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ARKANSAS’ LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2026 | AYMAG.COM

BIGGER, BOLDER,

Ballinger

Arkansas Art Goes SUPERSIZE in the New Year

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contents WHAT’S INSIDE 10 Publisher’s Letter 12 Connect 14 Top Events 140 Murder Mystery 144 Diamonds

HOME

18 Family Serving Families 24 Dancing on a Cloud

ARTS & CULTURE 26 Ode to Joy

FOOD

30 New Year, New Food 34 Hearth and Harvest Soup 36 Building a Better Body 40 Play that Funky Music 43 AY’s Dining Guide

TRAVEL 64

Stay Where You Play

AESTHETICS

70 What’s New, What’s Now 74 Stigma No More 78 Beat the Winter Skin Blues 82 This is the Year 88 Healthy is the New Beautiful

ORTHOPEDICS

100 Fountain of Youth 104 One Foot in Front of the Other 108 Good News for Bad Joints 112 Make Gains Without Pain 118 Stepping Strong 120 Keeping It Simple

HEALTH

124 Nothing Sweet About It 126 Goodbye, Dye! 128 Find Your Tribe 132 A Sobering Thought 147 Arkansas Mental Health Guide

NONPROFIT

136 More Than a Thrift Store

Slice Time! page 40

ON THE COVER Bold goals call for bold colors! AY kicks off 2026 with the stunning artwork of Arkansas artist Jennifer Ballinger. Story starts on page 26.

ABOUT YOU 52

AY’s Ask the Experts

You are invited to join us for an

OPEN HOUSE AND TOUR for the new

North Little Rock

Event Center TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2026

4:00-6:00 PM PROGRAM WILL BEGIN AT 4:00 PM

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

Heather Baker hbaker@aymag.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Dwain Hebda dwain@aymag.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Mak Millard mmillard@aymag.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Darlene Hebda darlene@aymag.com

COPY EDITOR

Sarah DeClerk sdeclerk@aymag.com

STAFF WRITERS

Doug Crise dcrise@aymag.com Alex Hardgrave ahardgrave@aymag.com Mary LeSieur mlesieur@aymag.com

MANAGING DIGITAL EDITOR

Kellie McAnulty kmcanulty@aymag.com

ONLINE WRITER

Kilee Hall khall@aymag.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Mike Bedgood mbedgood@aymag.com

Joe David Rice, born in Paragould and reared in Jonesboro, probably knows Arkansas as well as anyone alive. The former owner of an outfitting business on the Buffalo National River and the state’s former tourism director, his Arkansas Backstories is published by the Butler Center.

Margie Raimondo blends culinary skills with storytelling. She specializes in Mediterranean cooking classes that emphasize healthy eating and has authored two cookbooks: Mangiamo and Finding Your Path. Additionally, she is a filmmaker. She produced the awardwinning documentary The Soul of Sicily.

Terrance Armstard is a photojournalist who has worked at institutions such as the University of Louisiana Monroe, the News Star in Louisiana and El Dorado News-Times. In addition to his freelance work, Armstard teaches courses in photojournalism, sports journalism, multimedia journalism, advertising and public relations.

Justina Parker has a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from Arkansas Tech University in Russellville and is the creator of We Belong, a blog that features women in leadership across Arkansas. She loves people’s stories of selfdiscovery and spending time with her two boys, and she has never met a dog or potato she did not like.

Steve Lewis is a proud graduate of Little Rock Central High who moved away a long time ago. His accomplishments include jumping freight trains through the Canadian Rockies in the summer of ’97, finally getting a bachelor’s degree and surviving more than 10 years as a photojournalist before returning home to contribute to AY Media.

Lori Sparkman, owner of Lori Sparkman Photography, has traveled the globe to work extensively with beautiful brides and grooms, fierce fitness clients, and growing families, as well as high-profile and corporate clients. She prides herself in capturing their personalities with a sophisticated and lighthearted style.

Jamie Lee is a freelance photographer originally from southwest Louisiana who now resides in Little Rock. With a strong focus on portrait, branding and food photography, she loves capturing people’s stories and cultures through the lens, helping businesses build their brands visually, and showcasing the local food scene and small businesses.

Jane Colclasure is a Little Rock native with more than 25 years of experience in product, architectural, and home and garden photography. She has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Colorado and an associate’s degree from the Colorado Institute of Art.

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Jerry Cordova jcordova@aymag.com Lora Puls lpuls@aymag.com Lee Smith lsmith@aymag.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

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EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

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ADVERTISING ASSISTANT

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CONTRIBUTORS

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ADMINISTRATION

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AY About You Magazine is published monthly, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 9 AY Magazine (ISSN 2162-7754) by AY Media Group, 910 W. 2nd St., Suite 200, Little Rock, AR 72201. Periodicals postage paid at Little Rock, AR and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to AY Magazine, 910 W. 2nd St., Suite 200, Little Rock, AR 72201. Subscription Inquiries: Subscription rate is $24 for one year (12 issues). Single issues are available upon request for $5. For subscriptions, inquiries or address changes, call 501-244-9700. The contents of AY are copyrighted ©2025, 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. Please recycle this magazine.

Congratulations to Kara Kellerman on being named one of AMP’s Power Women 2025 501-804-5272 Kkellerman@cbrpm.com 105 Country Club Parkway, Suite 200 Maumelle cbrpm.com/Agent/Detail/Kara-Kellerman/18582 ColdwellBankerRpmGroup

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publisher’s letter

Get Started Right Welcome to 2026 and AY About You magazine! We made it through the holidays, and while the tinsel and the tree may stay up for some of us a while longer, the changing of the calendar tells us it is time to get back to work. The new year is a time of renewal, of taking stock of where we are in life, what we can improve and what we want to accomplish. It’s a time of year where the air hangs heavy with possibilities and promise. AY is here to help launch the “new you for the new year,” whether it’s a change in weight, appearance, spirit or diet. Our food features this month point the way toward better health through better eating choices. We examine the dangers of hidden sugar, demonstrate how small changes can pay big dividends and even provide a look at the new trend of “sober curious.” AY’s annual aesthetics section will share the latest in beauty treatments, from injectables to microneedling and other trends out there to help you look your best. Our orthopedics focus explores the latest in implants of the knee and hip and how those innovations are delivering superior results and speeding healing. Some of my favorite features this month focus on fitness. Seemingly everyone starts the year resolved to get into shape, and we talk to trainers, bodybuilders, physical therapists and orthopedists about how to get control of your health through exercise and do it safely. We even help you map out a year’s worth of Arkansas dining by showcasing some of the best spots to be had in the Natural State. Whatever you promised yourself this year, AY About You wants to see you accomplish it. Change is hard, but you got this — stay focused, stay committed and make 2026 your year!

Heather Baker, President & Publisher hbaker@aymag.com / heatherbaker_ar

Take care

of yourself in the new year!

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HORSEPOWER: THERAPY PATIENTS SEE SUCCESS AT HORSEPLAY HIPPOTHERAPY & THERAPEUTIC RIDING Sarah, this article was so well written. Thank you for everything, we really appreciate the spotlight and are so thankful for the coverage! Erica Kennemer, director of HorsePlay Hippotherapy & Therapeutic Riding; owner and occupational therapist at Therapy Monkey AY’S BEST WOMEN IN HEALTH CARE 2025: APPLYING THE GOLDEN RULE Congratulations Holly Balogh! I’m so proud of how far you’ve come. Cassandra Forbes, owner of Forbes & Associates GETTING TO KNOW YOU 2025: PAINTED ROCK HEALTH AND WELLNESS Pam is THE absolute BEST!!! So glad to see she is getting even a fraction of the recognition she so deserves! In your 30/40s and not feeling like yourself, be it emotionally or physically? Don’t kid yourself…you have low/no hormones bc you’re in perimenopause. Make an appt to let her draw your levels and get you back to YOU asap! Chloe Lawhon Fratesi

Ballet Arkansas’ biggest holiday event was back in December as families enjoyed Ballet Arkansas’ The Nutcracker Spectacular. (Photo Courtesy of Ballet Arkansas and Matthew Sewell Photography)

PEACE BE WITH YOU — LITTLE ROCK MAN FORGIVES ATTACKER AS PART OF FAITH JOURNEY While teaching at Henderson Jr High, Josh was one of my former students. He was an excellent student, so his forgiveness of his attackers is not a surprise. Frank Baker SOUTHERN LIVING: SEARCY NAMED ON TOP 10 BEST CHRISTMAS SMALL TOWNS LIST Thanks for sharing! And thanks for being a sponsor of Holiday of Lights! We appreciate you! Experience Searcy COPPER FLATS TO HEADLINE FREE NEW YEAR’S EVE EVENT IN BENTON If you hadn’t heard Copper Flats, you need to! Let’s get behind these Arkansas guys! Follow them on Spotify, if you like country music, you’re going to love’em! Mark Miller

AY President and Publisher Heather Baker recently swapped out her publisher role for a day when she was guest ringmaster for the Piccolo Zoppe Winter Circus, where she met professional clown Joel Baker. (Photo by Jane Colclasure)

TRENDING ON AYMAG.COM Top Weekend Events Conway’s Home Alone House expands look to the delight of the public AY’s Best Women in Health Care 2025 Good Time Charley: Arkansas filmmaker Corbin Pitts to premiere first feature Food Bites

Leiva’s Coffee recently invited the community to join in a joyful milestone as it celebrated the one-year anniversary of its roastery in Roland.

At Good Shepherd Nursing and Rehabilitation we are committed to providing the highest quality of patient care. Our qualified staff is here giving support for the tasks of day-to-day living, allowing for the enjoyment of more pleasant and carefree activities.

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agenda

Top

you just can't miss!

ANTIQUE ALLEY ARKANSAS ANTIQUE SHOW Jan. 2-4 Conway Expo Center — Conway

Find one-of-a-kind pieces while shopping at more than 200 booths full of antiques and vintage items brought in by exhibitors around Arkansas and beyond. This is a ticketed event, so go online to secure a spot.

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS COMIC CON Jan. 17-18 Rogers Convention Center — Rogers

The Northwest Arkansas Comic Con is welcoming a huge cast of favorites from some of the world’s biggest fandoms, including WWE stars, the voices behind beloved cartoon and anime characters, and famous cosplayers who are all ready to take photos and sign autographs during this cannot-miss weekend. There will also be a series of cosplay meetups, photo ops, panels and Q&As so attendees can dive deep into the stories and characters they love.

ARKANSAS BIG BUCK CLASSIC Jan. 23-25 Arkansas State Fairgrounds — Little Rock

Oh deer! It is time again for the annual Big Buck Classic. Head to the Arkansas State Fairgrounds for the biggest celebration of deer hunting and outdoors in the Natural State. Enjoy vendors selling all types of hunting accessories, as well as entertainment such as rattlesnake wranglers and knife forgers. Do not forget the kids, who can enjoy family-friendly activities such as a fishing pond, bow shooting and more.

THE HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS 100 YEAR TOUR Jan. 24 Simmons Bank Arena — North Little Rock

The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters are bringing back the legacy and laughs to North Little Rock. To celebrate its 100 year anniversary, the players are pulling out all the stops, showing off trick shots that fans will have to see to believe. Do not miss the once-in-a-century celebration.

THE WOMAN OF THE YEAR GALA Jan. 31 Statehouse Convention Center — Little Rock

Women & Children First in Little Rock is marking the 20th year of its annual gala. Tiffany Robinson, a devoted philanthropist, community leader, and longtime WCF supporter, volunteer and board member has been named the 2026 honoree. Her recognition this year is especially fitting because her mother, Cindy Murphy, was the founder of the first Women of the Year Gala, which has grown into WCF’s largest annual fundraiser, raising essential funds for advocacy, support for domestic violence survivors and the lifesaving shelter.

events 1 Crazy Train: America’s Ozzy Experience Oaklawn Event Center Hot Springs

First Day Hikes Arkansas State Parks

Sean Fresh Stickyz Rock ‘N’ Roll Chicken Shack Little Rock

Cocktails with the Curator: A Toast to Architects of Being Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts Little Rock

9-11

‘Feild’ Notes on Little Rock: Author Talk with Charles Feild CALS Main Library Little Rock

44th Annual Arkansas Marine Expo Statehouse Convention Center Little Rock

Where the Waters Meet Delta Cultural Center Helena

Dreams in Flight: MLK Day Art CALS Main Library Little Rock

State Fair Spirit Classic Cheer and Dance Competition Barton Coliseum Little Rock

For more info: arkansasstateparks.com/first-day-hikes

16-18

Winter Jam 2026 Simmons Bank Arena North Little Rock

Meredith Wilson’s The Music Man Walton Arts Center Fayetteville

Hyped on the Hill: A Razorback Dance Team Showcase Bud Walton Arena Fayetteville

Jason Aldean: Full Throttle Tour 2026 Simmons Bank Arena North Little Rock

21-25

Candlelight: Neo-Soul Favorites Historic Albert Pike Masonic Center Little Rock

Kathleen Madigan: The Day Drinking Tour Oaklawn Entertainment Center Hot Springs

Ambrosia Wingate Center for Fine & Performing Arts Conway

MLK: Dreams for a Better World Fletcher Library Little Rock

Mean Girls presented by Stage 13 Wildwood’s Cabe Festival Theatre Little Rock

23-24

24-25

AMFA Concert Series: Bette Smith Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts Little Rock

Ballet Arkansas presents At Home Studio Series Ballet Arkansas Studio Stage Little Rock

ASO presents Rebirth & Revolution: Shostakovich 5 Robinson Center Little Rock

Frozen Toes 5K and 15K Kessler Mountain Regional Park Fayetteville

27-28

28-31

Exhibitions on Screen Presents: I, Claude Monet Ron Robinson Theater Little Rock

ASO Presents: From Roots to Revolution ASO Stella Boyle Smith Music Center Little Rock

The Book Club Play TheaterSquared Fayetteville

KC and the Sunshine Band: World Tour 2026 Oaklawn Event Center Hot Springs

31 Saving Abel The Rev Room Little Rock

aymag.com

Why Oaklawn Hot Springs is the venue of choice for Arkansas events, conferences and more!

presentations, conferences and special events. Oaklawn’s team of veteran event planners are also on hand to ensure no question goes unasked, no detail goes unaccounted for and no guest leaves unsatisfied. Further setting the Spa City landmark head and shoulders above other venues in the state is its ability to deliver just as well with those aspects of any successful event that do not take place at a meeting table or keynote speech. More than a century’s worth of experience as a top tourism destination means Oaklawn has both work and play covered for truly one-of-a-kind gatherings. As the state’s only racing casino resort and home to a Forbes-recommended hotel, restaurants and four-starrated spa, event attendees have the chance to unwind and explore everything that Oaklawn has to offer. Among the most noticeable amenities is the hotel, a seven-story icon towering over the grounds and offering scenic views of the racetrack and surrounding mountains. Boasting 200 luxurious rooms, the high-end experience includes the Forbes four-starrated Astral Spa, a fitness center and outdoor pool, as well as two signature finedining experiences, The Bugler and OAK room & bar.

hether it is an annual association gathering, industry conference or company-wide team-building session, a professional event should feel like just that — an event, not just another meeting. Done well, corporate events are chances for organizations to define their brand, deepen stakeholder relationships and create unforgettable moments for their guests. That is why no ordinary event center or conference room will do — and why professional event planners are already flocking to put one destination on their 2026 calendars. Only one venue in Arkansas offers an ideal blend of high-end capabilities and world-class amenities, and that is Oaklawn Hot Springs. Oaklawn is well equipped to handle the complex needs of modern business gatherings with 18,000 square feet of multipurpose event space, advanced audio-visual technology, and dining and catering options that can be tailored to a group’s unique needs. Flexible floorplans allow organizers to customize the space to their audience, from small settings for breakout group discussions to larger areas for

AMENITIES

 18,000 square feet of flexible event space accommodates up to 1,500 guests  24/7, smoke-free casino  Thoroughbred racing from December to May  Dining options ranging from the casual Mainline Sports Bar to upscale dining options at The Bugler and the OAK room & bar  200-room luxury Forbes-recommended hotel  Arkansas’ only Forbes four-star-rated spa, The Astral Spa

Oaklawn sells almost every inch of space — and every inch comes with the same unparalleled quality that has made Oaklawn a destination for over a century. Oaklawn is already home to some of the largest gatherings in Arkansas and recently became the venue of choice for the annual Broyles Award ceremony — which, thanks to Oaklawn’s unmatched hosting capabilities, was able to expand from a single-afternoon affair into a multiday celebration. What is more, upward of 50 state associations choose to host events at Oaklawn year in and year out. Many groups are so impressed with the experience that they book multiple years at a time, and many also look to rebook for the next year before they have even checked out. Oaklawn has achieved a standard of service that no other hotel, resort or restaurant in the state can match, making it Arkansas’ go-to destination for both business and pleasure. When the goal is to make an impression like no other, the answer is always Oaklawn Hot Springs.

2026 promises to bring even more innovation to the world of event planning with organizers and guests alike in search of experiences that feel more intentional, interactive and visually engaging than ever before. Luckily, these are all respects in which Oaklawn’s reputation is already second to none. Gatherings at Oaklawn benefit not only from the help of a deep and talented team of hospitality experts but from the unparalleled quality and diversity of options available in every corner, from the casino to the cuisine and from the resort to the racetrack. No two events feel the same because no two guests’ needs are the same; that is something Oaklawn has proven it understands better than almost anywhere else in Arkansas.

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arts&culture

Joy

Ode to Jennifer Ballinger finds her bliss through her art

By DWAIN HEBDA Photos courtesy of JENNIFER BALLINGER

f art is the mirror of a creative soul, then to see Jennifer Ballinger’s work is to see her mad, irrepressible genius. In many ways, the creations are flecks of who she is — vibrant, glamorous and smoldering from one angle, playful from another. At the same time, the work is more allusive, the towering size of her creations matching the roomfilling personality she packs, the steely gaze of its subjects a tell-off to everyone who ever made her cast her eyes downward or feel small. “I remember painting a painting one day, and my husband at the time said, ‘What are you doing? You’re not an artist. Why are you wasting your time?’” Ballinger said, her voice sharp as sawgrass. “He was an artist too. He went to the Art Institute of Houston, and he was pretty good, actually, but I really didn’t get any encouragement from him. “I kept doing it because I didn’t care. I wanted to do it. It gave me the mindset that I’m still practicing, you know, because in art, the more you do it, the better you get.” At that, the diminutive dynamo, for whom art is akin to the breath of life, let out one of her round, genuine laughs. “It’s almost like a control thing,” she said. “This is what I have in my mind. I know what I want it to look like. I get fixated. A lot of people think art is all, like, you listen to a lot of loud music or get high or whatever it is and do this art. In reality, no. No, you can’t. You’ve got to have a lot of focus.” History is replete with artists as tortured souls, but Ballinger is not one, even though she probably has as much reason to be as any of them. Born into modest means — “I grew up right behind the Ritz Motel off Asher Avenue,” she said. “If you know, you know.” — she was raised in what she described as a “fear-based apocalyptic sect church,” that shaped her world in ways large and small.

Larger-than-life pieces with big, bold eyes are a hallmark of Little Rock artist Jennifer Ballinger.

I always knew art as being part of my identity since I can remember. In grade school, I just innately loved to draw. I couldn’t help it. “It was super, super exclusive. Everybody else outside of it was worldly,” she said. “We didn’t celebrate any birthdays or religious holidays. We were taught it was all pagan. I sat out in the hallway during Christmas parties at school. I never got to have a birthday party.” What she did have was unfettered access to her late father, Jerry, whose natural artistic ability was dazzling. “He had a God-given talent, just the most amazing artist, and I’m not just saying that because he was my dad,” she said. “He could draw anything from memory. He didn’t need a reference picture, never went to art school, never went to college actually — nothing. He could just doodle anything at any time. He had that talent.” Fate led Jerry to the Dillard’s advertising department, where he saw the staff artists at work. Feeling he could match them, he turned in some drawings that, in short order,

Largely self-taught, Ballinger became interested in art during her childhood despite a restrictive upbringing that could have kept a creative profession out of reach.

aymag.com

They’re not your landscapes and still life or a lot of that stuff, you know? I like to do bigger and bolder stuff. That’s just personally what I like. The feedback that I get from people is they love faces, right? They like big faces. They like eyes, you know? I don’t know what it is with that human connection, but people really like that.

Many of Ballinger’s pieces incorporate textural elements such as gold leaf, metal adornments and fur. got him promoted to a lead artist position. Drawing for the department store all day plus a bone-deep humility about his talent meant he did not do much artwork just for fun, but his daughter would soon learn she had inherited something special from her father. “I always knew art as being part of my identity since I can remember,” she said. “In grade school, I just innately loved to draw. I couldn’t help it. I liked the attention I got from people when they’d say, ‘Oh, that’s really good.’ That really keeps you going, especially as a kid, that somebody liked something you did. I wanted to do more.” Needless to say, her budding passion for art did not square with the tenets of her church, which cast a suspicious eye on anything remotely secular, but when one of her high school teachers bought one of her works, it cracked the door on the possibility of being a professional artist. Over the next several decades, as life and circumstances took her from one end of the country to another and finally back home to Arkansas, she picked up a class here and there, but her artistic ability was something she chiseled, sanded and polished largely on her own. “You learn the tricks. You learn what to do, what not to do,” she said. “It started out my dad had these advertising books, and they were full of these cool images. I started out with colored pencils and would draw all kinds of stuff. I had fun with it. I liked to look at a picture

and draw it exactly. That’s what most artists start out doing to get that skill set down. “Over time, you realize, ‘Oh, I can make this more interesting and do whatever’s in my head. I can use multimedia. I can put whatever I want to on there.’ I drew a picture of this samurai that looks kind of cartoony, and I had it all framed up in this red mat. Somebody said, ‘You need to paint that. That would look cool as a painting,’ so I got a 48-by-60-inch canvas, and I painted that sucker, and I was like, ‘Wow.’ The result is so much more intense. It’s more satisfying. It’s more wow factor.” Today, Ballinger is known for her oversized, slightly edgy paintings, many of them chic female faces that pop like gigantic fashion covers. To some, she lends textural elements such as gold foil and leaf, metal adornments and even fur. Other pieces are intensely personal; one of her favorites is of her grandfather on horseback, a former Montana cowboy who died before she was born. Another, a painting of a resplendent Native American warrior, grew from a chance encounter she had with a man at a diner whose features she found striking. Regardless of subject, her works simmer with intensity and jaw-dropping scope. Ballinger never finished her art degree — “probably never will,” she said — but that is apparently lost on the people who clamber to snatch up her vibrant works or bid up each other for the pieces she donates to charitable causes and fundraising galas. “They’re not your landscapes and still life or a lot of that stuff, you know?” she said. “I like to do bigger and bolder stuff. That’s just personally what I like. The feedback that I get from people is they love faces, right? They like big faces. They like eyes, you know? I don’t know what it is with that human connection, but people really like that.” Having long ago shed the cowl of disapproval and fear she felt for years under church indoctrination and control, Ballinger’s insatiable artistic impulses come out on a whim. Her curiosity and ability to see beauty all around her has led to experimentation, such

Ballinger poses beside a painting of her grandfather Hugh Harrison Poindexter, a Montana cowboy who died before she was born.

Ballinger painted Donald Roger Riggin after meeting him at a diner and finding his features to be striking enough to warrant a portrait.

as her recent foray into taking pieces of driftwood and magnetizing them to hold kitchen knives on the wall. The striking, practical art pieces are at once organic and modern and wholly her. She professed that her creations will never make her a fortune, but she does OK, and she is rich in the happiness that comes from unleashing her own unique language. “Art is fun. It’s so much fun, and it’s something that I don’t think I could live without. It’s who I am,” she said. “I have nightmares about what would happen if I go blind or I lose my hand or something like that. What would I ever do? “I would love to be able to teach people some art skills, some little tricks that I’ve learned through all these years so they wouldn’t have to take so long to figure things out. I’d really like to have a place where people can come and learn, a place where I can show my art, they can show their art and just get it out there. I’d love to let people know if you have this passion inside of you, do it. It doesn’t matter if it’s good to somebody else or bad to somebody else. If you like it, do it.”

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food

New Year, New Food

Small steps lead to big changes when it comes to eating healthier By SARAH DECLERK

a salad to one’s meal plan can make a big difference, she said. “Start out just adding a salad, something green — you know, the things you grew up knowing: something green, yellow, orange, something that grows in the ground,” she said. “That’s the way to start.” One does not have to go to a small grocery store to fulfill one’s goals about eating healthy, however. Steve Edwards Jr., special projects manager at GES, the parent company of Edwards Food Giant and Edwards Cash Saver, said he has worked to add more healthy items to his stores since he started his family. Now with three children, he said he and his wife follow the “80/20 rule” of eating mostly fresh, whole foods while keeping junk food to a minimum. “No. 1 tip I would give to people who are trying to start a healthier lifestyle is just focusing more on the real and fresh foods,” he said. “I feel like that’s just kind of a good baseline for people to start off with whenever they’re trying to look at changing their diet, the way that they eat.” He encouraged families to shop ahead by checking the upcoming store sales and then plan meals based on those items. ChatGTP can help provide recipes based on what is on sale and what is already in the pantry, he added.

Heights Corner Market

or many, the new year is a time for new beginnings, and what better way to start fresh than by eating fresh, healthy foods? For Lou Anne Herget, co-owner of Heights Corner Market in Little Rock, a commitment to nutrition starts with knowing the source of one’s food. “Eat what’s in season, preferably local and preferably a small market where you know where the items have come from,” she said. “We know all our farmers by name and have a really good relationship with them, so I think that makes a big difference.” The market, which has an additional location in the works in Hot Springs, offers meat, seafood, produce and prepared foods, all sourced locally when possible. Eating seasonally can have a big impact on nutrition and flavor, Herget added. In Arkansas, she said, fresh produce becomes available in spring, when farmers start to harvest strawberries, blueberries and blackberries. Heirloom tomatoes come into season in July, along with watermelons, cantaloupes and okra. Corn follows in August. There is no need to worry about eating one’s veggies outside of growing season, she added; many farmers offer fresh-frozen items that do not have any additives. Simply adding

Photo courtesy of GES (Edwards)

GES (Edwards Food Giant & Edwards Food Saver)

Steve Edwards Jr., special projects manager, with wife Lexie and son Elijah, now 3 Prepping meals is important, he said, adding that he and his wife spend a few hours on Sunday cooking for the next few days, which allows them to easily heat up a nutritious, homecooked meal when the children get hungry. Washing and preparing produce right after bringing it home from the store is key to making sure there are plenty of healthy snacks the family will actually eat, he said. Edwards uses mason jars to store raw fruits and vegetables that are washed, cut and ready to go. “Something that I think a lot of people struggle with is that, OK, yeah, I want to be eating healthy, but I’m busy right now. I need convenience, so I’m going to go and stop and get fast food or eat something quick, processed food,” he added. “I think that is one of the biggest things is just falling into the motions and leaning on that fast, convenient food.” Margie Raimondo, owner of Urbana Farmstead in Little Rock and recipe writer at AY About You, said cooking at home not only gives people more control over the ingredients in their meals but also contributes to overall wellness. “You never cook alone because you always have memories that attach you to people and incidents and places,” she said.

Lou Anne Herget, co-owner Photo by Jamie Lee

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Photo courtesy of Urbana Farmstead

Urbana Farmstead “I think that’s part of what happens when you engage, when you start to really be the master of your own food.” She advised those looking to eat healthier to take small steps and start in the pantry. Put all the ingredients on the table, she said, and see where items such as grains, legumes and healthy oils can be substituted for processed foods and saturated fats. Raimondo, whose family is from Italy, said plant-forward eating is central to the Mediterranean lifestyle, which also incorporates regenerative agriculture and spending quality time with friends and family. She said a good rule of thumb is to make sure 70 percent of the food on one’s plate comes from plants. Roasting cut vegetables and meat in the oven and eating them in different ways, such as in a salad or stew, over the course of a few days can be an easy way to meal plan, she added. “Just that little bit of preparation and little bit of simple, simple time that it takes to cook those things, you can actually make three meals out of it, and that’s a really good way to start,” she said. “Little, simple steps can change your lifestyle.” Sharing meals and recipes with a friend can make goals easier to reach, she added. Eating healthier does not have to be a burden, she said, but can be part of a fun new lifestyle. “If longevity makes any difference in your life, if you’re trying to go for longevity, then

Unleashed Health + Fitness

Margie Raimondo, owner

fresh, whole foods is the way to go,” she said. “I can’t neglect that food is one part of it, but focusing on the wellness part of it, you know, cooking together, eating together, walking together, gardening together, it really makes a difference between living and dying.” Stephanie Newcomb, owner of Unleashed Health + Fitness in Roland, is a personal trainer who has written one cookbook, Unleashed in the Kitchen, and has a second cookbook in the works. “Just eating real, whole foods is just the most important thing,” she said, adding that it is also important to eat plenty of protein. She recommended 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight a day. For Newcomb, that looks like a protein shake in the morning; turkey, tuna or salmon on a salad at lunch; a protein bar or meat stick as a snack; and turkey, tuna or salmon with vegetables for dinner. She also tracks her calorie intake using the 1st Phorm app, she said. Having practiced veganism and vegetarianism in the past, Newcomb said consuming enough protein without eating meat is challenging but doable. Some options include black bean burgers, legumes, shakes made with pea protein and pasta made from chickpeas, she said, adding that it is best to avoid imitation meats, which may not have the

Stephanie Newcomb, owner Photo courtesy of Unleashed Health + Fitness

healthiest ingredients. For those who do not know where to begin, Newcomb recommended eliminating one bad habit at a time. For example, she said, stop drinking sodas, and then cut out processed foods. “You don’t need to overthink it,” she said. “I think that people sometimes just overthink things, and it’s really just changing habits. It’s very doable, and it’s just being consistent, just like everything else in life, and just remembering that what you put in your body affects your health.” Logan Duvall, co-owner of Me & McGee Market in North Little Rock and founder of Sowing Prosperity, is on a crusade against cancer. When his son Lander was diagnosed with Stage 4 kidney cancer at age 5 in 2018, Duvall said, he asked medical staff what he should feed his son, and they responded that it did not matter. Lander, 11, is now cancer free, but the interaction set Duvall on the path to exploring how holistic wellness impacts cancer and

Photo courtesy of Me & McGee Market

Me & McGee Market

Logan Duvall, co-owner, with children Lander, 11, from left, Kamry, 10, Rowan, 6, and Emerson, 4

Photo courtesy of Live Healthy Farms

Live Healthy Farms

Betty and John Ballard, co-owners, with children Jack, 4, and Sue, 18 months

other diseases. Now discussing a range of topics on his Sowing Prosperity podcast, he started by reading everything he could about cancerfighting diets. “What I have found five years, condensed, into it — I think everybody’s wrong,” he said. “I think all of the diets are completely lacking the foundational principles that govern all biology. There is no perfect diet for all humans on the planet. Diet is dictated by season, time, the patient. That’s really what matters.” Consider what people living in Arkansas centuries ago might have had to eat, he added. Back then, people might have foraged for seasonally available fruits and vegetables, he said, and they would have had a meat-heavy diet, especially in winter. “You get what is local, you get what is seasonal, and you get what is natural,” he said. “If you’re going to a farmers market or a farmer in January, you’re going to get beef or lamb, raw dairy, eggs, right? If your goal is to get healthy, you’ve got to embrace what governs biology, and that’s light, water, magnetism, temperature and time.” Diet is just one component of living in balance with nature’s rhythms, one of the most important being sunlight, he said. He advised spending ample time outdoors, avoiding artificial lighting and adjusting indoor lights to mimic the sun. Living in harmony with nature allows the

body to process signals in the environment that can promote wellness, he added. “There’s so many things that actually are inputs into us on how we react,” he said. “When we break all of those laws, then that’s actually way more important than just food.” Betty and John Ballard, owners of Live Healthy Farms in Bonnerdale, agreed that healthy eating is just one part of a larger wellness journey. “It’s not New Year’s resolution. It’s New Year’s revolution,” John said. “They revolve in and out, and the reason people can’t stick to [their resolutions] is because they go too hard too fast, and they don’t recognize that it has to be a lifestyle change.” He advised people to eat locally produced, organic foods. Betty pointed out that historically, one person would have been home, cooking for the household. Today, she said, preparing a home-cooked meal can feel out of reach for busy families. “There’s no capacity for that, but food, the preparation of it, the ingesting of it, the whole activity of it as a family is so important as part of our quality of life, and it’s now being replaced by other distractions,” she said. “It’s just a general way of life that we have, and until we kind of step back and really make major changes, I think, in our lives on our overall lifestyle, that part of it, we will always struggle with.”

