AYMAG.COM / JAnuArY 2011

ASID AwArD-wInnInG DeSIGnS

SInGleS In the CItY returnS! New! BrAnSOnS BeStnOrthweSt neCeSSItIeS

COMfOrt fOOD: PeAnut Butter Stew

AY MagaziNe ... there'S An APP fOr thAt!

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Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. iPad and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.

Visit the App StoreSM to download the AY Magazine App today.

New Year, New about You.AY is at your fingertips ... literally.

real. resourceful. refreshiNg. The pages of AY come to life with just a touch. Experience the new AY in a gorgeous, interactive digital version. Download the free App for your iPhone and iPad from the iTunes store.

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Vicki Vowell, PUBLISHER

AY Magazine is About You.

We are the leading lifestyle publication for intelligent, accomplished peo-ple who are enjoying the finest years of their lives. For more than 23 years, we've maintained a balance between entertainment and real, valuable in-formation.

This month, we launch our redesign and rebranding of the magazine. Years ago, we dropped the formality and shortened our name, About You, to AY. We are the magazine About You ... YOUR style, life, money, wellbeing and much more. Each month, we provide practical solutions for everyday living. Our experts: P. Allen Smith, the New York Times-dubbed Martha Stewart of the South; Tobi Fairley, nationally sought-after interior design-er; and Jill Connor Browne, the world-famous Sweet Potato Queen.

About You is real, resourceful and refreshing. New, this year, are our monthly reader makeovers and AY's 2011 Ultimate Makeover, a full head-to-toe revamp that will be awarded to one lucky reader. See page 88 for in-formation on how to enter. We're also bringing back AY's exclusive Singles in the City, introducing one high-profile individual each month.

AY is the must have when it comes to comprehensive restaurant re-views and entertainment listings. Our newly-revamped Dining Guide of-fers more choices, photographs and AY's Faves. Food contributor, Faith Anaya, also shares diverse recipes.

AY offers the most extensive website; check us out at aymag.com. The new website is full of videos, contest pages, a new blog and more. We're first in the publication market with our very own iPhone app; download it from iTunes for free.

We hope you approve of our new changes. Let me know your thoughts; e-mail me at vvowell@aymag.com.

It's going to be a great year!

publisher's letter @aymag.com

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THINGS TO DO ONLINE THIS MONTH

What's happening

$25 Gift Certificate

NOTE: You may also enter our contest via U.S. mail; send a postcard to AY Magazine, 910 W. Second St., Ste. 200, Little Rock, AR 72201. Be certain to use the code word for the specific contest youre entering. Include your name, address and a daytime phone number.

The Bathhouse Soapery GiveawayThe Bathhouse Soapery & Caldarium offers fragrant, all natural soaps and more. Register to win the five-piece set Just Desserts. Deadline: Feb. 1; code word: Soapery*

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Interactive Dining Guide OnlineLooking for a good meal? Read our restaurant reviews, get directions and visit the restaurants website all from aymag.com. Using the new iPhone App? You can also call and make reservations.

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P. Allen Smith Cookbook GiveawayRegister to win a copy of P. Allen Smiths latest book. Take a sneak peak including three of the original, delicious recipes on page 44. Deadline: Feb. 1; code word: Cookbook*

3Side Dish Giveaway from EggshellsYoull love this months recipes (see NOURISH: Create feature). Weve partnered with Eggshells Kitchen Co., to giveaway this pair of large mugs and a New England Fishermans Stew kit. Deadline: Feb. 1; code word: Soup*

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D.I.Y. Interactive CalendarHaving an event that youd like to publicize, but missed the Agenda deadline? Dont worry; simply, log onto the new aymag.com, and add your event using the new Do-It-Yourself Interactive Calendar.

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Argenta Market $25 Gift CertificateArgenta Market in downtown North Little Rock, Ark., is a deli and a full-service grocery that promotes local products and sustainability. Explore the menu or shop for goods with a $25 gift certificate. Deadline: Feb. 1; code word: Argenta*

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@aymag.com

Randy Newman Tickets GiveawayWe love Randys hits: Short People, Leave Your Hat On, Youve Got A Friend in Me, and Its A Jungle Out There. Two lucky winners will receive two tickets to see this New Orleanian live. HURRY: deadline Jan.15. Code word: Newman*

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Ultimate Makeover ContestIts a new year would you like a new you? AY is teaming up with professional beauty experts to give one lucky reader a head-to-toe makeover. Visit aymag.com for more information.

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AY Magazine, Now on your iPhoneTake AY on the road download our new App for use on your iPhone or iPad; just search under AY Magazine in the iTunes store.

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New AY Website, Check it out!Youll love the new aymag.com watch videos, read Amy Bowers new blog LocalEyes, peruse the electronic version of the magazine and more all at aymag.com.

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AY Magazine is published monthly.

corporate office910 W. 2nd St., Ste. 200, Little Rock, AR 72201Phone: (501) 244-9700 Fax: (501) 244-9705

aymag.com

The contents of AY are copyrighted, and material contained herein may not be copied or reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. Articles in AY should not be considered specific advice, as individual circumstances vary. Products and services advertised in the magazine are not necessarily endorsed by AY.

Subscription rate is $15 for one year (12 issues). Single issues are available upon request for $5.

Please recycle this magazine.

JANUARY 2011 | VolUme XXIV | ISSUe 9

PublisherVicki Vowell

EDITORAngela E. Thomas

athomas@aymag.com

AssOcIATE EDITORAmy Bowers

abowers@aymag.com

cREATIVE DIREcTORVanessa Wurtz

vwurtz@aymag.com

GRAphIc DEsIGnERAshlee Nobel

anobel@aymag.com

cIRculATIOn mAnAGERWanda Lair

wlair@aymag.com

OffIcE ADmInIsTRATORRhonda Penn

admin@aymag.com

SaleS ManagerBethany Robinsonbrobinson@aymag.com

account executiveSLauren Bridgeslbridges@aymag.com

Erin Homeyerehomeyer@aymag.com

Jessica Franklinjfranklin@aymag.com

Linda Burlingamelindaaymag@aol.com

Gwen Wileygwiley@aymag.com

What's Happening Now!

like us on facebook@AY Magazine

check out Amy's new bloglocaleyesark.blogspot.com

follow us on twitter@AYisAboutYou

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Judi CasaveChia WhAT IS YOUR OCCUPATION? Education programs coordinator for Wildwood Park for the Arts. WhERE IS YOUR hOMETOWN? I consider Little Rock, Ark., my adopted hometown. DO YOU hAvE ANY ChIlDREN? No, but do seven nieces and nephews count? hOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR SPARE TIME? Spare time, whats that? When I have it, I read and watch movies. WhAT kIND Of MUSIC DO YOU lISTEN TO? Jazz, blues, rock and classical. WhAT IS YOUR fAvORITE MOvIE GENRE? Drama, but it should only be on screen and on stage! NAME YOUR fAvORITE PlACE IN ThE WORlD. A beautiful warm beach or my house. WhEN I WAS lITTlE I WANTED TO BE a prima ballerina. WhAT hAS SURPRISED YOU ThE MOST ABOUT YOUR ADUlT lIfE? Its never what you think it will be. WhO WOUlD BE ThE GUESTS Of hONOR AT YOUR fANTASY DINNER PARTY? Manolo Agullo, my ballet teacher; Anna Pavlova; Sergei Diagliev; Jackie Kennedy; and Queen Noor. WhO ARE YOUR fAvORITE AUThORS? Thich Nhat Hanh, Toni Morrison and Edith Wharton. WhAT TOP ThREE qUAlITIES DO YOU lOOk fOR IN A MATE? Honesty, compassion for others and good family relationships. WhAT IS YOUR fAvORITE hOlIDAY AND WhY? Thanksgiving so I can stay in my pjs to watch the Macys parade and have pumpkin pie. WhAT IS YOUR lIfES MOTTO? One day at a time; its all we have. ON AN IDEAl fIRST DATE, WOUlD YOU PREfER A WAlk ON ThE BEACh OR DANCING? Dancing, of course, you can find out a lot about someone that way.

