After 20 years, Beth Ardapple, the powerhouse development director for the Arkansas Public Policy Panel, decided it was time to retire. Her co-workers, friends and loved ones decided they wanted her to do so in style, so they gathered for a special Sept. 9 fundraising reception on her behalf. The roast-and-toast event, which took place in the fellowship hall of First Presbyterian Church in downtown Little Rock, gave guests a chance to meet, mingle and contribute to the panel's cause.
The program opened with remarks by new Development Director Joyvin Benton, master of ceremonies, and Curtis Mangrum, board chairman. Comments were then shared by Ardapple's daughter, Edana Hale (who referenced a total of $15 million her mother helped the panel raise); the Rev. Howard "Flash" Gordon, First Presbyterian's pastor emeritus; and Ardapple's former assistant, Faye Knox. They and others shared jokes and quips about Ardapple's Dutch heritage, her "living off the land" and her sugar-free, white-flour-free diet.
Ardapple praised numerous co-workers, board members, steering committee members and others with whom she helped make history at the panel. "I feel really good about this organization and just the progress we've made and all the places we have to go yet," she said before making an appeal for donations.
An organic farmer in Newton County, Ardapple developed programs and raised money supporting panel personnel who established "sustainable, grass-roots democracy" in communities, according to Bill Kopsky, the panel's executive director. The event netted $10,000, according to panel representative Kyle Leyenberger.
High Profile on 09/18/2016