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food

Hearth and Harvest Soup Italian-style winter soup features green beans, sweet potato and sausage

By MARGIE RAIMONDO // Photos by CAMILLE EMMETT

his rustic soup takes inspiration from southern Italy’s hearty bean and vegetable soups and offers an Arkansas twist — locally grown sweet potatoes that add natural sweetness and vibrant color. Italian sausage, tender vegetables and aromatic herbs simmer in a rich tomato broth — the kind of one-pot meal that warms from the inside out on cold January evenings.

Hearth and Harvest Soup Serves 6 to 8

Ingredients: y 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, casings removed) y 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil y 1 large onion, diced y 4 garlic cloves, minced y 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch cubes y 1 pound green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces y 1 can (28 ounces) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand y 6 cups chicken or vegetable stock y 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed y 2 teaspoons dried oregano y 1 teaspoon fennel seeds y 2 bay leaves y Salt and freshly ground black pepper y Fresh basil leaves, torn y Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for serving y Crusty bread

Arkansas Grown: Sweet potatoes are a proud staple of Arkansas agriculture. Look for locally grown sweet potatoes from B. Chastain Farms at 7879 U.S. 49 in Poplar Grove, where Brian Chastain — part of the 2025 Phillips County Farm Family of the Year — sells directly from his farm stand, which is open 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. to noon Saturdays. Furthermore, Matthews Ridgeview Farms in Wynne, Arkansas’ largest sweet potato producer and boasting more than 100 years of family farming, distributes its Fifth Generation brand at Arkansas grocery stores year-round. Both farms grow primarily Beauregard and Orleans varieties — the traditional orange-fleshed sweet potatoes ideal for this rustic, Italian-inspired soup. Note: While traditional Italian minestrone uses white potatoes, Arkansas sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness that beautifully balances the savory sausage and tomatoes. This soup tastes even better the next day, after the flavors meld. For a heartier version, add a handful of small pasta, such as ditalini, during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Instructions: 1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, brown the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it into bite-sized pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside. 2. In the same pot, add olive oil if needed. Saute onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. 3. Add sweet potato cubes, crushed tomatoes, stock, oregano, fennel seeds (if using) and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, and then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until sweet potatoes begin to soften. 4. Add green beans and cannellini beans. Return sausage to the pot. Simmer another 10 to 12 minutes until green beans are tender but still have a slight bite. 5. Season generously with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaves. 6. Ladle into bowls. Finish with torn basil, a drizzle of olive oil and freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

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food

Building a

Better

Body

Ditching junk, incorporating healthier food items can be a smart goal for the new year

he confetti has barely settled from New Year’s Eve, and already, the gym parking lots in Little Rock are filling up. It is that time again: resolution season. For many of us in Arkansas, the cold January air feels like a fresh start, a chance to shake off holiday indulgences and recommit to our bodies. As someone who has spent years sculpting mine under stage lights and spotlights, I know that resolutions are not just about willpower. They are about knowledge — understanding what is really in our food and why it matters. During the heyday of my former years in competitive bodybuilding, I chased perfection: 4 percent body fat, veins popping like rivers on a map and trophies gleaming under fluorescent bulbs. I thought I had it all figured out — macros tracked to the gram, supplements stacked like bricks — but backstage whispers and postcompetition crashes taught me a hard truth: The real danger was not the weights I lifted. It was the hidden ingredients in the foods that fueled my desire for change. That realization hit me like a punch from Rocky Balboa. After retiring from bodybuilding 15 years ago, I dove into the labels, the studies and the soil under my boots. What I found was not just alarming; it was a wake-up call for anyone grabbing

By RYAN PARKER

an energy drink at the gas station or tossing back a cold one at a Razorbacks tailgate. Our food system, efficient as it is, is laced with shortcuts that sabotage our health due to additives that mimic nature but deliver synthetic punches to the gut. As we transition into 2026, let’s make this the year we swap the illusions for the real deal — starting with the everyday poisons we can ditch and the farm-fresh heroes we can embrace. IT BEGAN WITH ENERGY DRINKS Oh, the siren song of that fizzy sweetness. In my bodybuilding days, I would guzzle them between sets, convinced they were “calorie-free” allies, but science does not lie; those zero-calorie promises come at a steep price. Regular soft drinks and juices flood your system with high-fructose corn syrup, a processed sugar that spikes blood glucose faster than table sugar, leading to insulin

resistance and that dreaded belly fat. A single 12-ounce can packs 140 empty calories — enough to derail a week’s worth of salads if one is not careful. The diet or no-calorie versions are no savior alternative either. Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, sucraloseand acesulfame potassium trick the brain into craving more sweets, disrupting the gut microbiome that regulates everything from mood to immunity. Studies from the World Health Organization link artificial sweeteners to increased risks of Type 2 diabetes and even certain cancers. I remember the fog: postcompetition binges on “light” drinks that left me hungrier and more irritable while my hard-earned muscle melted away. Now, in the New Year, my substitution is simple: electrolyzed-reduced water. Slice a lemon, muddle some mint from the herb garden, or add a fizz from a Soda Stream. It is Arkansas fresh, zero regret, and it hydrates without the hangover — literal or metabolic. Alcohol sneaks in similarly, especially here in the Natural State, where porches swing with sweet tea one minute and pale ales the next. A cold beer after mowing the lawn is a harmless ritual, right? Wrong. Alcohol is a caloric Trojan horse. A standard drink clocks in at 100 to 150 calories, mostly from sugars and carbs that the liver prioritizes over fat burning. Chronic sipping strains that same liver, raising risks for fatty deposits, inflammation and, down the line, cirrhosis. For women, alcohol is linked to breast cancer — for men, prostate woes. During my competitive phase, I would nurse light beers at sponsor events, thinking they were “clean,” but the dehydration and sleep sabotage all compounded, turning recovery into a battle. Quitting cold turkey is not the goal; moderation with a clear understanding is the best approach. This January, trade that evening winddown for herbal teas or a mocktail with fresh Arkansas blackberries and filtered water. The antioxidants in berries fight the oxidative stress alcohol ignites, helping people wake up clearer headed and ready for that sunrise yoga class. It is not deprivation; it is elevation.

IF TODAY I CONSIDER AN ITEM AT THE GROCERY STORE AND IT LISTS MORE THAN FIVE INGREDIENTS I CAN’T PRONOUNCE, IT STAYS ON THE SHELF.

acid? Do not be fooled by the name. The version in most processed foods is not the tart zip from real lemons; it is fermented from black mold or corn and often laced with heavy metals from industrial processing. Yes, it preserves and balances the pH of canned soup or yogurt, but at what cost? Linked to kidney stones and enamel erosion, citric acid a daily drip of acidity the body does not need. “Natural flavors”? The term sounds wholesome, like a breeze through the Ozarks. However, legally, it encompasses anything derived from plant or animal sources, even if extracted using solvents like hexane, a neurotoxin. Those mystery mixes, found in everything from granola bars to salad dressings, can trigger allergies, migraines or hormonal shifts. I once prided myself on “natural” protein bars between poses; it turns out they were flavor factories, not fuel. My epiphany on food topics translated my competitive mentality to another cause. Reading labels became my new competition; if today I consider an item at the grocery store and it lists more than five ingredients I can’t pronounce, it stays on the shelf. Clearly there are habit changes to be made to improve one’s nutritional intake, but the process of doing it is admittedly daunting for many people. Not only must one educate oneself in order to think differently; there is also the stereotype that eating healthy equates to a lifetime ingesting flavorless, unsatisfying meals. I am happy to report that ditching the chemicals and poisons in food does not mean surrendering to bland meals. Substitutions are where the magic happens, and they are easier than a quick set of curls. Swap artificial sweeteners for stevia, monk fruit from a local greenhouse or raw honey from Arkansas apiaries, which contains prebiotics to support gut health.

MYSTERY ADDITIVES ABOUND Next, there are the stealthier culprits of artificial sweeteners, citric acid and “natural flavors.” They are not just buzzwords on labels; they are chemical cocktails designed for shelf life over vitality. Artificial sweeteners, as previously mentioned, mess with the gut. A trillion-strong community of bacteria dictating digestion, energy and even mental health, gut health is often minimized or overlooked altogether in the quest for health. The gut is also highly susceptible to the adverse effects of food additives. A 2023 study in the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health found that sucralose-6-acetate, a byproduct of sucralose, is genotoxic and alters DNA in ways that could promote chronic disease. Citric

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For citric acid, squeeze real citrus — its vitamin C boosts collagen and immunity without the industrial residue. Natural flavors? Make your own by roasting garlic for umami in dressings or blending fresh herbs into dips. The swaps are not just healthier; they are flavorful rebellions against the processed norm. THE GOOD EARTH Here is where my story turns to the soil because avoidance alone is not enough; we must also invite in the good. As a bodybuilder, I learned that muscle is not built on deprivation. Instead, it is forged on nourishment. That is why, after leaving bodybuilding, I turned to our Arkansas farms for dairy, beef and eggs. Locally sourced is not a trend but a lifeline. Industrial dairy from massive operations often contain antibiotics, homogenized fats and hormones such spinach from my plot, a postworkout staple that rebuilds without the as recombinant bovine growth hormone, or rBGH, that ethical weight. can spike inflammation. A glass of ultrapasteurized milk Why this matters so much is because what we eat echoes through might be shelf stable, but it lacks the live enzymes for diour lives. In bodybuilding, I chased aesthetics, but health is the ultimate gestion and can contribute to acne, bloating and estrogen prize. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention link imbalances. poor diets to chronic conditions — heart disease, diaContrast that with farm-fresh prodbetes and cancers — that contribute to nearly 1 in ucts from places such as Me & McGee 5 deaths among Americans. Here in Arkansas, Market in North Little Rock or Live where barbecue reigns and hospitality flows Healthy Farms in Bonnerdale, where freely, we face higher obesity rates than the IN THE NEW YEAR, grass-fed cows produce creamy national average, but we are also blessed JOIN ME. milk rich in omega-3s, conjugatwith lands fertile for grazing, rivers teemed linoleic acid for fat-burning, ing with fish and a community of farmREAD THE LABELS. and vitamins A and D for bone ers ready to feed us right. strength. I now pour the locally As I age, I want the sustained enerHONOR THE FARMS. produced milk into overnight gy to chase kids through Heifer Ranch FUEL THE FIRE THAT LASTS. oats, feeling the difference in my in Perryville, mental clarity for boardjoints and energy. room battles and longevity to watch YOUR BODY IS YOUR HOME. The same applies to beef. grandchildren climb Ouachita peaks. I Factory-raised steers that are fed know I am not alone in such goals, and MAKE IT ONE WORTH corn accumulate omega-6 fats that so this New Year, let’s resolve not to diet but to discern. LIVING IN Start small by auditing your pantry. Ditch the diet soda for cucumber-lime Mountain Valley Spring water. Skip the vodka tonic for elderberry shrub. Read those labels — if citric acid lurks in yogurt, opt for plain, and use real fruit stirred in. Seek out the locals: join a community-supported agriculture group such as New Morning Farm in Bentonville, or hit the Argenta Farmers’ Market in North Little Rock every Saturday. Your body will thank you with increased vibrancy, while your wallet will thank you with savings on doctor visits. Let me share a substitution story from my kitchen, one that has become a family ritual. Gone is the boxed macaroni and cheese laced with “natural flavors” that left us sluggish. Now I whip up a creamy bake with local raw cheddar — sharp, tangy and alive with probiotics fuel inflammation, as well as residues from feedlots. Local, — tossed with elbow pasta from Arkansas grains, broccoli from nearby pasture-raised animals from ranches such as those in the fields and a breadcrumb top of crushed heritage corn. It bakes in 20 Delta, by contrast, are leaner and more nutrient-dense, and minutes, serves four, and clocks in under 400 calories per bowl. The they boast higher levels of antioxidants such as vitamin E. kids devour it, none the wiser to the swap. Grilled with sea salt and rosemary, it satisfies without the Alternatively, try my beef stir-fry: grass-fed strips from Petit Jean guilt or the growth hormones that once made me wary of Farmers’ Market in Morrilton flash-sauteed with garlic, ginger and every steak. kale from the co-op. No soy sauce heavy with additives here — just Eggs seal the deal. As with other industrial-produced tamari and a splash of apple cider vinegar. It is takeout-level fast with foodstuffs, those pale supermarket orbs from caged hens nutrient-packed power. are missing nutrients, low in lutein for eye health and prone These are not sacrifices; they are upgrades. As January unfolds, reto salmonella due to cramped conditions. Eggs from freemember: The stage of life is longer than any competition. I stand taller range Arkansas chickens, pecking at bugs and greens by now not from posing but from plates built on truth. In the New Year, contrast? Yolks glow orange with beta-carotene, packing join me. Read the labels. Honor the farms. Fuel the fire that lasts. twice the vitamin D and omega-3s. I scramble mine with Your body is your home. Make it one worth living in.

Welcome to Brood & Barley

Brood & Barley is a family-owned Gastropub located in the heart of the Argenta Arts District. From Scallop Risotto to Big Stupid Burgers, we have something for everyone. Our award-winning bar specializes in both classic cocktails and seasonal creations. Daily food and drink specials. Happy Hour 3pm-6pm every day. It’s always fresh at Brood & Barley. 411 Main St, North Little Rock (501) 400-8967 | broodandbarley.com BroodAndBarley/ | Brood_and_Barley/#

DEDICATED TO GIVING BACK ... OVER $2 MILLION ANNUALLY IN NON PROFIT IMPACT

Turning clients dreams, into reality.

We’ve done it all for 37 years. 212 Center St, Little Rock (501) 324-0500 haneycontractors.com

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food

Play That

Funky

Music

New pizza place in Argenta promises unique culinary experience By DWAIN HEBDA // Photos by JENN TERRELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Co-owners Brayan McFadden and Tina Bone

here is very little in the world today that truly merits the term “one of a kind,” but Funky Stretch Pizza, a new pizza restaurant soon to open in North Little Rock’s Argenta Arts District, promises to be the rare exception. Equal parts passion project, cultural education and culinary master class, Funky Stretch Pizza will combine flavors and influences seldom experienced in Arkansas, if not the region. Chef and co-owner Brayan McFadden, who for the past five years has wowed diners at nearby Brood & Barley, said he is excited to finally bring the concept to life. “We love Argenta. I mean, we fell in love with this town, and it’s booming right now,” the Philadelphia transplant said. “The building where we’re opening Funky Stretch we’ve had for almost three years now. When this building popped up, we jumped on it right away because we knew we wanted to have another concept in town.” On the surface, the new restaurant flies in the face of a lot of pizza’s sacred cows both in look and heritage. The digs, located at 500 N. Magnolia St. and renovated by Haney Contractors in Little Rock and the owners themselves, was finished into its vibrant brilliance by co-owner Tina Bone, along with her artist mother and daughter. The vibe is tropical —

“

We are going to be the closest restaurant to Simmons Bank Arena. It’s legal to walk with an open container until 10 p.m. so people can have a stretchwich in one hand and a beer in the other and walk off to the concert.

not a motif generally associated with pizza but representative of Bone’s lineage that began on an island many Arkansans have never heard of. “This restaurant is a mix up of the island of Mauritius, which is where my mom is from,” said Bone, who grew up in North Carolina. “It’s an island off the east coast of Africa. The indigenous people are African, Indian and Chinese, and my heritage is Chinese. The food I grew up with, my comfort foods, everything that I know is from the Mauritian side. “The food there is very heavy on curry-type spices, but it’s not prepared as a typical Indian curry would be prepared — a little bit thinner. They use lots of fresh ingredients. This island is on the equator, so tons of fruits, vegetables, everything just light and green. The Asian aspects of it, with the soy sauce and sesame oils and lots of garlic and ginger, are in most everything you’re going to eat in Mauritius.”

— Brayan McFadden, co-owner

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“

This restaurant is a mix up of the island of Mauritius, which is where my mom is from. It’s an island off the east coast of Africa. The indigenous people are African, Indian and Chinese, and my heritage is Chinese. — Tina Bone, For as unusual co-owner arc traced by Brood & Barley over the past five years in terms of an influence as that

developing diners’ palates and opening their minds to something new. In Funky Stretch’s case, that translates to a General Tso’s chicken pizza and a pie offering brie and apples and bacon, as well as a bunch of yet-unimagined combinations to come. “We’ll have stuff for people who really don’t want to go in a new direction. We will do a pepperoni pizza or a cheese pizza and just make it the most amazing pepperoni or cheese pizza they’re ever had,” he said, “but I also think we’ve actually built a pretty good trust among the locals here in North Little Rock for pushing the envelope.” Aside from pizza, Funky Stretch will offer some unique handhelds and sides. The owners promise a version of prawn crackers, a Mauritian delicacy, made without the shellfish to avoid allergy issues. There will also be a selection of handhelds the owners have dubbed a “stretchwich,” an homage to Mauritian street food built with the restaurant’s signature pizza dough. “They’ve extended the outdoor dining district down here to us. We are going to be the closest restaurant to Simmons Bank Arena,” McFadden said. “It’s legal to walk with an open container until 10 p.m. so people can have a stretchwich in one hand and a beer in the other and walk off to the concert.” Talking about such things, the excitement in the owners’ voices is palpable. “I am very excited to see people when they try our food,” McFadden said. “Our tomato sauce, I’ve had that recipe in my back pocket for like 15 years, just waiting for the right place to pull it out. That’s just one more thing I’m super excited to share with people.”

sounds, the backbone of Funky Stretch Pizza is a familiar one — family. Bone’s husband, Jess McMullan, is a cousin to McFadden, and the three of them own Brood and Funky’s parent company, Arkansas Restaurant Concepts. During get-togethers Bone shared the flavors of Mauritius with McFadden and his wife, Chrissy Prange, and his chef brain began to spin. “Thanksgiving used to be my favorite holiday until we moved closer to Jess and Tina, and now we do Chinese New Year with Jess and Tina and the family every year,” McFadden said. “When Tina and I talked about the menu having this big fusion between Italian and Mauritian food, there were a couple things that really stuck out to me that Tina made that I’m like they absolutely must be on the menu.” Bone is equally effusive about McFadden’s Italian contribution, starting with the dough, a 48-hour fermented creation that chef described as “a little bready, a little yeasty.” “Brayan, our Philly guy, who is amazing and creative and all of the things that everybody knows from Brood & Barley, had this amazing pizza dough,” Bone said. “It’s stretchy, and it’s got the nice bubbles in it. We all sat around with our families and made food and ate and were like, yeah, let’s mix this up, mash it up and see what happens.” Versatility being one of pizza’s most endearing qualities — a blank slate that inspires culinary creativity — McFadden said the restaurant will offer plenty of traditional varieties done well to go with the more chef-inspired and multicultural pies. At the same time, he said he expects to track similarly the

2026 Dining Guide

S AVOR

Arkansas W

hen one thinks about great culinary scenes, the mind likely goes to big cities, celebrity chefs and Michelin stars. However, if one stops and looks around, it is clear there are countless unforgettable dining experiences that do not require a plane ticket or a reservation months in advance. An impressive culinary scene has been simmering in Arkansas, and it is high time people stopped and took notice. From casual diners to elegant date night spots, the state offers a spot for every occasion, budget and taste. At AY Magazine, we take every opportunity to brag about our home state, and this year’s “Dining Guide” is no different. Food has a unique way of bringing people together, telling stories and reflecting the history of a place. The following pages highlight 25 cannot-miss restaurants located all across the state and all offering something special that keeps people coming back. While this list barely scratches the surface of the impressive culinary talent in Arkansas, these restaurants have truly carved out names for themselves with their decadent dishes, unbeatable service and commitment to their communities. Every type of food one can think of has made this list — burgers, pizza, dumplings, pasta, seafood, steak. The list could go on. Are you hungry yet? We are! Whether you’re a lifelong resident or only here for a quick visit, we invite you to dive into our “Dining Guide,” taste everything the state has to offer, support the restaurants that drive our communities and savor Arkansas.

The RŌBER Surf + Turf features an 8-ounce filet seasoned with a signature house steak blend and topped with Argentine red shrimp and garlic cream sauce.

iners have had much to say about RŌBER :: Cocktails + Culinary since the restaurant first opened in Benton. Most of it boils down to, “How soon can we get a table?” Led by owner and executive chef Heather Baber, RŌBER’s upscale American fare has brought many new eyes to the city’s budding South Street Entertainment District. Widely lauded for its welcoming atmosphere, quality service, and creative menu and drink offerings, the restaurant became a fast favorite of AY About You readers, as well, picking up accolades in AY’s “Best Of ” and the “Readers’ Restaurant Poll” alike. From plates of succulent steak, beautifully braised short rib, pasta and seafood to expertly curated bourbon flights and unique cocktails, RŌBER offers a sophisticated dining experience fit for date night, special occasions or just treating oneself to an excellent meal.

302 W. South St. | Benton 501.403.1057 eatrober.com RŌBER :: Cocktails + Culinary Sponsored Content

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2026 Dining Guide

The Salmon Kypelos Bowl starts with a bed of quinoa followed by freshly grilled veggies, feta crumbles, expertly prepared salmon, a drizzle of spicy harissa and a side of Taziki sauce.

The Purple Cow’s iconic Purple Shake is beloved by diners of all ages and pairs well with a menu of classic all-American cuisine.

One of many must-haves at BBB is the Cathead Chicken Biscuit, an open-faced buttermilk biscuit topped with crispy fried chicken, melty cheddar and rich sausage gravy. It is a Southern comfort classic elevated.

roudly owned and operated by the Keet family, Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe brings fresh, modern Mediterranean flavors to seven locations across Arkansas. Since opening the state’s first Taziki’s on Little Rock’s Cantrell Road in 2008, the Keets have made the restaurant’s name in the Natural State synonymous with wholesome, scratch-made food, warm hospitality and community-minded service. Each cafe offers guests a variety of mouthwatering Mediterranean-inspired plates, from signature gyros and grilled entrees to crisp salads, family feasts and homemade sauces. Taziki’s offers dine-in, takeout, curbside, online ordering and catering, making it the ideal choice for office lunches, celebrations and family gatherings of all kinds. Vibrant flavors, real ingredients and freshmade Mediterranean favorites make for a good meal. Combined with the Taziki’s style of fast, friendly service, it makes for a dining experience that is hard to beat.

Locations across the state tazikis.com Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe

outhwatering burgers and the famous Purple Shake often steal the spotlight for guests of The Purple Cow, but they are only the beginning. The Purple Cow menu offers something for everyone, featuring fresh salads, hearty sandwiches, comforting soups and chili, and a variety of family favorites. A true Arkansas original, the first Purple Cow first opened its doors on Cantrell Road in Little Rock in 1989. The diner-style atmosphere and top-notch eats made it a fast favorite of the community, and the restaurant’s hoofprint now extends to North Little Rock, Benton, Conway and is soon to open in northwest Arkansas. The Purple Cow ethos is all about community, whether that means welcoming birthday parties and other celebrations or giving back to schools, sports teams and nonprofit organizations through Spirit Night FUNraising events. With catering available and “Happier Hour” from 3 to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, there is never a bad time to visit The Purple Cow.

Locations in Little Rock, North Little Rock, Conway, Benton, Hot Springs and Rogers (coming soon) ilovepurplecow.com The Purple Cow Restaurants 44

ig Bad Breakfast, founded by James Beard Award-winning and Michelinrecommended Chef John Currence, serves up scratch-made Southern comfort food across central Arkansas at locations on Bowman Road and Main Street in Little Rock that are now joined by the newest location in Conway. Known for hearty plates, house-cured bacon, fluffy biscuits, stone-ground grits and chefdriven takes on breakfast classics, BBB offers an atmosphere that makes diners feel right at home. Guests can enjoy everything from indulgent Southern staples to lighter fare, including gluten-free and vegetarian options, ensuring something for every appetite. While “breakfast” is in the name, BBB’s lunch menu is a standout in its own right. Favorites include the BBB Smash Burger, the turkey and Swiss sandwich and the bold, crowd-favorite Screamin’ Demon Fried Chicken Sandwich. Big Bad Breakfast also offers catering and can bring its signature made-from-scratch menu to office gatherings, events and family celebrations.

Locations in Little Rock and Conway bigbadbreakfast.com Big Bad Breakfast

2026 Dining Guide

From classic vanilla and strawberry to decadent blueberry cobbler and death by chocolate, there is hardly a wrong answer when it comes to picking a flavor at Scoops Homemade Ice Cream.

The veal chop at the OAK room & bar reflects the Oaklawn Hot Springs ethos — approachable and playful yet never sacrificing elegance or quality.

This vodka shrimp dish is the embodiment of The Bugler at Oaklawn, blending upscale dining, casual elegance and Southern flair.

relatively new face in Little Rock, Scoops Homemade Ice Cream is a well-known institution in Hot Springs, where ice cream devotees first discovered and fell in love with the business’ slow-churned, homemade product in 2003. With 25 flavors to choose from, the store is sure to carry something for every taste. Servings are huge and come with a number of sweet options for portage, from a traditional dish to regular and specialty cones of all descriptions. Scoops has expanded its footprint with the opening of two new locations in Little Rock in Breckenridge Village and on Broadway downtown. They have also expanded into catering, offering a food truck and mobile ice cream freezers that are perfect for weddings, corporate events, parties and other special occasions. Made fresh daily and slow churned in small batches, the ice cream shop promises to craft a scoop unlike any other — or, as the Scoops team tells it: It’s the real deal.

Locations in Hot Springs and Little Rock scoopshomemadeicecream.com scoops.homemadeicecream

any might say they have seen and done it all at Oaklawn, but unless they have sampled the first-class ambiance and delicious food at the OAK room & bar, they would be mistaken. Located inside the Oaklawn casino, the OAK room & bar takes modern fine dining to a new level with expertly composed plates accompanied by some of the most unique cocktails and extensive wine lists in the region. Showcasing the talent of executive chef Ken Bredeson is this veal chop dish featuring flavorful, delicate meat paired with a rich demi-glace and finished with locally foraged, fire-roasted wild mushrooms and a smoked butter and pomme puree. The ideal combination of upscale dining in an elegant setting, the OAK room & bar is dedicated to providing an unparalleled finedining experience. From personalized service by highly trained staff to the artful presentation of each plate, the restaurant ensures that every meal is a masterpiece. Along with The Bugler, OAK room & bar earned OpenTable Diners' Choice, a Forbes Travel Guide recommendation and Wine Spectator‘s Restaurant Award of Excellence.

2705 Central Ave. | Hot Springs 501.363.4781 oakroomandbar.com oaklawneats 45

estled within Oaklawn Hot Springs, The Bugler promises an unforgettable meal with sophisticated ambiance, impeccable service and, most importantly, delicious cuisine. Diners can enjoy a diverse selection of excellently prepared American cuisine while taking in sweeping views of the historic Oaklawn Thoroughbred Racetrack below. At The Bugler, each dish is a testament to culinary artistry. Director of Culinary Operations Chef Ken Bredeson and Executive Chef Dustin Aipperspach curate a menu that celebrates quality ingredients and timeless techniques, from succulent steaks cooked to perfection to seasonal produce, fresh seafood and more. One such example is the vodka shrimp, which takes an Italian classic and infuses it with mouthwatering French Creole flavor sure to please any Southern palate. The Bugler was one of two Oaklawn Hot Springs dining concepts to land a trio of prestigious accolades in 2025, including OpenTable Diners’ Choice, a Forbes Travel Guide recommendation and Wine Spectator‘s Restaurant Award of Excellence.

