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WE’LL HELP YOU
SLEEP
when you’re supposed to
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One out of every three Americans suffers from a sleep disorder. Could you be one of them? If so,
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EDITOR’S
LETTER
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year”. This is the title of a
popular Christmas song that we all know and love, and the words
could not be truer. One thing that makes the holiday season such a
wonderful and memorable time is all the traditions that we have created
throughout the years. Whether it is decorations, parties, dinners,
gifts or games, we all have things that make this season special.
One Christmas tradition that most of us partake in is decorating our
homes. Some people take this to the extreme, covering every inch of their
house with hundreds of thousands of lights. Creating a Christmas display
that would even impress the late Jennings Osborne. Others might take
a more simplistic approach by simply hanging a well-placed wreath.
Almost a decade ago, my best friend and his wife decided they wanted to step
up their holiday spirit and spruce up their home by hanging some icicle lights.
Due to a steep roof and the lack of a ladder, they called and recruited me for
a helping hand. After some trial and error and some brief brainstorming, we
finally came up with a fail proof plan. We didn’t take the more logical approach
of borrowing a ladder; instead we decided to use some simple physics and a
water hose. That’s right, we both tied one end of the hose around our waists.
With him on one side of the house, supporting my weight, I shimmied down
the other side of the roofline and hung each strand with masterful precision.
Looking back, that probably was not the brightest decision and by no
means has it become a holiday tradition! But nevertheless, it was one
Christmas experience that I will always remember. And that is what the
holidays are all about – making memories with your friends and family.
Saline County Lifestyles has been privileged to be a part of your holiday
season for the last 12 years. Sharing our Christmas edition with you has
become a holiday tradition that we look forward to each year. So let me be the
first to wish you a Happy Holiday! Your town. Your life. Your magazine.
JOSH ELROD
Publisher & Editor
2019 Volume 12, Issue 6
PUBLISHER & EDITOR
Josh Elrod
jelrod@ignite-mediagroup.com
ART DIRECTOR
Krystal Neuhofel
krystal@salinecountylifestyles.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Contributing Writers
Keith Brooks
Ed Buckner
Jerry Coston
Chad Denmon
Justin S. Elrod
Jillian Jacuzzi
Marietta McClure
Dr. Michael Pafford
Dr. Sam Taggart
Contributing Photographer
Lela & Lyla Photography
IDEAS/COMMENTS
If you have a story idea or comment,
please email us at:
feedback@salinecountylifestyles.com
ADVERTISING
If you are interested in advertising in
Saline County Lifestyles please email
us at: info@ignite-mediagroup.com
Saline County Lifestyles is published by:
Ignite Media Group
P.O. Box 861
Bryant, AR 72089
www.salinecountylifestyles.com
Articles should not be considered specific advice as
circumstances vary per individual. Advertised products and/or
services are not necessarily endorsed by Ignite Media Group.
2 • Saline County Lifestyles
CONTENTS
04
07
NOTES FROM DR SAM
08
WEATHER UPDATE
10
FITNESS TIPS
SMALL TOWN CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION
14
MyFarmers.Bank
30
CARE TODAY, CHARACTER TOMORROW
HEALTH UPDATE
34
INSURANCE INSIGHT
38
FAITH FOCUS
40
THE CHRISTMAS CLAUSE
42
Saline County Lifestyles • 3
I love a good commercial Christmas
as much as anyone does. Get me
something that plugs in and cuts
wood, or anything that I can put
gas in, and I’m a happy guy. Even
so, I can appreciate the quieter
side of the holiday as well.
Benton has really stepped up its game
in recent years, drawing thousands
into the city with the upgrade of many
long-standing events and the creation
of several new ones. This year, after the
chaotic hilarity of the Coffin Races,
the laid-back ease of Old Fashioned
Days, and the family-friendly eeriness
of Spook City, they’ve created a line-up
of wonderful events throughout the
month of December that’ll make you
feel like you’ve been dropped square in
the middle of a Hallmark movie. Last
year’s City Christmas Tree Lighting
event was such a huge success that
they’ve expanded the celebrations
to the point where something’s
happening almost every night between
the 2nd and 22nd of December.
It all kicks off on the 2nd, with
the annual Christmas Parade at 6:00
P.M. in downtown Benton. Santa
will, of course, anchor the parade
and afterwards he’ll be available
for gift requests and pictures in the
gazebo on the courthouse lawn.
If you’ve never seen the Saline
County Courthouse lit for the Season,
it alone is worth the visit to Historic
Downtown Benton; but this year,
4 • Saline County Lifestyles
there’s so much more. Aside from
parade night, Santa will show up
several more times throughout the
month. Apparently, he’s shirking his
responsibilities to the rest of the world
this year, because by my count he’s
making eight separate appearances in
Benton alone throughout December.
Also, at the courthouse you may
see and hear carolers spreading their
Christmas cheer. You may find free
hot chocolate, cookies, s’mores, hot
cider, and other Christmas treats as
well. There’s a Special Needs night
on the 12th, and make sure to mark
your calendar for Character Night on
the 20th. I think this might finally
be the time for me to find a naive,
but willing, partner and break out
that old reindeer costume I’ve been
saving for just the right occasion.
While the courthouse will clearly
be busy throughout the month, it’s
not the only venue for fun. The Royal
Players will be performing “Miracle
on 34th Street” at the Royal Theater
from December 5th through December
15th. These will all be evening
performances except for the Sundays,
which will be matinees. On the 9th and
10th, Santa will stop by and remain
for pictures at the theater. While
they’re not available yet, tickets and
exact show times will soon be available
online at www.theroyalplayers.com.
The new Farmers Market, not to
be outdone, is also hosting several
events. These include a “Magical
Reindeer Food” Night with the Boys
and Girls Clubs of Saline County,
Story Time with Santa, a Snow Day,
a Christmas Cookie Contest, hot
chocolate stations, and much more.
Also, weather permitting; bring
your kids, coats, and lawn chairs to
the Cleo’s parking lot for an outdoor
screening of one of your favorite
children’s Christmas movies on the
14th. A survey, still underway
at the time of this writing,
will determine which of
several movies will screen.
These outdoor screenings,
which happen throughout
the year, always include some
kind of free concession like
popcorn and hot dogs.
In my opinion, aside
from The Actual Day,
the highlight of the
whole month is the City
Tree Lighting ceremony
held at the Farmers
Market on the 6th. This
event will include a
preview scene from
“Miracle on 34th Street” acted out by
the Royal Players as well as a feature
performance by young people from
The Dancer’s Edge Studio. Last year’s
dance was an unexpectedly emotional
experience for all who attended and
I, like many others, am hopefully
anticipating a repeat this year. There’ll
be refreshments for everyone and not
only will Santa be there, but the Grinch
as well. Both will be available for
pictures, but I suspect only Santa will
be accepting gift requests. The night
culminates with the countdown to the
lighting of the tree that will remain up
and lit through the holidays. If you
want to experience in person all of the
feelings that those Hallmark Movies
try to evoke, come to this event. It’s
the real deal. It defines hometown.