DWEll

SINGlES IN ThE CITYABOUT YOU

SINGLES 11

Wildwood Park for the Arts' Lanterns Festival will be held Feb. 18 through 20. For more information, log onto wildwoodpark.org or call (501) 821-7275.

Photograph by Chach Bursey

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MAk

EOvE

R

ABOU

T YO

U

before

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

Serethia Crawford, 50, said she came to AY looking for a new me. As an associate broker in Hot Springs, appearance is very important. A lot about real estate is face recognition, Crawford said. She is known for her long hair, which was almost waist-length when we began. My husband and I will celebrate our 30th anniversary this month, and he loves my hair long. The shortest its ever been is shoulder-length. Crawford wanted to maintain her long locks, but update her look for the New Year with a fresh, youthful, easy-to-manage style.

HairKristin Babb, stylist at Clay Roots Salon gave Crawford a younger look by adding long layers throughout to enhance body, taking a bit of the length off and creating some face-framing layers for added shape. Babb styled Crawfords cut with one of her favorite smoothing products Moroccan Oil which adds shine and reduces frizz. She blow-dried it with a round brush for lift; flat ironed it to smooth frizz, and

then curled the ends to add bounce.

MakeupEricka Rash, makeup artist at Clay Roots Salon, used a variety of bareMinerals products to give Crawford a natural look to enhance her great skin and emphasize her beautiful eyes. She started with the Skin Rev-er Upper, which smoothes skin and prepares it for makeup. Rash then applied Prime Time primer to smooth fine lines; followed by Summer Bisque concealer with an SPF 20; Mineral Loose Powder Foundation in medium beige; blush in Laughter; and a mixture of various bright eye shadows to highlight the eyes. She finished with a Hydrating Mineral Veil finishing powder to keep the makeup in place,

followed by lengthening mascara.

Makeover provided by Clay Roots Beauty and Facial Boutique, 241 Cornerstone Blvd., Hot Springs AR, (501) 525-8811. Clay Roots offers: facials, peels, eyelash ex-tensions, waxing, massage, pho-to rejuvenation, makeup, perma-nent cosmetics and full-service hair care.

If youd like to experience an AY makeover, log onto aymag.com and click on the Health and Beauty tab and submit your entry under monthly makeover or send your entry along with a photograph to: AY Magazine, Attn: Angela, 910 W. Second St., Suite 200, Little Rock, AR 72201.

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REACTION

letter e-mail facebook twitter

We love hearing from you, ConTaCT uS! Write a letter to AY Magazine, 910 W. Second St., Ste. 200, Little Rock, AR 72201 or email Angela at athomas@aymag.com. Also visit us online: at our new website, aymag.com; facebook.com/aymaga-zine; or twitter/ayisaboutyou for daily highlights of what's going on with the AY team, event up-dates, links to stories and much more.

keep the Mystery! I look forward to reading AY each month! Murder Mystery keeps me interested; however, I also enjoy your other Arkansas news. I just mailed a 2-for-1 subscription and want to make sure you keep running Murder Mystery. There are so many unsolved crimes; it is really sad that so many arent known, and I think your magazine lets Arkansans know, and maybe somehow, makes sure those people aren't forgotten.

Patricia Manning, Via e-mail

to honey: I have a wassail recipe [in the November 2010 issue] that is to die for, but your apple cider recipe is THE BEST. Thank you for sharing it with us.

Margaret Underwood

a most precious gift

In an increasingly competitive world economy, Americas economic strength depends upon the education of its workers. Thanks to AY and the Celebrity Chef Cook-off event, the college can be better prepared to provide the necessary training needed in our community to meet economic needs. Together, we can provide quality education opportunities to residents of central Arkansas so that they may fulfill careers of importance and provide a better quality of life for themselves and their families. Thank you for this most precious gift.

Joyce Taylor, Executive DirectorPulaski Technical College Foundation

Compelling story

The story [No Longer A Victim, December 2010] featuring Vicky Williams was fabulous! Great job as always! I thought I knew her entire story of the journey she took with DJ and Valerie, but even I learned more about it!

Cindy MurphyLittle Rock, Arkansas

From Facebook:

In The blue

I saw [George] Rodrigue paint a Blue Dog at the THEA event In The Blue; he was truly amazing. He put a red pig on it and it was auctioned off when he finished ... though he took it back to New Orleans for his final touches, it looked finished to us! Wonderful event.

Rebecca Fuller Ward

hoPe, loVe & haPPIneSS

Thanks so much for all you did to support the [Arkansas Baptist College Gala for Hope] Love and Happiness!

Janell Mason

inspirationThe Decadent Truffle recipe [in the December 2010 issue] is fantastic and soooo easy! I can't wait to make more!Becki Workman Swindell, via Facebook

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Oaklawn's

107th live

Racing sea

sOn

Jan. 14 th

rough Ap

ril 16, Hot

Springs.

Spend a d

ay at the

races, an

d enjoy H

ot

Springs f

avorite p

astime. In

addition

to live rac

ing, you c

an find si

mulcastin

g

and gam

ing year r

ound. Adm

ission is $

2.

(501) 623

-4411 or

oaklawn.

com

SaintS and SinnerS BallJan. 29, Little Rock. Reserve your table now at the Statehouse Convention Center for this annual fundraiser for the Arkansas Repertory Theatre. Enjoy an evening of cocktails, auctions, dancing and dinner. Individual tickets are $350. This years theme is Guys and Dolls.

(501) 378-0445 or therep.org

Reserve your table now!

"Paws, Claws and Tails"Jan. 2 through 31, Little Rock. Get a closer look at a few of the more unusual species of live animals housed at the Museum of Discovery with this fun exhibit for all ages. Exhibit is on view the first Saturday of each month and is free with the price of admission.

(501) 396-7050 or amod.org

"Room seRviCe"Jan. 7 through Feb. 5, Little Rock. Dont miss this hilarious production about a penniless producer and his colleagues, who will stop at nothing to get backing for their play. The evening includes lots of laughter as well as a delicious buffet-style meal and dessert at Murrys Dinner Playhouse.

(501) 562-3131 or murrysdinnerplayhouse.com

5Th annual Chainsaw iCe sCulPToRs ChallengeJan. 15, Branson. Get in on the excitement of celebrating the Titanic Branson Museum Attractions 2011 season as amateurs and professionals alike wield chainsaws to create masterpieces out of 250-pound blocks of ice. Parking and the show are free.