2705 Central Ave. | Hot Springs 501.363.4790 thebugleratoaklawn.com oaklawneats aymag.com

2026 Dining Guide

With options such as Big Dan, Outlaw, Garden Patch, Loaded Barrel, Gunslinger, Red Rooster and Stampede, it is easy to see why diners are wild about Shotgun Dan’s specialty pies.

The largest entree on the Doe’s menu is the choice porterhouse steak. Served family style, the meal is best enjoyed with a group — political dealmaking optional.

One of the most popular plates at Kemuri is its namesake Kemuri Roll filled with seared tuna, blue crab, cream cheese, mango, jalapeno, avocado and a crab stick.

t Shotgun Dan’s, more is more — and when it comes to making a mouthwatering pizza, that is a very good thing. Founded in 1977, Shotgun Dan’s Pizza is renowned for its scratch-made crust and huge amounts of toppings. That incredibly craveable base is made from a family recipe that has not changed since day one, according to owner Josh Woodard. The restaurant’s seven signature pizzas have spent decades turning first-time guests into loyal fans. Patrons at any one of the three Shotgun Dan’s locations in central Arkansas can also enjoy customizing their own pizzas or picking from a selection of sandwiches, wings and salads to round out a family-favorite meal. In addition to its long-held status as a go-to pizza destination, Shotgun Dan’s Pizza also gives back to the communities in which it serves. Among the local organizations to which Shotgun Dan’s contributes resources are Providence Park and the Arkansas Alzheimer’s Association.

Locations in Little Rock, North Little Rock and Sherwood shotgundans.com Shotgun Dan’s Pizza shotgundans

ince 1988, Doe’s Eat Place in Little Rock has been a sought-after spot for the famous, the infamous and the normal person on the street looking for the ultimate steak experience. Doe’s is a no-frills diner known for its award-winning, high-quality cuts of beef aged 21 to 30 days and sold by the pound. Doe’s was brought to Arkansas in 1988 by restaurateur George Eldridge, who wanted to replicate the original Greenville, Mississippi, location, his favorite steak place. The downtown Little Rock landmark later became famous for hosting high-caliber guests, from Bill Clinton and team — then on their way to the White House — to local politicians, national celebrities and more. Now run by Eldridge’s daughter Katherine, Doe’s is still the favorite haunt of loyal patrons from all walks of life. Long-tenured staff and a commitment to quality in every respect ensures an unforgettable visit, whether it be the first or the 101st.

1023 W. Markham St. | Little Rock 501.376.1195 doeseatplacelr.com DoesEatPlace 46

emuri is a Japanese and Asian fusion restaurant situated in the Ice House Revival building in Little Rock’s historic Hillcrest neighborhood. Armed with two kitchens, the capital city favorite boasts award-winning sushi, seafood and Japanese cuisine. Opened in August 2014, Kemuri quickly gained momentum as a popular mainstay in the Hillcrest community. Since changing ownership in 2019, the restaurant has remained dedicated to serving the highest quality food and unparalleled service for its guests. The kitchen is led by chef Braylon Wilson and puts out an impressive array of traditional and specialty rolls, flawlessly grilled robata dishes, and the freshest sashimi and nigiri around. Offering dinner service seven nights a week, the Kemuri team aims to delight patrons with delicious menu items, exciting weekend specials and a quality dining experience.

2601 Kavanaugh Blvd. | Little Rock 501.660.4100 kemurirestaurant.com Kemuri - sushi, seafood, robata

2026 Dining Guide

There are few sounds as irresistible as the sizzle of a hot plate of fajitas. At El Porton, that mouthwatering music is joined by a host of other authentic Mexican flavors.

Count Porkula’s Bull and Boar has a quarter pound of chopped brisket, a quarter pound of slow-smoked pulled pork and the restaurant’s signature sauce, all topped with housemade slaw and fresh jalapenos on a brioche bun.

Come for the pizza, stay for — well, everything. Whether topped with classic pepperoni or any number of tasty ingredients, U.S. Pizza Co.’s signature cracker-crust pies have no shortage of fans.

ith no shortage of options, it takes something truly special to stand out among the state’s Mexican cuisine offerings. Luckily, El Porton Mexican Restaurant does just that. From the crowd-pleasing lineup of fajitas, enchiladas, tacos and burritos to other favorites, including quesabirria, nachos and more, every dish is crafted with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Plates pair well with classic cocktails, homemade sangria, and a wide selection of beer, wine and tequila. The quality of the food and drink is matched by the restaurant’s welcome-to-all atmosphere, making El Porton ideal for a variety of gatherings. Whether celebrating a special occasion, hosting a private event or simply seeking a memorable dining experience, El Porton is an ideal spot to indulge and enjoy a taste of Mexico.

Locations on Ranch Drive and W. Markham in Little Rock 501.868.7333 / 501.223.8588 littlerock.elportonmex.com El Porton

ount Porkula was founded by Kelly Lovell and Walt Todd with one goal in mind: to serve the best barbecue in Little Rock. What began as a simple hobby quickly grew into a true passion, and today, the duo is proud to share their custom eatery with the community. Since 2008, Count Porkula has been perfecting its craft to deliver the highest-quality barbecue in Arkansas. That same dedication lives on today at the location on Maumelle Boulevard in North Little Rock. The menu features slow-smoked brisket, tender pulled pork, fall-off-the-bone ribs, smoked wings and scratch-made sides that have earned a loyal local following. From creamy macaroni and cheese and sweet corn pudding to savory collard greens, towering sandwiches, loaded potatoes and classic barbecue plates, every dish reflects the craftsmanship and care that has defined the brand from the very beginning.

10840 Maumelle Blvd. | North Little Rock 501.246.5669 countporkula.com Count Porkula countporkulabbq 47

ounded by Judy Waller in 1972, U.S. Pizza Co. has been serving up old-fashioned, stone-hearth-oven pizzas, along with fresh salads and famous house dressing, for more than 50 years. Whether guests are dining in, ordering out or enjoying cold drinks on some of the Natural State’s best award-winning patios, U.S. Pizza Co. is where great food and good times come together. With 13 locations from Bryant to Batesville and from Sherwood to Springdale, U.S. Pizza Co. has become a beloved neighborhood staple in communities all over the state. The homegrown chain is known for its signature thincrust pizzas, high-quality ingredients and laidback atmosphere. Catering, online ordering and the fact that children eat free on Mondays make the restaurant an even easier choice for a family-friendly, crowd-pleasing meal. Since the beginning, the U.S. Pizza philosophy has been simple: Keep it fresh, keep it local, and keep it real.

Locations across the state uspizzaco.net U.S. Pizza Company

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2026 Dining Guide

From fluffy biscuits to savory country-fried steak, Homer’s serves up real Southern cooking that tastes just like home — made with care and seasoned with tradition.

There is little wonder what the signature dish is here. Whether fried, rotisserie, or served up on a sandwich or salad, fresh-cooked chicken is always the plate du jour at Waldo’s.

Three Fold dumplings are a must-try for first-time diners. The restaurant offers two popular preparations out of more than 100 varieties of the Chinese dish — steamed dumplings and potstickers.

t is not always easy building on a legacy, especially for a place where diners have enjoyed plates of homemade Southern comfort food since 1986. Thankfully, David Connell has turned his father’s downhome cooking concept into a west Little Rock go-to without losing any of the charm — or flavor — of the original. Known for plates of classic fare served as though straight from the kitchen of a Southern grandma, the longtime favorite has garnered its fair share of accolades from AY About You readers. Diners named Homer’s Kitchen Table the best spot for chicken and dumplings and fried chicken in the “2024 Readers’ Restaurant Poll.” From a delicious rotation of daily specials to burgers, steak and hand-spun shakes, Homer’s Kitchen Table will be turning first-time guests into regulars for many years to come.

11121 N. Rodney Parham Road | Little Rock 501.224.6637 homerskitchentable.com Homer’s Kitchen Table

aldo’s Chicken & Beer is known for Southern-fried and slow-roasted rotisserie chicken, classic comfort sides, and a strong beer program. Every chicken is cut to spec, brined overnight and cooked to order — the “Waldo’s Way.” The menu includes sandwiches, tenders, salads, bone-in chicken and wings, offering options for both indulgent comfort food and lighter meals. The concept pairs fast-casual convenience with a full-service bar, making Waldo’s an inviting spot for lunch, dinner and casual gatherings. All sauces, dressings and sides — including macaroni and cheese, collard greens, and hand-cut fries — are made from scratch daily. Waldo’s is also a go-to choice for catering, offering crowd-friendly menus that travel well and are ideal for office lunches and family gatherings. With locations in Little Rock, North Little Rock and Bentonville, Waldo’s Chicken & Beer delivers consistent quality, hospitality and crave-worthy food.

Locations in Little Rock, North Little Rock and Bentonville waldoschicken.com Waldo’s Chicken and Beer waldoschicken 48

hree Fold offers an authentic perspective on traditional Chinese cuisine, specializing in Chinese pastries such as noodles, dumplings and buns. As a fast-casual restaurant, the Three Fold team is committed to preparing meals from scratch and delivering high-quality food and service in a clean, relaxed setting. Fast service does not come at the expense of flavor or quality; everything from dumplings and noodles to steamed buns and fresh-sliced chips is made in-house daily. For more than a decade, the restaurant has maintained the high standards patrons have come to expect while also continuing to refine its practices and techniques with the changing times. With Little Rock locations on Main Street and in Pleasant Ridge, Three Fold stands as a distinctive Chinese dining establishment within the central Arkansas community dedicated to serving food that honors its decorated culinary heritage.

Two locations in Little Rock eat3fold.com Three Fold Noodles and Dumpling Co. eat3fold

2026 Dining Guide

Do not let the name mislead — pastas are not the only great dishes to be found at Pasta Grill. Expertly grilled steaks, risotto and Southern favorites such as shrimp and grits are also crowd favorites.

One thing diners appreciate about Sonny Williams’ is that when they order a steak, they get a meal — such as this classic combination and favorite, a 30-day dry-aged ribeye with loaded baked potato and asparagus.

Whatever you do at Back Home Barbecue, do not miss this brisket. The overnight crew starts each new batch the midnight before, making for a long, slow, oh-so-satisfying cook in every slice.

mong the most acclaimed Italian, steak and seafood dining establishments in the state, Pasta Grill has served scores of hungry Arkansans since first opening in Russellville in 1994. Owners Wes and Suzanne Hall added a second location in Conway in 2012 and later franchised another in Van Buren. The restaurants serve lunch and dinner, in addition to offering takeout and delivery. Pasta Grill also provides large, family-style dinners to go and caters weddings and events across the state. No matter how they choose to dine, patrons at Pasta Grill appreciate a wide selection of delicious made-from-scratch dishes. They offer an eclectic blend of traditional Italian dishes such as scratch-made lasagna and manicotti; Cajun dishes, including shrimp and grits, crawfish cornbread, and jambalaya pasta; sandwiches; flatbreads; savory cheesecake; handcrafted soups; desserts; appetizers; and delicious salads with fresh, house-made dressings.

Locations in Conway, Russellville and Van Buren pastagrillrestaurant.com Pasta Grill

ed by Executive Chef Jeremy Jennings, the kitchen at Sonny Williams’ Steak Room in Little Rock is a case study in doing the classics very, very well. Beautifully aged steaks butchered in-house, well-portioned sides and a no-frills cocktail menu make for a refreshingly old-school dining experience that leaves many a modern concept in the dust. Whether one is searching for a New York strip, a porterhouse or a bone-in cowboy ribeye, Sonny Williams has a great selection to choose from and offers incredible finishes prepared to one’s liking. The restaurant also offers guests a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list, as well as nonsteak favorites such as jumbo lump crab cakes with Nantua sauce. The vibe the famed steak house captures hits all the right notes, starting with the piano music and extending all the way to the menu. Patrons can dine at the baby grand or enjoy the musical stylings of resident pianist Jim Dickerson, who has tickled the ivories at the River Market staple for more than 20 years.

500 President Clinton Ave. | Little Rock 501.324.2999 sonnywilliamssteakroom.com Sonny Williams’ Steak Room 49

atrons in downtown Little Rock welcomed the delicious smell of barbecue smoke earlier this year when Back Home Barbecue officially hit the scene. Situated at the corner of West Markham and State streets, Back Home offers market-style barbecue, meaning everything is made fresh daily and meats are offered by weight. The doors are open until the goods sell out — and sell out they do, from pork belly, sausage and slow-cooked brisket to pulled pork, ribs and more. Back Home also offers scratch-made fixings such as cheesy potatoes, cowboy beans, creamed corn, zucchini salad and dirty rice. Even the desserts enjoy time with the pitmaster, making for twists such as smoked banana pudding and smoked chocolate mousse. Market-style barbecue served with pride, authenticity and true daily freshness — diners would be hard-pressed to find anything similar in Little Rock, making it well worth a trip for lunch or dinner.

801 W. Markham St. | Little Rock 501.819.4227 bhbbq.com Back Home BBQ backhomebbqlr aymag.com

2026 Dining Guide

McClard’s knows barbecue, but the world-famous tamale spread featuring the restaurant’s signature sauce is a cannot-miss dish when visiting this 2018 Arkansas Food Hall of Fame inductee.

Whether one opts for a seafood boil, crab basket or a classic fried platter, there is a tantalizing plate waiting for every seafood a-fish-ionado at this North Little Rock gem.

Brood & Barley’s Meat My Cheese Board is a surefire crowd-pleaser featuring house sausage, pork belly, smoked salmon, artisan cheese, assorted pickles, house nuts, sauces, crostini, pita and Honeyton Farms honeycomb.

auded by fans from the press to the presidency, McClard’s Bar-B-Q in Hot Springs is an essential piece of Arkansas culinary history. Luckily for hungry diners, the restaurant is still serving up sumptuous plates of ribs, sandwiches and more, all loaded with the one-of-a-kind secret sauce that has kept patrons returning since 1928. McClard’s is also known for its tamale spreads topped with generous portions of Fritos, beans, chopped beef, cheddar cheese and onions. The restaurant has significant catering chops, as well, showing up for everything from family reunions and weddings to parties and other large events — including the 60th birthday of one former Oval Office occupant and native Arkansan. Fast approaching the century mark, McClard’s has survived from the carhop era to the credit card era with no signs of slowing down. For those wanting to bring a bit of the McClard’s magic home, bottles of sauce and seasoning can also be purchased online.

505 Albert Pike Road | Hot Springs 501.623.9665 mcclards.com McClard’s Bar-B-Q

estled by an apartment complex, Lakewood Feast, Fish & Seafood is almost completely obscured from view next to bustling North Hills Boulevard in North Little Rock. Because of its unassuming exterior, owner Daisy Bendeck has gone to great lengths to announce the restaurant’s presence. Large red signs with white lettering and eye-catching pictures adorn the windows, alerting passersby of the treasures within. Once inside, patrons will be glad they followed the promise of crab cakes, shrimp, oysters, walleye and more. The menu offers up a little something for everyone, but as the name might imply, the restaurant is a seafood-lover’s paradise. The crustacean-craving crowd will be especially pleased with everything from boiled crab to crab cake burgers to fried crab claws and soft shell crab baskets. Round out any meal with a cold beer or drink of choice — and find a seat on the newly opened garden patio — and it is clear to see why this hidden gem is a mainstay on the map of so many central Arkansas diners.

4801 North Hills Blvd. | North Little Rock 501.758.4299 Lakewood Feast, Fish & Seafood

much-visited spot in the heart of North Little Rock’s Argenta Arts District, Brood & Barley bills itself as a casual gastropub with a truly creative menu. The restaurant’s wide selection of plates for every palate makes it an ideal locale for business meetings, date nights and family dinner alike. Brood & Barley also boasts an array of craft beer, craft cocktails and a carefully curated wine list. A large spirit collection lends itself especially well to the impressive cocktail menu, which takes pointers from the kitchen with its combination of old classics and new creations. A transplant from Philadelphia, head chef and owner Brayan McFadden has been in the kitchen since he was 13 years old. With a vision of a restaurant that brings together culinary expertise and a homey ambiance, McFadden and his cousin Jess McMullen opened Brood & Barley to provide unique dining experiences to guests. Suffice it to say the duo has delivered in spades.

411 Main St. | North Little Rock 501.400.8967 broodandbarley.com Brood & Barley

2026 Dining Guide

Despite the name, a meal at The Grumpy Rabbit is sure to make any diner happy. The blackened redfish is served with crawfish and tomato creole cream sauce over house cheddar grits.

That winning feeling is possible regardless of the final score thanks to a Brewski’s menu brimming with top-notch bar food and drinks, from wings to burgers and every pint of ice-cold beer in between.

The opportunity to try Draft + Table’s braised rabbit ragu is one worth jumping on, served on a bed of fresh tagliatelle with heirloom carrots and whipped ricotta.

he Grumpy Rabbit in Lonoke is dedicated to American-style fare that keeps guests coming back for excellent food and an unforgettable atmosphere. The restaurant opened its doors in January 2021 and has been offering a first-class dining experience that has created a lot of buzz in the local food scene ever since. The menu has favorites for every foodie, from classic sandwiches and hearty Southern sides to mouthwatering steak entrees and — true to its name — an awardwinning carrot cake. Owners and Lonoke natives Gina and Jim Wiertelak have a bold vision for the space — they hope that as an anchor for revitalization, The Grumpy Rabbit will become a central location that draws foot traffic to the city’s historic downtown. Welcoming locals and visitors alike with great food and an irresistible small-town charm, The Grumpy Rabbit team is passionate about shining a positive spotlight on the close-knit community it calls home.

105 W. Front St. | Lonoke 501.438.8005 grumpyrabbitlonoke.com The Grumpy Rabbit grumpyrabbitlonoke

ith two locations, one in Little Rock and one in North Little Rock, sports fans do not even need to cross the river to watch their favorite teams at Brewski’s Pub & Grub. In 2017, Brad McCray shifted his weekend-only nightclub in Little Rock into a seven-day-a-week sports bar. The vision: a place with an all-American, Arkansas roots vibe. He opened a sister restaurant in North Little Rock in 2023. Both places stay busy year-round showing games on more than 30 TVs and a large projection screen. Brewski’s has also been voted No. 1 sports bar by various publications for six years in a row. Fan-favorite dishes on game days include shareables such as nachos and the restaurant’s famous wings, which can be had in lemon pepper, buffalo, Cajun buffalo and honey hot varieties. Also on the menu are street tacos, salads, chili and classic sandwiches such as the Brewski’s Cheese Steak. On Sundays, there is a brunch menu available featuring all manner of favorites done in the signature Brewski’s style.

Locations in Little Rock and North Little Rock brewskispubandgrub.com Brewski’s Pub & Grub brewskispub 51

n a North Little Rock neighborhood increasingly known for the quality of its eateries, Draft + Table’s prime spot on a corner in the Argenta Arts District speaks to its position as a star among stars. A unique atmosphere takes inspiration from locales in New York and London, while Executive Chef Kevin Doroski’s artfully curated menu calls upon the best American cuisine has to offer. Part of Draft + Table’s strength lies in its versatility. Just as the decor combines classic elements with modern flourishes, so, too, does a lineup of unique appetizers, classic sandwiches, soups and salads, and entrees that make it nearly impossible to choose — fried half chicken, braised rabbit ragu, walleye l’orange and more. Whether stopping in for lunch or impressing one’s love interest with a dinner date, pair any plate with a seasonal cocktail and settle in for a truly unforgettable experience.

301 Main St. | North Little Rock 501.441.4044 draftandtable.com Draft + Table Argenta draftandtableargenta aymag.com

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eing a jack-of-all-trades might sound desirable, but in reality, it is far from practical. Everyone has that something they know more about than the average Joe, and being able to share that knowledge is part of what has allowed this whole “humanity” project to be as successful as it has been. Just think about it — at some point many moons ago, a few people were way better at building fires than their friends and associates. Then one person lends a little lighting expertise to the next guy and so on, and before anyone knows it, there is a streetlamp on every corner and a lamp in every home. AY About You is proud to continue in that long tradition of passing along helpful advice, and we have gathered a veritable collection of experts to do so. This year’s edition of “Ask the Expert” covers a wide range of topics, from keeping one’s data safe to picking the right caregiver. Also included are issues related to health, wellness, beauty, finance and more. No matter what one’s New Year’s resolutions might be, these trusted voices can provide the information needed to smash goals and make 2026 the year to finally achieve one’s dreams. Experts include physicians at Conway Regional Health System, researchers at Arkansas Urology and the dentist leading the team at Smile Arkansas in Little Rock. The beauty expert and entrepreneur behind Salon J’adore in Little Rock talks trending hairstyles, while the owner of Small World Big Fun expands on how to travel like a pro and find the best deals on overseas adventures. Meanwhile, James A. Rogers Excavating and Noec Construction “dig into” a few construction and utility-related topics of their own — and that is only a small glimpse at the wisdom to be gleaned from the following pages.

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Internal Medicine Physician • Conway Regional Hendrix Medical Clinic WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST BARRIERS PATIENTS FACE WHEN TRYING TO ACCESS HIGH-QUALITY CARE? Access to health care remains a challenge for many Arkansans, especially in rural communities. Patients often face obstacles such as lack of insurance, physician shortages, long wait times, transportation difficulties and inconvenient office hours. These barriers disproportionately affect low-income individuals and racial and ethnic minorities. Financial limitations — being uninsured or underinsured — are the most significant, restricting access to primary care and management of chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. HOW DOES LIMITED OR DELAYED ACCESS AFFECT LONG-TERM HEALTH OUTCOMES? Delayed or limited access to care has serious consequences. Longer wait times are linked to higher mortality rates, preventable hospitalizations and poorly controlled chronic illnesses. Vulnerable populations, including veterans and the elderly, experience worse long-term outcomes when care is postponed. These delays not only worsen existing conditions but also deepen health disparities across the state.

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WHAT ROLE DOES PRIMARY CARE PLAY IN IMPROVING ACCESS FOR COMMUNITIES ACROSS ARKANSAS? Primary care is the foundation for improving access and health outcomes. Communities with more primary care clinicians see lower illness and mortality rates. Comprehensive, continuous care reduces costs and improves chronic disease management regardless of socioeconomic status. Strengthening primary care is essential for meeting cardiovascular health goals and ensuring better health for all Arkansans. HOW DOES TRAINING RESIDENT PHYSICIANS LOCALLY IMPROVE ACCESS TO CARE IN OUR STATE? One proven strategy to address physician shortages is training resident physicians locally. Doctors tend to practice where they train, making rural residency programs a powerful tool for improving access. These programs have grown significantly in recent years, offering immediate benefits such as workforce recruitment and culturally competent care tailored to Arkansas communities. WHAT SMALL CHANGES CAN HELP PATIENTS GET THE CARE THEY NEED MORE QUICKLY? Small changes can also make a big difference. Offering sameday or next-day appointments, optimizing visit efficiency, and using collaborative agenda setting help patients get care faster. Expanding telehealth — supported by broadband investment — along with alternative care options like phone consultations and group visits reduces unnecessary in-person appointments. Delegating routine follow-up to nurses and chronic care managers, extending office hours, and improving scheduling systems further enhance timely access.

501.506.2747 • conwayregional.org 53

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Ryan Flynn

President • Network Services Group HOW CAN BUSINESSES IN DIFFERENT INDUSTRIES BENEFIT FROM NETWORK SERVICES GROUP? Every industry depends on technology, but not every industry uses it the same way. Business leaders are often under pressure to keep systems secure, reliable and compliant while still supporting growth and daily operations. That is where Network Services Group comes in. We partner with organizations across health care, financial services, nonprofits, municipalities, education and more. Our role is to help leaders align their technology with what matters most to their mission. • Health care: Technology that supports patient care while meeting regulatory requirements. • Financial services: Secure, compliant systems that protect sensitive data and maintain customer trust. • Nonprofits: Cost-effective, reliable IT that removes distractions so teams can stay focused on their mission. Our goal is to simplify technology so leaders can move forward with confidence, regardless of industry.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST THREATS IN CYBERSECURITY? Cybersecurity threats continue to evolve and are becoming more disruptive. Business leaders face risks that can halt operations, damage trust and create costly recovery efforts. Some of the most common threats include: • Ransomware attacks: Systems are locked and operations are disrupted until a demand is met. • Phishing scams: Employees are tricked into revealing sensitive information. • Zero-day exploits: Previously unknown vulnerabilities are discovered and exploited. At Network Services Group, we work to identify and address weaknesses early. Our focus is on prevention so clients are not forced into reacting during a crisis.

HOW CAN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE HELP ME OR MY BUSINESS? Many business leaders hear a lot about artificial intelligence but are unsure how it applies to their day-to-day operations. When used intentionally, AI becomes a practical tool. It can: • Reduce manual work, allowing teams to focus on higher-value tasks. • Support better decisions through clearer data and insights. • Improve customer experiences with faster, more personalized interactions. NSG helps organizations apply AI in ways that make sense for their size, goals and workflows. The focus is on supporting people, not replacing them. WHAT IS THE MOST COMMON MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE WHEN IT COMES TO THEIR TECHNOLOGY? One of the most common and costly mistakes is assuming backups will work when they are needed most. Too often, businesses do not discover a backup issue until they are already in the middle of a crisis. At that point, time, data and trust are already at risk. That is why NSG takes a comprehensive approach: • Implementation: Redundant backup solutions using local and offsite systems. • Verification: Continuous monitoring and regular hands-on testing. • Disaster recovery: A dedicated team focused on fast, clear and coordinated recovery. The goal is simple: When the unexpected happens, our clients are prepared.

501.758.6058 • nsgdv.com 54

Jahon Zehtaban, DDS Smile Arkansas

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT DENTAL HYGIENE? “Taking care of your mouth isn’t as important as taking care of other health issues.” This is a common sentiment that we come across in dentistry, and while it is true that there are other health conditions that can take precedence over your teeth and mouth, it is also true that taking care of your mouth can prevent a lot of other health issues. After all, it is the gateway to your body. We definitely want to be proactive in ensuring that gateway remains healthy and able to do what it is supposed to. HOW DO NO-PREP VENEERS DIFFER FROM THEIR TRADITIONAL COUNTERPARTS? No-prep veneers offer the aesthetic results a patient seeks in as little as two appointments and preserve the surface of your natural teeth. After an initial consultation, 3D scans of the upper and lower teeth are taken. At the next visit, we meticulously place the thin, lifelike veneers for a transformed smile in minutes. Traditional veneers are still a wonderful option for those ineligible for no-prep veneers, and Smile Arkansas places all veneers with unmatched service and quality.

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WHAT ARE ALL-ON-X IMPLANTS, AND HOW DO THEY WORK? The All-On-X technique is a treatment modality that really excites me. Not that long ago, if all your teeth on the top were bad, you would have to have several surgeries and temporary dentures before you could have a prosthetic that was attached to your dental implants. Now, with this technique and the ability to plan the entire surgery and location of the implants, you can have a patient with a hopeless set of upper teeth leave with a brand new, implantsupported smile that stays in full time that same day. It really is a game changer and something I see becoming more efficient and predictable in the coming years. WHY WOULD SOMEONE PICK SMILE ARKANSAS OVER ANOTHER DENTAL PRACTICE? In many general dental practices, it is common to have a lot going on at once, which can make it tough on the dentist to give each patient undivided attention. Here at Smile Arkansas, we like to give each patient the attention that their needs deserve and customize a treatment plan specific to them. The other thing that sets us apart is our technology and techniques when it comes to cosmetic dentistry. Being a part of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry has allowed our practice to grow and utilize all new and proven techniques to give our patients the smiles they desire.

501.821.4200 • smilearkansas.com 55

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Chris Meyer

President, CEO • James A. Rogers Excavating, McHenry & Meyer Companies WHAT IS THE FIRST THING PEOPLE GET WRONG ABOUT EXCAVATION WORK? Excavation is about so much more than moving dirt, although more also goes into that than most people realize. We prepare land for agricultural use, demolish buildings and remove old structures, and we can also improve a property’s accessibility and drainage. We work with municipalities on things like pipe laying and concrete work, and we frequently enhance the properties of our commercial clients through landscaping. WHAT KIND OF PROJECTS IS JAMES A. ROGERS EXCAVATING SUITED TO HANDLE? We offer a comprehensive range of excavation services for all kinds of residential, municipal and commercial projects. We do everything from land clearing and building pad preparation to city streets, highways and bridge construction. We also specialize in school renovations and expansions and can handle complex pipe installations, demolitions and curb and gutter work, as well. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO WORK WITH AN EXCAVATION COMPANY THAT IS FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED? Choosing the right excavation company is literally foundational to a successful building project. Excavation work requires specialized machines and tools to dig, grade and move earth. Accidentally hitting underground utilities, damaging nearby properties or failing to properly slope a site for drainage can cause costly delays at best and a lawsuit or fines at worst. At James A. Rogers, we don’t just invest in our machines; we also invest in continued safety training for our employees. As a fully licensed and insured company, our team is made up of experts who know how to use their equipment effectively while staying safe, on schedule and on budget. WHAT SETS JAMES A. ROGERS APART FROM OTHER COMPANIES? What sets James A. Rogers Excavating apart is our deeprooted commitment to quality, reliability and integrity — values that have guided us for over 60 years. As a thirdgeneration family-owned business, we bring decades of experience and personal investment in every project we take on. Clients trust us not only because of our track record but because we treat each job as if it were our own, ensuring it’s done right the first time.

501.455.2439 • jamesarogersexc.com 56

Cindy Minor

Owner • Small World Big Fun I THOUGHT SMALL WORLD BIG FUN ONLY PLANNED DISNEY VACATIONS? What started as a Disney-centric agency more than 15 years ago has grown to become 50 agents in 18 states planning thousands of trips to not only to Walt Disney World but also to any location across the globe. We plan vacations like luxury river cruises and destinations across Europe, as well as ocean cruises, tropical vacations, and destination weddings and honeymoons. Our mission is to help you check things off your travel bucket list through personalized customer service and attention to detail that no online travel aggregator can deliver.