For details on dates and times of
all the fun times mentioned above,
check out the calendar of events at
www.bentonar.org. ” • Jerrry Coston
Saline County Lifestyles • 5
FAMILY Lifestyle
6 • Saline County Lifestyles
Good Day,
I hope this note finds you well.
Well, it is Christmas time. As most
of you know, I was born and raised
on Gum Ridge, a rice farm two miles
east of Augusta in the White River
bottomland. For my father and his
brothers, Christmas and Thanksgiving
were workdays. Expensive gifts and
elaborate celebrations were not a
big part of our lives. Money was
usually short, but we never felt
deprived. One of the most delightful
memories I have of my young
childhood was Grandma Taggart,
her house and her dining table.
Nan Ammon Taggart was a quiet,
German woman; she had a squarish
face, wore oversized print dresses
and kept her hair pulled up in a
tight bun. My grandfather had died
prematurely at age 56 when I was
about a year old, so I never knew
him. Several of my father’s siblings
were still children so the work of
raising the kids fell on Grandma. She
tended to dote over her grandchildren;
there were five of us who lived
within 100 yards of her backdoor.
Electricity and natural gas had
arrived at the farm in the late 1930’s
but Grandma was hesitant to change.
She had a large cast iron wash pot
in the backyard where she washed
the family clothes. She cooked on
an old-style woodstove. When asked
why she didn’t get a new gas or
electric stove, she was quick to reply:
“I know my cook stove and how it
works; food just doesn’t taste the
same on a gas stove. I would have
to learn to cook all over again.”
In the summer, we always had large
gardens and she canned anything
she could stuff in a jar and seal.
The pantry was always full and, as
one of her grandchildren, it was a
great privilege to be the one to help
her choose which jars to open.
Mealtime at Grandma’s house was
a major production, especially at
Christmas. Just off the kitchen was a
modest dining room dominatedby a
large round wooden table. Instead of
chairs there were a series of benches,
each of which could seat two adults
or three children. One of the games
among the grandkids was who would
get to sit on either side of Grandma.
As an adult I have often thought
that our family around that table
could easily have been the model
for a Norman Rockwell painting.
As for the food, my mouth waters
to this day when I think about her
table. Fresh-made bread and homechurned
butter were staples. Fried
chicken and roasted meats were
standard fair. Bread and Butter pickles,
corn and purple-hulled peas were
always present. Scalloped potatoes
with heavy cream, onions and cheese
were usually in the center of the table.
We generally had slaws or cooked
cabbage rather than salads. At the
end of the meal there was always a
healthy serving of rich, multi-layered
German chocolate cake. I believe it
is a fact that she never shared that
recipe with her daughters-in-law.
I hope you have enjoyed
this piece; I have succeeded
in making myself hungry!
Have a nice journey,
Sam
Dr. Sam Taggart is a retired doctor/ writer/
marathon runner in practice in Benton for the
last 35 years. He recently published The Public’s
Health: A narrative history of health and disease
in Arkansas, published by the Arkansas Times.
His two other books, With a Heavy Heart
and We All Hear Voices are available at your
local booksellers or online at Amazon.com.
Saline County Lifestyles • 7
8 • Saline County Lifestyles
URBAN Lifestyle
WEATHER
WATCH
Stuck in Neutral
By Ed Buckner, THV11 Chief Meteorologist
We hear a lot about El Niño and
La Niña, and how they influence
the winter weather patterns over the
United States, but did you know
this weather phenomenon has ties
to Christmas? It’s important to keep
track of which one is occurring to
have a better understanding of what
North America and Arkansas might
expect during the winter months—
which climatologically means
December, January and February.
I have talked about these before and
what they are, but I’ve never addressed
what the weather might do if neither
of these patterns were in play, or in
other words, a “neutral” year. Before
I get to that, I’ll briefly review.
Both El Niño and La Niña are
part of the El Niño-Southern
Oscillation or (ENSO). ENSO
is the cycle of warm and cold sea
surface temperatures of the tropical,
central, and eastern Pacific Ocean.
Countries that depend on their
own agriculture and fishing, mostly
those bordering the Pacific Ocean,
are most affected. The term El Niño
came centuries ago, when Peruvian
fishermen noticed they were catching
fish normally found hundreds of miles
to the north. This observation of the
warming water off the South American
coast was made around Christmas
time, so they named the phenomenon
after the newborn Christ. In American
Spanish the term El Niño means “the
boy”. La Niña of course means “the
little girl,” and refers to cooler than
normalsea surface temperature.
For an Arkansas winter, El Niño
brings the jet stream farther south
over the gulf coast states, allowing
colder air and wetter conditions to sink
farther south as well. La Niña keeps
the jet stream farther north, bringing
warmer and drier conditions to the
south. These patterns swing back and
forth on average every 3-7 years.
The El Niño of 2019 is now over,
and we are currently in a neutral
cycle, which will continue into
2020. “Neutral” basically means
the sea surface temperatures will
not deviate warmer or cooler than
1 degree Celsius from the average.
The last time we saw a neutral phase
were the winters of 2012/2013 and
2013/2014. (December-February).
The winter of 2012/2013 averaged
almost 3 degrees above normal
temperature. Precipitation was almost
3” above the average. Snowfall was
well above average with a total of
10.6”, 10.3” falling on December
25/26. The winter of 2013/2014
saw temperatures run 2 degrees
below normal and precipitation near
average over the same 3 months
with snowfall totaling 4”, just
The El Niño of 2019 is
now over, and we are
currently in a neutral
cycle, which will
continue into 2020.
slightly above the average of 3.1”.
When you compare these last
two “neutral” winters, there is a
huge difference in temperatures and
precipitation. What this comes down
to is that we don’t really know what
winter will bring in a neutral phase.
El Niño and La Niña really help when
forecasting a winter trend, but we
won’t have that in place this year.
However, if you’re wondering
what the winter forecast is for
Arkansas in this neutral year, the
Climate Prediction Center says
that temperatures should be above
normal, and precipitation will be
near average, which is just over 12
inches. Does that mean snow? We’ll
see. It certainly did the last years we
went into the holidays in neutral. •
Saline County Lifestyles • 9
ACTIVE Lifestyle
FITNESS
TIPS
The Holiday Hustle
By Marietta McClure, Head Trainer, McClure Fitness
Holiday season is upon us, which
means the hustle and bustle of life
increases. Adding the shopping, parties
and decorating to our already busy
lives can be exhausting. So it is only
normal that when things start piling
up, exercise is one of the first things
you cut. If you’ve done that before, it’s
time for a come-to-Jesus moment.