(417) 334-9500 or titanicbransoncom

women and ChildRen FiRsT galaJan. 15, Little Rock. Women and Children Firsts premier fundraiser at The Peabody Hotels Grand Ballroom promises to be an elegant and fun evening; this year, the honoree is Arkansas' First Lady Ginger Beebe as Woman of the Year. This black-tie event includes a cocktail reception; formal dinner; and a special tribute to Beebe acknowledging all she has done for the community.

wcfarkansas.org

dR. maRTin luTheR King, JR. holiday CelebRaTion

Jan. 16, Little Rock. Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., at one of the citys most historic Civil Rights sites. The Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site Visitor Center will host a childrens event titled Characters of Change, and children will have the opportunity to write letters to the Little Rock Nine describing how they can be characters of change in todays world. The film Our Friend, Martin: A Magical Movie Adventure will also be shown.

(501) 374-1957 or nps.gov/chsc

"The ColoR PuRPle"Jan. 21 through 23, Little Rock. Celebrity Attractions brings this

soul-stirring musical based on the classic Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker and the Oscar-nominated film by Steven Spielberg to Robinson Center Music Hall. Take in the uplifting story of a woman named Celie, who triumphs over tremendous odds to find joy in life.

(501) 244-8800 or celebrityattractions.com

29Th annual maRine exPo

Jan. 21 through 23, Little Rock. See the latest in boats and boating gear at the Statehouse Convention Center with a showroom of nearly 200 boats including: bass boats; deck boats; ski boats; wakeboard boats; party barges; and personal watercrafts. Admission is $5; children 12 and under are free.

(501) 225-6177 or dgattractions.com

"a Raisin in The sun"

Jan. 21 through Feb. 6, Little Rock. Revisit, or experience for the first time, this Tony-award winning production at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre about the trials of an African American family living on Chicago's south side in the 1950s.

(501) 378-0405 or therep.org

"The Jungle booK"

Jan. 21 through Feb. 6, Little Rock. Dont miss this production at the Arkansas Arts Center Children's Theatre based on the book by Rudyard Kipling, winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature. Bring the kids and follow the journey through the jungle with young Mowgli and his friends, Baloo and Bagheera.

(501) 372-4000 or arkarts.com

Randy newman

Jan. 22, Fayetteville. Catch this singer/songwriter legend one night only at Walton Arts Center. Randy Newman has had great success in the popular music industry, as well as the film industry as composer for all of the Toy Story movies and more. Witness this American music legend as he performs favorites such as "Louisiana" and "You've Got a Friend in Me." Admission is $32 to $65.

(479) 443-5600 or waltonartscenter.org

Jan14 Opening Day

Jan. 14 Opening Day!

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Oaklawn's

107th live

Racing sea

sOn

Jan. 14 th

rough Ap

ril 16, Hot

Springs.

Spend a d

ay at the

races, an

d enjoy H

ot

Springs f

avorite p

astime. In

addition

to live rac

ing, you c

an find si

mulcastin

g

and gam

ing year r

ound. Adm

ission is $

2.

(501) 623

-4411 or

oaklawn.

com

Tobi Fairley

The owner of Tobi Fairley Interior Design and Tobi Fairley Gallery, a full-service luxury residential interior design firm and fine art gallery in Little Rock. She was selected by Traditional Home as one of the Top 20 Young Designers in America in 2009; her work has been featured in House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Dream Bedrooms by Better Homes and Gardens, MSNBC.com and Design and Dcor magazine. Fairley is a popular speaker at national industry events and is widely known for her award-winning blog at tobifairley.com.

REBECCA WARD

A clinical social worker in private practice here in Little Rock, she is the author of the book How To Stay Married Without Going Crazy (Rainbow Books, Inc. 2000) and has been the on-air resident therapist for Good Morning Arkansas on the ABC affiliate KATV from the beginning. Along with her full-time private practice, she is a frequent speaker to various groups around the state. She looks forward to an interactive relationship with AY readers who can contact her at rfw630@sbcglobal.net for questions and/or subjects they would like to know more about.

P. ALLEN SMITH

Little Rock native, P. Allen Smith is an award-winning garden designer and host of the public television pro-gram, P. Allen Smiths Garden Home and the syndi-cated P. Allen Smith Gardens. Smith is the garden design editor for national magazines such as Cottage Living and Womans Day. Smith is the author of the Garden Home series, which includes four books one of which is P. Allen Smiths Living in the Garden Home: Connecting the Seasons with Containers, Crafts and Celebrations.

SONNY RHODES

Sonny Rhodes is a freelance journalist and teacher living in North Little Rock with his wife, Julie, and daughter Abby. He also has two grown offspring, Jeremy and Katie, who have left the nest. He has

been a reporter, editor and columnist for more than 35 years. His work has appeared in newspapers,

magazines, textbooks and scholarly journals. His first work of fiction, a short story, was recently accepted

for publication.

contributors

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MY

OPIN

ION

WhE

ThER

YOU

lIkE

IT O

R NO

TIN

TERE

STS

If you should trouble yourself to Google the term spoiled rotten, chances are you would find photos of me and my baby girl, prominently displayed. Its not my fault. My parents started it. (Yes, I realize that is the Spoiled Kids Mantra.) We are what would be referred to in these parts as pure-dee RURNT (translation: totally ruined), and we are not the least bit chagrinned, unhappy or dismayed by that fact. Actually, you could color us Pretty Tickled about it all.

I lived at home until I was 25 TWENTY-FIVE! But my friends not only understood it, they wanted to move in, too. You see, my parents were Feeders they were not truly happy unless they were feeding someone, and I cheerfully made myself readily available for most meals. I am pretty sure there were guys who dated me just so they could eat supper at my parents house four or five nights a week. My girlfriends still had SLEEP-OVERS, for crying out loud because there would be supper and then the next morning, there would be breakfast, and if we were to lounge around long enough, there would also be LUNCH!

Suffice it to say, none of my friends were happy about my decision to marry and finally leave home as it affected them all adversely in the free meal department an area held sacred by most all young people and not a few older ones.

My parents, God bless em, would, every morning for 25 years, come quietly into my room, gently awaken me with a kiss and a

soft whisper in my ear, inquiring as to just what I might prefer for my breakfast that particular morning. And then, they would betake themselves to the kitchen and serve it up.

I have continued the tradition with my own daughter even taking it a step further, if you can imagine such a thing. That child was served breakfast IN BED EVERY DAY OF HER LIFE that she has spent under my roof !

There were the four harsh college years, where she lived first in a dorm and then in her own condo, where there was, sadly, no room service in either location. She still shudders at the thought; and we try not to bring it up, in hopes that she will, one day, heal from the trauma. Time is merciful.

And, of course, NOW she is back home attending law school in our hometown so the Bad Time is definitely over. She can go crawl into her comfy bed at night and sleep like the baby she is, safe in the knowledge that, come morning there will be a soft kiss on her cheek, a hot cup of coffee on her bedside table and her breakfast cannot be far behind.