WE HAVE TAKEN THE KIDS TO DISNEY WORLD. NOW WHAT? Travel with your children to other countries. It is so important to expand a child’s world. It teaches responsibility, gives kids perspective and empathy, and teaches independence. It’s educational, and it creates memories and a lifelong love of travel.

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WHAT ARE SOME IDEAS FOR ADULT-ONLY VACATIONS? To me, the best vacation for adults is a river cruise. Ships dock in the heart of cities and provide easy access to attractions. At each destination, local guides have insights into the history and culture. Because there are fewer people, it’s easier to make lasting connections — and, of course, you can unpack once and every need is taken care of. I can go on and on. CAN YOU REALLY TRAVEL FOR 10 DAYS WITH JUST A CARRY-ON? Yes, you really can. The key is a capsule wardrobe — a set number of clothes that can mix and match — and taking only two pairs of shoes with your socks rolled in. Also, most river cruise ships have affordable laundry service. There’s no need for hairdryers or hair tools; they are provided. Chargers, passports, medicine, etc., can go in a large tote or backpack that can be stored under the seat. Throw in a collapsible bag that will hold souvenirs, and check on the way home. If you must check a bag, throw in an Apple AirTag so you at least know where your luggage is. HOW DO I GET THE BEST DEAL? A good travel agent is going to listen to your vision and deliver the vision that you want for your vacation at the price that meets your needs. The key to this is good communication with your travel agent. Think about this as a long-term relationship, kind of like you think about your financial planner. Your agent knows how to get special offers, perks and benefits that are not available to the public. The earlier you plan, the more you have time to look around. Really, getting the best deal is about getting the best travel agent.

501.831.5211 • smallworldbigfun.com 57

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Katie O’Brien

Director of Research • Arkansas Urology Research Center WHAT IS CLINICAL RESEARCH? Clinical research is the bridge between a promising medical idea and an actual treatment your doctor can prescribe. Every medical advancement, from cancer treatments to vaccines to new surgical techniques, began as a research study before becoming available to the public.

HOW DO NEW TREATMENTS BECOME AVAILABLE? Through clinical trials and through volunteers like you. Every [Food and Drug Administration]-approved medication has gone through this rigorous research pathway. By participating in a clinical trial, you may receive study-related medical care at no cost, compensation for time and travel, and close monitoring from our experienced research team. IS CLINICAL RESEARCH SAFE? Clinical research is one of the most highly regulated areas of health care. Before a study ever enrolls volunteers, it undergoes years of laboratory testing. It must then be reviewed and approved by an independent ethics board made up of doctors, scientists and community members who ensure the study is safe, ethical and designed to protect participants. Check out our list of current trials online, and get in touch if you’re interested in becoming a participant.

Sarah Sherman, from left, Kayla Telano, Katie O’Brien, Stacy McDonnel, Meagan Ripley

501.219.8900 • arkansasurology.com/clinical-trials

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Stephanie Newcomb

Owner, Personal Trainer, Pain-Free Performance Specialist, IIN Health Coach • Unleashed Health & Fitness HOW CAN I MAKE SURE THIS IS THE YEAR MY RESOLUTION ACTUALLY STICKS? First, stop calling it a resolution. Most people fail because they try to overhaul everything at once and rely on motivation instead of habits. Pick one or two nonnegotiables you can do consistently — such as strength training twice a week or walking daily — and build from there. Consistency beats intensity every time.

HOW CAN I INCORPORATE MORE EXERCISE INTO MY ROUTINE AS A BUSY PARENT/PROFESSIONAL/ETC.? Dedicated, structured workouts matter, especially for building strength and staying consistent. When time allows, longer training sessions provide the focus and intensity needed for real progress. On days when that isn’t possible, movement still needs to happen. Walking, mobility work or lighter activity helps prevent long periods of inactivity and supports overall health.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO GET MY DIET BACK ON TRACK AFTER THE HOLIDAYS? The goal isn’t to reset or punish your body; it’s to return to structure. Start with whole foods, adequate protein, hydration and regular meals. For some people, short-term fasting or simply tightening eating windows can be a helpful tool to reduce mindless snacking and create awareness around hunger cues, but it’s not mandatory and shouldn’t be extreme. One solid choice at a time is what brings consistency back.

unleashedhf • unleashedhf.com 58

Courtney Sick, M.D.

OB-GYN • Conway Regional Renaissance Women’s Center WHAT IS CERVICAL CANCER, AND HOW DOES IT DEVELOP? Cervical cancer begins in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. The most common cause of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus, or HPV, a virus that can cause abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix. These changes may take years, even decades, to develop into cancer, but with regular screenings and preventive measures, cervical cancer is largely preventable. WHY IS CERVICAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH IMPORTANT? January is recognized as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month to raise awareness about prevention, early detection and treatment. Over the years, research has developed in understanding how cervical cancer begins, how to treat it and, most importantly, how to prevent it, particularly with the HPV vaccine. The focus is on educating the public about the importance of regular screenings and vaccination.

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HOW HAS THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE HPV VACCINE IMPACTED CERVICAL CANCER RATES? The HPV vaccine has dramatically reduced the number of cervical cancer cases. Since its introduction, it has helped protect against the most common strains of HPV that cause cervical cancer, significantly lowering the risk of women developing this disease. Vaccination has become a key tool in cervical cancer prevention. WHAT ROLE DO PAP SMEARS PLAY IN DETECTING CERVICAL CANCER? Pap smears are crucial for detecting early changes in the cervix that could lead to cancer. For women over the age of 30, the test includes screening for HPV with every Pap smear. For women under 30, HPV testing is only done if the Pap smear results are abnormal. Regular Pap smears help catch these changes early, allowing for treatment or monitoring before cervical cancer develops. IS THE HPV VACCINE ONLY FOR TEENAGERS? The HPV vaccine is now extended to women up to age 45. Research has shown that the vaccine can still offer protection even for adults who haven’t been exposed to all HPV strains, making it an important preventive measure at any stage of life. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR CERVICAL CANCER TO DEVELOP? It typically takes 10 to 20 years for abnormal cells to develop into cervical cancer. This long progression time is why regular screenings, like Pap smears, are so important. They allow providers to catch potential issues early, long before cancer can develop.

501.506.2747 • conwayregional.org 59

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Superior Senior Care WHAT MAKES SUPERIOR SENIOR CARE UNIQUE COMPARED TO OTHER AGENCIES? Superior Senior Care allows clients to have choice and flexibility in selecting the caregivers who best fit their needs. With more than 40 years of service and a network of 27 locations across Arkansas, we offer local support backed by deep community experience. Together, these strengths create a level of accessibility and personalization that other agencies simply can’t match. HOW CAN FAMILIES RECOGNIZE WHEN IT IS TIME TO SEEK OUTSIDE CARE FOR A LOVED ONE? Signs include difficulty with daily tasks, increased fall risk or caregiver burnout. If safety or quality of life is being compromised, it’s time to explore support options. WHAT TYPES OF SERVICES DO CAREGIVERS PROVIDE? Services range from companionship and light housekeeping to personal care, meal preparation and transportation. Each plan is customized to meet the client’s lifestyle and preferences. HOW DOES SUPERIOR SENIOR CARE SUPPORT FAMILY CAREGIVERS? We provide options for respite care, flexible scheduling and ongoing communication. Families can take breaks knowing their loved one is in compassionate, capable hands.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE FAMILIES WHO FEEL OVERWHELMED BY THE CARE PROCESS? Start small. Even a few hours of weekly support can make a big difference. Partnering with a trusted agency helps families regain balance and peace of mind. HOW DO YOU ENSURE QUALITY AND TRUST IN CAREGIVING? We only refer caregivers who have completed comprehensive background checks, received specialized long-term care training and who participate in ongoing education. We also use innovative technology that improves service accuracy and keeps family members connected and informed. Trust grows through consistency, clear communication and compassionate care.

WHAT MESSAGE WOULD YOU SHARE WITH FAMILIES ENTERING THE NEW YEAR? If you’re seeing signs that a loved one is struggling with daily tasks or if you’re already providing support, don’t wait to explore the help available to you. Reaching out can give your loved one the care they deserve and give you the break you need. Remember that caring for someone is a shared journey, and support is always within reach.

501.321.1743 • superiorseniorcare.com 60

Matt Usery

President • NOEC Construction WHAT IS THE FIRST THING PEOPLE GET WRONG ABOUT UTILITY AND HEAVY CONSTRUCTION WORK? Most people don’t realize how much planning, safety and precision go into every job. Utility and heavy construction aren’t just “putting lines in.” It’s engineering, coordination with multiple agencies, ensuring system reliability, and doing all of it while keeping our crews and the public safe. What looks simple on the surface takes a whole team working together with intention and expertise. WHAT KINDS OF PROJECTS IS NOEC USUALLY WORKING ON? We handle a little bit of everything. Our work ranges from new construction, bringing power and fiber into new developments and neighborhoods, to maintenance and upgrades in established communities. We also provide storm restoration, emergency response, underground and overhead line installation, and full turnkey utility infrastructure. If it involves power, fiber or right of way, we’re equipped to build it, repair it or restore it.

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I’M GOING TO BE DOING SOME DIGGING IN MY FRONT YARD FOR [INSERT DIY PROJECT HERE], AND I DON’T THINK I’M GOING TO RUN INTO ANY UTILITY LINES — I’M PRETTY SURE, ANYWAY. WHAT’S THE WORST THAT COULD HAPPEN? The “worst” ranges from knocking out the power or internet for your whole street to breaking a water or gas line to putting yourself in a dangerous or deadly situation. It only takes one wrong shovel strike to cause a death or create a major problem. That’s why calling 811 before you dig is a must. It’s free, it’s quick, and it can save you and your neighbors a lot of headaches or worse.

WHAT SETS NOEC CONSTRUCTION APART FROM OTHER CONTRACTORS? At NOEC, we’re built on experience, accountability and culture. Our crews aren’t just workers — they’re drillers, linemen and operators who take pride in what they do. We don’t treat people like numbers, and we won’t ask anyone to do a job we wouldn’t do ourselves. We care about the communities we work in, we focus on long-term relationships, and we stand behind the quality of our work. That commitment shows in every project we touch across the state of Arkansas.

WHAT TOOLS DOES YOUR COMPANY USE TO IMPROVE EFFICIENCY, ACCURACY AND OVERALL PROJECT PERFORMANCE? Most recently, we added the new Vermeer D24, which I believe is one of only 10 units currently in the United States, giving us advanced drilling capabilities, improved precision and greater productivity on complex underground projects. In December, Digital Control Incorporated brought in the new DigiTrak ARES Locator for a demo with Vermeer MidSouth that we were very grateful to be a part of. Hard work and physical labor make it all happen, but we also know that cutting-edge technology will set the guys in the field apart from other contractors.

501.786.3113 • noecutility.com 61

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Katie Beth Evans

Founder, President • Salon J’adore, TheLuxuryLady.com WHAT HAIRCUT STYLES OR TRENDS ARE YOU SEEING FOR 2026? The biggest trends for 2026 are polished, healthy cuts with beautiful movement. Clients are choosing refined shapes that feel effortless but still look sophisticated. Luxe, blended layers continue to be a favorite, especially for those who want volume and face-framing softness without a choppy or over-styled appearance. We are also seeing a strong interest in tailored, chin-to-collarbone length bobs that are smooth, modern and easy to maintain. Overall, haircuts that grow out well and create a naturally finished look are what guests are requesting most right now.

WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT TO HAVE A TRUSTED STYLIST? A consistent relationship means your stylist understands your hair type, preferences and the look you feel most confident wearing. Over time, they learn how your hair behaves and what shapes flatter you, so each visit becomes easy and reassuring. We welcome new clients every week, and it is always exciting to help someone find “their person” in the salon. A trusted stylist makes you look great but, just as importantly, makes you feel at home. HOW SHOULD SOMEONE GO ABOUT FINDING THE RIGHT STYLIST? Before any service, we offer a complimentary consultation where we sit down, talk through your hair goals and get to know what you are hoping to achieve. We look at inspiration photos, discuss your lifestyle and share ideas that will work beautifully for you. A great match between client and stylist takes only a few minutes to feel, and once it is there, appointments become something to look forward to.

WHAT ARE THE MOST REQUESTED SERVICES AT SALON J’ADORE? Professional blowouts continue to be one of our most popular services. Guests love having their hair washed, blow-dried and styled in a way that lasts. It makes getting ready easy and helps them feel put together for busy days, special occasions or simply because they enjoy looking their best. Because of this, we created our blowout subscription club. For one monthly fee, members can come in once or twice a week and enjoy priority scheduling without needing to check out at each visit. The convenience and consistency make it a favorite, and many members tell us it has become one of the highlights of their routine. WHAT MAKES A VISIT TO SALON J’ADORE FEEL LIKE SUCH A LUXURY EXPERIENCE? The moment you walk into the salon, you can feel that it is more than a place to get your hair done. Each stylist takes time with their guests, and there is a genuine warmth that comes from people who love what they do. The space also features a thoughtfully designed gift shop and TheLuxuryLady.com boutique, offering authenticated designer handbags and accessories for a truly elevated, fullservice experience.

501.830.7707 • salonjadore.com • theluxurylady.com 62

Marshall Moon, CFP Principal • Meridian Investment Advisors

WHAT SHOULD I BE THINKING ABOUT WHEN IT COMES TO MY FINANCIAL HEALTH HEADED INTO A NEW YEAR? Having a firm grasp on annual expenses versus income is one of the first steps to becoming financially secure. The end of the year is a great time to review expenses you’ve incurred throughout the year and make the adjustments needed for the year ahead. For those who are married or in a relationship with someone who has a common financial interest, it’s a great time to start having conversations with your partner so common goals can be set and accountability can be established. WHAT IS SOMETHING YOUNG PEOPLE TEND TO OVERLOOK WHEN IT COMES TO FINANCIAL PLANNING? Enroll in your employer’s retirement plan, especially if there’s a company match. It’s tempting to think, “I can start that later because I need to handle all these other expenses now.” One of the most important pieces of financial well-being is a well-funded retirement. If you start contributing to a plan in your 20s, you can reach that goal with a modest contribution during your working years. Money saved in your 20s will be worth four to five times that at age 65. You can’t make that up by contributing more later.

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I HAVE HEARD OF A 529 PLAN, BUT I AM NOT SURE IF IT IS WORTH SETTING ONE UP. WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES? 529 plans offer three main benefits: Contributions to certain plan providers such as Arkansas Brighter Future 529 are state-tax deductible; contributions can be invested in a variety of investment vehicles for which earnings grow tax deferred; and withdrawals can be taken tax free for qualifying education expenses. Another important feature is that account owners, typically parents or grandparents, retain control of the funds even after the beneficiary, typically a child or grandchild, reaches adulthood. This allows the account owner to decide how and when the funds are used. Many people worry that the young child they are saving money for won’t end up going to college, but the great thing about 529 plans is that the account owner can change beneficiaries to another family member without penalty.

HOW DO I KNOW WHAT SOURCES TO TRUST FOR FINANCIAL ADVICE? As with all financial topics, seek the advice and opinions of people you trust and people who put your best interest ahead of their own. Work with people who are experts in their domain and who can introduce you to the appropriate person when they’re not best suited to provide expert guidance on a particular topic. Lastly, understand the compensation incentives of the people working on your behalf, and ensure it’s properly aligned with your goals.

Investing for a rich life — Realizing what you value. 501.663.7055 • meridiania.com 63

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travel

Stay WhereYou Play

Oaklawn Hot Springs’ hotel sets the scene for a luxurious experience in Spa City By DWAIN HEBDA // Photos courtesy of OAKLAWN HOT SPRINGS

t is a brisk day in central Arkansas, and Oaklawn Hot Springs is buzzing. The racing season has just opened, and the pent-up demand of race fans seeking to experience the storied thoroughbred track roars along in high gear. Some in the throng have been coming with their families every year for decades, while others are taking in the entertainment spectacle for the first time, yet all can recognize just a few steps through the front door that this is no ordinary spot on the map. What catches many people’s attention is the sparkling hotel looming just track adjacent, which has officially ushered in a new era in Oaklawn Hot Springs’ 120-plus year history. Opened four years ago, the Oaklawn hotel was the crowning touch of millions spent in renovations and expansions that also brought online the acclaimed Astral Spa, convention and banquet space, and elegant dining considered by many to be without peer in the state and region. Stephen Greer, vice president of hospitality, said the 198-room hotel is the ideal nesting place for guests as they indulge in various on-site amenities, all built to luxury proportions and all executed with unparalleled customer service befitting a first-class property. “It’s been the vision of ownership all along to create something that really stood out,” he said. “As owners, the Cella family has always been committed to providing guests a first-class experience, be it on the racetrack or in the casino. The things that have come online since have only carried that philosophy forward with a dedication to excellence that can be seen in everything we do not just on the racing side but now on the hotel side, as well.” In short order, the hotel property has earned a recommendation in the 2025 Forbes Travel Guide, the latest accolade crowding for room in the company trophy case. Constructed trackside, the hotel gives patrons a unique and thrilling experience during racing season from the comfort of a richly appointed hotel room or suite. “Built as it is on the turn of the track, half of our rooms overlook our racing side, giving them a view of training in the morning to our big races,” said Dennis Crawford, executive director of hotel operations. “That’s something extremely unique to us that no one else has.” While there is much to see and do in Hot Springs — dining, nightlife and amenities the hotel’s attentive concierge staff is happy to help recommend and handle arrangements for — the truth is Oaklawn has included so many high-end features right on-site that guests never have to leave the property to experience the very best Spa City has to offer. Live music is a nightly norm, from local talent keeping the party going in the property’s sports bars to national touring acts packing the Oaklawn Event Center concert venue. Gaming action runs almost nonstop at the casino, which includes table games, slots and a comprehensive sports book. “We have guests who come in to play, and they may stay one night,” Crawford said. “We have guests who come in with a company event or convention over three days, and they may come back the next month to celebrate their anniversary. Whatever guests like to do — enjoy the spa, play a hand of blackjack, enjoy great dining — we cater to all different types of guests.” No visit to the Oaklawn hotel is complete without experiencing Astral Spa, Arkansas’ only Forbes four-star-rated spa and rated one of Spas of America’s top 100 spas. The ultimate wellness retreat, Astral Spa delivers

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a luxe experience in relaxation and rejuvenation. From the moment guests step through the spa’s grand entrance they are immediately enveloped in a world of pure tranquility. Stunning architecture and friendly, professional staff create an unequalled atmosphere as guests engage their senses in vitality pools, heated pool loungers, needle showers and infrared saunas alongside a robust menu of therapies to please even the most discriminating spa-goer. After experiencing Astral herself, AY Media Group President and Publisher Heather Baker put it succinctly: “As I emerged from the Astral Spa, I felt refreshed, rejuvenated and utterly grateful for the experience. For a few incredible moments, I had reached the pinnacle of bliss, centeredness, and focus in mind, body and spirit.” Foodies from all over the country enjoy similar bliss at Oaklawn’s restaurant options. From fine-dining standout The Bugler to the more eclectic OAK room & bar, there is something to suit all tastes. Both restaurants are Forbes Travel Guide-recommended and Wine Spectator-awarded, and each was named an OpenTable Diners’ Choice for 2025. Crawford said while it is easy for a property to pour into its finer-dining options, Oaklawn gives the same attention to detail and insistence on quality to its more casual dining options throughout the property, including Big Al’s Diner & Deli, Mainline Sports Bar, and Silks Bar and Grill, each with its own vibe and accompanying entertainment options. And there’s more. “We also have Pop’s Lounge on our casino floor, which is 21 and over, live music every Friday and Saturday,” he said, “and then we have two sports bars on property, one in the casino and one outside the casino. One of

It’s been the vision of ownership all along to create something that really stood out. As owners, the Cella family has always been committed to providing guests a first-class experience, be it on the racetrack or in the casino. — Stephen Greer, vice president of hospitality

them, Mainline Sports Bar, offers Topgolf swing suites, and we feature ax throwing there, as well. Plus, it’s just a great place to watch the Arkansas Razorbacks or whoever your favorite team is.” “We’ve got just a phenomenal setup here for anything a guest might like to do where they don’t have to leave us to have a great

time,” Greer added, “but if they do, we will shuttle them anywhere in town that they want to go. We have partnerships with marinas if they want to rent a boat. We have partnerships with golf courses if they want to go play golf.” Without question, the thing that makes the Oaklawn hotel go is the helpful staff, hand picked and trained to exact standards.

With a hotel, spa and restaurants recommended by Forbes, not to mention the racetrack and a smoke-free casino, everything guests need is on-site at Oaklawn Hot Springs.

“We reached out throughout the United States to find the talent we needed, people who have a skill that we’re looking for,” Greer said. “Then once people get here, they undergo weekly training going through a different section of Oaklawn operations. That will never end; it would be easy to sit back and admire what we’ve done thus far, but we are looking to be the premier luxury destination, and that’s not something where you can just rest on your laurels. Our slogan around here regarding customer service is, ‘How can we keep getting better?’” “I would agree with that, 100 percent,” said Crawford, who has worked Forbes-awarded properties in Detroit and Houston during his career. “The staff that we have here and the Southern hospitality that they show is definitely something that we take pride in. Now it’s a matter of elevating it. Our goal is

to take that pride and that spirit of hospitality and bring that up to the next level.” This commitment to constant improvement is not limited to any one area of operations in the hotel but is something shared at all levels of the Oaklawn property. One need only spend some time there to see that philosophy is constantly in action from the housekeeping staff through the C suite. “When I came here, bar none, the most surprising thing to me was the level of support we have from the Cella family and the inclusion of all the team members, from all the leaders on property all the way down to the line level team,” Crawford said. “Everyone is more so family, and that’s a direct imprint of the Cellas. You walk down the hallway here, and you’ll see Louis Cella and his wife, and you’d never know they owned the property because

they’re just as involved in the guest experience as a standard employee. “To me, that goes a long way. It shows that they will stop at nothing to make sure the staff has everything they need to make sure that we’re presenting the best product for our guests.” aymag.com

aesthetics

Best Face Forward W

ith the dawn of the new year, millions of people around the world are looking in the mirror and resolving to change what they see. Arkansas is blessed to have a robust professional community of aestheticians and other beauty professionals offering the latest in surgical and nonsurgical rejuvenating care. The Natural State is equally fortunate to enjoy a plethora of medical spas that support both wellness and appearance with the belief that looking one’s best starts with feeling one’s best. In the following pages, AY About You reveals the latest in beauty treatments, be it for the face, the body or from within. Beauty experts from across the state share what is new in the industry, as well as the latest advancements in traditional aesthetic treatments such as Botox, chemical peels, dermal fillers, microdermabrasion, collagen induction therapy and more. Plus, we talk to cosmetic surgeons and dermatologists about new advancements in their fields. Here’s to your best year yet!

aesthetics

New, Now

What’s What’s Liven up the new year with nuanced health treatments

By MARY LESIEUR

A client receives a headspa treatment at Stilo in Little Rock (Photo courtesy of Stilo)

s individuals brace themselves to enter another new year, they plot nuanced pathways to revitalization that will not vanish by February. The constant and undying demands of everyday life can drain people mentally and physically, so replenishing one’s mental and physical health can be a meaningful journey for 2026. Many are not looking for drastic changes and are finding they can obtain and seek those goals within their own communities. Arkansas’ aesthetics industry has been reinventing the strides towards revival not Jennifer Jones Kayla Sanders Holly Balogh just in appearance but in wellness. Holly Balogh, owner of Recover, Restore, Revive in Benton, has witnessed the full benefits of prioritizing her patients’ overall health. Rather than ofBalogh said the treatment pairs well with red-light therapy or the fering a “one-size-fits-all” experience, Balogh said her goal is to find the infrared sauna, which enhance the effects to the fullest extent. The fireideal remedy for each patient. and-ice combination helps the body heal more efficiently and intensifies “We focus on treating patients from the inside out, top to bottom, cellular recovery. rather than offering one-off treatments,” Balogh said. “You come to us Full-spectrum light therapy can target numerous patient goals and with your goals, and we help build the plan.” varies depending on the patient’s ideal outcome. The treatment utilizes Alongside her husband, Dr. Julius Balogh, Holly Balogh opened Reblue, red, yellow, amber and infrared light. cover, Restore, Revive to offer a personalized approach to rejuvenation. “Each protocol is medically designed,” Balogh said. “It’s all about With more than 60 in-house service options, the Benton clinic has rechoosing the right wavelengths for what the body actually needs.” written the med spa narrative. Meanwhile, Kayla Sanders, owner of Beauty Boss Co., is treating Within the recovery studio, one can choose from red-light therapy, hormonal struggles one peptide at a time. Whether a patient is navigatcryotherapy or peptide blends to alleviate poor circulation, reduce ining a hormone imbalance after menopause or merely seeking an energy flammation and boost overall wellness. One of Balogh’s most popular boost, Sanders carefully crafts powerful peptide combinations to perofferings is whole-body cryotherapy, which differs significantly from sonalize treatment plans to improve overall living. liquid nitrogen chambers. With a core focus on hormone health, Sanders and her team address “Cryotherapy creates a shock response in the body that constricts a variety of issues, including mood shifts, sleep disturbances, fatigue and blood vessels and traps toxins,” Balogh said. “When you warm back up, weight changes. The services cater to a wide range of patients, from youngthose vessels dilate and flush everything out. It’s incredibly effective for er adults who feel depleted to aging adults whose health has declined. inflammation, recovery, circulation and overall energy.” “Our goal is to help people function optimally at whatever stage of life they’re in,” Sanders said. “It really starts with making the phone call and coming in for the consult.” At Beauty Boss, peptides can support energy levels, body composition, joint health and longevity. Sanders’ peptides are sourced through licensed U.S. compounding pharmacies and are prescribed after thorough patient evaluations. She said many of her clients combine several individual peptide treatments for specific desired results, which can be life changing. “One of our patients came in for a follow-up, and she was in tears,” Sanders said. “She told us, ‘I feel like playing with my kids after work again,’ and said that was something she hadn’t felt capable of since she was pregnant with her first child. Being able to make that kind of difference so quickly is incredibly meaningful for us.” Sanders and her team cater to almost every need, and her company also offers a wide range of aesthetic treatments. The company’s broad menu of services allow the team to treat myriad patients, prioritizing convenience without compromising quality. At Stilo, a Little Rock head spa, owner Jennifer Jones emphasizes the importance of mental health and tranquility in every appointment. The entrepreneur brings a new light to mixing massage-like techniques with meditation. Through her Transcendent service, Jones guides her clients into a “level of relaxation most people can’t find anywhere else.” “I created the Transcendent to be, ultimately, everything I personally love in one experience,” Jones said. “It’s not body work — it’s more like soul work.” The 90-minute journey begins on a padded mat with guided breathwork and meditation, followed by facilitated stretching and gentle yoga-style movement designed to open the body and release stored energy. By the time clients lie down for the head spa portion, Various new treatments are available at Recover, Restore, the nervous system has already begun to unwind. Revive in Benton (Photo courtesy of Recover, Restore, Revive)

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The Transcendent service at Stilo is designed to build relaxation layer by layer (Photo courtesy of Stilo) “Everything that we experience in our day-to-day life is an exchange of energy, and we hold all of that energy in our body on a cellular level,” Jones said. Clients remain fully covered and cocooned in a private room with dim lighting, binaural beats and intentional silence. The experience builds layer by layer, ending with a waterfall halo and sound bath. “It’s amazing how powerful that is, especially for women, to be told, ‘This next 90 minutes is about you,’” Jones said. “The Transcendent is a journey. We bring you in, calm you down and then build layer by layer into deeper relaxation.” While Transcendent has become Stilo’s most talked-about offering, the spa also provides customized head spa treatments, scalp therapy, therapeutic shampoo rituals and a variety of add-on experiences. “This is much greater than just beauty services,” Jones said. “We’re holding space for people to leave everything at the door. We’re vessels, conduits for God’s love, and that’s why I created these experiences.” Although some might face a level of skepticism when learning about PEMF mats, health fanatic and AY About You contributor Ryan Parker had none at all. After hearing health influencer Gary Brecka describe how PEMF played a role in UFC head Dana White’s recovery from metabolic syndrome, Parker began researching the science behind pulsed electromagnetic fields and their connection to grounding. “I learned the basics of pH while researching grounding, where the potential of hydrogen helps our body achieve better health,” Parker said.

“Grounding and PEMF mats both harness electromagnetic principles to boost wellness.” PEMF mats are often described as a modern stand-in for grounding or standing barefoot on grass. By mimicking the earth’s natural electromagnetic frequencies, the mats offer a convenient way to access those benefits indoors regardless of the elements that lurk outdoors. “PEMF therapy simulates standing in the grass barefoot for those that don’t have access,” Parker said. “I ground every morning in the grass unless it’s rainy or cold, and I use the PEMF mat.” Parker emphasized that PEMF and grounding both work through electromagnetic principles that support the body’s natural rhythms. In his experience, consistent use led to pain relief, improved sleep quality, better circulation and increased energy. PEMF mats, he said, are best suited for people seeking efficiency and consistency. For those on a budget, Parker suggested grounding outdoors when possible. “If you’re really trying to bio-hack your brain and body and get the highest return on investment, then buy a PEMF mat and use it daily,” he said. Whether a 90-minute relaxer or a peptide cocktail, local entrepreneurs and medical professionals are reshaping the way people revitalize. The busy buzzing of overstimulating and draining surroundings calls for nuanced approaches to relaxation that could lead to better heath and a more centered existence.