Look, I know you’re tired. I
know you’ve got too much on your
plate right now. But I promise that
sacrificing that one hour you spend
on yourself won’t fix anything. It will
just set you up for a tougher road.
If you hear me out, I’ll explain why
you should stick with your workouts
and how you can beat the fatigue
and gain more energy. SPOILER: It’s
not a magic pill (sorry not sorry).
Why Even Bother?
“I’m too tired to work out.”
Have you ever said that?
Want to hear something crazy?
Working out actually gives you
energy. It’s hard to believe that
when your alarm goes off for that
5 a.m. bootcamp, or when you just
got off work from the Monday-est
Tuesday ever, but it’s still true.
Skipping a workout because you’re
too tired is a very slippery slope. The
more sedentary your lifestyle becomes,
the harder it is to break out of that
cycle. If you’re sick or injured, you need
10 • Saline County Lifestyles
to rest. Otherwise, don’t let the excuse
of being tired stop you from something
that can help you beat the fatigue.
When you get your workout in,
you are creating energy by releasing
endorphins, managing stress, and
getting blood flow and oxygen to
the brain and organs. You’ll also
have improved sleep, which helps
you feel more refreshed during
the day (I’ll come back to this).
When you have that negative
talk in your head trying to
convince you it’s no biggie to skip
a workout, just remember…
Get Over Yourself
Seriously, you can’t let that kind of
negativity bring you down, because
it will (and fast). Think about how
good it feels when you finish a
workout. Imagine the rush you get
when you are pushing through.
Even if you don’t feel up for
your regular workout, you’ve got
options. No matter what, get
your body moving. Here are some
exercises that are guaranteed to
snap you out of that tiredness.
HIIT Class
A HIIT class when you’re tired
is like jumping into a cold pool.
It’s more mind over matter – you
know it’s going to be intense, but
you have to stop over-thinking and
do it anyway. This will quickly get
your body and mind in gear.
High-Rep/Low Weight
Lifting heavy weights requires a
level of focus to avoid injury that you
simply may not have when you’re tired.
Lifting lighter with more reps can be
rhythmic, and you can rely a little on
muscle memory to get through the
sets (don’t slack too much, though).
Yoga
If you need a reset and are
determined to get moving, give
yoga a shot. Yoga is a great way
to re-center, especially if you feel
mentally scattered and fatigued.
It’s relatively low-intensity but can
still give you a boost of energy.
Check Your Priorities
Trust me, I know what it feels like to
over-commit. Everyone has a million
things going, and we all have our
breaking point. When fatigue sets in
and something has to give, I know for
me, it’s time to check my priorities.
One thing I would never give up is
my workout even if I didn’t run a gym.
I want to make it easy for you to get
that workout in, no matter what. So
stick with your workouts—especially if
you’re tired. The future version of you
will be so grateful that you invested
in the today version of you! •
ACTIVE Lifestyle
JOIN
in celebrating the grand opening of the new
BRYANT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
All concerts will be in the Edward R. Love Auditorium. Free admission.
HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES
SALINE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CONCERT
featuring Bryant Choirs
December 7 @ 7pm
BRYANT HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR CONCERT
December 10 @ 6:30pm
BRYANT JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL CHORAL CONCERT
December 14 @ 11am
BRYANT HIGH SCHOOL BAND CONCERT
December 17 @ 6:30pm
BRYANT JUNIOR HIGH BAND CONCERTS
December 16 @ 7pm (9th grade)
December 19 @ 7:30pm (8th grade)
For more information, visit bryantschools.org.
SERVING A
HEALTHIER
HOLIDAY
MAKING HOLIDAY
Traditions
TOGETHER
501-943-7800
5550 Village Drive | Benton, Arkansas
ginacaters.com
Santa is
swinging into
the library!
Come visit Santa and
share your Christmas
wishes with him!
Bring your camera
to take photos of this
special visit.
All ages are
welcome.
Tuesday, Dec. 17th
Mabel Boswell
Memorial LIbrary
in Bryant
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Thursday, Dec. 19th
Bob Herzfeld
Memorial Library
in Benton
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Winter crafts will
begin in Benton at
3:30 PM!
SALINE
COUNTY
LIBRARY
WE ARE MORE.
Saline County Lifestyles • 11
12 • Saline County Lifestyles
Snell now offers
our exclusive
AquaFit
process.
MEET LELAND: OUTDOORSMAN,
VETERAN, EVERYDAY HERO
“Being outdoors with other veterans
that have been through similar
experiences really helps you heal
and recover in ways being indoors
and around technology can’t.”
read more about
leland arledge at
snellarkansas.com
FITS
RESTORING MOBILITY AND
INDEPENDENCE SINCE 1911
Little Rock n Bryant n Conway n Fayetteville n Fort Smith n 800-342-5541
Hot Springs n Mountain Home n North Little Rock n Pine Bluff n Russellville
Saline County Lifestyles • 13
MERRY
CHRISTMAS
Season’s greetings with all the good
wishс for the New Year
Blue Door Boutique and Salon
19684 I-30 Frontage Rd
Benton, AR 72019
501-316-4116
@blueddoorsalonboutique
{FIND US ON PG 19}
Stop by our new office
3125 North Hwy 5
Bryant, AR 72019
501.847.7787
goaskbrooke.com
SoCo – South & CoCo
117 W South St
Benton, AR 72015
501-317-8232
@southandcoco
{FIND US ON PG 23}
14 • Saline County Lifestyles
FILL THE CHRISTMAS TREE
WITH GIFTS FROM LOCALLY
OWNED BUSINESSES.