We do sometimes wonder if she will ever leave, though we are not entertaining any bets on that. Perhaps she could marry a chef and theyll both live here? Hope does spring eternal. As much as I have loved being the Spoil-ER, one never really outgrows the love of being the Spoil-EE.

By Jill Conner Browne

Jill Conner Browne is a multiple #1 New York Times Best Seller. Simon & Schuster published her latest book American Thighs: The Sweet Potato Queens Guide to Preserving Your Assets. She is featured regularly in national and international magazines and television shows. You can learn more about Her Royal Highness at sweetpotatoqueens.com.

Spoiled Rotten

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Historic downtown Hot Springs has much to offer visitors in shop-ping, dining, attrac-tions and accommo-dations. Add some fun to a drab January with an exciting getaway!

Main attractions

Racing season opens Jan. 14, in the Spa City, and many are chomping at the bit to make their way down for the action. While there is much excitement to be found on the track at Oaklawn, the new gaming facility on site allows for added hours of enjoyment between watching the ponies, corned beef sandwich specials and mid-morning Bloody Marys. Try your luck at video poker, lock and roll machines, electronic blackjack and more. First-time gamers, dont forget to download your $10 free play coupon from Oaklawns website, oaklawn.com

Garvan Woodland Gardens is always a popular way to spend an afternoon in Hot Springs. This 210-acre garden on Lake Ham-ilton is filled with a variety of native plants,

animals and birds, and has beautiful winding pathways, fountains and fun features for chil-dren. If you work up an appetite, stop in the new Chipmumk Cafe for a snack or refresh-ment. This concession area offers sandwiches, salads and more for guests of the gardens.

The park is closed this month, but will re-open in February with the stunning Daffodil Days from Feb. 21 through March 10, where more than 165,000 beautiful gold, yellow and orange daffodils bloom throughout the gar-dens.

a Downtown walking guiDe

We highly recommend a trip to the Bath-house Soapery and Caldarium, a unique bou-tique offering handcrafted, specialty soaps, soaks, scrubs and other spa essentials made from organic materials. The soap collection is not only delightfully fragrant, but stunning to behold as well. Soaps come in slices and of-ten resemble cakes and other delicious treats with names such as Crushed Candy Cane, Cookie Dough, Rose and Yogurt and Crme Brulee. Their soaps are made with pure blends of vegetable, plant and fruit oils that are gentle

on the skin and such a treat theyre used in bathhouses on Bathhouse Row.

For the latest in fashion and accessories, Blue Lili is stocked with unique dresses, boots, cold weather accessories, jewelry and more. Show your hometown some love with beautiful pendant necklaces carrying pieces of the Arkansas state map. These glass and silver treats feature hometowns such as Hot Springs, Little Rock and North Little Rock and can be made to order.

Stock your pantry or find the perfect gift for your foodie friend or family mem-ber at The Savory Pantry on Central Ave-nue. Shop the racks of soup mixes, delicious spreads, pickled goods, sauces and more.

Chomping at the BitHot Springs is the place to be in January. Crowds will be lining up at the racetrack, but there is so much more to see and do beyond the finish line.

By Amy Bowers / photography by Janet Warlick

Bathhouse Soapery and Caldarium

Blue Lili

HOT SPRINGS, AREXCURSION

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CREATENOURISH

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NEXT MONTH: Just how many dead bodies did

Red Hall leave in his wake?

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LIFESTYLE REDESIGN

THE ATRIUM AT SERENITY POINTE

Todays seniors are active and energetic and want to be independent and have choices. They dont see retirement as the end, but as the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their lives.

A new luxurious senior community is now in Hot Springs. The Atrium at Serenity Pointe Independent and Assisted Living Community opened in the newly-remodeled Lake Hamil-ton Resort. The Atrium offers a real difference in retirement living for active seniors, 55 and older, and is redefining senior living. When you walk into The Atrium, you will know right away that you have discovered a place creat-ed with your lifestyle in mind. A place where luxury, convenience, security and peace of mind are a way of life.

The Atrium is dedicated to promoting well-ness, independence and fun in a gracious at-mosphere. Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Hamilton, the community boasts breath-taking views. All 105 private residences over-look the lake. Individual, private residences

consist of spacious one- and two-bedroom suites each equipped with a ki tchenette, full-size refrigerator and large walk-in closet. Gated, private and beautifully landscaped, the community offers an environment that encourages residents to be more engaged in life and the world around them. Amenities in-clude: a state-of-the-art movie theater; indoor swimming pool and spa; fishing pier; marina and covered boat slips; lounge; gift shop; bil-liard room; library; beauty/barber shop; com-puter caf; fitness center; and much more.

When a little extra care is needed to con-tinue living a full and meaningful life, you can count on The Atrium to enhance your quality of life in a luxurious, comfortable, nurturing and secure environment that promotes inde-pendence and respects personal privacy and dignity. Our assisted living services provide the support needed to get more out of each and every day, giving you the independence and peace of mind you want.

The staff at The Atrium recognize the

value of every person and are guided by a commitment to excellence and leadership. This is demonstrated by promoting well-ness and providing services as though each resident were a member of the family. Every staff member is carefully selected based on their vision, values and ability to provide superior care and services for residents and their families.

Seniors who choose The Atrium experi-ence an exciting new life that balances per-sonal freedom, an active social calendar, cultural enrichment and fine dining. They find freedom from the day-to-day obligations such as home maintenance, costly repairs and yard work. The dedicated housekeeping staff keeps apartments looking beautiful so that residents will have more time for the things they enjoy. Month-to-month luxurious living starts at $3,000.

For more information or to schedule a tour, call 877-5-ATRIUM (877-528-7486) or log on to www.theatriumdifference.com.

Retirement Living on Beautiful Lake Hamilton.

aymag.com . 99

100 . JaNUaRy 2011

LIFESTYLE REDESIGN

CONCORDIA RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

At its inception in 1971, Concordia Retirement Community (CRC) was called visionary, an historic venture and a benchmark for later retirement developments. It was voted Best Retirement Community for 2005, and has been called Camelot by those who reside at Concordia. This 26-acre development, loca ted in the hear t o f Be l l a V i s t a , i s a landmark retirement community that provides comfortable, secure and active lifestyles for their residents. Today, CRC remains a chosen location, where the air is clean, the water is pure, and the Ozark views are breathtaking. Area lakes and golf courses continue to entice visitors year-round, and area residents know they are in paradise.

As a CCRC (Continuum of Care Retirement Community), Concordia provides several options and levels of care for senior living. Its community incorporates apartments and

townhomes for independent seniors; two assisted-living apartment buildings; and the Care Center which includes skilled nursing care, in and out-patient rehabilitation and a dementia unit.

Even in 2010, Concordia continues to successfully perform as one of the finest retirement communities in this part of the nation. Concordia Retirement Community con t inues to o f fe r the se r v i ces and amenities that set it apart from other senior communities. Residents can retire and live a worry-free lifestyle, that fulfills the dream and belief of all that have come before. Concordia is an exceptional community for exceptional people.