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aesthetics

Stigma No More Arkansas plastic surgeons cite trend toward subtle By MARK CARTER

o longer viewed as the stigma-inducing practice it was considered just a generation ago, plastic surgery is becoming more common, more advanced and more subtle. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported that more natural results and the advance of cutting-edge treatments make up most of the industry buzz heading into a new year. Among the trends are: • Smaller breast implants • A new, more natural-looking and -feeling implant from Motiva • Using a patient’s own platelets for antiaging injections and fat transfers • Younger patients seeking facelifts • The “Miami thong lift,” a combination cellulite treatment and conservative buttocks lift • A focus on aesthetics through advanced technology such as 3D imaging • Combination procedures to address multiple concerns during a single surgery Dr. Zachary Young, a double-board-certified plastic surgeon at Arkansas Plastic Surgery in Little Rock, said his practice is seeing much the same — a focus on subtle cosmetic changes that are very natural. From a surgical standpoint, “mommy makeovers” with abdominoplasty, or a tummy tuck, and combined breast enhancements continue to be popular with clients, he said. “The popularity of GLP-1 medications with resultant massive weight loss have also seen an increase in comprehensive body contouring of the arms, legs, torso and chest,” he added. Technology is constantly changing the game and doctors must keep their heads on a swivel to keep up. Young said his most popular procedures are breast and body contouring,

breast reduction, and breast reconstruction. About 90 percent of his practice now entails outpatient surgery as tech evolves. Surgeons must stay aware, however, of technological advances that do not actually advance the practice of plastic surgery. “Technology in plastic surgery continues to evolve on both the surgical and nonsurgical fronts,” he said. “With regard to breast surgery, there continue to be advances and technological changes to implants, along with surgical technique. Unfortunately, with any of these ‘advancements,’ time will tell if they truly do offer long-term benefit or if they are just another way to do the same thing. That is why continued rigorous scientific research should be continued over time to ensure that we are giving our patients the best treatments possible and making adjustments where necessary. There are always advances in laser and minimally advanced treatments.”

Dr. Eric Wright, a board-certified plastic surgeon at Little Rock’s Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa, treats patients from all over Arkansas. He said he is seeing more patients prioritize the treatment of aging and sun-damaged skin conditions, noting that he is able to do more in that area through the medical and aesthetic laser technologies from Silicon Valley-based Sciton. “A medical-grade skincare regimen can help, but to improve and reverse years of aging changes, laser resurfacing has become the go-to,” he said. “Now that we have numerous lasers within the Sciton platform, we can address all aspects and varying downtime for recovery. After we have completed the corrective phase, we continue with the maintenance phase for long-term results. Though neurotoxins are the most common nonsurgical procedure performed, skin resurfacing has increased significantly.” Wright added that more of his patients are adding deeper facial laser resurfacing procedures to their scheduled breast, body or facial surgeries, since they are already planning a recovery. Wright’s most common surgical procedures continue to be body contouring, especially after weight loss. “Traditionally, we have seen breast and abdominal surgeries after pregnancy,” he said. “However, with the use of weight loss medications — GLP-1 medications — we are seeing patients present for surgery beyond breast and abdomen. They are interested in face, arm and thigh surgeries along with breast and body.” Wright said advancing technology continues to allow for “better results with less downtime.” For example, laser devices for skin resurfacing are combining modalities to improve outcomes with less healing downtime. “Sciton Halo Tribrid is the first and only triple-wavelength resurfacing laser, which allows for complete skin renewal,” he said. “We can treat a patient in a single session in less than 30 minutes compared to what used to take several clinic visits.”

"A medical-grade skincare regimen can help, but to improve and reverse years of aging changes, laser resurfacing has become the go-to." — Dr. Eric Wright

Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa

Since he launched his private practice in 1996, the percentage of male patients Shewmake treats for aesthetic reasons rose from 5 percent to 20 percent. Dr. Zachary Young Wright noted other industry advancements: new microcoring treatments, or removal of microcores of excess skin, from Ellacor, which recently obtained U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval for treatment of fullbody skin laxity. Other advancements, including radiofrequency energy devices such as that from Renuvion, tighten skin without the need for surgical excision. Wright said 100 percent of his procedures are outpatient. Many of the nonsurgical procedures are performed in the clinic while surgeries are performed at his Quad A-accredited surgical facility, Plastic Surgery Suites of Arkansas. Plastic surgery is being looked at more broadly as a treatment as opposed to a vice. Dr. Kris Shewmake, a board-certified plastic surgeon and owner of Shewmake Plastic Surgery in Little Rock, said the old stigma associated with plastic surgery is fading and advancements in technology are changing the game. One of them has come in laser resurfacing, which he called “one of the most incredible procedures I’ve seen in the last 30 years regarding facial tightening and correction of deep wrinkles around the mouth.” His office also brought in hyperbaric oxygen treatment, which for Shewmake has represented a “huge advance.” “This is not a new thing, but the use in wellness — enhancements in mental acuity, concentration and energy levels — has been really neat to see,” he said. “Historically, hyperbaric oxygen has been used for chronic diabetic wounds and complicated situations where the vascular supply has been compromised. Now it’s moving very quickly into the aesthetic world. I use this not only on my laser resurfacing patients but also on my facelift patients, and it significantly decreases their swelling and downtime.”

Shewmake noted advances in tech, including the Sofwave nonsurgical skin tightening and “go-to” products for sun damage, wrinkles, skin tightening and texture, such as BroadBand Light, MOXI, HALO and Erbium partial/full facial resurfacing lasers. One of the most interesting technologies he now employs is a robot assisted by artificial intelligence that helps with hair and eyebrow transplants, he added. Shewmake said his practice is about 90 percent facial — facelifts, brow and eyelid surgery, lip shortening procedures, fat grafting and facial laser resurfacing procedures. It also offers face and body contouring — primarily abdominoplasty, aka tummy tucks — and body lifts for patients who have had significant weight loss. “Weight loss affects the face just as much as the body,” he said, “so, I’m seeing a lot of new patients for facial surgery resulting from weight loss, even in younger patients.” Another industry trend that continues to rise in Arkansas and across the U.S. is the number of men seeking aesthetic procedures. Since he launched his private practice in 1996, the percentage of male patients Shewmake treats for aesthetic reasons has risen from 5 percent to 20 percent. “We are absolutely seeing more men,” Shewmake said. “Finally, we are seeing more men for all these things. Some of my best results are in men.” Young said men are being motivated in part to seek improvements in their aesthetic appearance by the rise of medically managed weight-loss drugs. Wright agreed that more men are seeking out plastic surgery. “The majority of men are looking to regain their body after weight loss,” he said. “We can achieve this through liposuction and body contouring.”

Dr. Eric Wright

Dr. Kris Shewmake

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aesthetics

Beat the Arkansas

Winter dermatologists talk tips, trends

Skin Blues and treatments By ALEX HARDGRAVE

ith heaters running on high inside and dry, cold winds blowing outside, wintertime creates the right environment for irritated skin, even in the South. Nevertheless, Arkansas dermatologists said people can still meet their resolutions for healthier skin this month and year-round with just a few simple changes to their lives. Dr. Hayden Franks, owner of Franks Dermatology in Little Rock, said alongside the lower humidity in the air, hotter showers and people drinking less water when it is colder out all amounts to drier skin. “The skin is 70 percent water, so drinking more water is going to hydrate and really be a very nice thing you can do for the skin,” Franks said. A few other simple changes or additions can make dry skin look and feel better too. Along with drinking more water, everyone should incorporate a moisturizer, sunscreen, face wash and a retinol product into their skincare routine, said Matthew Reynolds, a dermatology physician assistant at Arkansas Dermatology in North Little Rock. However, there are so many different options when it comes to skincare items that it can be difficult to know what to look for and what to avoid in products. Reynolds said heavy fragrances can often be irritating, and he also urged people to be wary of heavy preservatives in skin products. Those preservatives include propylene glycol, which can cause irritation and even allergic contact dermatitis in some people. Overall, the key is to have a simple skincare routine that uses safe products and is easy to stick to every day. Reynolds said one of the

We think more about skin cancer in the summer, but skin cancer doesn’t take a break. — Dr. Hayden Franks Franks Dermatology

biggest mistakes he often sees people make when it comes to their skincare is using too many products. “More is not better,” he said. He suggested starting children on a routine with gentle products at age 8 or 9 to begin to set healthy skincare habits for when they become teenagers. Patients’ routines should vary with age, said Dr. Andrea Mabry at Pinnacle Dermatology in Little Rock; as skin matures, focusing on hydration is even more important because the skin’s natural hydration declines.

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Anytime you notice a new, changing or persistent issue with your skin, hair or nails, it’s worth seeing a dermatologist. — Dr. Andrea Mabry Pinnacle Dermatology

“Your routine should evolve with your skin, just like your health does,” she said. Another often-overlooked skin care habit is using sunscreen, which is needed no matter how scarce the sun is in winter months. Reynolds said the best types of sunscreens are those that have a “physical block” such as titanium dioxide, as opposed to a chemical block. Dr. Missy Clifton, owner of Premier Dermatology, Aesthetics and Wellness in Bentonville, said chemical-based sunscreen can cause irritation. She advises patients to look for a sunscreen that is mineral based. Franks said people should ideally avoid the sun as much as possible or wear hats no matter the season. “We think more about skin cancer in the summer, but skin cancer doesn’t take a break,” he said. Another key component of overall skin health is enlisting the help of a dermatologist, but with all the selfhelp steps a person can take, how will they know when it is time to seek one out? “Anytime you notice a new, changing or persistent issue with your skin, hair or nails, it’s worth seeing a dermatologist,” Marby said. “That includes rashes, acne that isn’t improving, changing moles or any

spot that won’t heal.” She said regularly visiting the dermatologist becomes even more important as a person ages because risk of skin cancer and age-related skin changes increase with years of sun exposure. Even for those who are diligent about sun protection, there is still some risk of skin cancer. According to the Dermatology Education Foundation, more than 5 million cases are diagnosed in the U.S. every year, which makes skin cancer the most common form of cancer. However, most forms are easily treated if caught before they reach advanced stages. “Early detection truly saves lives,” Mabry said. Skin cancer treatment, as well as other skin disease treatments, are becoming easier and more effective through clinical trials. Arkansas Research Trials in North Little Rock, in partnership with Arkansas Dermatology, has a center where volunteers test some of the newest methods of treatments for dermatology’s most common issues, Reynolds said. “People are really focused on health right now,” he said. Marby also noted that trend and said her patients are becoming more aware of the wide range of factors that can impact skin beyond aging and sun exposure. They include stress, diet, alcohol use, smoking and amount of sleep.

People are really focused on their health right now — Matthew Reynolds Arkansas Dermatology

Since there are so many factors that impact skin health, Clifton said she prefers to take a holistic approach to dermatology. Triple-board-certified in dermatology, laser surgery, and antiaging and regenerative medicine, she said that philosophy aligns with what she sees as the biggest trend among her patients right now. “The skin is the body’s largest organ, so we take a holistic approach to skin health at Premier Dermatology,” she said. “Optimizing overall health is the biggest trend in skin care now, not just putting lotions and potions on the surface of the skin. If you’re not healthy overall, then your skin is certainly going to suffer.” At Clifton’s clinic, a wide range of treatments are on tap that work beyond the skin, such as medical weight loss options, hormone replacement therapy and innovative peptide therapies. One treatment that is becoming more common at her practice is called Sofwave, which can help tighten loose skin, especially after weight loss. Clifton’s team also offers many different solutions for people to feel more confident about the appearance of their skin, from injectables that smooth wrinkles to lasers that erase hyperpigmentation and facials that leave the face glowing. “There are a lot of good options out there for people trying to find ways to help themselves,” she said. Premier is not alone in its menu of facial aesthetics offerings. Franks Dermatology’s companion business, SKN at Franks Dermatology, offers laser treatments for everything from leg veins to acne and unwanted hair. Both Arkansas Dermatology and Pinnacle also offer many of the same or similar cosmetic procedures, as well. “[At SKN], what is important to us is that patients go to a provider that is extremely well trained in those procedures,” Franks said. The experts agreed that while there are great treatments and products on the market to help patients achieve the skin they want, it is important to remember everyone’s skin is different. They recommended seeking out a professional who can tailor treatments that will be most effective for each individual. “A regimen that we might create for you will be very different from the regimen that we might create for your mom or your sister or your brother,” Clifton said.

“Optimizing overall health is the biggest trend in skin care now, not just putting lotions and potions on the surface of the skin. If you’re not healthy overall, then your skin is certainly going to suffer.” — Dr. Missy Clifton

Premier Dermatology, Aesthetics and Wellness

DJL Health Strategies: A Better Year Starts Behind the Scenes A new year can mean a fresh start both in the personal and professional worlds. That may look like scheduling a medical appointment one has been putting off, freshening up one’s home or office space, or even figuring out how to fix a logistics issue that has been causing problems at the company since the summer. When it comes to making life better for both leaders, practitioners and patients in the health care industry, DJL Health Strategies is the name to remember this year. Founder and principal consultant Kassidy Hill-Howard has worked in many health care settings and frequently bore witness to the gaps between the kind of care providers wanted to offer and how systems worked — or, more often, did not work — for their patients. The company specializes in a wide range of nonclinical consulting designed to revamp internal processes and structural supports at health care organizations looking to improve their quality of care and company culture.

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This new year and always, DJL is committed to helping guide and grow the companies who keep communities thriving — because people deserve better care.

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aesthetics

This is the Year Been thinking about beauty treatments? There is no time like the present By DWAIN HEBDA

he world of aesthetics is expanding rapidly, giving more and more people the opportunity to reverse the signs of aging and address those things about their appearance that they do not like to see looking back at them in the mirror. As in past years, the field continues to grow in the services it offers and the tools at its disposal. Unlike past eras, the bulk of clients are not seeking to look like someone else but a picture of healthful natural beauty. “People are asking for more natural results compared to previously,” said Dr. Suzanne Yee, one of the foremost cosmetic and plastic surgeons in Arkansas. “They’re not wanting the overfilled lips or huge cheeks. Fillers are still valid, and we still offer those, but they’re wanting more things like fat transfers, where we take some of the patient’s own fat, and we process it, and we inject it into the face, which gives more natural-looking results.” Through her surgical and wellness center in Little Rock, Yee has always been at the forefront of new and innovative means of serving patients. One injectable treatment she was among the first to offer, Renuva, is growing in popularity among patients seeking to replenish volume to the temples, cheeks, neck, around the mouth and other areas. When injected, the treatment creates a framework not unlike a honeycomb, which is gradually filled with the patient’s own fat cells. Product information states that the procedure provides permanent results that are softer and less manufactured than other treatments. Yee said after a slow start, more and more patients are asking for the treatment by name. “It doesn’t cause as much swelling. It doesn’t attract water like some of the hyaluronic acid fillers,” she said. “This just came out last year, so I honestly can’t tell you how long it lasts, but if it’s our own fat that’s going into the structural process, logic says it should be very long lasting, certainly longer lasting than filler.” Yee also said there are new technological advancements that are delivering superior beauty treatment results over previous models. “Nonsurgical devices continue to evolve,” she said. “Some of our newer ones are Quantum, which is a nonsurgical skin tightening where we put a little wire underneath the skin, and it tightens the skin. Then we use another device called Morpheus[8] on the top of the skin. We’re getting treatment on the inside and the outside. We’ve only had that for a few months, but we’ve got some great results from that.” Dr. Anne Trussell, owner of Sei Bella Med Spa in Little Rock, agreed that patients seeking a freshened-up appearance that still looks natural are the bulk of clientele. She also said more patients are seeing the wisdom in considering the big picture when it comes to aesthetics treatments. “While we haven’t noticed that they’re looking for a lot of different types of procedures, what we have noticed is they’re looking for alternatives to surgery,” she said. “They’re also learning that there’s not a one-thing-fixes-all. If you don’t like things on your face, Botox is not going to fix it all. Laser’s not going to fix it all. You’re looking at a package of things.” Trussell said while her largest client demographic still falls in the 45 to 65 range, she has seen younger patients of late on the aesthetics side. “The majority are still what I call middle age, but the younger ones are coming in to start Botox and for lips as a means of being proactive against the aging process,” she said. Asked what some of the hottest trends in aesthetics are, Trussell

"People are asking for more natural results compared to previously. They’re not wanting the overfilled lips or huge cheeks." —Dr. Suzanne Yee

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pointed to salmon DNA, fragments extracted from the fish’s sperm purified to medical-grade usage. Often called PDRN, polydeoxyribonucleotides enhance skin repair, improve hydration, strengthen the skin barrier, and generally smooth skin texture and reduce fine lines. “One of the brands we use is a topical designed to be used after laser treatments or microneedling. It helps people heal faster, helps generate collagen faster,” Trussell said. Kristi Sims, owner of The Skin Bar & Med Spa in Bryant, pointed to other classes of substances that are fundamentally changing the game in the beauty industry. Peptides, which are chains of amino acids, and exomes, vesicles released by nearly all types of cells, have dominated both headlines and social media recently for their ability to deliver youthful skin, reduce inflammation and promote better overall skin health, NBC News states. “They have been proven to rewind time, so to speak, and recover Anne Trussell more quickly from the harmful effects of environment, the foods we eat — everything that contributes to aging,” she said. “They halt that, promoting skin elasticity, cell renewal and growth.” Peptides can be applied topically or by injection, while exomes are more commonly found in serums. Sims said both are useful following in-office aesthetic procedures such as microneedling, laser resurfacing or radiofrequency treatments. “When you’re microneedling or RF microneedling, there’s little channels that open in the skin,” Sims said. “The body is better able to absorb the topical.” A third substance, NAD+, is also being touted for its ability to speed cellular repair but with additional benefits of promoting energy and overall wellness. It is the most advanced step yet to integrate health with beauty, she said. “It works because when you’re better internally, you’re going to show better externally,” she said. “I do shots five times a week, and I can tell such a difference in energy, clarity. It helps with brain fog. It kind of reroutes the neuropathways in your brain.” For those who have decided 2026 is the year to address what they do not like about their appearance, experts recommend fleshing things out a little more specifically before heading to the nearest wellness center or aesthetics clinic. “I think the best thing is to determine what bothers you the most,” said Dr. Mimi Lee of Kristi Sims Little Rock. “You should go in and express your biggest concern, but also, be open to suggestions. Sometimes when someone presents themselves, they see wrinkles above the lip as the biggest concern. Well, yes, we can address that, but then another area is going to stand out more. That causes things to look off balance. “Let’s say you put volume above the lip, but there’s still hollowness under the mouth. It just doesn’t look right, so I feel like it’s important to be open to suggestions from someone like me who can explain why they might consider doing a little bit more but still within their comfort level and budget.” Another thing patients do not often think about is that standards of beauty not only change with the times but from place to place. She said while the client is the ultimate arbiter of what looks good — and that some clients want to stand out from the crowd — it can be easier to look natural when aesthetic work fits with the community. “I go to out-of-state-plastic surgery meetings. I see a lot of patients from other places, and they tend to be a little bit more overdone,” Lee said. “I met a patient today. She just moved here from another state, and she was changing to a more natural look because she’s trying to find a way to fit in here in Arkansas. We tend to prefer more natural beauty that still looks good. We don’t want to look different from ourselves — just the best version of ourselves.”

"We don’t want to look different from ourselves — just the best version of ourselves." — Dr. Mimi Lee

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Guide to Botox, Fillers & More

20 YEARS OF TRUST

Dr. Suzanne Yee takes patient-first approach to cosmetic surgery

hen Dr. Suzanne Yee opened her cosmetic surgery practice in 2003, she made a promise: every patient would leave feeling not just beautiful but understood. More than two decades later, that founding principle has made her practice one of Little Rock’s most established and trusted cosmetic surgery centers. “The most transformative results come when we truly listen,” said Yee, who has the rare distinction of being triple board certified through the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, the American Board of Otolaryngology, and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. “Each patient carries their own story. Maybe it’s the executive whose tired appearance doesn’t match their energy. Maybe it’s the mom who gave everything to her family and wants to reclaim something for herself. These aren’t stories about vanity. They’re stories about alignment, bringing the outside into harmony with who you are inside.” That understanding comes partly from personal experience. As a mother of two, Yee has navigated her own journey through life’s changes. “I know what it’s like when your reflection feels unfamiliar,” she said. “Whether it’s pregnancy, aging, weight changes or accumulated stress, these experiences shape us. My role is to help you feel at home in your own skin again.” This compassion resonates deeply with patients such as Caroline, whose last name has been kept anonymous and who recently shared her experience in a video testimonial. “I was very uncomfortable in my own skin after having children,” she said. “Dr. Yee made it OK for me to feel the way I did and OK to fix what concerned me. She has phenomenal compassion for women.” She described her results as life-changing, saying she can now “see the next 20 or 30 years of my life being completely happy with myself.” Yee’s path to triple board certification reflects her commitment to comprehensive excellence. After graduating first in her class from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, she pursued multiple specialties to gain the fullest understanding of facial and body aesthetics. “Each certification added layers to my expertise,” Yee said. “Otolaryngology taught me the intricate architecture of the face and neck. Facial plastic surgery refined my artistic eye. Cosmetic surgery expanded my ability to address the whole person. Together, these perspectives allow me to create natural results that respect your underlying anatomy.” The practice offers facial plastic surgery, body contouring, physician-guided weight loss, injectable treatments and advanced laser technology. What truly sets Yee’s practice apart, however, is the patient experience, from first phone call through final follow-up. “We’ve built a culture where every team member understands that we’re not just changing appearances; we’re changing lives,” Yee said. Patients consistently praise not just the surgical results but the entire care experience. As Caroline noted in her testimonial, “Meeting the wonderful people here, the staff, the team, and Dr. Yee’s amazing bedside manner made it super easy for me.” That culture of compassion extends through every interaction.

“When someone trusts us with their care, they’re often sharing vulnerabilities they haven’t voiced to anyone else. That trust is sacred to us,” Yee said. Looking ahead, Yee hinted at exciting developments on the horizon. Upcoming expansions promise to extend the practice’s reach while maintaining the intimate, personalized care that has defined it for more than 20 years. “Success isn’t measured in procedures performed or accolades received, though we’re grateful for AY readers’ recognition year after year,” Yee said. “Real success is seeing a patient six months later glowing with confidence, telling me about the promotion they pursued or the relationship they rekindled. That’s when I know we’ve done our job: helping them show up as their truest, most confident self.

DR. SUZANNE YEE 12600 CANTRELL ROAD • SUITE 100 • LITTLE ROCK

501.224.1044 • DRSUZANNEYEE.COM 86

Exceptional Results. Genuine Care. Natural, elegant results from one of Little Rock’s most trusted and award-winning cosmetic surgeons. TRIPLE BOARD CERTIFIED EXCELLENCE TRUSTED FOR OVER 20 YEARS "Dr. Yee made it okay for me to feel the way that I did, and okay to fix what I had concerns about. She has this phenomenal compassion for women." — Caroline, actual patient

Dr. Yee Facelift Patient

Facial Surgery • Body Contouring • MedSpa Treatments Start with a conversation. (501) 224-1044

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aesthetics

HEALTHY is the new BEAUTIFUL Aesthetics, wellness combining for a more holistic approach to beauty By DWAIN HEBDA

esthetics treatments in the U.S. represent a huge percentage of the overall beauty industry. Americans spent $38 billion on various cosmetic procedures last year, according to statistics published by Grand Valley Research, out of total beauty spending that has hovered in the mid-$90 billion range in recent years, per Forbes. Driving that category is a range of products and procedures, but something else is afoot in the aesthetics industry, a focus on boosting health and wellness as an important building block of beauty. That trend is changing everything from the environments where beauty treatments are administered to the menus of standard and complementary services and has led to a popularization of the term “wellness clinic” over “spa” in many places across the country. In an article exploring the interplay between health and beauty, Resident Magazine spelled out how the two areas are not only related but closely intertwined. “Something powerful happens when beauty and wellness come together,” the piece reads. “Aesthetics and wellness synergy draw you into a space where both the inside and outside matter. It speaks to the part of you that wants more than just a surface change. “Daily habits form the building blocks of beauty and wellness. Establishing a routine that

includes hydration, sleep and exercise can boost our overall well-being. These elements combine to support our aesthetic goals beautifully … [while] professional care plays an important role in maintaining balanced beauty. A trusted wellness center can provide the support and treatments needed for rejuvenation.” Not every wellness business splits that balance right down the middle. For some, the emphasis is decidedly on the side of Botox and fillers injections, while others minimize or eliminate injections altogether in favor of treatments both ancient and modern. Floating Lotus Day Spa and Yoga Studio in Little Rock is a textbook example of the latter, combining ancient eastern rituals and techniques with modern LED, dermaplaning and ultrasound treatments. Owner Cassandra Benning said the business strives to rejuvenate clients in ways that are far more than skin deep. “We started as a yoga studio and then eventually I started adding other services,” she said. “The term ‘floating lotus’ is encompassing of what we do here, providing people the most optimal health and well-being. It’s about growing into feeling your best. A

lot of people, when they leave, they’re like, ‘Oh, I’m just going to float on home.’ We hear that all the time.” Benning adopted her approach in 2009, after working in the traditional aesthetics field. Seeing the harsh chemicals and techniques back then made her seek a different way to deliver results, something reflected in Floating Lotus’ choice of products and services today. “When I was first out of aesthetic school in 2005, there was a lot of, like, ‘Let’s peel someone’s face off until there’s practically muscle showing.’ I mean, that was the approach,” she said. “I was going through my own process of starting a raw food diet, which I did for a year. I was reading books and literature about toxins and chemicals, which was still kind of a foreign concept for a lot of people. I did not feel ethical about putting something on someone’s face that I didn’t feel comfortable touching with my hands in a lot of cases.” Benning got in on the earliest wave of organic materials and gentler procedures for her spa, which has made her a market leader for those types of services. “When I really started diving into organic skincare, I’d go to booths at spa conventions where there were, like, tumbleweeds rolling

by. No one had any interest in them,” she said. “I felt that shift and culture change as people realized you don’t have to be so aggressive, that it’s actually bad. What we do now stresses clients feeling refreshed, replenished and renewed.” Sidney Bennett, aesthetic injector at Beyond Wellness, said the company’s combination of aesthetics and wellness treatments, from Botox to hormone balancing, are also indicative of the trend. She said clients come in looking to achieve a natural-looking outcome, which deviates from previous eras. “What we’ve been seeing kind of trending is people aging gracefully,” she said. “I think the older method was just loading people’s faces up with a bunch of filler, and I see clients moving away from that, using a little less filler and more biostimulators. People want to look like their natural best self.” One treatment Bennett is seeing much more of involves the use of PRF EZ Gel. Derived from the patient’s own blood, the treatment not only delivers superior, natural-looking results but gives patients an organic, nonsurgical option for improving the appearance of skin texture and volume. “After we draw the blood, we spin it down,

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Cassandra Benning

take the plasma off, and we pull the platelet-rich fibrin off,” she said. “That creates your body’s own super gel. There’s no additives in it. It’s all your own growth factors, so not only is it stimulating collagen, it’s very subtly and gradually volumizing the areas where you need it.” Bennett said another advantage Beyond Wellness’ clients enjoy is the formal medical training of many of the company’s client-facing employees. As a registered nurse herself, that allows her to hear patients’ concerns about things they would like to improve other than the cosmetic, such as feelings of fatigue or difficulty sleeping. She can then loop in other employees, who can discuss options related to chemical imbalances in the body. “I think what sets us apart is that we have so many different ways to treat people,” she said. “Someone comes in, and they’ve started to notice some wrinkles, and they want to refresh their face. Well, that could mean Botox or a biostimulator, or it could be

Sabatini said the emergence of peptides represents the latest chapter of the beauty-throughwellness category and is changing the game in much the same way bioidentical hormones did a number of years ago. “Hormone replacement therapy was a game changer and still is,” she said. “Bioidentical hormones have been shown to decrease the chance of cancer, decrease Alzheimer’s and decrease heart issues. Plus you get the benefits of energy and good sleep and libido. All those things are bonuses when you do hormone replacement therapy.” Wading deeper into treatment areas that make a person feel and look good is something that is appealing to people earlier, both in the aging process and in chronological age, said Stephanie Young, owner of Practical Wellness Clinic in Bryant. “I feel like a lot more people have put an emphasis on proactive versus reactive health care,” she said. “More clients are really trying to get

What we’ve been seeing kind of trending is people aging gracefully. I think the older method was just loading people’s faces up with a bunch of filler, and I see clients moving away from that, using a little less filler and more biostimulators — Sidney Bennett Sidney Bennett

Lindsey Sabatini

Stephanie Young

Beyond Wellness

getting them on a good skincare routine with quality products. We’re starting to see more clients in their 20s, and their treatments are often much different than what older patients need. It’s all very individualized, and that’s how we approach it.” Another big trend that has captured the industry’s attention is the use of peptides, an eagerly anticipated addition to the beauty industry’s arsenal. Defined by Health as short chains of amino acids in the body, peptides are both produced internally and enter the system via foods, supplements and medications. The amino acids that form an individual peptide are linked in a certain order that determines its function. Collagen peptides have been shown to help improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles and increase skin hydration. Proponents say the range of benefits is only going to broaden from there as more peptides are approved to enter the market. “Everybody’s kind of taking health stuff into their own hands these days,” said Lindsey Sabatini, founder of Body Balance in Fayetteville. “People are tired of just getting treated for symptoms. They’re trying to find the underlying cause and fix it. There are all different kinds of peptides — I think I have access to 40 of them right now — and they all target different symptoms. “We talk our patients through how they’re feeling and what they’re trying to improve. You can combine [peptides]. Like, you can combine two or three of them to both burn fat and build muscle, for example. Every piece does something different. It’s pretty cool.”

ahead of the aging process, trying to prevent health problems before they are diagnosed with them. There are certain things that you can’t change about your DNA, but you can change what you’re doing to influence your natural aging process. I think people are focusing more on that than they ever have.” Young echoed the idea that treatment must be individualized and the imperative of being overseen by qualified health care professionals to avoid unsatisfactory results or unpleasant side effects. As an advanced practice registered nurse with a background in cancer research, she makes sure the right science is applied to the appropriate situation one customer at a time as the line between aesthetics and regular health care has become increasingly blurred. “The aesthetics world is about taking care of your body in general, you know, down to the micronutrient level and making sure our nutrition and our gut are healthy,” she said. “We’re finding that all plays a bigger role in the aging process and what we look like. Botox only does so much; you have to really focus on the whole to get the result that you’re looking for. “I don’t even like to call us a med spa because that’s not really what we are. We are more of a wellness aesthetic clinic in that we’re not just looking to fill you up and send you out with a quick fix to whatever problem you came in with. We really want to help figure out the best and most well-rounded therapeutic approach for our patients.”