K C
&
KINGSTON & COMPANY
Unique Gifts and More
Kingston & Company/Merle Norman
3108 Horizon Dr Ste 3
Bryant, AR 72022
501-847-1111
@MerleNormanCosmetics
ofBryantArkansas
{FIND US ON PG 16}
Stated Outfitters
Bryant Family Pharmacy
145 W South St
Benton, AR 72015
501-794-6363
www.stated.me
{FIND US ON PG 17}
3801 Highway 5 N
Bryant, AR 72022
501-847-2888
bryantfamilyrx.com
{FIND US ON PG 18}
Baker’s Fine Jewelry
McClure Fitness
Urban Emage
This Little Piggy
612 Office Park Dr Ste 1
Bryant, AR 72022
501-847-9130
bakersfinejewelry.com
{FIND US ON PG 19}
1200 Library Dr
Benton, AR 72015
501-269-1662
mcclurefitnessshop.com
{FIND US ON PG 20}
101 N Main St
Benton, AR 72015
501-297-1065
@shopurbanemage
{FIND US ON PG 21}
119 W South St
Benton, AR 72015
501-337-3027
shopthislittlepiggy.com
{FIND US ON PG 22}
Candles & Cream
La Belle Vie Boutique Salon
Lillian Trails Children’s Boutique
Blush Boutique of Benton
2900 Horizon Dr
Bryant, AR 72022
501-943-7030
candlesandcreamcollection.com
{FIND US ON PG 24}
1102 W South St Ste 13
Benton, AR 72015
501-847-3615
@LaBelleVieBoutiqueSalon
{FIND US ON PG 24}
119 N Market St
Benton, AR 72015
501-794-6235
shoplilliantrails.com
{FIND US ON PG 25}
1218 Military Rd
Benton, AR 72015
501-776-4000
@Blush-Boutique-of-Benton
{FIND US ON PG 26}
KINGSTON & COMPANY/MERLE NORMAN
1. Mesh Leopard Kimono by New York Collection - $51.99
2. Mustard Knotted Front Top by Multiples - $49.99
3. Jeans by Kancan - $51.99
4. Dark Olive Textured Sweater by Ronnie & Co - $56.99
5. Fringed Cinnamon Purse by Lulu - $69.99
6. Distressed Jeans by Kancan - $48.99
7. Whiskey Laser Cut Boot by Sugar - $49.99
8. Leopard Faux Fur Vest by Ronnie & Co. - $63.99
9. Red Cowl Neck Sweater by Ronnie & Co. - $60.00
10. Black Figure Defining Pants by Zac & Rachel - $60.00
11. Red Suede Heeled Bootie by Ellen Tracy - $49.99
12. Black Suede & Leopard Bootie by Boutique - $57.99
(All models are wearing Merle Norman Cosmetics)
1
2
4
8
9
3
6
12
11
16 • Saline County Lifestyles #shoplocal
STATED OUTFITTERS
1. Fayettechill Oatmeal Cable Knit Beanie - $39.00
2. Rock Monkey Olive Quilted Pullover - $89.00
3. Southern Bliss Ombre Bleached Flannel - $40.00
4. Shreds Magnetic Neckwear/Headband - $34.00
5. Stated Outfitters Mauve Sweatshirt - $39.00
6. Southern Bliss Fur Vest - $36.00
7. Traditional Nativ Hat - $28.00
8. Carhart Rugged Vest - $59.99
9. Rock Monkey Plaid Button Up - $65.00
10. Muck Slip-On Waterproof Boots - $155.00
11. Stated Outfitters Buffalo Roll-Up Blanket - $22.00
12. Clea Ray Reclaimed Army Tent Duffle - $75.00
Saline County Lifestyles #shoplocal • 17
BRYANT FAMILY PHARMACY
1. “Happily Ever After” Wooden Sign - $49.99
2. Women’s Grey & White Sherpa - $39.99
3. Simply Southern Rose Gold Tumbler - $20.99
4. Faux Leather Silver Earrings - $14.99
5. Youth Leopard Girlie Girl Sherpa - $39.99
6. Simply Southern Youth Beanie - $9.99
7. Llama Warmies - $15.99
8. Bangle Key Ring - $9.99
9. Grey Sweater - $39.99
10. Leopard Jewelry Case - $19.99
11. Grey & Turquoise Fringe Earrings - $14.99
12. CC Beanie Throw Blanket - $49.99
7
18 • Saline County Lifestyles #shoplocal
BLUE DOOR BOUTIQUE & SALON
1. Christmas “Times a Comin’” T-Shirt - $28.00
2. Plaid Long Button-Up Flannel - $30.00
3. Faux Leather Leggins - $28.00
4. Black Snake Skin Wedges - $42.00
5. Red Feather Earrings - $12.00
BAKER’S FINE JEWELRY
1. 14K Gold Multi-Strand Necklace w/ .14ct diamonds
2. 14K Gold Filigree Bracelet w/ diamonds
3. 14K Gold 7” Florentine Domed Bangle Bracelet
4. 14K Gold Swirl Ring w/ .20ctw diamonds
5. 14K Gold Large Dome Lined Ring
Saline County Lifestyles #shoplocal • 19
McCLURE FITNESS
1. McClure “Killing It” Fitness Tank - $28.00
2. lululemon Fast + Free Abstract - $128.00
3. Finest Accessories Hair Tie Set of 8 - $10.00
4. lululemon Define Jacket - $118.00
5. On My Level Duffel 30L - $158.00
6. McClure Trucker Hat - $22.00
7. lululemon Swiftly Tech Tank - $48.00
8. lululemon Fast + Free Tight Camo - $128.00
9. lululemon Nulu Define Jacket - $128.00
10. lulelemon All the Right Places Pant - $128.00
11. TIEM Spin Shoes - $130.00
12. 10 Class Punch Card - $75.00
6
3
1
7
9
4
10
2
12
8
11
5
20 • Saline County Lifestyles #shoplocal
URBAN EMAGE
1. Green Striped Distress Sweater - $48.00
2. Sneak Peek Denim - $48.00
3. Leopard Star Sneakers - $48.00
4. Tyler Candle Company Candles - $7.25-$21
5. Camel Striped Cardigan - $46.00
6. Snake Print Dress - $43.00
7. Red Clutch - $44.00
8. Star Cardigan - $46.00
9. Cello Black Distressed Skinny - $44.00
10. Southern Trend Razorback Tee - $30.00
11. Matisse Dot Sneakers - $86.00
12. Tyler Candle Glamour Wash - $7.25-$95
7
1
Saline County Lifestyles #shoplocal • 21
THIS LITTLE PIGGY
1. Fur Sweater - $42.00
2. Faux Sued Jacket - $56.00
3. Vegan Leather Leggings - $24.00
4. Leopard Ballet Flat - $44.00
5. Layered Hooded Shirt - $64.00
6. Appaman Slim Vest - $66.00
7. Joes Jeans - $39.00
8. UGG Boots - $70.00
9. Studded Blouse - $48.00
10. Romper - $47.00
11. Native Bling - $45.00
12. Leopard Purse -$40.00
22 • Saline County Lifestyles #shoplocal
SOCO – SOUTH & COCO
1. Sequin Lip Graphic Top - $45.00
2. Blank NYC Fur Jacket – $98.00
3. Flares - $40.00
4. Steve Madden Boot - $150.00
5. Floppy Hat - $76.00
6. UGG Sweater - $128.00
7. 3 Layer Necklace - $30.00
8. Leather Spanx - $128.00
9. Steve Madden Boot - $130.00
10. Gold Pendent Earring - $15.00
11. Naked Zebra Blouse - $40.00
12. Tyler Madison Plaid Crop Pants - $150.00
7
Saline County Lifestyles #shoplocal • 23
CANDLES AND CREAM
1. Hot Wax Lotion Candle - $24.00
2. Soy Wax Melts - $5.00
3. Hand & Body Lotion - $10-$16
4. Reed Diffuser Oil Set - $25.00
5. Customizable Gift Sets - $10-$25
(Your Pick: Soaps, Lotions, Candles, Chap Stick, etc)
LA BELLE VIE BOUTIQUE SALON
1. Velvet Knotted Headband - $8.00
2. Layering Necklaces - $10-24
3. Leopard Kimono - $34.00
4. Spanx Leather Leggings - $98.00