The perfect place to enjoy life and Northwest Arkansas Concordia Retirement Community is also the ideal spot for the retirement of your life.

aymag.com . 101

LIFESTYLE REDESIGN

ST. BERNARDS VILLAGE

People who live there call it the Cadillac of retirement living choices. Their children call it a superb place that offers the comforts and support they want their aging parents to have.

That Cadillac reference always flatters me, says Brian Rega, Director of St. Bernards Village, however, when you compare fees at the Village to current living expenses, you see that our Cadillac is quite affordable.

In this case, the ideal is St. Bernards Village, a development nestled into 17 acres of land in central Jonesboro offering a continuum of living arrangements for people 55 and older.

The village concept is all about maintain-ing independence, to whatever degree that is possible. Residents enter the continuum at a

level most appropriate to their current abili-ties, then transition as necessary, Rega says.

The people who call St. Bernards Village home are sold on it.

You never get lonely, says Dora Zadnick who moved from Poplar Bluff, Mo., in April of 2004. I love it. Its like living in a grand hotel.

Family members sing praises of Village life as well.

Caring for family members from a great distance is difficult. St. Bernards Village allows adult children of aging parents to continue their own lives without worry. Roger Boothe of Cambridge, MA, recalls that his mother had to be coaxed into moving.

It took a couple of visits over several months, but she came to realize that she needed to shed the responsibilities of an

aging house and that she needed more con-sistent and reliable help than she had been getting from untrained sitters.

Now, I can come for a great visit, and

know when I leave, she has everything that she needs in a warm, supportive environ-ment. It was one of the best decisions we have ever made.

102 . JaNUaRy 2011

B riarwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is a full-service, one-stop rehabili-tation and long-term care center. We manage and care for residents in all stages of healing. The staff provides rehabilitation services for individuals who need physical, occupation and speech therapy; medication manage-ment; wound care; and IV therapy.

Each resident receives specialized and individualized care from staff members who work here because they have chosen this path for their lives. Each employee, from the ad-ministrator to the janitorial staff, takes pride in being a part of the Briarwood family in fact, many are second- and third-generation employees.

Briarwood is patient focused; our facility was built centered around the comfort and

convenience of our residents this is just one advantage of being privately owned. We provide transport to and from appointments; welcome families to visit and dine with their loved ones; and work diligently to ensure a home-like residence for each of our patients.

Briarwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is a five-star nursing home with an ex-cellent reputation in the community. We are a 90-bed facility with 16 rehabilitation beds; 16 private rooms; and 58 semi-private rooms. We often provide long-term care for second- and third-generation residents. Briarwood is strictly governed by the Office of Long Term Care and works hand-in-hand with the Arkan-sas Health Care Association to promote edu-cation and the best of care for residents in all facilities.

LIFESTYLE REDESIGN

BRIARWOOD NURSING & REHABILITATION CENTER

aymag.com . 103

LIFESTYLE REDESIGN

ARKANSAS HEALTH CARE ASSOCIATION

QUESTION: What are some signs of a high-quality nursing home or long term care facility?

ANSWER: Finding just the right care for your loved one can seem intimidating. It is an important decision, after all, and you want to make sure your loved one receives the very best care. While many factors can affect your decision, here are a few positive signs to look for during your search:

Resident-Staff Interaction: When you visit a nursing home or long term care facil-ity, observe how staff members interact with and respond to residents. In an excellent fa-cility, you will notice that staff members treat residents with dignity, respect and genuine concern. They respond promptly to resident

needs, and develop positive relationships with residents and their family members.

You should also see evidence that resi-dents enjoy a range of entertainment op-tions, community involvement and planned outings. Residents should be encouraged to pursue hobbies and try new activities. Find out what leisure and wellness opportunities are available for residents, and ask what measures are taken to ensure that residents of all abilities can participate.

Unique Considerations: Every resident has an individual set of physical, emotional, psychological and social needs. Consequent-ly, a nursing home or long term care facility that is perfect for one person may not be the right choice for another. Are there specific

medical concerns to consider? How close is it to your home, or to other family mem-bers and friends? Determine what factors are most important for your loved one, and then evaluate whether or not a facility will meet those needs.

There are many excellent nursing homes and long term care facilities to choose from in Arkansas. In fact, Arkansas has emerged in recent years as an industry leader, offer-ing improved care and a strong foundation of facility cooperation. One of these facilities is right for you and your loved one. With some advance preparation, thoughtful questions and facility observation, you will make the right choice.

104 . JaNUaRy 2011

aymag.com . 105

106 . JaNUaRy 2011

aymag.com . 107

Less equaLs More?By Steve Bowman

all of the sudden, there are about 7 million more hunt-ers in the woods, but you probably won't notice it much.

Numbers are a tricky thing. That is never more evident than in an elec-tion year. In these times, you can pretty much make numbers say just about anything. But the latest report from the National Shooting Sports Foun-dation (NSSF) is one that backs up a lot of what many of us pundits have felt for years: the num-ber of hunters don't seem to be decreasing, even though everyone says hunters are a dying breed.

Lately, it's been fairly common knowledge that there are about 14 million hunters in the United States, about 500,000 of those in Arkansas. Most of them are deer hunters. The NSSF study reveals that there are about 14 million hunters who take to the woods each year. In addition, there are more than 21 million who actually hunt over a five-year period.

In strong hunting states, which is how you could describe Arkansas, that means there could be as much as a 30-percent increase in the numbers of folks who actually define themselves as hunters and purchase a license every three to five years.

Prior to the study, according to census takers, for several years the number of hunters was dwin-dling, and the prognosis has always been that hunt-ing was in trouble. At times some of us have simply felt beleaguered.

That feeling was consistent, even though many of us watched interesting trends in the hunting market: there are far more women hunting these days than ever before; youth hunts that get a new generation in the field are common and heavily-participated in (at least in my part of the woods); and expenditures are up.

If you are in business, those are all indicators of great things to come. It's been easy to ask: how in the world are hunter numbers shrinking so much with all these good things taking place? The infer-ence has always been fewer people care. That may still be true, but obviously not at the rate previously believed.

In years past hunting has gone through some changes when the population became more suburban than rural. The average Joe was more likely to pick up a golf club than a shotgun, since the course was down the street and the hunting woods were miles away. It happens. Then, in the more immediate past, the one where liability and lawsuits started taking over the world, many folks were simply squeezed off their hunting grounds to make way for those willing to pay a lease and sign a To Hold Harmless agreement with a landowner.

Hunting started taking on a business sense, and some hunters were left behind.

This is just my take on the situation, and in all things like this, I reserve the right to be wrong, but it looks as if hunting is in better shape than most thought, making me believe that our ob-session/pastime/hobby is just a reflection of what is happening in society as a whole.

As hunters, we want to believe that all hunt-ers are so passionate that we just have to hunt to fulfill the need of the chase or whatever it is that drives us every single season; but reality creeps in on hunters as well life gets busy. People get sick. Money gets hard to come by. Time gets constrained and becomes precious. Any number of things can and will happen to keep some out of the woods and prevent them from buying a license during any given year. As I get older, I understand those things.

If you read the NSSF study closely, it's easy to come to the conclusion that one in three of us have trouble being consistent with our passion that doesn't make them any less of a hunter in the strict definition of the word. The overall point is: hunter numbers havent shrunk; more likely theyve stayed stable and in some ways may have grown. They have just become more mainstream in their buying habits.