Happy New Year! Enjoy 25% OFF Your First 3 Months Weight Management Program! Mention: “AYJANUARY25” at checkout! Valid for new patients. Offer valid until 2/28/26 at any Beyond Wellness location.Cannot be combined with any other offers.

The Future of Health & Beauty is Local - Beyond Wellness isn’t just another clinic—it’s a movement toward a new era of health and beauty in Arkansas. Rooted in the belief that true wellness begins from the inside out, our team takes the time to listen, educate, and empower every patient. Unlike the “one-size-fits-all” approach, we uncover the root cause of concerns and design treatment strategies that are as unique as the individuals we serve. What sets us apart is the caliber of care we bring to our state—wellness solutions once reserved for major cities like New York or Los Angeles are now accessible right here at home. From advanced aesthetics to innovative health and longevity services, our patients experience the sophistication of metropolitan wellness with the heart and care of a local team. As a proud Arkansas business, Beyond Wellness is committed to enhancing lives one patient at a time. With plans to expand our reach, we’re leading the way in personalized healthcare, redefining what it means to look and feel your very best.

Hot Springs 25255 AR-5 K Lonsdale, AR 72087 *outside of HSV east gate

Little Rock (West) 23816 Chenal Pkwy Little Rock, AR 72223

Little Rock (Hillcrest) 623 Beechwood Little Rock, AR 72205

Rogers 4100 W Oak St. Rogers, AR 72758 Coming Soon

Call 501-476-7171 to schedule an appointment or visit beyondwellnessar.com

Guide to Botox, Fillers & More

AGELESS AESTHETICS OF ARKANSAS A geless Aesthetics of Arkansas believes looking one’s best should feel effortless, personal and empowering. With over 20 years of clinical experience, the medical spa’s expert team specializes in advanced, nonsurgical treatments designed to enhance one’s natural beauty — never to change it. Every visit is guided by one goal: helping clients feel confident, refreshed and comfortable in their skin.

Prime works deep beneath the skin’s surface to stimulate the body’s natural collagen production for firmer, lifted skin that improves gradually over time with no needles or downtime. It is a client favorite for treating the face, neck and decollete and is ideal for those who want natural-looking results without surgery.

A THOUGHTFUL APPROACH TO AESTHETICS We know that no two faces or goals are the same. We take time to understand your concerns, answer your questions and create a plan that fits your lifestyle, budget and long-term goals. From subtle refreshes to transformative skin treatments, our care is always intentional, safe and results-driven.

BOTOX, FILLERS & COLLAGEN STIMULATORS When done well, aesthetic treatment should not be obvious but should simply make one look refreshed. Botox and Dysport help soften lines caused by everyday movement for smoother skin that still looks natural and expressive. Dermal fillers restore volume that naturally fades over time in areas such as the lips, cheeks and jawline. Collagen stimulators work behind the scenes to help skin rebuild its own collagen, improving firmness and overall skin quality for long-lasting results.

STAY CONNECTED & SAVE We love rewarding our clients for taking care of themselves. In addition to events and special offers, we offer trusted rewards programs such as Alle, Aspire and Xperience Rewards. Our memberships also provide exclusive perks, preferred pricing and built in savings on treatments throughout the year. Follow us on social media, join our email list or text START to 501623-2500 for exclusive updates, events and reward opportunities.

ULTHERAPY PRIME Ultherapy Prime is the latest advancement in nonsurgical skin lifting and tightening, and we’re proud to offer it at Ageless Aesthetics. Ultherapy

Ageless Aesthetics of Arkansas

Ageless_Aesthetics_Arkansas

Here to be a trusted partner in your wellness and aesthetics journey. With more than 20 years experience, we provide cost effective skincare treatments and procedures designed to help you look and feel your best. Our Most-Loved Services • Botox & Dysport • Ultherapy Prime • Dermal Fillers • Coolsculpt Elite • Sculptra & Radiesse • DiamondGlow • Chemical Peels • Morpheus8 • Laser Treatments • Facials • Medical Grade Skincare • And more!

Back row from left: Gaby Sanchez L.E., Bristen Westbrook, Tiffany Murphy L.E., Michelle Auld APRN, Kandi Garrison L.E. Middle: Tammy Hughes & Laney Scroggins Front: Ronda Klatt RN, Brande Daniels RN, Ashton Toland RN, Walter CEO, Brande Daniels, RN, BSN Medical Director, Jeffrey Herrold, M.D.

“Ageless is about more than treatments. It’s about creating a space where people feel confident, cared for and excited about their journey at every age.”

135 Medical Park Pl. | Hot Springs 501.623.2500 | agelessaestheticsar.com ageless_aesthetics_arkansas

— Brande Daniels, BSN, RN, CEO

Guide to Botox, Fillers & More

ARKANSAS FAMILY DENTAL 13600 DAVID O. DODD ROAD • LITTLE ROCK

n recent years, Botox and dermal fillers have expanded far beyond the world of cosmetics, and one of the most trusted providers of these services may be the one people already know best: their dentist. At Arkansas Family Dental in Little Rock, patients are turning to the team not only for beautiful smiles but also for expert facial aesthetics and therapeutic treatments that relieve TMJ pain, chronic clenching and headaches. With extensive training in head, neck and facial anatomy, dentists are uniquely equipped to deliver precise, natural and safe results. Why are dentists uniquely qualified to provide Botox and dermal fillers? Dentists are extensively trained in the anatomy of the head, neck, face and oral structures — far more than most health care providers. This deep anatomical knowledge combined with daily experience working in highly precise, millimeterlevel areas of the face makes dentists exceptionally skilled and safe providers of Botox and fillers.

What makes dental training different from other aesthetic providers? Dentists complete thousands of hours studying craniofacial anatomy, occlusion, or how the bite functions, and muscle patterns that affect both aesthetics and oral health. They diagnose and treat conditions that directly involve facial muscles every day, such as bruxism, TMJ dysfunction and smile asymmetry. This specialized background gives them a unique, three-dimensional understanding of how aesthetic injections will influence not only appearance but also functional outcomes. Are Botox and fillers used solely for cosmetic purposes? Not at all. While they are excellent for softening wrinkles or enhancing lips and cheeks, they also play a major therapeutic role. Strategic Botox injections can ease clenching, reduce tension headaches, improve jaw function and prevent fractures in teeth from grinding. Fillers can restore volume and support facial structures that affect the smile and overall facial balance. The blend of aesthetic and functional benefits is a key reason many patients seek treatment from dentists.

Can patients receive Botox and fillers safely at a general dental office? Dental offices are already equipped with the advanced safety protocols, sterile environments and technology essential for comfortable, precise treatments. Dentists inject anesthetics daily and are trained in managing complex oral and facial procedures. At Arkansas Family Dental, our team also receives continuing education in the latest aesthetic techniques to ensure natural, balanced results. What can patients expect during a Botox or filler appointment at Arkansas Family Dental? Patients can expect a detailed consultation that considers both cosmetic goals and functional needs. Our providers evaluate facial muscles, bite patterns, symmetry and areas of tension before crafting a customized treatment plan. Injections are quick, comfortable and precisely placed. Most patients resume normal activities immediately and begin seeing improvement within days.

501-232-1244 Arkansas Family Dental arkansasfamilydental 93

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Providing exceptional customer service has been at the core of everything I do, ensuring that every interaction leaves a positive and lasting impression. — Samaria Mascagni D.D.S. Arkansas Family Dental

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Guide to Botox, Fillers & More

DR. MIMI LEE

8315 Cantrell Road • Suite 130 • Little Rock

entral Arkansas patients have long sought out Dr. Mimi Lee for aesthetic and vein procedures thanks to her practice’s reputation for excellence — excellence in not only providing the latest treatments but providing them with an unmatched level of compassionate, personalized care. “As a physician, I’m not there to sell patients products or treatments,” Lee said. “I’m there to help them and also guide them. If that’s not something that they need, I will be honest with them.” Also setting Lee apart is the fact that she herself has undergone many of the procedures she offers, enabling her to recommend treatments with full confidence and explain them from firsthand experience. One such example is Microtox, a new technique for administering Botox, widely extolled for its ease and impressive results. “Instead of placing the toxin at the muscles, we actually place microdroplets at the skin, so it’s a

little bit more superficial,” Lee said. “The result is that it can firm and tighten the skin, giving it a smoother look.” Microtox can be especially transformative in the neck region, an area that has been largely neglected in skincare until recently. Lee said she has seen an uptick in patients seeking nonsurgical options for approving the appearance of their necks. Compared to more traditional energy-based treatments, Microtox is faster and more comfortable. “It does not paralyze any muscles, which is important because in the neck there’s a lot of vital muscles and things that we don’t want to intervene,” Lee said. “The procedure takes about 15, 20 minutes after about an hour of numbing, and the result can be visible within a week or even less, depending what brand of toxins we use. When I have this done myself, I can see the result the next morning.”

501.588.3143 • drmimilee.com •

Mimi Lee, M.D., P.A.

Guide to Botox, Fillers & More

FRANKS DERMATOLOGY and SKN AT FRANKS DERMATOLOGY

Bailey Pollock, PA-C, from left, Liz Turbeville, PA-C, Katie Davidson, RN, Hayden H. Franks, M.D., Peyton Davis, DNP, and Barron Cheek, LE

inter in Arkansas can be beautiful — but tough on the skin. Cold air outside, dry heat inside and harsh winds create a perfect storm that leaves skin feeling tight, flaky and irritated. Fine lines seem more noticeable, and that healthy glow from summer? Long gone. For those whose skin feels like it is working against them this season, they are not alone. Winter strips away moisture faster than one’s skin can replace it, compromising the skin barrier and making even the smallest concerns feel magnified. However, there is good news: Winter is actually the ideal time to invest in skin health.

with an expert. Dr. Hayden Franks and his team can identify underlying problems affecting one’s skin health and recommend solutions tailored to each patient’s specific concerns.

RESTORE YOUR GLOW Patients ready to enhance their skin’s look and feel can start with a complimentary VISIA skin analysis at SKN. This advanced scan goes beneath the surface to analyze wrinkles, spots, pores, texture and UV damage one cannot yet see. The detailed report reveals the skin’s true health, giving the Franks team the insights needed to create a personalized treatment plan. Winter’s reduced sun exposure makes it the ideal season for transformative treatments. Laser therapy addresses sun damage from summer months, while HydraFacials deeply hydrate winterstressed skin from the inside out. Injectables can smooth fine lines that become more pronounced in cold, dry conditions. There is no need to let winter win. Scheduling a consultation today can ensure healthy skin all season long — because healthy skin looks good on everyone.

MEDICAL CARE MEETS AESTHETIC EXCELLENCE The experts at Franks Dermatology and SKN at Franks Dermatology in Little Rock believe healthy skin is the foundation for beautiful skin. That is why the practice offers both medical skin checks and aesthetic treatments under one roof. A professional skin check does more than look for concerning spots — it is an opportunity to discuss those winter skin issues

501.859.8973 • sknatfranksderm.com

501.246.1042 • franksdermatology.com 95

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Experience physician led aesthetic care at The Skin Retreat, where we perform Botox, Dysport and a variety of filler treatments grounded in facial anatomy and patient safety. Our clinical approach ensures natural, balanced results that enhance each patients unique facial structure.

Alicia Andrews, M.A.

Jennifer Gabbard, R.N. theskinretreat.com The Skin Retreat at Shewmake Plastic Surgery theskinretreatlr

11220 Executive Center Drive Suite 201 Little Rock 501.492.8970

Guide to Botox, Fillers & More

WRIGHT PLASTIC Surgery & Med Spa 1811 Rahling Road, Suite 100 • Little Rock

t Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa in Little Rock, staff members are known for their expertise, premier patient experiences and the delivery of refined, naturallooking results. From injectables to advanced skin rejuvenation, the Wright team’s measured, customized approach is delivered with kindness, compassion and care. Further setting the med spa apart are its truly unparalleled abilities when it comes to laser therapy. Wright Plastic Surgery is now the first practice in the state to offer one of the latest advances in laser technology, the Sciton HALO TRIBRID. The breakthrough innovation in laser medicine combines three independently controlled wavelengths, making it the first of its kind in the world. Engineered to treat every layer of the skin in a single session, HALO TRIBRID addresses the widest range of aesthetic concerns with precision and efficiency. Combined with the high quality of patient care provided by Wright and his team, the proven new technology promises to deliver optimal outcomes in less time for a level of rejuvenation unavailable anywhere else in Arkansas. The HALO TRIBRID joins Wright Plastic Surgery’s lineup of other top-notch laser options, including the BBL HEROic, MOXI and full-laser resurfacing with Contour TRL. Ideal for conditions such as age spots, rosacea, Paige Kelly, registered nurse, left, Dr. Eric Wright, and Maegan Whitehead, liver spots and broken capillaries, BroadBand licensed esthetician Light treatment, or BBL, uses advanced pulsed light technology to enhance tone, texture, elasticity and overall skin appearance. Those looking for a quick procedure to “prejuvenate” and combat early signs of aging, meanwhile, can= benefit from MOXI’s gentle approach and little to no downtime. Contour TRL is for deep skin resurfacing and is performed either in the clinic ‘Your Beauty, Our Expertise’ is our motto or operating room with Dr. Wright. This fully ablative treatment precisely removes because we want patients to look and feel damaged outer layers of skin to address deep wrinkles, scars and advanced signs their best while applying our knowledge of aging. While recovery time is longer, the results are transformative, making it and skills. Our team of aesthetic experts a great option for those seeking comprehensive skin rejuvenation. utilize cutting-edge treatments to enhance Laser treatments are just one area where Wright Plastic Surgery & Med your beauty, wellness and confidence. Spa is constantly seeking innovation and the most advanced techniques to offer patients. The practice was also the first in Arkansas to use Ellacor Micro-Coring, — Dr. Eric Wright a nonsurgical technology that removes sagging skin from the face and neck. Board-certified plastic surgeon Other light-and energy-based technologies available at the med spa include SkinPen and radiofrequency microneedling. No matter the treatment, the team at Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa is committed to delivering state-of-the-art care in every respect.

501.575.0088 •

Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa • 97

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drwrightplasticsurgery aymag.com

Expert Pediatric

HIP & SPINE Care Giving Them the Choice to Sit Up Straight Arkansas Children’s orthopedic team has a history of pioneering pediatric care. Their techniques for treatment of scoliosis are used by doctors around the country. Recently, Arkansas Children’s Hospital became one of the first and only pediatric hospitals in the region to use the Medtronic Mazor robot, increasing accuracy during preoperative planning and surgery to align spines and hips. Increased accuracy leads to faster recovery time and the best results for your child. Learn more about the expert care provided by the Arkansas Children’s orthopedic team.

501-298-4123 archildrens.org/OrthoCare

THE CENTER OF WHOLE HEALTH Restoring Wellness & Transforming Lives Client-Centered Approach PRENATAL AND POSTPARTUM CARE STRENGTH AND BALANCE TRAINING LSVT® PARKINSON’S TREATMENT TPI GOLF PERFORMANCE PROGRAM SCAR TISSUE MOBILIZATION CONSERVATIVE SPINE CARE VISCERAL MOBILIZATION GENERAL ORTHOPEDICS POST SURGICAL CARE MANUAL THERAPY PELVIC HEALTH DRY NEEDLING LYMPHEDEMA

Melissa Holland – President/CEO Advanced Physical Therapy of Central Arkansas (501) 232-4266 // mholland@aptlr.com aptlr.com // APTLR // aptphysio

orthopedics

Staying Strong in the

NEW YEAR

rthopedic procedures are life-changing for many people, giving them back a sense of freedom and a chance to return to the activities and hobbies that pain may have taken away. Thanks to advancements in materials and surgical protocols, joint replacement surgery offers today’s patients less surgical time, less pain and less overall downtime. While not routine, the operations are becoming more and more common, as well. The latest available data publicized by Orthopedic Network News reported about 1.4 million knee replacement operations and 793,000 hip replacements, increases of 5.1 percent and 3.8 percent, respectively. Meanwhile, the Mayo Clinic cited a report that the need for knee replacements is projected to grow sharply by 2030, reaching approximately 3.48 million procedures. Whether 2026 is the year to finally take care of a failing knee or hip — or if a sports injury leads one there during the new year — patients can rest assured they are good hands in Arkansas. Some of the best minds in the world practice in the state at facilities that are second to none. AY About You interviewed some of those skilled physicians to discover what lies in store for those needing a joint transplant. We also spoke to several experts about various risk factors and how adopting an active lifestyle, practiced responsibly, can keep one on the move and out of the operating room. The new year is a time of hope and turning on to new healthier habits, fitness and exercise. In doing so, pay attention to joint health and proper form so as to stay on track and off of injured reserve.

orthopedics

‘Fountain of Youth’

Arkansas experts reveal keys to fitness at any age By ALEX HARDGRAVE

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long with the new year come New Year’s resolutions. Love them or hate them, 30 percent of Americans reported making a resolution in 2024, the Pew Research Center states. About 60 percent of those people set resolutions related to health, fitness and exercise, according to a survey by the Health & Fitness Association. Clearly, fitness is a priority for many, but getting started on a fitness routine can be intimidating, especially as one ages. However, it becomes increasingly important as people grow older that they are working out regularly. If not, they risk being more prone to disease, illness and pain. “Aging doesn’t necessarily mean slowing down, but it does mean being smarter,” said Amie Bishop, trainer at JP Fitness + Recovery in Little Rock. Fitness experts in Arkansas understand firsthand how hard finding

the right routine and sticking to it can be, but they all share a similar view about getting started — just do it. “The hardest thing to do is just getting started,” said Allen Maxenberger, owner of AmaxFitness in Little Rock. Jamie Newton, an Arkansas Army National Guard infantry officer and ultramarathon runner, said when she first started running, she had to think about it a mile at a time. As an officer for the Guard, she also has experience keeping soldiers fit. “It doesn’t have to be going for a 6-mile run to be effective,” she said. Frank Lawrence, CEO of Little Rock Athletic Centers, has a similar story. He said he found working out intimidating at first because he could not even run a mile. He offered advice from the bestselling book Atomic Habits that he said is important to keep in mind when beginning on a fitness journey.

Amie Bishop (Photo by Lori Sparkman)

Allen Maxenberger (Photo provided)

Jamie Newton (Photo by Monica McGee)

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Frank Lawrence (Photo by Rett Peak) aymag.com

Ethan Francoeur Cameron Smith (Photo by Lori Sparkman) (Photo by Lori Sparkman)

“Get 1 percent better every day,” he said. Ethan Francoeur, trainer at JP Fitness + Recovery, said it is important to start small and build a strong foundation of exercises. “Learn the movement patterns before you chase the big weights,” he said. “Form and consistency matter more than intensity when you’re beginning.” At JP Fitness, functional movement is the focus, building training around six primary movement patterns — push, pull, rotate, deadlift, squat and lunge. “Everything we do in life involves one or a combination of these patterns,” said Cameron Smith, a sports-training specialist at JP Fitness. “Many people focus on the mirror muscles — biceps, chest, quads — but long-term health comes from training all six patterns, especially targeting posterior chain muscles. No matter what program you follow, you should incorporate each pattern in some way.” Maxenberger, who is being inducted into the fitness professional hall

JP Francoeur. (Photo by Lori Sparkman)

Ryan Parker. (Photo by Ryan Parker)

of fame next year, said people can start building a routine by learning one gym machine for each body part. He stresses resistance training but also said to not neglect cardio, although as one ages, one should consider doing more low-impact cardio, such as biking or swimming. “There are some things we can do when we’re young that we can’t do when we’re older,” Maxenberger said, “but the basics are still the same.” JP Francoeur, owner of JP Fitness, said a deadlift is a great exercise for people to learn, regardless of age. “Being able to lift dead weight off the ground is tightly linked to long-term function and independence,” he said. AY staffer Ryan Parker, a former bodybuilder and trainer for more than 30 years, said his main recommendations are strength training with compound lifts, which includes deadlifts, as well as bench presses and rows because they hit multiple muscle groups, spike metabolism and build bone density. He said high-intensity interval training or brisk walking for 20 to 30 minutes helps to get rid of fat and build endurance. He also suggested adding in mobility and core work, such as yoga, pilates or bodyweight flows such as planks. “Try different ways of moving until you find what resonates with you,” Ethan Francoeur said. “The best workout is the one you look forward to.” Lawrence said a big part of the Little Rock Athletics Centers’ mission is to show people that fun and fitness can co-exist. Newton echoed that, saying one form of fitness — spin class, yoga class or kickboxing — is not better than another. “I think whatever fits your lifestyle,” she said. “Make sure that you love it and that there is a long-term plan with it.” No matter one’s age or type of fitness, experts stressed the importance of recovering from workouts. “I think [recovery] is one of the most important things that we tend to forget in the fitness industry,” Newton said.

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One tool the JP Fitness + Recovery team uses to help clients recover is called the Neubie. The tool uses direct currents to target nerves and muscles, which can support cellular regeneration, repair tissues and increase circulation. When combined with movement, the Neubie can help “retrain” the brain-muscle connection to restore coordination and activation. Maxenberger agreed that recovery is important to an exercise routine and suggested sleep, time off from exercise and eating protein as the core ways to recover. People can also consider massages, sauna and cold plunges, especially for deeper recovery needs. Parker said as a person ages, they need to prioritize recovering more and pay attention to their nutrition, especially protein. “I’ve hurt myself ignoring these,” Parker said. “Now I preach age gracefully by training smarter, not harder.” While having a good exercise routine may help someone lose weight, there are many other important benefits of staying active, especially as one ages. By keeping muscles strong, an older person can remain physically stable as they age, making them less prone to painful falls, Maxenberger said. Newton said for women especially, exercising helps keep bone density, which helps stave off osteoporosis. She also stresses the positive mental benefits of exercise. “For me, running helps me with my mental aspects,” she said. “Just being in the military, there’s a lot of stress involved with that, and then having two kiddos and being a mom, a lot goes along with that. Running is me time.” Parker said some of the biggest benefits he has seen in himself and those he has trained are cardiovascular health, better metabolism and a boost to the immune system.

“Exercise is my longevity Rx decades in,” he said. “It has saved my joints, sharpened my mind and extended my vitality.” “[Consistent movement] is about as close as we get to the fountain of youth,” Bishop said. Staying consistent with exercise is easier said than done, especially if one leads a busy life, Maxenberger said. He added people tend to start off strong with a new routine because they have motivation, but motivation will only get a person started. After the initial rush wears off, people have to rely on personal discipline. “Do not make [exercise] optional,” he said. Parker said it is important to celebrate victories off the scale, use “accountability anchors” such as checking with a friend or having an app to log the workouts, and making “microcommitments” which could look like a short walk in between meetings at work. “Fitness isn’t punishment; it’s empowerment,” he said. “Ditch the scale sometimes. Measure by how you feel in your skin, how you tackle life’s curveballs.” Fitness experts have many tips for finding the best routine, recovering correctly and sticking to the program. A final piece of advice for those looking to move more in the New Year: Focus less on specific moves and more on the mental aspect of staying motivated. “If I could offer one piece of advice, it would be to move every day in a way that challenges you,” Ethan Francouer said. “Strength is life, and maintaining it means sustaining your freedom. Just like building wealth with consistent contributions, investing in strength early compounds over time — and pays dividends for decades.”

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One Foot

in Front of the Other Trail or road? Running each has its advantages

T By

K AR

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he roughly 50 million Americans who jog on roads and trails can appreciate the mental bump that comes from the mechanical rhythm of a run. Runners know the sacrifices that can be required — rising early, running in the cold or heat — will ultimately pay dividends both mentally and physically. Those 50 million Americans who run, per Statista, represent about 15 percent of the U.S. population. That number has remained relatively static for the last several years. Statista data also reveals that 2.1 million Americans report running a half-marathon each year, while 1.1 million run a full marathon annually. Worldwide, it is estimated that 621 million people are runners. Running remains one of the nation’s most popular forms of exercise, but silencing the inner voice that whispers of comfy couches or beds can be a challenge for beginners and veterans alike. Sometimes, though, as Kris showed the Winter Warlock in Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town, one just has to — all together now — put one foot in front of the other. The mental and physical health benefits of running are unquestioned. Of course, running can apply some wear and tear on the knees, and most seasoned trail runners can share stories of sprained ankles or bloody and bruised knees from tripping over a wayward root or exposed uneven surfaces.

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Gary Taylor racked up championship wins at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville before going on to open the now-closed Go! Running in Little Rock.

Nothing worthwhile comes easy or free, after all, but for those willing to endure the initial mental obstacles, running becomes a release, an escape, through which one can achieve some significant goals. *** Gary Taylor came to the U.S. at age 19 in 1982 from his native England to run track and crosscountry for the legendary John McDonnell at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. A two-time all-American who finished third in the NCAA mile, he helped lead the Hogs to numerous Southwest Conference championships and a national title. In Fayetteville, Taylor met his future wife, Erin, a native of western New York who ran for the UA women’s track and cross-country squads. Following their collegiate careers, the two stayed in Arkansas, raised a family and even worked together at Alltel before launching Go! Running in Little Rock. The store in Little Rock’s Heights neighborhood became a go-to within central Arkansas for the local running community. The Taylors went full circle when Gary came out of semiretirement three years ago to join Erin at Sowell Management in North Little Rock. When Taylor was still active in the Little Rock running community through Go! Running, he was also coaching the cross-country team at Little Rock’s Catholic High School for Boys. Over the years, he made his hay on both road and trail. “There’s lots of pros and cons to each one,” he told AY About You. “The accessibility is better with road running. It’s easy to go any time of day. The No. 1 beauty of road running is you can walk out your front door — or your hotel if you’re traveling — and go, but there’s a beauty to trail running. It’s more scenic and peaceful, more relaxed. You can let go of your thoughts a little bit more. Plus, you’re not dodging traffic.” He noted that road running generally reflects the heat of the concrete, whereas the temperature can be 10 degrees cooler on deep trail runs. Another consideration is hydration. Most paved trails in urban areas have water stations along the route, while trail running is strictly BYOB. Running — and riding — trails at night, equipped with headlamps, is popular among some hardcore runners. Taylor’s advice and common sense itself dictate that new runners put some trail

miles behind them before hitting a rugged trail after sunset. The Full Moon 25K/50K through the Ouachita National Forest around Lake Sylvia in Perry County, a training run for the famous/infamous Arkansas Traveler 100K, is one of Taylor’s favorite runs. In addition to its accessibility, road running can offer an element of security sometimes missing with remote trail runs, Taylor said. Of course, road runners must potentially dodge traffic, which is why Taylor is not a fan of ear buds when running. “It’s a safety concern,” he said. “You need to be able to hear bikers tell you they’re coming up on your left, and then crossing streets can be an issue with traffic. You don’t want to block yourself out of your surroundings.” Trail runners are less likely to suffer injuries such as shin splints and plantar fasciitis, he said. Though wiping out on a rugged trail can be an ankle-breaker, running on rough ground forces runners to “run properly,” he said. “When you’re having to pick your way through rocks or other obstacles, you use more midfoot and take faster, shorter strides. There are more steps per minute.” He used the analogy of kids running around a swimming pool in their bare feet. “Trail running does that to you; makes you run that way,” he said. Road runners, he added, are less likely to pay attention to their strides. Taylor said typical running

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Worldwide, it is estimated that 621 million people are runners. shoes are fine to start out with on trails if they are in good shape, but once a runner decides to pick up trail running as a regular hobby, shoes designed for trails are necessary. They are more comfortable and safer, he said, and they include a midsole rock plate, a layer of plastic that acts as a barrier to protect a runner’s feet from the sharp rocks and other rough terrain found on trails. A lot of companies have trail versions of their road shoes, he added, citing Nike’s popular Pegasus running shoe as an example. For new runners, Taylor said he recommended hitting a local running shop and letting one of the associates, likely a runner, as well, to help determine the best fit for individual needs. That extends to the right equipment, as well. Trail running socks are better suited for the heavier, stockier trail running shoes, for example. For all runners, he advises stretching and rolling calves before a run. Beginning runners may want to roll and stretch for a few days before a planned first run.

One thing about trails, though — they generally do not begin or end outside one’s front door. They must be found, and central Arkansas has plenty. Taylor recommended the new trails around the Pinnacle Mountain State Park Visitors Center in Roland and nearby Rattlesnake Ridge, along with Lake Sylvia and Little Rock’s River Mountain and Allsopp parks, the latter of which annually hosts the six-hour Squatch Till You Drop trail run each fall.