5. Cross Body Clutch - $42.00
24 • Saline County Lifestyles #shoplocal
LILLIAN TRAILS CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE
1. Hatley Furry Earmuffs - $21.99
2. Hatley Rainbow Star Dress - $44.99
3. Hatley Rainbow Leggings - $22.99
4. TY Elsa Doll - $15.99
5. Candy Pink Rob in Light Pink - $49.99
6. Candy Pink Pugicorn Pajama Pants - $29.99
7. Iscream Sleepmaks - $12.99
8. Iscream Sequin Rainbow Overnight Bag - $57.99
9. Hatley Enchanted Unicorn Dress - $26.99
10. Hatley Mauve Cable Knit Leggings - $22.99
11. Wee Squeak Silver Sneakers - $36.99
12. Itzy Ritzy Triple Threat Diaper Bag Backpack - $165.00
Saline County Lifestyles #shoplocal • 25
BLUSH BOUTIQUE
1. Champagne Blazer - $52.50
2. Buddy Love Graphic Sweatshirt - $64.50
3. Karlie Jeans - $104.00
4. Snake Print Heel - $54.00
5. Silk Dress by Karlie - $94.00
6. Dalmatian Fur Coat by Buddylove - $115.50
7. Black Leather Booties - $44.50
8. Silver Hoop Earrings - $22.50
9. Velvet Blazer w/ Star Details - $85.50
10. Silk Blouse - $45.50
11. Over-the-knee Boots - $54.50
12. White Leather Belt - $24.50
6
8
10
9
5
12
11
4
7
26 • Saline County Lifestyles #shoplocal
Saline County Lifestyles • 27
Join us & Santa
at our
2 ND ANNUAL
COMMUNITY
CHRISTMAS PARTY
SATURDAY,
DECEMBER 14 TH
12:00PM - 4:00PM
507 OAK HI
BENTON, ARKANSAS
complimentary
food, music, games
& Holiday Cheer
The happiest season of all…
THANK YOU
for 8 Years
in the
community.
KATHERINE WOODWORTH
LPC, CRC, ICCDP-D, CCDP-D, DCC
501.438.0807
FairWayCounseling.com
Counseling done in the office or online.
…Sometimes calls for professional help.
At Rivendell, we understand, the holidays can be challenging emotionally. Our
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Call today for a confidential assessment,
available 24/7 at no charge…
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100 Rivendell Drive; Benton, AR 72019
www.rivendellofarkansas.com
Most insurance accepted including Aetna, Ambetter, AR Kids, BCBS, Cigna, Medicare, TriCare, QualChoice & United Healthcare/Optum
28 • Saline County Lifestyles
FOR ALL YOUR
Holiday
CATERING
NEEDS
501-794-0329
4444 Hwy 5 Benton, Arkansas
riversidegrocery.com
Happy Holidays
During this holiday season,
we wish you all the best.
Brent Jones
Financial Advisor
1107 Ferguson Dr.
Benton, AR 72015
501-776-1414
www.edwardjones.com
Member SIPC
IRT-1948E-A
Saline County Lifestyles • 29
Care Today,
Character Tomorrow
Today’s women’s volunteer
organizations are not the groups
of our mothers and grandmothers.
Organizations like the Junior
Auxiliary of Saline County are made
up of women who not only lead
full domestic schedules, but also
have full-time jobs. They juggle
motherhood, home life and their
careers. They rise above the “I
don’t have time” excuse and take
on a can- and will-do attitude.
“We are mothers, teachers, nurses,
lawyers and more,” says member Heidi
Freeman. “We have full schedules and
full-time jobs. We don't have the time
to volunteer, we make the time.”
And make the time they do.
With so many commitments and
projects throughout the year, it’s no
doubt Saline County is a better place
because of the important work JA
does for the community. It’s often
said it takes a village to raise healthy
children who grow up to become
upstanding adults. JA is part of that
village in Saline County, filling the
gap when and where needed.
With the holidays upon us, JA’s
Blessing Project is in full force.
Lauren Lamb, Blessing Project chair,
explains that the initiative provides
three meals and two snacks a day to
30 • Saline County Lifestyles
children in need, during the holiday
breaks as well as the week of spring
break. Most of the children who
benefit from this project receive free or
reduced lunches at school in addition
to weekend bags of food provided
by local churches. JA provides meals
for the week of Thanksgiving break,
the two-week Christmas holiday and
the week of spring break in March.
“It all comes back full
circle. We give what
we can. We, JA ladies,
are just doing what
we should be doing.”
“The Blessing Project helps lift the
burden and strain off the parents who
are struggling to provide food for their
children,” Lauren says. “It also lifts the
worries and burdens off the children
who worry if they will have food
when they are not at school. Some of
the children we serve might only eat
meals when they are at school so they
are excited to have food come during
the weeks they aren’t [attending].”
JA works with school counselors
to identify students who would
benefit from the Blessing Project.
Heidi, who serves on the Blessing
Project Committee, notes there
are summer food programs similar
to JA’s project, but the Blessing
Project helps fill the food insecurity
gap during the school year.
Laura adds that JA strives to “serve
and be a vital part of the community
with particular emphasis on children.”
The Blessing Project is crucial to the
children of Saline County. “It keeps
them fed, and they return back from
holiday break with the nourishment
to focus on their education.”
This project further speaks to
JA’s mission, Heidi says, as the
organization focuses on enhancing the
lives of children through education,
service and love. “We believe that
caring for a child today makes an
important difference, not just for
today, but for the future. Our mission
is ‘Care today…Character tomorrow.’
No child deserves to go without food.
Children who receive these bags know
they will not go without food even
when they are out of school. We want
all children to be successful and to be
their best, and they need their basic
needs met in order to be their best.”
JA relies on a village of
community support as well. “We
would not be what we are today
without the amazing support given
throughout the year,” Laura says.
“There is no way JA could continue
without the community,” Heidi adds.