Count them how you want them, draw your own conclusions, but thanks to the NSSF, hunt-ing actually got a big boost with the revelations of their study, even if it means I'm sharing the woods with an extra 7 million hunters I didn't realize were there.

SPORTSINTERESTS

108 . JANUARY 2011

aymag.com . 109

risk Factors For Diabetes: Being overweight or obese having a BmI (body mass index of 25 or greater)

Having little or no physical activity

Having a family history of diabetes

Eating less than five fruits and vegetables each daySource: Diabetes: A Modern Pandemic

symptoms of Diabetes:

Type 1 Diabetes: Frequent urination Unusual thirst

Extreme hunger Unusual weight loss

Extreme fatigue and Irritability

Type 2 Diabetes any of the Type 1 symptoms above Frequent infections Blurred vision cuts/bruises that are slow to heal Tingling/numbness in the hands/feet Recurring skin, gum or bladder infections

Clarnetta Jordan, 35, is a busy wife and mother. She and her family have made lifestyle changes resulting in her having a lower blood sugar level and a nearly 10-pound weight loss.

Mary Woody, 77, has lost 45 pounds since attending diabetes education classes.

110 . JaNUaRy 2011

aymag.com . 111

112 . JaNUaRy 2011

FinaL ThoughTs

Lists are subjective. Actually, everything is subjective, right? We perceive the world through filters shaped by our unique experiences. What I find important might seem

trivial to you. And vice versa. Ive listed be-low some things I liked about 2010 and a few that I found, well, less than likeable; merely a handful of things I found worth mentioning, some small-scale, some bigger. I hope you can relate to a few.

Favorite Commercials Those goofy Geico ads, especially the one

featuring the woodchucks. Hey, you dang woodchucks, quit chuckin my wood!

Least-Favorite Commercials Those for Coke Zero, specifically the one

with the time machine. I just dont get it. The little snot in the red tie deserves a noogy.

Favorite Song Home by Edward Sharpe & the Mag-

netic Zeroes. This came out in 2009, but I first heard it while exploring a Cleveland County back road with my mother last March. Moms in a Rison nursing home, and we often go for long rides. One morning we stopped to check out an abandoned cemetery. When I started the car again, Home came on the radio, these lines were perfect for the moment: Ah, home. Let me come home. Home is wherever Im with you.

Favorite Book (Completed) Ill often start a book, then set it aside

when another catches my attention, and so I usually have three or four lying around that I intend to get back to. Truck: A Love Story, by Michael Perry, is one I actually completed. It came out in 2006, but I finished it in 2010. Perry lives in rural Wisconsin. The book is about a year in his life gardening, hunt-ing, courting, trying to make a living as a writer the thread holding it together be-ing his restoration of a 1951 International pickup truck. My son, Jeremy, gave me this as a Christmas present. Im lucky in that Jer and my two daughters, Katie and Abby, buy me books (and I guess theyre lucky in knowing Ill gladly take one on any occasion).

Favorite Book (Now Reading) Of the tomes I have in various stages of

incompletion, my favorite is Rock N Roll Will Save Your Life: A Book by and for the Fanatics Among Us, by Steve Almond. Katie gave me this one. Some folks will be put off by Al-monds language, particularly his frequent F-bombs, but I find him clever, funny and hugely insightful about musics power. He also writes honestly, which ranks high in my estimation.

Most Incomprehensible Movie Scott Pilgrim vs. The World. Im sure its

a generational thing. You have to have grown up with video games, I hear. I was already in grad school when Pong came out.

Biggest Waste-of-Time Movie Skyline. Aliens want human brains.

Viewers best check theirs at the theater door.

Favorite Neighbor This modest fellow wouldnt want his

name mentioned, but D. is the kind of neigh-bor everyone should have. He helps everyone. I often see him picking up trash in the gut-ters and along roadways, even Snake Hill, a steeply winding piece of street. We need more folks like D.

Favorite Name Jerico Nelson, a Razorback safety and line-

backer from Destrehan, La.; a football player named Jerico is bound for glory.

Favorite Moment in Sports The University of Arkansas at Little Rocks

womens basketball team beat Georgia Tech in the first round of the Trojans first-ever trip to the NCAA Tournament. I wept.

Second-Favorite Moment in Sports

The Texas Rangers 6-1 defeat of the New York Yankees for their first-ever trip to the World Series. That A-Rod was called out on strikes to end the game made the victory even sweeter.

Big Disappointment National Public Radios decision to end its

contract with Juan Williams after his com-ments about Muslims on Fox News Channels The OReilly Factor. Im a longtime NPR supporter because of the quality of its news reporting, which I find truly fair and balanced, and I will continue to support public radio. But, NPR gave ammunition to those who ac-cuse it of liberal bias and political intolerance.

Big EmbarrassmentThe screed an Arkansas school board

member put on his Facebook page about gay people, and the resulting widespread public-ity. At least the guy did the right thing and resigned. For those outside our state who think Arkansans are barefoot hillbillies living in ramshackle cabins, this incident reinforced that notion. Well, at least outsiders know we have Internet.

Best Silver LiningThe sun came up the day after Election

Day and has every day since.

By Sonny Rhodes

aymag.com . 97

98 . JaNUaRy 2011

LIFESTYLE REDESIGN

THE ATRIUM AT SERENITY POINTE

Todays seniors are active and energetic and want to be independent and have choices. They dont see retirement as the end, but as the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their lives.

A new luxurious senior community is now in Hot Springs. The Atrium at Serenity Pointe Independent and Assisted Living Community opened in the newly-remodeled Lake Hamil-ton Resort. The Atrium offers a real difference in retirement living for active seniors, 55 and older, and is redefining senior living. When you walk into The Atrium, you will know right away that you have discovered a place creat-ed with your lifestyle in mind. A place where luxury, convenience, security and peace of mind are a way of life.

The Atrium is dedicated to promoting well-ness, independence and fun in a gracious at-mosphere. Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Hamilton, the community boasts breath-taking views. All 105 private residences over-look the lake. Individual, private residences

consist of spacious one- and two-bedroom suites each equipped with a ki tchenette, full-size refrigerator and large walk-in closet. Gated, private and beautifully landscaped, the community offers an environment that encourages residents to be more engaged in life and the world around them. Amenities in-clude: a state-of-the-art movie theater; indoor swimming pool and spa; fishing pier; marina and covered boat slips; lounge; gift shop; bil-liard room; library; beauty/barber shop; com-puter caf; fitness center; and much more.

When a little extra care is needed to con-tinue living a full and meaningful life, you can count on The Atrium to enhance your quality of life in a luxurious, comfortable, nurturing and secure environment that promotes inde-pendence and respects personal privacy and dignity. Our assisted living services provide the support needed to get more out of each and every day, giving you the independence and peace of mind you want.

The staff at The Atrium recognize the

value of every person and are guided by a commitment to excellence and leadership. This is demonstrated by promoting well-ness and providing services as though each resident were a member of the family. Every staff member is carefully selected based on their vision, values and ability to provide superior care and services for residents and their families.