Trail Versus Road

Trails

Roads

• Scenic • More relaxed • Requires a focus on proper steps • Generally cooler under forest canopies

• More accessible • Paved trails generally have water stations • Better for beginners • More secure

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Good News for Bad Joints Orthopedics have come a long way in technology, materials By DWAIN HEBDA

r. Lowry Barnes at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock is as close to a rock star as a physician can get. Barnes resides in the very top echelon of orthopedic surgeons in the country and is a thought leader in the evolving field of joint replacement surgery. When he talks, surgeons and medical institutions around the world listen. So when Barnes describes the state of his specialty in glowing terms thanks to advancing technology and protocols that provide superior results with minimal discomfort, it is no empty compliment. Joint replacement surgery is not routine, per se — no such medical procedure can claim that 100 percent — but outfitting patients with new knees and hips is as close to that definition as it has ever been. “By and large, we see much more outpatient surgery, and major technological advances are leading that,” he said. “We have new ways of treating patients and are realizing that many of the things that used to require hospital stays can now be done in one day, same day, and patients can sleep in their own bed that night. “That extends across orthopedics in general, but total joint replacement of the hip and knee have certainly had the most press around them. We now have a number of patients in their 80s who go home the same day after having their knee replaced. That was unthinkable when I trained, where our patients used to have hospital stays of 12 days.” These advancements, as well as a growing segment of the U.S. population aging in general, have pushed the field of total joint replacement to dizzying heights with more projected for the future. According to Fortune Business Insights, the global knee replacement market in 2024 hit $9 billion, stepped up about half a billion more in 2025 and is expected to exceed $13 billion by 2032. North America dominates the global market at 51 percent market share, Asia being the fastest growing region. Hip replacement is much the same story. Fortune Business Insights puts the global hip replacement market at about $8 billion in 2023 and 2024 with demand expected to reach $11.5 billion by 2032. North America again leads the world in the number of surgeries but at a more modest level, accounting for about 34 percent market share. It is not hard to understand why the continent containing the United States would be so out in front of these statistics. According to a study by the Arthritis Foundation, some 14 million people in the U.S. have symptomatic knee osteoarthritis, and both Americans and Europeans are reporting more osteoarthritis of the hip. That, combined with easier

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One of the things that’s changed in knee replacements is the type of implant used. There’s a replacement now called the medial pivot knee which gives the patients more stability. — Dr. Lowry Barnes, UAMS

access to the best in orthopedic care compared to other countries, suggests the expected 4.7 to 5 percent annual growth in the number of these surgeries may be on the conservative side. Barnes, who serves as interim UAMS chancellor in addition to treating his patient load, said the stepped-up demand has spurred innovation of materials, treatments and ancillary products alike, starting with the implants themselves. “One of the things that’s changed in knee replacements is the type of implant used,” he said. “There’s a replacement now called the medial pivot knee, which gives the patients more stability. If a patient’s knee feels stable to them, they feel much better going downstairs and placing higher demands on their knee activities, like playing golf, tennis, or pickleball.” Barnes is not just familiar with the new generations of implants; he helped design the original 15 to 20 years ago and has watched it grow to become the industry’s preferred medical component. “That type of implant has become very popular,” he said. “Five years ago, we’d see 4 percent or 5 percent [of surgeries] used of that type of implant. Now all the major implant companies have a similar design, and it represents 50 percent or more of the implants being used.” Dr. Samuel Baxter at Martin Orthopedics in Little Rock, who is also a surgeon at Arkansas Surgical Hospital in North Little Rock, said one of the things that is leading innovation is a better understanding of physical biomechanics.

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The thing that has improved with implants is the polyethylene, which is the plastic piece or the new cartilage in between the two pieces of metal for a knee replacement. We have done different things to make sure that they last longer, and our surgical techniques also contribute to how long they last, as well. — Dr. Samuel Baxter, Martin Orthopedics

“We used to think the knee only worked in one plane of motion, and that is flexion and extension, and our old implants were only designed for the one plane of motion,” he said. “We’ve since realized that the knee also rotates through a range of motion, as well. The new implants are designed to allow the knee to be able to rotate, as well as flex and extend, allowing patients to have all the normal planes of motion. “Another thing that has changed is how we put the implants themselves in. We used to put total knees in exactly the same way for every single person. We’d make a predetermined flat cut on one side, a predetermined flat cut on the other side, and force a leg to be perfectly straight and narrow. Well, only 12 to 15 percent of the population is actually made that way; a lot of us will have a natural tilt to our joint line but still a fairly straight leg. We resurface the knee according to whatever angle that is, specific to how each patient is made.” Baxter said better surgical procedures and alignment married with better materials in the implants themselves are also prolonging the life of the implants.

well at 20 years when you do it the old way, with mechanical alignment, putting it in the same way for everybody. When you do it through kinematic alignment, which means it’s patient-specific and according to their natural anatomy, 94.5 percent are still doing well at 20 years.” Innovation does not stop there. Barnes said the development of better pain management has also made the surgical experience more tolerable. Others point to next-generation adhesives that help hold everything together in ways previously unimaginable. “One of the big things we’re starting to see a lot of this year is the press fit knees,” said Dr. Jerry Lorio at Arkansas Bone & Joint in Benton. “We don’t use cement, so they’re not failing because the cement broke down. The bone actually grows into porous parts of the metal. It’s called porous coating, and [the implant] becomes a part of the patient. “It’s an advancement that’s been in and out for many years, but it’s just gotten better and better. Surgeons love them, the patients have a shorter surgery time, and we rehab them the same way as a cemented knee. I really can’t tell

“The thing that has improved with implants is the polyethylene, which is the plastic piece or the new cartilage in between the two pieces of metal for a knee replacement,” he said. “We have done different things to make sure that they last longer, and our surgical techniques also contribute to how long they last, as well. “The research shows around 89 percent of total knee replacements are still doing

the difference of one over the other in early rehab. It’s just real efficient and, I think, taking off around here.” Lorio also noted that replacement joints with a longer workable lifespan have come along just in time for people who are undergoing joint replacement surgery earlier in life, which is a growing percentage of patients. “When I first went into practice, we were telling people we think [a knee implant] will

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We don’t use cement, so they’re not failing because the cement broke down. The bone actually grows into porous parts of the metal. It’s called porous coating, and [the implant] becomes a part of the patient. It’s an advancement that’s been in and out for many years. — Dr. Jerry Lorio, Arkansas Bone & Joint

last 10 years. Now we say 20 years 95 percent of the time, and I saw an article that was projecting 30 and 40 years with some of the new ones,” he said. “The same goes for hip replacements. We have ways to customize it using ortho artificial intelligence, and as I see good results that I think are going to last a long time, I’m more comfortable in offering that to a younger person.” Lorio said while he still sees his share of younger patients due to joint trauma, a growing segment of the demographic are wearing out their natural joints faster due to lifestyle. “What I see in my patients who are coming in young with arthritis in the knee is often they’re overweight. That increases joint reactive forces,” he said. “When you go up and down stairs, the knee bears five times your body weight in forces. We have a lot of young, overweight people with arthritis at a much earlier age than they would’ve had if they maintained a normal weight. That’s probably

the most common cause for young patients coming to me.” Another major improvement in orthopedic surgery has been the steady expansion of surgical robots that assist the physician in achieving the highest precision possible. “Since 2015, we’ve had robotic total hips and total knees available, and I’ve embraced that robotic-assisted software,” said Dr. Samuel Moore at Bowen Hefley Orthopedics in North Little Rock, who is also a surgeon at Arkansas Surgical Hospital. “What we’re really trying to do, just like you would with a manual total knee or total hip or total shoulder, you’re really focusing on making it balanced. “We know that ligament tensioning and balancing of the total joint implant determines success rate and revision rate, so it’s really important to get that right. The robot is very helpful to make more precise bone preps and implant positioning. That’s

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We know that ligament tensioning and balancing of the total joint implant determines success rate and revision rate, so it’s really important to get that right. — Dr. Samuel Moore, Bowen Hefley Orthopedics

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one of the more exciting things that we’re doing now that’s relatively new in the last 10 years.” Moore was quick to point out, as were many of his colleagues who use such technology, that the term “surgical robot” is misleading to some patients. He stressed emphatically that the robot is merely a tool in the surgeon’s hands and not a replacement for the physician itself. “The long and short is I’m still operating the tools. The robot is this very sophisticated tool that is under my direction to make precise bone preps and position implants even more precisely than with manual instruments,” he said. “The robot is just another precision tool to try to decrease risk of having to do a redo, even 20 years from now.” Another patient consideration physicians have steadily improved on in implant procedures are muscle-sparing surgical techniques that reduce pain and recovery time. “Hip and shoulder replacements tend to bounce back a little quicker than a total knee replacement,” Moore said. “With the total knee it is very critical that we start therapy really early to get the motion back. That just hurts after surgery, and that’s why therapy can be uncomfortable. “One of the things that we’ve done is use a muscle sparing approach that doesn’t cut the quad tendon, which is the big muscle at the front of your thigh. That gives us a lot of advantages with early stair use and a deep knee flexion. I’m really happy with that. Muscle sparing surgical techniques help the patients recover quite a bit quicker and a little smoother, and the main difference is it’s less painful.

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Make Without

Gains PAIN

Physicial therepists deliver familiar warning: Start slow when getting in shape

By DWAIN HEBDA

he only thing more predictable than millions of people resolving to get fit in the new year is the tidal wave of people who will soon be seeking medical attention for various strains, sprains and worse related to the extra activity. Yet it bears repeating that while almost half of Americans who make a resolution do so swearing to start and stick with a fitness routine, only about 9 percent actually follow through, as reported by Forbes. Injuries are one common contributing factor to such attrition. Experts talk themselves blue in the face in late December about easing into things, yet a significant number of people feel their rush of enthusiasm turn to the kind of pain and discomfort that dooms many good intentions. “With exercise, most injuries happen with overuse,” said Zach Brown, doctor of physical therapy at Conway Regional. “We kind of go by what I call the ‘Rule of Too’ that says if you can put the word ‘too’ in front of any other word, that’s usually how injuries happen — too much, too soon, too quick, too heavy, too out of control. That’s what typically causes overuse injuries, so the main thing is taking it slow. Get your ego out of it.”

It seems people who are just starting in an exercise program would welcome the advice to start slow, but unfortunately, the inverse happens, experts said. They added, however, that it is not the exercise newbie that tends to land in the sports medicine clinic but people who should know better — those in shape already or whose previous high level of fitness has gone dormant — yet who cannot seem to help themselves. “Somebody who has a sports background but has been sedentary for a while, they kind of get back into the gym thinking they can do more than what their body can handle,” Brown said. “Someone who’s in their 30s, has a young family and who’s not taking care of themselves as much tends to go back to the gym and, because their body’s still pretty strong and still capable, will tend to start out doing a little too much. The next thing you know, your Achilles tendon’s bothering you, or you’ve got a shoulder problem. “Meanwhile, the group that has never had an exercise program before, they tend to go slower because they’re a little more hesitant. They tend to be more careful because maybe don’t know exactly what they’re

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doing. Because of that, I don’t know the exact percentages, but I would guess that I see more of the former athletes and a lot of current athletes who overdo it at times.” Another patient group at higher risk for injuries are those who are fooled by having a job that demands daily strength and stamina. Andrew Davis, doctor of physical therapy and co-owner of Advanced Physical Therapy, which operates six clinics in central Arkansas, said it all comes down to unfamiliar ranges of motion, whether in the gym or on the clock. “I see my share of overuse injuries in former jocks, but I would also say it’s the person that does a certain occupational duty daily that requires a certain movement pattern,” Davis said. “In layman’s terms, it’s the painter that has to paint overhead every day or the bricklayer that has to be on his knees every day or even the accountant whose neck is straining to look at the computer monitor every day. It’s those positions we get in every day that end up breaking down.” Davis said a basic understanding of the body’s biomechanical structure of bones, muscles, ligaments and tendons paired with kinesiology, or how the body moves, is a good primer for anyone looking to work or work out without pain. Physical therapists, having been trained in those and other elements related to human performance, can provide excellent insights to people before they get injured. Unfortunately, most people think physical therapy exists exclusively to help individuals recover from injury, which, in an ironic sort of way, they do, since so few people undergo a preexercise analysis in the first place. “A very low percentage of people come into us [beforehand], even though that is a huge part of our expertise. I would say 5 percent on the high side,” Davis said, noting such low numbers are not always solely attributable to the individual. “It’s something, quite frankly, that becomes an insurance issue. If you’re talking about Medicare specifically, which is 30-plus percent of

Andrew Davis our population, Medicare doesn’t like the prehab visits. They don’t like the preemptive visits. Commercial insurance is a little bit better about it, but they still would rather cover after the fact than be preemptive.” Asked for his best advice to those venturing into the gym for the first time in a long time — or ever — Davis said staying focused on one’s own mission is paramount. “Make sure that you really highlight form and quality of movement over the amount of resistance,” he said. “You’re not in a competition with anybody at the gym. It’s a competition within yourself. Make sure that you’re doing the motions properly and not overlifting. Believe it or not, no one at the gym is watching you lift, and no one cares how much weight you’re putting on that bar. “Another thing is make sure you have a proper distribution of what you’re trying to target. In other words, don’t be the guy that goes in and does bench presses every single day. Make sure you give your muscles proper rest. If you do shoulders and back one day, make sure you do legs and abdominals the next day to give 24 to 48 hours of rest, especially if you’re doing a lot of weight.” Brown said he would have people listen more closely to their bodies

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and know when to stop. Some postworkout soreness is to be expected, especially for the sedentary, but people need to know the difference in levels of discomfort to be able to separate ache from pain. “Workout soreness, the stiffness, the achiness that you get afterward, it should get better as you get moving,” he said. “A lot of times, we’re looking for that to last a day, maybe two or if you really work out hard one day, you can get delayed onset muscle soreness that can last for multiple days. If it goes away within a week, we’re probably not that worried about it. If it’s lingering for multiple weeks or it’s progressively worsening or it starts turning into stabby, sharp pain and you can’t put weight on it, then we’re worried. “It’s usually the nagging injuries that people kind of ignore and think they can work through. If it’s lasted for more than a week, it’s best to get it checked out and then maybe get advice from a physical therapist or a physician on what to do about it. That way, it doesn’t turn into a bigger issue, like a tendonitis, that can last a really long time if not taken care of but gets better pretty quickly if taken care of early.” Of course serious injuries do happen to active people, either due to overuse, age or other factors, and some of them merit surgery. Dr. Kirk Reynolds is a former physical therapist who is now a sports medicine surgeon at OrthoArkansas in Little Rock. He said the field has seen some exciting new advancements, from robotic surgical devices to a range of new materials, for repairing the weekend warrior and elite athlete alike. “Most of what I do is arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder and knee,” he said. “From a materials technology perspective, there’s a new material called OSSIOfiber, and it’s really fairly unique in that it actually does turn to bone. These are screws and staples and nails and things that we use for fixation of fractures, cartilage work — things like that — and under a microscope, you can see it turns to bone. It’s pretty new; it’s only been around for about three to five years. “We’re able to use this material in areas that previously we would’ve used metal, and the beauty of it is if you need to do an MRI scan later down the road, you don’t have that interference from the metal. An MRI is a big magnet, and metal and magnets interfere with each other. Also, in some of these superficial areas that are close to the skin, previously, we would have to go back and do a second surgery to take the metal screw out. With this, we don’t have to do that.” Reynolds said there is also something relatively new that can put off total replacement surgery for those with rotator cuff injuries. “There’s a new device called an in-space balloon, which, for lack of a better term, is a water balloon that we can put in the shoulder,” he said. “In the setting where that rotator cuff is not able to be repaired because there’s too much damage, previously the options were, OK, live with it as long as you can or do a shoulder replacement. “This is a newer kind of stopgap, so to speak, before having to proceed with shoulder replacement surgery. It’s been around for about 10 years, and I’ve been using it for about the last four.”

Reynolds said it is typical for the volume of the practice to pick up after the first of the year, as well as whenever a new sports craze emerges, noting the escalating number of injuries from pickleball alone have kept him and his colleagues busy. He also said that the improved surgical devices, materials and processes paired with advancements in postoperative physical therapy and rehab allow patients in general Kirk Reynolds to recover with less discomfort and minimal disruption. That fact, he said, will likely accelerate his caseload even more. “I can remember in the year 2000, when I started my practice in northwest Arkansas, if someone had a knee replacement, they were typically in the hospital for a week before they went home. Now we’re doing knee replacements in our surgery center on an outpatient basis,” he said. “Patients aren’t even going to a hospital to have their knee replaced or their hip replaced or their shoulder replaced. I think a lot of that has to do with better anesthesia, making sure patients are nutritionally optimized before surgery and recovery protocols that are so much more aggressive in getting people up and moving. “I think what you’re going to see in health care overall in the next decade is this transition away from hospital settings and into outpatient settings, into surgery center settings, because it’s just so much more efficient and cost effective. That’s what the insurers are pushing, and that’s what the government’s pushing, and so that’s going to be the big thing over the next 10 years.”

TRAINER’S TABLE

Get Those Miles In “One thing I would say is for people to not discount cardio. Schedule workouts where you’ll do the first 30 minutes cardio and then the last 30 minutes is shoulders or back or hips or whatever you’re really trying to get at. Cardio can take the form of swimming. It can be the row machine. It can be the bicycle. It could be a treadmill. There’s so many different forms and varieties of exercise that you shouldn’t ever get bored.” — Andrew Davis, Advanced Physical Therapy Use Common Sense “We used to recommend RICE [rest, ice, compression, elevation] for minor injuries, but now we’re moving to more active management of injuries. That might mean lowering the intensity of the exercise, doing fewer reps or lighter weight. It might mean maybe don’t work out as long so you can still manage the injury more actively and not have to completely take a day off. On the other hand, if you are having lingering pain, there’s nothing wrong with taking a rest day. It’s good to take some time off, maybe a few days off, and then get back into the gym refreshed.” — Zach Brown, Conway Regional Exercise Patience “If weight loss was easy, nobody would be overweight. I’ll have a client tell me, ‘I’m going to get on the treadmill, and I’m going to walk for an hour,’ and I’m like, ‘OK, you’re going to burn 150 calories. That’s a biscuit.’ The big thing with exercise, in my opinion, is you’ve got to make sure you’re not overtaxing the body, especially if it’s been fairly sedentary for a year or two. Slow and steady is going to win the race. Along the way, focus on your exercise for overall health, for mental health, for stress relief.” — Kirk Reynolds, OrthoArkansas

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Being the Best is Something We Work Toward Every Day. Thank You for your vote as “Best Chiropractor” Your trust is important! Our focus is always on our patients. Focusing on their good health and well-being. Dr. Bev Foster has a reputation for being the best and it’s hard earned. Year after year, she is chosen the best Chiropractic Physician by multiple “best of” lists. It’s nice to be noticed, but more importantly we want to hear patients say how good they feel or that they are grateful they could avoid surgery.

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GET WELL. STAY WELL. Chiropractic Health and Rehabilitation 501-371-0152 | drbevfoster.com 2701 W. Markham St., Little Rock 115

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UAMS HEALTH - THE ORTHOPAEDIC & SPINE HOSPITAL Proudly Serving Arkansans with Expert Orthopaedic Care At The Orthopaedic and Spine Hospital at UAMS Health, patients receive more than treatment—they gain access to a team of nationally recognized specialists dedicated to restoring movement, relieving pain, and improving quality of life. As the most specialized hospital of its kind in Arkansas, we bring together worldclass physicians, advanced surgical suites, and the latest imaging and rehabilitation —all in one seamless experience. Because getting back to what you love starts with the right care. And no one does it better. Our fellowship-trained physicians specialize in all areas of orthopaedic care, including:  Adult Hip & Knee Replacement  Spine & Back Care  Sports Medicine  Hand, Shoulder & Elbow Care  Orthopaedic Trauma  Foot & Ankle Care  Pain Management  Orthopaedic Oncology

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orthopedics

STEPPING

Strong Arkansas power couple charts path from foot pain to lasting strength

By RYAN PARKER

he camera’s quiet click breaks the buzz at a Fayetteville ribbon cutting, my phone snapping Heather’s profile next to a CEO’s smile and the shine of a new plaque. At 51, I have left the bright lights of competitive bodybuilding 15 years behind me for a steadier glow: helping my wife, Heather Baker, president and publisher at AY Media Group, tell Arkansas stories that matter. With editor-in-chief Dwain Hebda keeping the pages sharp, I am right beside her — account executive closing deals, cameraman capturing her energy, videographer filming clips that rack up views, editor turning raw footage into gold, and always the driver and escort from Hot Springs mornings to late-night gatherings at Garvan Woodland Gardens, a true gem in the city. It is a life of constant motion, and for years, my feet paid the price without me noticing. The trouble started three years ago during a fall hike at Petit Jean State Park in Morrilton. Halfway down the Cedar Falls Trail, my boot caught a root. When I pushed off, sharp pain shot through my big toe joint — a bunion suddenly screaming. I brushed it off as a stumble, but the ache dug in. Months later, it was a pull during a jog at Pinnacle Mountain State Park in Roland,

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a wince while filming Heather at events, a throb that woke me in our Roland home. Then heel pain arrived — textbook plantar fasciitis. I went to a local orthopedics clinic where X rays showed a bunion and heel spur. The physician offered two choices: custom orthotics or surgery — an endoscopic release to cut the tight tissue. There was no deeper dive into why, just “support it or cut it.” Weeks later, when staff called to schedule the knife. I stalled. Something felt off. I wanted the root cause, not a quick fix. That hesitation led me to Dr. Alex Dellinger at Foot & Ankle Associates of Central Arkansas in Little Rock. He reviewed everything and saw no need for surgery. One targeted cortisone shot calmed the fire for a year, nearly two, buying me time to dig deeper. Then the fasciitis flared harder. At Advanced Physical Therapy in Little Rock, led by CEO Melissa Holland, the team put my

Strong partnerships —

When AY staffer Ryan Parker developed a åpainful bunion, he decided to get to the root of the issue.

and strong lives — start from the ground up. walk on a motion tracker and delivered the real answer: weak feet. Years crammed in narrow dress shoes had flattened my arches and starved the small intrinsic muscles that keep everything stable. Weak intrinsics were the root. A bunion and fasciitis were just the fallout. The team started me on simple, portable exercises — marble pickups, towel scrunches, calf stretches — and introduced Happy Feet toe-spacer socks plus daily toe yoga. APT also sent me to Beverly Foster, a Little Rock chiropractor with 25 years of nonsurgical fixes. She confirmed flat feet and the chain reaction: lost arch support overextending the big toe into turf-toe territory, worsened by years of tight shoes. “Orthotics support. Surgery cuts. Strength lasts — and it’s safe if you build slow,” she said. Her plan: temporary arch tape for quick relief, then toe yoga and spacers to rebuild from the ground up. The proof came fast. Studies in Foot & Ankle International show toe spacers boost intrinsic muscle size 12 percent in a month. My own checks at Advanced Physical Therapy showed 24 percent better push-off power in three months. Pain dropped from daily agony to almost nothing. I noticed Heather developing early hammertoe and corns from the same lifestyle — long hours in dress shoes and endless

events. I shared everything I had learned, and we made it a team effort. We used spacers at night, practiced toe yoga in hotel rooms and wore wider shoes when possible. Her corns softened before they ever hurt. The big lesson? Modern shoes do not do us any favors. Crammed toes lose strength, arches collapse, and the chain reaction brings corns, bunions, hammertoes and fasciitis. Strength — not orthotics or surgery — is the lasting fix. Toe spacers and a few minutes of daily toe yoga reverse the damage and prevent it. Now our travel bag carries spacers and Happy Feet socks. Our Pinnacle Mountain jogs are longer and pain free. Friends and family ask what changed, and I pass along the same Arkansasborn wisdom from Dellinger, Holland’s team and Foster: Give your feet space to work, build the small muscles, and skip the problems most people think are inevitable. Two years after that cortisone shot, Dellinger reviewed the scans: everything stable, no surgery needed. The strength I had built did what blades and inserts never could. Foot health is not a side issue when you are always on the move; it is the foundation. Surgery treats symptoms, orthotics borrow strength, but rebuilding your own support system — with simple tools like Happy Feet socks and toe yoga — lets you own every step for decades to come. Layout signed off, Heather’s warm hand in mine, a dinner at Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse in front of me, feet firm and free, the truth was clear: Strong partnerships — and strong lives — start from the ground up.

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Keeping it Simple Whether at home or with a trainer, a little workout can go a long way By DOUG CRISE // Photos by MONICA MCGEE

Kim Leveritt

t was the ideal day to skip a workout. Gray skies spit cold rain on a late November morning in west Little Rock, and the wind was blowing just enough to be a problem. Yet inside A Kick Above’s Cantrell Road location, warmth radiated in both the figurative and literal sense. Founder and owner Kim Leveritt was wrapping up an individual personal training session, gently encouraging a client through a set of reps on a leg-press machine. Leveritt’s smile was as active as her client, and that smile came through in a gently reassuring voice. Anyone who would have walked in that day might have noticed the comforting atmosphere and Leveritt’s good cheer and walked away with a singular thought: “This need not be so miserable.” The path to a newer, fitter self is not easy, but that does not mean folks have to spend the day dreading a trip to a packed gym to grimly and joylessly churn out a workout in a roomful of strangers. Options abound for those looking for a comfortable, personal touch while pursuing a holistic approach to looking and feeling better. “The first thing I see is that people tend to get hurt,” Leveritt said. “They might get injured because they’re not aware or knowledgeable about how to use the equipment with what their body needs, so they probably go in and do a little bit too much too soon.” A good fitness trainer does not just save people from themselves

Shalee Uhl

Stephanie Newcomb

— they welcome and encourage clients. A good instructor can be the difference between people arriving at a gym feeling already over it or arriving and greeting the friendliest face they will see all day. “The best thing we offer is that people can come in here as they are,” said Heather Carter, co-owner of Ablaze Fitness in Cabot. “We want to help them with whatever they need help with. Everybody’s really encouraging, other members are really encouraging, and our goal is to make people feel as comfortable as they can so they want to work out and keep going.” That means a lot, especially in a modern fitness landscape that involves so much more than just weight machines and treadmills. Options abound, whether it be free weights, mixed martial arts, hot yoga and just about anything else, and that does not even include nutrition. Researching all of this on one’s own can be exhausting, plus it gives the idea of a one-size-fits-all approach to better physical health. The best in the business know so much more than just losing unwanted pounds, and their backgrounds involve more than just exercise and encouragement. “People need to look for a gym that has personal trainers that are professional and knowledgeable,” Leveritt said. “Hopefully, they are certified and know about health science, know about anatomy and physiology. I’m a pharmacist, as well, so I know some of the underlying conditions.”

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“The first thing I see is that people tend to get hurt. They might get injured because they’re not aware or knowledgeable about how to use the equipment with what their body needs, so they probably go in and do a little bit too much too soon.” — Kim Leveritt A Kick Above

January can be a natural starting point for getting healthier, but it comes with a caveat: Just because it is a new year does not mean exercisers are mentally or physically ready to jump in with both feet. Too often, hitting the gym starting Jan. 1 can feel obligatory, and when something feels obligatory, it becomes that much easier to skip. “That’s changing everything at one time,” said Stephanie Newcomb, owner of Unleashed Health & Fitness in Roland. “It’s trying to completely change your life, like, overnight almost, so I personally think that it’s just one little step at a time.” Pushing to do more can lead to putting a client at risk for both injuries and simply feeling mentally overwhelmed, Newcomb added. This is why it is critical for people to start slowly. “If you don’t move at all, then your first thing is to start moving,” she said, “whether that be walking, whether that be body weight stuff at home. If you want to get a gym membership, get a gym membership, and make that goal once a week — just starting small and building off of that. Once you change one thing that you haven’t been doing, then you can add something else, but you’ve got to do it small.” When it comes to getting fit, strength training is a vital aspect of the weight loss process that cannot be overlooked. Building muscle and improving strength is a cornerstone of healthy weight loss, but fortunately, many basic exercises can be done at home. Consider the body squat. According to the AARP, the body squat is a foundation of every strength regimen. That is because, along with the glutes and hamstrings, the body squat helps strengthen and tone the

“I think where people go wrong is they try to change everything at one time, and then they just fail. I think it’s important to find something that you enjoy, but I also think that, for longevity, it is important to do power things, to do strength training, to do mobility.” — Stephanie Newcomb Unleashed Health & Fitness

Simple Exercises: No Equipment Necessary

Simple Exercises: Body Squat

core. Body squats can also help stave off lower back pain. No equipment is necessary for a body squat. Alternate between sitting in a passive deep-squat position and exploding up from a squat position. Alternating between wider and more narrow foot positions helps make sure all muscles are worked — just remember to keep the back straight. A helpful cousin of the body squat is the wall sit, which involves holding a squat position for as long as possible with a wall providing back support. Once squats are mastered, more can be added to a home workout. According to Harvard Medical School in Boston, pushups are great for engaging the core, chest, shoulders and triceps. They also make the heart work harder, increasing cardiovascular fitness. Just make sure to maintain good form. Once again, a straight back is critical, and feel free to start pushups with the knees lowered if that comes

easier. Lunges can also do a world of good, and they are lauded by the National Strength and Conditioning Association for aiding in balance and stretching the hip flexors. As with many New Year’s resolutions, the important thing is to start slow. “I think where people go wrong is they try to change everything at one time, and then they just fail,” Newcomb said. “I think it’s important to find something that you enjoy, but I also think that, for longevity, it is important to do power things, to do strength training, to do mobility.” It is also important to find support, and not just the rah-rah motivational kind. At A Kick Above, Leveritt is able to use her background in health sciences to not only design an individualized plan of attack for each and every client but to also keep them safe and comfortable. “It helps me to understand that if I have

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them doing a ball slam and they’re out of breath and they have asthma, well, now I know, and I know how to modify their workout,” Leveritt said. Newcomb also offers supervision and support on all fronts at Unleashed Fitness, where she provides personalized nutrition and mindset coaching that helps clients feel good on all fronts. At Ablaze, clients can introduce themselves to concepts as varied as strength training, yoga and barre, a toning workout that combines concepts from yoga, pilates and ballet. Hiring a personal trainer provides a personal touch, someone to check in, provide support and serve as each client’s No. 1 fan. “We notice when someone comes in and they’re not themselves, they’re not talkative like they were last week” Carter said. “We ask questions and can really walk people through. This is all-around life, not just physical fitness.”