As chair of the Charity Benefit, she
says that event is a fun way to get
involved. Each year, the event runs on
a different theme. This year, the event
will take place Saturday, Jan. 25, at the
Benton Event Center with the theme
“Studio 501”–a spin on Studio 54.
“The Benefit is a fun night
full of dinner, cocktails, dancing,
silent auction and casinostyle
games,” says Laura.
JA also hosts a family-friendly
annual fish fry, catered by Riverside
Grocery, in March. Smaller fundraisers
pop up throughout the year. This year,
on Nov. 30, McClure Fitness will host
the first JA Bootcamp Fundraiser.
Owner Marietta McClure will teach
an hour bootcamp, where participants
will gain contributions from friends
and supporters based on how many
calories they burn during the workout.
“Since it’s Small Business Saturday,
we are thrilled that McClure Fitness,
a small local business, is getting
involved,” Heidi says. “JA loves our
community and it is humbling to see
so many businesses eager to sponsor
events, donate items and support us.”
Heidi knows firsthand how an
organization like JA can make a
positive impact. “Coming from
a single-parent household, I was
appreciative of the opportunities I
received from people who sewed into
my life. When my husband started his
business early in our marriage, I often
went to the very events that JA put
on. The Bible tells us in 2 Corinthians
9:6, ‘he which soweth bountifully
shall reap also bountifully.’”
Laura notes, “When I hear other
members’ heart and testimony of
why they got involved with JA, it
makes me appreciate how versatile
our chapter is. It makes it easy to
see the emotional commitment
members have to helping others, and
it proves we can change the future
of the children of Saline County.”
Heidi says, • Jillian Jacuzzi
SAVE THE DATE
01.25.20
BENTON EVENT CENTER
PRESENTED BY
Junior Auxiliary of Saline County
CASINO GAMES • PHOTO BOOTH • DANCING
COMPLIMENTARY FOOD & DRINK
SILENT AUCTION
Saline County Lifestyles • 31
Happy
Holidays!
Thank you for your
business and friendship
throughout the year.
Spend smarter. Save smarter.
Our online tools make it easy.
regions.com
© 2018 Regions Bank.
Merry Chritstmas
FROM YOUR FRIENDS AT
First Security!
Laryssa Calley
307 Bryant Ave Ste 2
Bryant, AR 72022
501-847-2231
There’s no place like home for the holidays –
and our home is right here in Saline County.
Thank you for giving First Security a chance to
serve our wonderful friends and neighbors
every day. What’s your better? Get there with us.
We’re your Shield. We’re your Shelter.
ShelterInsurance.com
Member FDIC
32 • Saline County Lifestyles
Saline County Lifestyles • 33
34 • Saline County Lifestyles
mysaline.com
Because we’re in a
whole new county now.
Submit events, news,
questions & comments to
info@mysaline.com
Saline County Lifestyles • 35
HEALTHY Lifestyle
HEALTH
UPDATE
TICK TALK – TRUE OR FALSE
By Dr. Michael Pafford, MD Saline Memorial Hospital
Modern Gun Deer Season
starts across most of the state this
Saturday, November 9th, 2019,
so let’s talk about ticks. The forest
has been a source of myths and
rumors throughout the history
of mankind. Therefore, it’s only
natural that there would be myths
and rumors about ticks since they
inhabit the forest. But as we get into
this topic, you will see that some of
the most unbelievable things you’ve
heard about ticks might be true:
“I found a tick crawling on
me so I know I must have
tick fever!” – FALSE
Medicine has a habit of studying
the most peculiar details of illness,
and the question of how long a tick
has to be attached to you to cause tick
disease has been examined in detail.
There has not been a confirmed case
of any tick-borne illness when the
tick was attached less than 6 hours.
I know that may seem strange when
first considered. A person with the flu
certainly doesn’t have to cough on you
for 6 hours before you catch the flu.
So why is it different with ticks?
Most specialists think that prolonged
exposure is necessary because your
body’s own immune defenses in
the blood (humoral immunity) are
actually very good at clearing lesser
exposures before they can become a
full-blown infection. Regardless, the
take home message is that you are not
36 • Saline County Lifestyles
completely defenseless from tick-borne
illness. Get in the habit of bathing
as soon as you get out of the woods,
examining your skin while doing so.
“Don’t eat rabbit until after the
first hard freeze” – TRUE
Your Grandmother always said this
and she was right! One of the leading
tick-borne illnesses in Arkansas is
Tularemia and rabbits are a natural
reservoir for Francisella tularensis
(the bacteria that causes tularemia).
It is not completely understood
how waiting until after the freeze
decreases risk of tularemia, but it does.
Tularemia is most often contracted
through tick bites in Arkansas,
but skinning an infected rabbit
or eating the meat of an infected
rabbit can also transmit illness.
“You can only get Rocky Mountain
Spotted Fever (RMSF) in
the Rocky Mountains” – FALSE
The germ Rickettsia ricketsii causes
RMSF, and it is easily identified in
Arkansas ticks. We also have higher
yearly incidence of RMSF than
Colorado does. Which begs the
question:Why don’t we call it Ozark
Mountain Spotted Fever? This tickborne
illness is so large and varied,
that it could be an entire article
by itself. There are many different
Rickettsia cousins now known to cause
variants of this disease and there are
numerous different species of ticks
that can carry and transmit them.
“Arkansas is the center of
the tick-borne illness universe!”
– well, kinda
There is no true “center” of the
universe when it comes to tick-borne
illness, but a strong argument can
be made that we are the tick-borne
illness capital. Only two locations
on the planet have the highest yearly
total cases of Tularemia. Those
locations are Iraq and Arkansas.
This is based on CDC tracking of
incidence of reportable infections.
In addition to Tularemia, other
tick-borne illnesses were discovered
in Arkansas. Erlichiosis was first
reported at Fort Chaffee, near the
Oklahoma border. The bacteria
that causes erlichiosis was even
named Erlichia chaffeensis after
Fort Chaffee. Our state has been a
hotbed of research into tick-borne
illness for many years. Biologists
comb our state annually with nets
to catch ticks and understand
which bacteria live in them.
“An Arkansas tick bit me and
gave me Lyme disease” –
short answer, FALSE – long
answer, it’s complicated.
This one gets me grief every time,
because there are certainly people in
Arkansas whom a doctor has told that
they contracted Lyme disease here. To
any such person, I promise I am not
HEALTHY Lifestyles
BATHE AFTER YOU GO TO
THE WOODS. REMOVE TICKS
AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
AND YOU PROBABLY HAVE
NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT.
trying to delegitimize your illness.I
do believe that there is possibly an
un-named cousin of Lyme disease
that might exist in Arkansas ticks.