Seniors who choose The Atrium experi-ence an exciting new life that balances per-sonal freedom, an active social calendar, cultural enrichment and fine dining. They find freedom from the day-to-day obligations such as home maintenance, costly repairs and yard work. The dedicated housekeeping staff keeps apartments looking beautiful so that residents will have more time for the things they enjoy. Month-to-month luxurious living starts at $3,000.

For more information or to schedule a tour, call 877-5-ATRIUM (877-528-7486) or log on to www.theatriumdifference.com.

Retirement Living on Beautiful Lake Hamilton.

aymag.com . 99

100 . JaNUaRy 2011

LIFESTYLE REDESIGN

CONCORDIA RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

At its inception in 1971, Concordia Retirement Community (CRC) was called visionary, an historic venture and a benchmark for later retirement developments. It was voted Best Retirement Community for 2005, and has been called Camelot by those who reside at Concordia. This 26-acre development, loca ted in the hear t o f Be l l a V i s t a , i s a landmark retirement community that provides comfortable, secure and active lifestyles for their residents. Today, CRC remains a chosen location, where the air is clean, the water is pure, and the Ozark views are breathtaking. Area lakes and golf courses continue to entice visitors year-round, and area residents know they are in paradise.

As a CCRC (Continuum of Care Retirement Community), Concordia provides several options and levels of care for senior living. Its community incorporates apartments and

townhomes for independent seniors; two assisted-living apartment buildings; and the Care Center which includes skilled nursing care, in and out-patient rehabilitation and a dementia unit.

Even in 2010, Concordia continues to successfully perform as one of the finest retirement communities in this part of the nation. Concordia Retirement Community con t inues to o f fe r the se r v i ces and amenities that set it apart from other senior communities. Residents can retire and live a worry-free lifestyle, that fulfills the dream and belief of all that have come before. Concordia is an exceptional community for exceptional people.

The perfect place to enjoy life and Northwest Arkansas Concordia Retirement Community is also the ideal spot for the retirement of your life.

aymag.com . 101

LIFESTYLE REDESIGN

ST. BERNARDS VILLAGE

People who live there call it the Cadillac of retirement living choices. Their children call it a superb place that offers the comforts and support they want their aging parents to have.

That Cadillac reference always flatters me, says Brian Rega, Director of St. Bernards Village, however, when you compare fees at the Village to current living expenses, you see that our Cadillac is quite affordable.

In this case, the ideal is St. Bernards Village, a development nestled into 17 acres of land in central Jonesboro offering a continuum of living arrangements for people 55 and older.

The village concept is all about maintain-ing independence, to whatever degree that is possible. Residents enter the continuum at a

level most appropriate to their current abili-ties, then transition as necessary, Rega says.

The people who call St. Bernards Village home are sold on it.

You never get lonely, says Dora Zadnick who moved from Poplar Bluff, Mo., in April of 2004. I love it. Its like living in a grand hotel.

Family members sing praises of Village life as well.

Caring for family members from a great distance is difficult. St. Bernards Village allows adult children of aging parents to continue their own lives without worry. Roger Boothe of Cambridge, MA, recalls that his mother had to be coaxed into moving.

It took a couple of visits over several months, but she came to realize that she needed to shed the responsibilities of an

aging house and that she needed more con-sistent and reliable help than she had been getting from untrained sitters.

Now, I can come for a great visit, and

know when I leave, she has everything that she needs in a warm, supportive environ-ment. It was one of the best decisions we have ever made.

102 . JaNUaRy 2011

B riarwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is a full-service, one-stop rehabili-tation and long-term care center. We manage and care for residents in all stages of healing. The staff provides rehabilitation services for individuals who need physical, occupation and speech therapy; medication manage-ment; wound care; and IV therapy.

Each resident receives specialized and individualized care from staff members who work here because they have chosen this path for their lives. Each employee, from the ad-ministrator to the janitorial staff, takes pride in being a part of the Briarwood family in fact, many are second- and third-generation employees.

Briarwood is patient focused; our facility was built centered around the comfort and

convenience of our residents this is just one advantage of being privately owned. We provide transport to and from appointments; welcome families to visit and dine with their loved ones; and work diligently to ensure a home-like residence for each of our patients.

Briarwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is a five-star nursing home with an ex-cellent reputation in the community. We are a 90-bed facility with 16 rehabilitation beds; 16 private rooms; and 58 semi-private rooms. We often provide long-term care for second- and third-generation residents. Briarwood is strictly governed by the Office of Long Term Care and works hand-in-hand with the Arkan-sas Health Care Association to promote edu-cation and the best of care for residents in all facilities.

LIFESTYLE REDESIGN

BRIARWOOD NURSING & REHABILITATION CENTER

aymag.com . 103

LIFESTYLE REDESIGN

ARKANSAS HEALTH CARE ASSOCIATION

QUESTION: What are some signs of a high-quality nursing home or long term care facility?

ANSWER: Finding just the right care for your loved one can seem intimidating. It is an important decision, after all, and you want to make sure your loved one receives the very best care. While many factors can affect your decision, here are a few positive signs to look for during your search:

Resident-Staff Interaction: When you visit a nursing home or long term care facil-ity, observe how staff members interact with and respond to residents. In an excellent fa-cility, you will notice that staff members treat residents with dignity, respect and genuine concern. They respond promptly to resident

needs, and develop positive relationships with residents and their family members.

You should also see evidence that resi-dents enjoy a range of entertainment op-tions, community involvement and planned outings. Residents should be encouraged to pursue hobbies and try new activities. Find out what leisure and wellness opportunities are available for residents, and ask what measures are taken to ensure that residents of all abilities can participate.

Unique Considerations: Every resident has an individual set of physical, emotional, psychological and social needs. Consequent-ly, a nursing home or long term care facility that is perfect for one person may not be the right choice for another. Are there specific

medical concerns to consider? How close is it to your home, or to other family mem-bers and friends? Determine what factors are most important for your loved one, and then evaluate whether or not a facility will meet those needs.

There are many excellent nursing homes and long term care facilities to choose from in Arkansas. In fact, Arkansas has emerged in recent years as an industry leader, offer-ing improved care and a strong foundation of facility cooperation. One of these facilities is right for you and your loved one. With some advance preparation, thoughtful questions and facility observation, you will make the right choice.

104 . JaNUaRy 2011

aymag.com . 105

106 . JaNUaRy 2011

aymag.com . 107

Less equaLs More?By Steve Bowman

all of the sudden, there are about 7 million more hunt-ers in the woods, but you probably won't notice it much.

Numbers are a tricky thing. That is never more evident than in an elec-tion year. In these times, you can pretty much make numbers say just about anything. But the latest report from the National Shooting Sports Foun-dation (NSSF) is one that backs up a lot of what many of us pundits have felt for years: the num-ber of hunters don't seem to be decreasing, even though everyone says hunters are a dying breed.

Lately, it's been fairly common knowledge that there are about 14 million hunters in the United States, about 500,000 of those in Arkansas. Most of them are deer hunters. The NSSF study reveals that there are about 14 million hunters who take to the woods each year. In addition, there are more than 21 million who actually hunt over a five-year period.

