evans, Dian Evans, Jill Edwards 

holding son Hartley, Bobby Edwards. L-R Middle: Julie Sanders holding son John Bradley, 

Brennen Smith. Front: Lisa Evans holding Josie, daughter of Brad and Julie Sanders. 

“ 

[My grandfather] settled here in the early 1870s with his parents and siblings 

from Saltillo, Mississippi. They were en route to West Arkansas when their wagon 

broke down. As they camped for the repair, they realized they liked the soil 

condition and the water supply and chose to stay. They decided to name the 

homestead ‘Saltillo’ after their home in Mississippi they left behind. 

” 

—Dian Evans 


John Ray and Dian Evans 

Julie Sanders, John Hartley Evans and Jill Edwards 

Dian’s grandfather, J.L. George 

BY JENNIFER STANLEY 


AND SUBMITTED PHOTO 

H&D Tucker Farm is spearheaded 

by John Ray and Dian 

Evans and was established in 

Faulkner County in 1874. In fact, 

the farm was recognized last year as 

an Arkansas Century Farm. “I guess 

you could say our family has lived in 

Faulkner County for 146 years,” says 

Julie Sanders, granddaughter of John 

Ray and Dian. 

John Ray and Dian’s son, John 

Hartley Evans, works for the family 

business, as do his daughters, Jill and 

Julie. John Hartley is married to Lisa, 

who also has a son, Brennen. Jill is 

married to Bobby Edwards, and they 

have a son, Hartley. Julie is married 

to Brad Sanders, and they have two 

children, Josie and John Bradley. 

The farm consists of approximately 2,240 

acres of total farmed land in Faulkner 

County. The original parcel, which was 

purchased by Dian’s grandfather, J.L. 

George, was 160 acres. “He settled here 

in the early 1870s with his parents and 

siblings from Saltillo, Mississippi. They 

were en route to West Arkansas when 

their wagon broke down. As they camped 

for the repair, they realized they liked the 

soil condition and the water supply and 

chose to stay. They decided to name the 

homestead ‘Saltillo’ after their home in 

Mississippi they left behind,” says Dian. 

Dian’s parents, Hartley and Dorothy 

(George) Tucker, bought the farm when 

J.L. George passed. Dian and John Ray 

bought the farm when her parents 

passed and plan to keep it in the family 

for generations to come. 

Today, the family business consists of a 

550-acre row crop farm on the Arkansas 


Brad & Julie Sanders, Josie (3), 

John Bradley (4 months) 

Where are you from? We are both 

from the Saltillo/Vilonia area. 

Where do you work? Brad works 

for Simon Roofing & Restoration. I 

work for both our family businesses 

(H&D Tucker Farms as well as H.W. 

Tucker Company). I am also an adjunct 

instructor at UALR 

Describe parenting in one sentence: 

“Parenting is like herding cows, but a lot 

harder!” 

When you get a date night where do 

you go? With two young kids we rarely 

go out to eat, but our date nights may 

consist of grabbing a pizza and riding 

around the farm checking the cows and 

looking for wildlife. 

When you shop local (for fun) what 

stores are always on your list? Brad 

doesn’t shop, but I do! I don’t really 

have a favorite local shop. I tend to go 

everywhere. Savvy Sisters Closet, The 

Red Hanger, OK Corral and lots more! 

What do you love most about living 

in this community? We both agree 

everyone’s family being here. Saltillo 

is a small community and everyone 

knows everyone... our church and our 

families are minutes away... It’s quiet 

and peaceful rural Conway living. 

River. Here, they grow rice, soybeans, 

corn, and wheat; it is 99 percent irrigated. 

“When we began, we only had one 

irrigation pivot and no leveled ground. 

Now, there are three pivots and 220 acres 

of leveled ground. We continue to make 

improvements through the local NRCS. 

We have completed numerous watershed 

projects and reuse most all the water we 

pump over the fields through a tail water 

recovery system,” explains Jill. 

The cattle operation consists of 1,050 

acres with 760 additional leased for 

a total just over 1,800 acres. “As for 

the cattle, we have 375 commercial 

‘momma cows,’ along with around 60 

total heifers. We raise calves to around 

six-months old and sell the calves. We 

choose our best heifers (young females) 

to keep in our operation. We also bale 

our own hay with 400 acres of hay 

fields,” Jill says. 

The entire family loves spending their 

spare time — where else — on the farm! 

“We enjoy riding around, cooking, or 

hanging out with our close friends and 

neighbors here in Saltillo,” says Julie. 

With such dedication and hard work, 

H&D Tucker Farm will certainly remain 

a Faulkner County agricultural presence 

for another century. 


Jill & Bobby Edwards III, Hartley 

Where are you from? Bobby is from 

Mayflower, Jill is from Vilonia 

Where do you work? Bobby works 

for his family Rogers and Dillon 

Demolition, Jill works for her family 

H & D Tucker Farms 

Describe parenting in one 

sentence: Bobby & Jill, Parenting is 

learning and adapting to new things 

every day, mostly multitasking. 

When you get a date night where 

do you go? OUTBACK!!! We love 

Outback! If you haven’t tried it you 

need to try chocolate sauce and butter 

with their bread! 

When you shop local (for fun) what 

stores are always on your list? 

We shop the most at Ok Corral and 

Wilkinson’s! They pretty much take 

care of all our clothes and shoe needs. 

What do you love most about 

living in this community? Jill, 

Faulkner County is a great community. 

Everyone likes to support local 

businesses. People are supporting 

“local farmer.s” I am able to sell sweet 

corn and deer corn every year that 

we grow. We also sell horse hay. It’s 

always nice to hear the customer say 

“I’m supporting my local farmers.” 


scene | heard 


Paid for by French Hill for Arkansas

MY LAGOS MY WAY 

CAVIAR COLLECTIONS 


A Growing Health System for a Growing Community 

New Medical Offices 

Innovative Services 

Expanded Access 

More Specialists 

At Conway Regional, we provide all women and their 

newborns with dignity, respect, and compassionate care. 

Our Women's Center cares for mothers and newborns from 

admission to discharge, offering reassurance and support as 

you welcome your bundle of joy. 

We’re not just growing—we’re growing together. 

#conwayregional

Fall 2020 Faulkner Lifestyle

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