But the fact is that in over 20 years
of searching for germs in Arkansas
ticks, we’ve yet to identify Borrelia
burgdorferi, the bacteria that causes
Lyme disease,in them. Borrelia is
easily identified in ticks from the
northeast United States, mainly in
the Appalachian Mountains. If it can
easily be identified in other state’s
tick populations, but not in ours,
the logical conclusion is that you
cannot contract it from our ticks.
The source of this confusion
is the Lyme disease screening test
itself. It is not a great test. About
20% of the time, that test will run
positive even in healthy people who
have never been exposed to ticks.
We have identified other bacteria
from the Borrelia family in Arkansas
ticks. Some can cause a reaction
identical to the characteristic rash of
Lyme disease. So this is my theory – a
person gets bitten by an Arkansas tick.
They develop a rash that looks like
a target on their back and they don’t
feel well. They go to their doctor. He
sends blood screening for Lyme disease
and the test comes back positive. But
what they actually have is a cousin to
Lyme disease that has not been studied
enough yet to have its own name.
In closing, bathe after you go to
the woods. Remove ticks as soon
as possible and you probably have
nothing to worry about. If you do
find that a tick has been attached
to you, there is no need to seek
medical attention unless you develop
symptoms. After removing the tick,
just clean the area with soap and
water and apply tribiotic ointment.
If you do develop fever or a rash
after a tick attachment, go to your
doctor and he will know what to do.
Happy hunting! •
HOSPITALIST
GROUP
Get to know your doctors
at Saline Health System.
It’s a team of many experts with one focus: caring for you.
Scott Dicus, MD
Zachary Morrill, MD
Brandon Faulkner, DNP
Deborah Quade, MD
Regina Bennett, APRN
Amanda Gwin, PA
Ahmad Yousaf, MD
Jennifer Neighbors, APRN
Adam Huang, MD
Lauren McDonald, DNP
Michael Pafford, MD
Director
(501) 776-6000 | SalineMemorial.org
Saline County Lifestyles • 37
FAMILY Lifestyle
INSURANCE
INSIGHT
What Winter Weather Means For Driving
By Keith Brooks, State Farm Insurance
It is the season for changing
leaves, pumpkin spice everything,
warm memories and huge meals
with those we love the most, and
finding that perfect Christmas
tree. But if we are honest, it often
brings a little bit of chaos, too—
and that can include the roads.
Being a better driver means giving
your vehicle the tender loving care
it needs: regular oil changes and a
thorough cleaning, for example. But
learning more about the weather
can also make an impact on your
daily driving habits and how you
respond to conditions on the road.
Unpredictable weather—especially
between winter and spring—can
pose plenty of driving challenges.
Here’s what you need to know
about the weather and your drive.
Rain + Freezing Temps = Slick Roads
This combination can transform
roads from dry to slippery in just
minutes. Bridges and overpasses
may present particular dangers.
Driving strategy: If it starts to
drizzle during your drive, take
precautions. Turn on headlights to
improve visibility, and increase your
driving distance between cars to six
seconds rather than three. Avoid
sudden braking to prevent skids.
Avoid slamming on the brakes or
abruptly correcting your steering. If
38 • Saline County Lifestyles
your vehicle begins to hydroplane,
ease off the gas pedal and steer
straight until you regain control.
Warm Days + Overnight
Freezing = Black Ice
When snow melts during a warm
winter day but freezes again overnight,
black ice can form. It’s not actually
black—just a very thin, shiny sheet
of ice that’s often difficult to detect.
Driving strategy: If possible,
delay driving until temperatures
warm. Otherwise, drive at slowerthan-posted
speeds and increase
your following distance.
Gusty Winds + Temperature
Drop = Road Instability
As cold fronts move in, winds often
pick up speed. Strong gusts can affect
how your car handles, even if you’re
driving at normal speeds. Especially
after a snowfall, blustery conditions
can result in fallen branches, poor
visibility, and downed power lines.
Driving strategy: Slow down so
it’s easier to brake and handle your
FAMILY Lifestyles
WHAT YOU CAN BE CERTAIN
OF IS THAT WITH PROPER
PLANNING, AND A LOT OF
PATIENCE, YOUR EXPERIENCE
ON THE ROAD CAN BE SAFE.
car. In addition, choose parking
spots away from potential hazards.
Moisture That’s Low in
the Atmosphere + a Cold
Ground = Dense Fog
In near-freezing temps, the
moisture from dense fog can
create slick spots on the road
and bring visibility to zero.
Driving strategy: Glare from highbeams
and other lights on the road
can make it difficult to spot dangers
on the road. Switch on your low
beam or fog headlights to make
your own vehicle more visible. Drive
slowly and pay attention to make
sure you’re driving in only one lane.
Recent or Ongoing Snow +
Heavy Traffic = Slick Roads
Lots of traffic can turn roads
slick, especially if road crews haven’t
yet cleared or deiced surfaces.
Sharp turns, over-correcting, and
slamming on the brakes may all
lead to skidding or swerving.
Driving strategy: Increase the
distance between you and other
drivers, particularly on hills. Allow
more time to stop at intersections.
Never pass snowplows or sand trucks.
Tip: Skip the cruise control during
difficult weather conditions so
you can respond more quickly
to changing road conditions.
Even with our outstanding local
weather teams, winter weather will
always be somewhat unpredictable.
What you can be certain of is
that with proper planning, and a
lot of patience, your experience
on the road can be safe.
Finally, as we enter the time of year
where family and gift giving take
center stage, always remember the
One true gift given to all people in
the little town of Bethlehem, Christ
Jesus. God bless you and your family
this Holiday season and in 2020. •
Keith Brooks, Agent
Insurance Lic#: 16679114
www.keithbrooks.net
keith@keithbrooks.net
Bus: 501-778-7243
Call for a quote today.
State Farm, Bloomington, IL
Wishing you
a Merry
Christmas...
...and a joyous New Year.
May the joy of the season make
all your wishes come true.
Like a good neighbor,
State Farm is there.®
1101447.1
Saline County Lifestyles • 39
FAMILY Lifestyle
FAITH
FOCUS
How to Keep Your Peace at Christmastime
By Chad Denmon, Pastor at New Life Church
It's that time of year again! Hot
chocolate, sweaters, wrapping
paper, and hopefully some snow,
but you never know in Arkansas!
Christmas is just a few weeks
away, and to be honest, that thought
creates some tension inside of me as
I ponder what gifts to buy for my
family. I really enjoy getting presents
for some family members, but it's
a little challenging when trying to
figure out what to get for my crazy
Uncle Joe! (Just kidding! I don't
have an uncle named Joe). It's very
challenging when there's a strained
relationship in the mix. In seasons like
this, we can easily feel overwhelmed.