In strong hunting states, which is how you could describe Arkansas, that means there could be as much as a 30-percent increase in the numbers of folks who actually define themselves as hunters and purchase a license every three to five years.

Prior to the study, according to census takers, for several years the number of hunters was dwin-dling, and the prognosis has always been that hunt-ing was in trouble. At times some of us have simply felt beleaguered.

That feeling was consistent, even though many of us watched interesting trends in the hunting market: there are far more women hunting these days than ever before; youth hunts that get a new generation in the field are common and heavily-participated in (at least in my part of the woods); and expenditures are up.

If you are in business, those are all indicators of great things to come. It's been easy to ask: how in the world are hunter numbers shrinking so much with all these good things taking place? The infer-ence has always been fewer people care. That may still be true, but obviously not at the rate previously believed.

In years past hunting has gone through some changes when the population became more suburban than rural. The average Joe was more likely to pick up a golf club than a shotgun, since the course was down the street and the hunting woods were miles away. It happens. Then, in the more immediate past, the one where liability and lawsuits started taking over the world, many folks were simply squeezed off their hunting grounds to make way for those willing to pay a lease and sign a To Hold Harmless agreement with a landowner.

Hunting started taking on a business sense, and some hunters were left behind.

This is just my take on the situation, and in all things like this, I reserve the right to be wrong, but it looks as if hunting is in better shape than most thought, making me believe that our ob-session/pastime/hobby is just a reflection of what is happening in society as a whole.

As hunters, we want to believe that all hunt-ers are so passionate that we just have to hunt to fulfill the need of the chase or whatever it is that drives us every single season; but reality creeps in on hunters as well life gets busy. People get sick. Money gets hard to come by. Time gets constrained and becomes precious. Any number of things can and will happen to keep some out of the woods and prevent them from buying a license during any given year. As I get older, I understand those things.

If you read the NSSF study closely, it's easy to come to the conclusion that one in three of us have trouble being consistent with our passion that doesn't make them any less of a hunter in the strict definition of the word. The overall point is: hunter numbers havent shrunk; more likely theyve stayed stable and in some ways may have grown. They have just become more mainstream in their buying habits.

Count them how you want them, draw your own conclusions, but thanks to the NSSF, hunt-ing actually got a big boost with the revelations of their study, even if it means I'm sharing the woods with an extra 7 million hunters I didn't realize were there.

SPORTSINTERESTS

108 . JANUARY 2011

aymag.com . 109

risk Factors For Diabetes: Being overweight or obese having a BmI (body mass index of 25 or greater)

Having little or no physical activity

Having a family history of diabetes

Eating less than five fruits and vegetables each daySource: Diabetes: A Modern Pandemic

symptoms of Diabetes:

Type 1 Diabetes: Frequent urination Unusual thirst

Extreme hunger Unusual weight loss

Extreme fatigue and Irritability

Type 2 Diabetes any of the Type 1 symptoms above Frequent infections Blurred vision cuts/bruises that are slow to heal Tingling/numbness in the hands/feet Recurring skin, gum or bladder infections

Clarnetta Jordan, 35, is a busy wife and mother. She and her family have made lifestyle changes resulting in her having a lower blood sugar level and a nearly 10-pound weight loss.

Mary Woody, 77, has lost 45 pounds since attending diabetes education classes.

110 . JaNUaRy 2011

aymag.com . 111

112 . JaNUaRy 2011

FinaL ThoughTs

Lists are subjective. Actually, everything is subjective, right? We perceive the world through filters shaped by our unique experiences. What I find important might seem

trivial to you. And vice versa. Ive listed be-low some things I liked about 2010 and a few that I found, well, less than likeable; merely a handful of things I found worth mentioning, some small-scale, some bigger. I hope you can relate to a few.

Favorite Commercials Those goofy Geico ads, especially the one

featuring the woodchucks. Hey, you dang woodchucks, quit chuckin my wood!

Least-Favorite Commercials Those for Coke Zero, specifically the one

with the time machine. I just dont get it. The little snot in the red tie deserves a noogy.

Favorite Song Home by Edward Sharpe & the Mag-

netic Zeroes. This came out in 2009, but I first heard it while exploring a Cleveland County back road with my mother last March. Moms in a Rison nursing home, and we often go for long rides. One morning we stopped to check out an abandoned cemetery. When I started the car again, Home came on the radio, these lines were perfect for the moment: Ah, home. Let me come home. Home is wherever Im with you.

Favorite Book (Completed) Ill often start a book, then set it aside

when another catches my attention, and so I usually have three or four lying around that I intend to get back to. Truck: A Love Story, by Michael Perry, is one I actually completed. It came out in 2006, but I finished it in 2010. Perry lives in rural Wisconsin. The book is about a year in his life gardening, hunt-ing, courting, trying to make a living as a writer the thread holding it together be-ing his restoration of a 1951 International pickup truck. My son, Jeremy, gave me this as a Christmas present. Im lucky in that Jer and my two daughters, Katie and Abby, buy me books (and I guess theyre lucky in knowing Ill gladly take one on any occasion).

Favorite Book (Now Reading) Of the tomes I have in various stages of

incompletion, my favorite is Rock N Roll Will Save Your Life: A Book by and for the Fanatics Among Us, by Steve Almond. Katie gave me this one. Some folks will be put off by Al-monds language, particularly his frequent F-bombs, but I find him clever, funny and hugely insightful about musics power. He also writes honestly, which ranks high in my estimation.

Most Incomprehensible Movie Scott Pilgrim vs. The World. Im sure its

a generational thing. You have to have grown up with video games, I hear. I was already in grad school when Pong came out.

Biggest Waste-of-Time Movie Skyline. Aliens want human brains.

Viewers best check theirs at the theater door.

Favorite Neighbor This modest fellow wouldnt want his

name mentioned, but D. is the kind of neigh-bor everyone should have. He helps everyone. I often see him picking up trash in the gut-ters and along roadways, even Snake Hill, a steeply winding piece of street. We need more folks like D.

Favorite Name Jerico Nelson, a Razorback safety and line-

backer from Destrehan, La.; a football player named Jerico is bound for glory.

Favorite Moment in Sports The University of Arkansas at Little Rocks

womens basketball team beat Georgia Tech in the first round of the Trojans first-ever trip to the NCAA Tournament. I wept.

Second-Favorite Moment in Sports

The Texas Rangers 6-1 defeat of the New York Yankees for their first-ever trip to the World Series. That A-Rod was called out on strikes to end the game made the victory even sweeter.

Big Disappointment National Public Radios decision to end its

contract with Juan Williams after his com-ments about Muslims on Fox News Channels The OReilly Factor. Im a longtime NPR supporter because of the quality of its news reporting, which I find truly fair and balanced, and I will continue to support public radio. But, NPR gave ammunition to those who ac-cuse it of liberal bias and political intolerance.

Big EmbarrassmentThe screed an Arkansas school board

member put on his Facebook page about gay people, and the resulting widespread public-ity. At least the guy did the right thing and resigned. For those outside our state who think Arkansans are barefoot hillbillies living in ramshackle cabins, this incident reinforced that notion. Well, at least outsiders know we have Internet.

Best Silver LiningThe sun came up the day after Election

Day and has every day since.

By Sonny Rhodes

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