I know some of you are really
excited about this season, and yet
others might be struggling. Here is
what I want you to know: God wants
to be with us in both of those places.
Do you remember the song we
sing around this time called, “O
Come, O Come, Immanuel?” The
word, "Immanuel" actually means
“God with us.” It important that
we know that in our lives—in the
highs and the lows—Jesus came from
heaven to earth to be with YOU!
The Lord Almighty can divvy out
incredible peace, but is He your
40 • Saline County Lifestyles
Lord? Is He Lord of all? Christians
often compartmentalize their faith,
like categorical atheism. What I mean
by this is that we choose certain parts
of our lives that we just won't let the
Lord move into. It's usually the areas
where our lives have the most mess.
We tend to say to God, "Hey, You can
have this area of my life over here, but
don't mess with that stuff over there."
There are a few reasons for that.
Sometimes we just straight up say
to God, "That's my territory. I don't
want to give that up." Maybe it's a
hidden sin or an addiction. Other
times, there's so much embarrassment
attached to it that we don't want
to admit there is an issue. We fear,
"What will happen when everybody
finds out the mistakes of my past?"
We think God or others will reject
us if they discover the truth.
Let's see what we can
learn from Christmas.
Jesus was born in a dirty manger,
a stable, and a mess. I think it's
important to note that Jesus could
have said “No” to that. If you
were God, would you choose an
animal shelter or a palace? I know
what I would have chosen! So why
would God take His most treasured
possession and put it in a filthy,
I’m thankful that those
who call on His name and
believe in their hearts that
Christ was raised from the
dead will be saved. His
heart has always been to
reach and rescue you and
me, no matter the cost.
nasty environment? Because the
people who need Him the most
wouldn’t have access to Him! They
wouldn't go to the palace, because
they wouldn’t feel worthy enough.
I’m thankful that those who call on
His name and believe in their hearts
that Christ was raised from the dead
will be saved. His heart has always
been to reach and rescue you and
me, no matter the cost. In fact, He
truly paid the ultimate cost to save us,
heal us, and set us free, especially in
those areas we think are too messy for
Him. But I can say with confidence,
God can be trusted with the mess.
My desire is that you would
find the peace and hope that you
are looking for in this Christmas
season! His name is Jesus.•
Saline County Lifestyles • 41
FAMILY Lifestyle
By: Justin S. Elrod, Certified Elder Law Attorney, The Elrod Firm
Even Santa had a contingency
plan. We know because The Santa
Clause showed us the well-planned
steps Santa took to prepare for
unexpected tragedy. In the 1994 film
starring Tim Allen, Santa’s sleigh
landed on the roof of Scott Calvin’s
house. Scott’s son, Charlie, heard
the commotion and woke his father,
who ran outside to see what was the
matter. Scott startled Santa, who fell
from the roof and apparently died.
In the pocket of Santa’s suit,
Scott discovered a card that read,
“If something should happen to
me, put on my suit; the reindeer
will know what to do.” When Scott
complied with the instruction on the
card, he was magically transported
around town to finish Santa’s
deliveries. When the night’s work
was finished, the sleigh returned to
the North Pole—with Scott and
Charlie in tow. Scott was met by
the head elf, who pointed out the
fine print (legally speaking, the
Santa clause) which required Scott
to permanently take over as Santa
since he had put on the suit.
You might have assumed that the
seemingly-immortal Santa, endowed
with magical powers, would not have
needed to plan for the potential of an
untimely demise. Clearly that’s not
the way he thought about things, and
it’s a good thing, too. If Santa needed
a plan, how much truer is that of you
and me? We all face three probable
events for which we must have a plan.
The first contingency for which you
must have a plan is the possibility that
you won’t always be able to manage
your own business the way you used
to. Sometimes it’s just age that catches
up with you gradually. Sometimes
it’s a more sudden injury or illness.
But no matter the cause, if you need
help managing financial or healthcare
matters, you must have financial
and healthcare powers of attorney.
The alternative is guardianship
court, where the judge makes a
determination of incapacity. Nobody
wants to go to court if they don’t
have to, and nobody wants to face
a legal determination of incapacity.
Good power of attorney documents
can usually circumvent all of that.
The second contingency for which
you must plan is the possibility
that you may need long-term care
as you get older. Statistics tell us
that nearly three-quarters of those
who reach the age of 65 need some
form of long-term care during their
lifetimes. Whether that involves
nursing home care, assisted living,
or caregivers coming into the home,
facing that scenario without a plan
can be financially devastating.
Your family’s financial security
hinges on your facing this contingency
armed with the right knowledge and
information, not rumors and halftruths.
Do your homework in advance
or, if the need is already here, don’t
try to face it alone. At The Elrod
Firm, we have helped many families
plan in advance for the future need
for long-term care—but keep in
mind, you can’t wait until the need
arrives if advance planning is your
goal. But in the past ten years, we’ve
also helped over 2,000 families make
the transition to long-term care even
when there wasn’t time to plan in
advance. Never assume it’s too late to
do something to improve what could
otherwise be a very difficult situation.
The third contingency for which
you must plan is not just a possibility;
it’s a certainty. You must, from a legal
and financial perspective, plan for
your death. Santa’s plan—instructing
your survivors to put on your suit
and, according to the fine print, take
over your life—isn’t going to cut it in
your case. Without proper planning,
probate court will be in your future.
42 • Saline County Lifestyles
FAMILY Lifestyles
Your family’s financial
security hinges on your
facing this contingency
armed with the right
knowledge and
information, not rumors
and half-truths.
Probate is very expensive,
frustratingly time consuming, and
uncomfortably public. The steps
needed to avoid probate court don’t
have to be complicated, but you
must do something. Sometimes the
best steps simply involve the wise use
of death beneficiary designations.
Sometimes the proper path involves
adjustment to real estate deeds. But
in many instances, we can use a trust
(simply a will replacement) to avoid
probate court while also protecting
future generations from their own
financial mismanagement, or from
outside attacks on their inheritance.
Santa didn’t just hope that,
when the time came, he’d have an
opportunity to make a dramatic
death bed request that someone
take over his job. He put detailed
plans in place long before they were
needed. You should do the same. •
Saline County Lifestyles • 43
Wishing for your
2 front teeth
this Christmas?
We can help with that!
501-84-SMILE
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS OF ALL AGES
3316 HIGHWAY 5 N | BRYANT, ARKANSAS
WWW.FULKSFAMILYDENTISTRY.COM
44 • Saline County Lifestyles
Merry Christmas
For unto you is born
this day in the city
of David a Saviour,
which is Christ
the Lord.
– Luke 2:11