Simple Exercises

Simple Exercises: Pushup

Simple Exercises: Lunge

Hiring a personal trainer provides a personal touch, someone to check in, provide support and serve as each client’s No. 1 fan. 123

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Sweet

Nothing About It

Hidden sugars can torpedo health plans. Here is how to fight back. By By DOUG CRISE

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f it were only left in the candy aisle, those looking to Ivanovsky recommended embracing healthy habits in cut down on the sweet stuff would stand a puncher’s a way one can repeat it again and again after the initial chance. Yet often, it is not the obvious foods that motivation wears off. No one would call that easy, but deliver a blow to a person’s best-laid dietary plans. there are certain simple habits that can do a world of Sugar does not fight fair. good. Pausing a beat to read a product’s nutritional inSugar hides in plain sight, sneaking up on the uninformation while grocery shopping, for example, goes a formed. That bottle of ketchup on the inside door of the long way. The rule of thumb is that if the ingredients list fridge, right next to the barbecue sauce? Both have added reads like a high school chemistry textbook, take a pass. sugar. That fruit-and-granola yogurt parfait? Not as wholeBetter yet, hunt for alternatives. some as one might think. Milk, coffee creamer and iced coffee Consumer demand for healthy, natural food is at an allMeg Green drinks? They are practically swimming in it. time high, and businesses both local and nationwide have “You have to be honest with yourself about what your stepped up to the plate. A quick Google search can help current dietary habits are,” said Meg Green, a registered find spots to satisfy cravings in the healthiest way possible, dietician and nutrition practitioner based in Little Rock. places like Tea Capital in Little Rock’s SOMA district. “Then start a slow improvement on that.” The brainchild of owner Anna Marie Stearns, Tea Shifting into a new dietary gear is rarely easy. Harder Capital offers a fresh take on iced and hot loose-leaf still is thinking one has made the right changes only to teas while also serving sandwiches and appetizers, all have to go back and make even more cuts after learning made with natural, whole ingredients. Try one of Tea about hidden sugars. Capital’s all-natural boba iced teas, and it is possible one While the planning and effort behind a dietary change might never want a sugary Starbucks latte again. Marina Ivanovsky can be trying, the consequences of the alternative are dire. Ac“Our syrups are dye free,” said Stearns, who was born in cording to Harvard Medical School in Boston, Americans Hot Springs but grew up in Bulgaria before returning to typically absorb 17 teaspoons of sugar a day. That is added America to study health sciences. “We choose the ones sugar, and it is important to know the difference. that are all-natural and free of any chemicals.” Natural sugar occurs in whole foods such as fruits, Stearns adheres to similar rules when it comes to the vegetables, whole grains and anything containing carfood she serves, using ingredients grown and sourced bohydrates. That on its own is fine; whole foods digest locally whenever possible. Even for the pickles on its slowly in the body, releasing their natural sugars bit by bit sandwiches, Tea Capital uses its own homegrown cuto provide long-term, steady energy. cumbers and brine. (Incidentally, pickle lovers: Those Added sugar, which is processed, is natural sugar’s mass-produced jarred pickles sitting on the shelf floating Anna Marie sneaky, no-good cousin. It is the sugar that can cause a jittery, in yellow brine are oftentimes loaded with added sugar.) peaky buzz before sending folks crashing. It will also do a number Stearns “Just avoid anything processed,” Stearns said. “There are untold on one’s organs. Processed sugar overwhelms the liver, which metabochemicals in those foods, and they are not always very well regulated. lizes it just as it does alcohol, meaning it converts dietary carbohydrates We make our own pickles, we make a lot of things ourselves just beto fat (and speaking of booze, that is why it is best to moderate margaricause a lot of the things we buy have chemicals in them. We wanted to tas, cocktails and anything else with flavored syrups). move away from that.” The way the body processes added sugar is what makes it such a dicEven popcorn chicken — typically not the healthiest of snacks — ey proposition. The fat generated from the liver can build up, causing gets reimagined at Tea Capital. everything from fatty liver disease and diabetes to high blood pressure, “It’s an Asian-inspired popcorn chicken,” Stearns said. “The ingreinflammation and heart disease. dients for that, a lot of them, are very processed and have MSG and Arguably the most insidious part is what processed sugar does to your other problems in there, other chemicals. What we did was we decided brain. Take soda, for example. The onslaught of sugar short-circuits the to make the switch to Chicken 65, a traditional Indian recipe for chickbrain into switching off its appetite-control system, since the calories inen, and we make the marinade ourselves. We grind the ginger and the volved do not satisfy the body and brain the way whole foods can. Thus, garlic and the kashmiri chilis for that, and the cumin. It’s very simple.” ironically, the more people eat sugar, the hungrier they feel. Weight gain The result is simple and quite delicious — and that is the point. Rethen does not come from just the sugar but also the increased appetite ducing sugar intake no longer has to be a joyless slog of flavorless foods. that is a result of it. There are people such as Stearns who have made it their life’s work to If all that is enough for people to change their consumption habits, make good food that is also good for the body. With a little research, that is great — but there is a caveat: Diets are fine, but lifestyle changes one might find not just healthier alternatives but also a favorite new are better. place to grab a bite. “Diets have a starting day and an end day,” said nurse practitioner One thing to keep in mind when deciding to cut out added sugar and aesthetician Marina Ivanovsky, who creates personalized health — be gentle. Processed sugar is not an easy beast to slay, not when so strategies at her Little Rock clinic, Marina Lifestyle Medicine. “Eating many have been ingesting it all their lives. Unwiring the brain’s craving healthy is kind of a lifestyle. We all have different goals, and if the goal for sugar takes time, and there are bound to be some slip-ups along the is to lose weight for the new year, then it would be about looking at the way. To succumb to temptation is to be human, and there is not a thing quality of food and caloric density of food.” wrong with the occasional treat. Stearns recommended intermittent In other words, a diet that is short term provides a brief respite from fasting as a response to overindulgence, since fasting allows the insulin sugar at best. It may be tempting, especially at the start of a new year, to levels in the bloodstream time to normalize. embrace wholesale changes by making a 180-degree shift in diet, hitMost of all, consider the effort a change in mentality, not an ironting the gym and raiding the produce aisle. There is certainly nothing clad oath to deprive oneself completely. After finding a comfort level wrong with that, but long-term health depends on what one chooses and putting some thought into their choices, those who make a comto do daily over a course of years, and that means finding an acceptmitment to a healthy lifestyle may soon feel so much better that they able comfort level. New Year’s plans for diet and fitness do not do much will not even think about sugar. good for people who are miserable by March. “I think for anything health-related, consistency is key,” Green said. “Choose a healthy lifestyle, not dieting,” Ivanovsky said. “You want “You want to set yourself up for success with consistency and not think to put yourself in the mindset that you’re going to be healthier, so that of it as weight loss or strength or better sleep. Those all will come with means doing something every day toward health and looking at longthe consistency of just taking care of your body. That’s how you set term longevity.” yourself up for success.”

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Goodbye, Dye! U.S. takes steps to phase out synthetic food dyes By SARAH DECLERK

ot all that glitters is gold. Artificial dyes meant to make food “Our customers have told us that they want products made with look more appealing have been linked to serious health consimpler, more familiar ingredients, and we’ve listened,” said John cerns. A report titled “Food Dyes: A Rainbow of Risks” by Furner, president and CEO of Walmart U.S. “By eliminating synthe Center for Science in the Public Interest states that a number of thetic dyes and other ingredients, we’re reinforcing our promise to commonly used dyes have been shown to cause tumors in animals, deliver affordable food that families can feel good about.” and food dyes have also been linked to genotoxicity and hyperactivity There may be more news to come as researchers work to underin children. stand the full impact of synthetic food coloring and other Last April, the U.S. Department of Health and additives. The FDA has partnered with the National Human Services and the U.S. Food and Drug Institutes of Health to conduct comprehensive Administration announced plans to phase out research about how food additives impact chilall petroleum-based synthetic food colorings dren’s health and development. from the nation’s food supply. “Today, the FDA is asking food com“For too long, some food producers panies to substitute petrochemical dyes have been feeding Americans petrowith natural ingredients for American leum-based chemicals without their children as they already do in Europe knowledge or consent,” said Robert F. and Canada,” Marty Makary, FDA Kennedy Jr., HHS secretary. “These commissioner, said in April. “We have poisonous compounds offer no nutria new epidemic of childhood diabetes, tional benefit and pose real, measurobesity, depression and ADHD. Given able dangers to our children’s health the growing concerns of doctors and and development. That era is coming to parents about the potential role of pean end.” troleum-based food dyes, we should not The FDA began the process to rebe taking risks and do everything possible voke authorization for two synthetic dyes to safeguard the health of our children.” —Marty Makary, — Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B — and FDA commissioner began working with the food industry to eliminate six others — FD&C Green No. 3, Red No. 40, FD&C Yellow No. 5, FD&C Yellow No. 6, FD&C Blue No. 1, and FD&C Blue No. 2. The agency also began fast-tracking approval processes for natural dyes. “We’re restoring gold-standard science, applying common sense and beginning to earn back the public’s trust,” Kennedy said, “and we’re doing it by working with industry to get these toxic dyes out of the foods our families eat every day.” Last October, Walmart announced that it is working to eliminate synthetic dyes from its private brand food products, including Great Value, Marketside, Freshness Guaranteed and bettergoods. In addition to the dyes, the retail giant will nix 30 more ingredients, including certain preservatives, artificial sweeteners and fat substitutes.

Today, the FDA is asking food companies to substitute petrochemical dyes with natural ingredients for American children as they already do in Europe and Canada.

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FIND YOUR More's the better when it comes to sticking to a New Year's resolution

By AY STAFF very year, as the ball drops in Times Square and the clock ticks down to midnight, millions of people around the world resolve to better themselves in the hopes of improving their health, wealth or wisdom. All but a fraction fail by the end of January. It is hard to imagine anyone who has not at some point made a promise to themselves and come up short. The reasons are many: a change in work schedule that robs people of the free time they thought they would have, a new love entering or exiting one’s life, overdoing it in the gym and getting hurt, or new stressors and pressures emerge that make additional changes feel too overwhelming — or maybe it was just the champagne talking. The fact is change — of habits, behaviors or thinking — is hard. Forbes reported nearly 9 out of 10 people failing at resolutions within 30 days. Even so, it is not impossible to make meaningful headway and even keep a New Year’s resolution or any other vow to change or improve, for that matter. Articles abound about how keeping resolutions can be a blueprint for achieving bigger and broader goals to improve relationships, personal health and wellness, or just to do something one has always wanted to do. In the vast majority of those articles, experts mention accountability — or lack thereof — as a major determinant in changing one’s behavior. Accountability may be defined as a person or group that helps reinforce expectations of behavior in someone else. Why it works, experts say, is because it draws others in as a support system for keeping someone on track, not unlike a college adviser or a sober buddy for people in recovery. As study after study has shown, a person trying to make a change is less likely to abandon work on a goal if they know someone is invested in it with them and regularly monitoring their progress. AY About You took a look at different activities that frequently work into people’s resolutions to discover how critical being part of a group is to success versus going it alone. THE LONG RUN Millions of people who resolve to get in shape look to running as the way to do it. Small wonder — as running magazines and many fitness experts regularly proclaim, running provides excellent physical and

Bill Torrey mental health benefits, boosts mood, can be started with minimal investment, and takes no special training. The bad news? Running is hard, especially at first, as much for the mental strain as for the physical one as the mind screams to stop the burning lungs and calves. As simple as it is to get started, it is every bit that easy to find a reason to stop, and once that happens, it is often hard to resume. “One of the biggest challenges for anybody in any sport is consistency,” said Bill Torrey, owner of Rock City Running in Little Rock and a runner for decades. “A lot of people have a lot of dedication for, say, the first three, four weeks. Then they walk away from it. Next thing you know, they’ve

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Margie Raimondo

missed a week, two weeks. Sometimes they get back into it. Sometimes they don’t.” He said running clubs not only help guide newbies with advice and training; they lend a social aspect to an otherwise solitary activity. The Little Rock Roadrunners, which has existed since the late 1970s, is a good example. “[The club] is very inclusive of people. It’s very encouraging to folks to get involved,” said Torrey, who has been both a member and served on and off as an officer for years. “Once someone gets involved, whether they’re a fast runner to a walker, they can usually find people who are of the same ability.” Torrey said club runs often lead people to try 5Ks, 10Ks and more, but members are not required to do that. In fact, if all they ever do is just get some advice and encouragement to keep going, the club has done its job, he said. “If you’re somebody that needs assistance or works better with guidance, then that’s what the club is for, providing people to talk to,” he said. “When I get new people in the store and they’re talking about running, it goes back to the consistency thing. Just go out there. Walk if you have to walk. Run when you can run. You’ll be surprised; most people, within a month, will be running 3 miles — for some, 5 miles, 6 miles. Once you get involved, there’s really nothing better to improve your running.” Little Rock Roadrunners littlerockroadrunners.com FOOD IS LOVE Few things engender community like food. Think of the great moments of life, and in many cases, food was involved — a celebratory dinner, a first date, a newly married couple hosting Thanksgiving dinner. Given that, it only makes sense that learning to cook should be something one does person to person, ideally alongside a life partner. At least, that is the way that Chef Margie Raimondo sees it. The multifaceted Little Rock-based food entrepreneur, cookbook author and recipe writer at AY About You said cooking is something more than combining ingredients and adding heat.

“For me personally, I look at food as a pathway to connection,” she said. “I always say ingredients are more than just the food itself; I look at it as memory, identity, a feeling of belonging. Every dish we make holds some kind of story, and the person who is making that dish will have some kind of memory.” Raimondo hosts cooking classes at Urbana Farmstead, classes she intentionally keeps small, the better to maintain intimacy and still leverage the power of people cooking in community with others. She considers that a critical step for people aiming to learn something and stick with it. “I believe people do stick with something new if they have a buddy of sorts, but having a community just multiplies that benefit,” she said. “I believe the table is where community happens. It is the pathway to connection. “What I have seen is people come here after work, they’ve had a stressful day, and they’re really just looking for the permission to slow down, sit, cook and connect.” Raimondo said such settings boost learning because people do not feel like they are being graded or judged. She encourages classmates to chat while they cook, which puts people in a more relaxed state of mind and therefore makes the new task enjoyable and something they are likely to replicate at home or seek more training on in the future. “Cooking should be fun. It’s hands-on. It’s intimate,” she said. “I intentionally do not have major introductions in the beginning so that they have to create those conversations. I keep the conversation going, but they communicate with each other. They’re laughing at chopping vegetables. They’re laughing at stirring sauce. “It doesn’t matter what your generation is, how old you are. It cuts across cultures and backgrounds. A person will come take a class, sometimes two people, and they meet for the first time, and they’re complete strangers, but they leave as friends.” Urbana Farmstead 2400 Kerrie Dr., Little Rock urbanafarmstead.net

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THEY’RE PLAYING OUR SONG One of the fastest-growing activities going right now — ballroom dancing — is taking the nation by storm. An activity with timeless appeal, partner dancing was considered something for the older set just a couple of decades ago, but thanks to social media and television shows such as Dancing with the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance, millions of people from seniors to Gen Z are rediscovering dance as a fun, social activity. According to Gitnux, about 24 million Americans participate in some form of dance education or class annually, and they generated revenue of about $5 billion last year. While online dance instruction has boomed since the COVID-19 pandemic, the activity requires at least a partner and, according to devotees, is more fun and impactful in a group setting. Tim Buffenbarger, owner and instructor at Let’s Dance Studio in Little Rock, said many newcomers like to start lessons in a group setting, as well. “I would say it’s about 50-50, the couples that start with private or group classes,” he said. “At first, it’s just seeing if they can do what the teacher’s asking them to do, you know, knowing their right foot from their left and walking forward and backwards and then trying to dance a basic step to the rhythm of the music. They usually enjoy it and then come back, and some stay for years.” Buffenbarger said the hardest thing for couples is the self-consciousness of how they look while learning. He said men generally have a bigger issue with that than women, who tend to laugh off the initial awkwardness and just have fun with it. He said the social aspects of classes and the parties Buffenbarger puts on for students takes the edge off of this and serves as a way to polish what is being taught in class. “Being in a group, they change partners within the group, and they gain confidence by seeing that they can actually lead someone other than the person they came in with if they’re a couple,” he said. “Once they get a taste of trying to lead another person other than the partner they’re used to dancing with, that helps them gain confidence. When they see that they were successful in leading a new person through a few steps and both are still standing at the end, they feel like they must be doing something right.” Tim Buf fenbarger

Let’s Dance Studio 7509 Cantrell Road, Suite 110, Little Rock 501-663-7724

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WHERE TWO OR THREE GATHER Faith and spirituality are intensely personal matters, but growing in understanding of God’s word and how it applies to everyday life does not have to be. That is the thinking behind the small groups that are found in many faith communities. The men’s bible study group at New Life Church in Little Rock is one such gathering. Jerry Biuso, director of marriage ministry, said the group is a good way for men to deepen their faith, share experiences and generally lean on others as they work to incorporate the Gospel into their everyday lives. “Guys that come to church and are following Jesus are called to be like Jesus. That’s a high bar,” Biuso said. “Naturally, we want to get better at it. we want to succeed at being good husbands and good fathers and good friends. How do you do that? You start by coming to church on Sunday and hearing the good word and saying hello to people, which is great, but then how do you apply that to your life? That’s what our group is about.” The weekly gathering includes a meal and general fellowship that covers topics both spiritual and secular. “Over dinner, they hang around and eat and talk sports and all kinds of guy stuff,” Biuso said. “Then we go into the chapel, and somebody will speak and share from the Bible and talk about a book of the Bible or a piece of the book of the Bible and what is in there that we can take away for ourselves.” Biuso said one of the most important elements happens next, when the 60 or so men who attend in any given week break into small groups for discussion. He said faith is better understood when verbalized, and the group setting allows each man to share and hear from others, things men often are not good at or have the opportunity to engage in. “We want everybody to have their say and say what’s on their heart and that sort of stuff, but that doesn’t come easy to some men — or some people, I should say,” he said. “Most guys are there because they want to learn and they want to share, and I think that’s what makes it really powerful. We all have something to learn, we’re all messed up in some way, and when we come and share our vulnerability in a nonjudgmental environment, it’s easier for guys to share.”

Jerry Biuso

New Life Church newlifechurch.tv

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health

A Sobering

THOUGHT More people than ever making their “No-Beers Resolutions” permanent

erhaps no time of year has more people reconsidering their relationship with alcohol than the beginning of January. The motivation to take a month off from drinking can come from a number of corners, whether one hopes to lose a bit of winter weight, give the body a break from a particularly “hoppy” holiday season or even save some money by pocketing erstwhile liquorstore-bound funds. What was once a short-lived reset in the new year, however, has become a year-round commitment for an increasing number of people. Dubbed the “sober curious” movement by some, the trend of opting for nonalcoholic beverages has found traction among younger generations in particular. Earlier this year, the American Psychological Association cited a 2023 Gallup analysis indicating that over the past two decades, “18- to 34-year-olds have become less likely to report drinking ever, less likely to report drinking in the past week and less likely to say they sometimes drink to excess.” Meanwhile, PBS News Hour found that sales of nonalcoholic beer, wine and spirits were up more than 40 percent between 2021 and 2023. “Nonalcoholic drinks are becoming a serious commodity,” said Robert Giles, team member at Colonial Wines & Spirits in Little Rock. “Each category is getting progressively better in the quality presented, and customers are becoming more savvy to which products give the truest flavor results.” Giles said he has noticed a definite increase in the number of people seeking nonalcoholic drinks. In addition to health consciousness, many NA shoppers are doing so as a reaction to the sobriety movement itself — that is, looking for options to ensure their sober-curious friends can still join in Robert Giles

By MAK MILLARD

on the celebrations. The interest is not only limited to zero-percent ABV versions of one’s favorite suds either. “While they were available, the interest in THC- and CBDinfused drinks was massive, and now [that] the sale of THC drinks has become banned, some of that has extended to cocktails made with nonalcoholic spirits,” Giles said. For those more likely to reach for Adam’s ale over Samuel Adams lager, a growing consensus among medical professionals seems to support the choice. Despite past hypotheses pointing to an “everything in moderation” approach or even studies about the potential benefits of certain drinks, such as red wine, for health, a 2023 statement from the World Health Organization published in The Lancet Public Health put it plainly: “When it comes to alcohol consumption, there is no safe amount that does not affect health.” “We now understand that even low to moderate intake increases inflammation, disrupts gut health, interferes with hormone balance and accelerates cellular aging,” said Christa Jackson, nurse practitioner at Beyond Wellness in Little Rock. “The old paradigm focused mostly on liver damage; today, we see its broader metabolic and neurological consequences.” The shift has been especially marked in functional medicine and longevity research, Jackson said, where more clinicians now recognize that alcohol does not contribute to Christa Jackson optimal wellness. When it comes to health goals such as hormone balance, brain health, sleep quality and long-term disease prevention, complete abstinence often provides a “dramatic” improvement in outcomes, she said. What is more, the negative effects of alcohol are, in many ways, more

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pronounced now than ever thanks to a combination of factors. to be included in celebrations, and this growing category is no “Modern alcohol is often more refined, more concentrated exception. There will be a mix of those who switch back and forth and more frequently consumed than in past generations. Sweetand those that stick with one or the other, but I don’t foresee an ened mixed drinks, flavored seltzers and fortiovert shift one way or the other.” fied wines deliver higher sugar loads and faster Less stigma, tastier booze-free drinks and a absorption, creating stronger metabolic disrupcultural embrace of the alcohol-abstinent lifetion,” Jackson said. “Like cannabis, alcohol today style have created an ideal moment for the newly is ‘stronger’ in the sense that it’s more accessible, sober-curious crowd. The potential boons of more frequently paired with processed foods and ditching the hard stuff leave little reason why one consumed by people already under higher toxic could not at least experiment with such a change. burdens, so the overall impact on the body is Jackson called the transformations she sees in paamplified.” tients who have stopped drinking “remarkable.” “I think more than ever before, if you’re goWhether one’s own attempt results in more ening to drink alcohol, it is certainly important to ergy, a slimmer waist or simply a nice change of check the alcohol content of drinks, especially pace, the adage stands: Don't knock it until you with the popularity of ready-to-drink cocktails,” try it. said Michael Cucciare, a clinical psychologist at “I’d say try it as an experiment, not a punishthe University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences ment. Give your body and brain 30 days alcohol in Little Rock. “I mean, ready-to-drink cocktails free and truly observe how you feel physically, Michael Cucciare mentally [and] emotionally,” Jackson said. “Funcwill vary [from] 5 to 30 percent alcohol by volume, and so I think it’s really important that we tional medicine is about data and self-awareness, check those if we do decide we’re going to drink.” and your body will tell you quickly what it prefers. You don’t have Cucciare, whose research expertise includes substance use and to label yourself as ‘sober’ forever; just notice what life feels like mental health disorders, said that as a profession, medical providwhen your body isn’t processing a toxin every evening. Most peoers are more aware of potential harms of alcohol use, from injuries ple find the freedom, energy and clarity so rewarding that they and violence to higher risk of certain cancers. Cancer risks can choose to keep going.” rise with any amount of alcohol use, not just heavy drinking, he said. Luckily, there is also increased awareness of the wide variety of treatment paths on offer for those looking to cut back or stop drinking completely. “Oftentimes, I spend some time just educating people about what’s available,” Cucciare said. “We have medication that can reduce cravings and urges to drink. More than ever before, people can get peer support. AA meetings are everywhere, in person and online, and now people are turning to innovative ways of reducing their drinking by downloading mobile apps to track their alcohol use and learn skills to cope with triggers that lead to their drinking.” The proliferation of tools such as tracking apps, in addition to wider social acceptance of support systems such as Alcoholics Anonymous and therapeutic approaches, give people a continuum of resources to suit their own goals. Cucciare also recommended consulting one’s primary care doctor or speaking with a trusted individual to determine what the best course of action might be. Sometimes, simply being aware of one’s drinking through tracking and planning ahead can be enough to make a change. “There’s a long list of positive things that come with reducing or stopping substance use, and there’s some challenges,” Cucciare said. “For some people, that might require a complete change of their social environment. It might require not being around people that you care about as much as you used to because that person’s substance use could trigger or influence your substance use. It can be complicated, but by far, for most people — 99 percent of people I work with — making a change in your substance use leads to living a much more meaningful life.” More brands stepping into the nonalcoholic foray also means the drink menu for sober-curious revelers should continue on an encouraging trajectory. Nonalcoholic brands such as Lyre’s and Ritual have led the charge in defining the budding space, Giles said, and he expects more competition between national names and purely NA-focused brands as the market segment expands. “I feel that it will always be a complement to the alcoholic cat— Robert Giles Colonial Wines & Spirits egory,” he said. “Colonial has always supported ways for everyone

Nonalcoholic drinks are becoming a serious commodity. Each category is getting progressively better in the quality presented, and customers are becoming more savvy to which products give the truest flavor results.

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Best of

2018

When you you walk walk into into the the Robinson Robinson Nursing Nursing && Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Center Center you you will will feel feel aa comfortable comfortable atmosphere atmosphere different different When from any other facility you have visited. We feature tall ceilings and an open floor plan. We have a lovely dining room and from any other facility you have visited. We feature tall ceilings and an open floor plan. We have a lovely dining room and covered outdoor outdoor patio patio area. area. aa covered We specialize specialize in in short-term short-term rehabilitation rehabilitation and and long-term long-term care care services. services. The The short-term short-term rehabilitation rehabilitation area area has has its its own own We diningarea areaand andday dayroom. room.From Fromthe themoment momentyou youenter enterour ourfacility, facility,we wewant wantyou youto toexperience experiencethe thedifference differenceour ourfacility facilityhas has dining to offer. offer. From From our our light-filled light-filled day day areas areas to to our our beautiful beautiful outdoor outdoor areas, areas, we we want want you you and and your your loved loved one one to to feel feel comfortable comfortable to and safe safe when when staying staying with with us. us. You You will will also also notice notice the the pride pride we we take take in in our our facility facility by by keeping keeping our our building building sparkling sparkling clean clean and from the the inside inside out. out. from Our team team isis dedicated dedicated to to providing providing aa safe safe and and comfortable comfortable environment. environment. Robinson Robinson Nursing Nursing and and Rehab Rehab offers offers modern modern Our conveniencesin inaagracious gracioussetting. setting.We Weprovide providedaily dailyplanned plannedactivities activitiesled ledbybyCertified certifiedActivity activityDirectors, directors, like like social social events events conveniences and outings outings and and pastoral pastoral services services with with spiritual spiritual care care for for all all religions. religions. We We strongly strongly encourage encourage family family participation participation in in group group and activities, meals meals and and celebrating celebrating family family birthdays birthdays and and special special days. days. activities, To help help you you plan plan your your visits, visits, we we provide provide aa monthly monthly event event calendar calendar and and aa monthly monthly meal meal planner. planner. Robinson Robinson Nursing Nursing and and To Rehab does not have set visiting hours. We view this facility as the “home” of each resident. Rehab does not have set visiting hours. We view this facility as the “home” of each resident. We try try our our best best to to communicate communicate with with patients patients and and families families to to help help alleviate alleviate the the anxiety anxiety that that accompanies accompanies this this journey. journey. We Our team of nurses, therapists and support staff work closely together to develop a plan based on the individual needs of Our team of nurses, therapists and support staff work closely together to develop a plan based on the individual needs of each person. We recognize that rehabilitation involves not only the patient but the entire family. each person. We recognize that rehabilitation involves not only the patient,

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NURSING & REHABILITATION LIVING PROFILE

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501.224.9000 • 516 S. Rodney Parham Rd., Little Rock • briarwoodnursingandrehab.com

nonprofit

Than A

Thrift Store Goodwill Industries turns donated possessions into new opportunities for Arkansans By MARY LESIEUR // Photos courtesy of GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF ARKANSAS

s the calendar turns and Arkansans begin the familiar ritual of clearing closets and sorting through what no longer fits, donation piles grow swiftly. A winter coat worn a few seasons ago and a stack of jeans that no longer fit are placed in a donation bag, often without a second thought about where they go or where they will end up. In Arkansas, those donations mean a new beginning and endless opportunities. Goodwill Industries of Arkansas operates as one of 144 autonomous Goodwill organizations nationwide. Despite the widespread belief that Goodwill is a single national entity, each regional organization functions independently. Brian Marsh, president and CEO at Goodwill Industries of Arkansas, oversees 38 locations statewide and spends his days not only knowing what is happening statewide but also getting to know his people. “Everyone knows who we are,” Marsh said. “Very few people know what we do.” At the heart of Goodwill’s work is a social enterprise model that transforms donated goods into funding for education, job training and employment opportunities across the state. Roughly 96 percent of Goodwill Industries of Arkansas’ operating revenue comes from the sale of donated items. In fact, that money will not even leave the state. “What’s donated in Arkansas stays in Arkansas,” Marsh said. “It goes back into communities, into people.”

Goodwill’s mission is simple in language but expansive in impact. Donations are the catalyst, Marsh said, for funding programs designed to move Arkansans from instability toward long-term sufficiency. “Our mission is changing lives through education, training and employment,” Marsh said. “Through the donations and purchases made at our stores, we’re able to do just that every day.” One of the most transformative initiatives funded by those donations is The Excel Center, Arkansas’s Brian Marsh only adult high school, which offers a state-accredited high school diploma rather than a GED. The program serves students 19 and older who did not complete high school, many of whom, Marsh said, left school due to pregnancy, financial pressure or family responsibilities. “In 2015, we worked with legislators to change the law to allow adults to earn a high school diploma,” Marsh said. “Education is the foundation. Without it, everything else is harder.”

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Our mission is changing lives through education, training and employment, Through the donations and purchases made at our stores, we’re able to do just that every day. – Brian Marsh

President and CEO, Goodwill Industries of Arkansas

The Excel Center removes barriers that often derail adult learners. Tuition is free, and on-site childcare, transportation assistance, counseling and life coaching are woven into the model to remove the obstacles that often stand between adults and completion. Students attend classes in eight-week sessions and progress based on their mastery, rather than their age or grade level. Graduates often continue their education through The Academy at Goodwill, a licensed trade school offering certifications in high-demand fields such as welding, pharmacy technology, health care and construction. “We talk about the ABCs of work,” Marsh said. “A job, a better job and a career — that’s the pathway.” The Academy allows participants to move quickly from low-wage or inconsistent work into careers that offer stability and growth. Welding graduates, for example, often leave the program earning significantly more than minimum wage. That same philosophy drives Goodwill’s reentry program, which serves individuals returning to

Donating clothes and other household items to Goodwill helps fuel programs that provide education and job training to people looking to make better lives for themselves and their families.

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We’re trying to be zero waste. We want to squeeze every bit of good out of what’s donated before it ever becomes trash. — Brian Marsh

President and CEO, Goodwill Industries of Arkansas

society after incarceration. Participants earn wages while receiving training and access to wraparound services. While Arkansas’s recidivism rate sits near 50 percent, graduates of Goodwill’s reentry program return to prison at a rate of less than 5 percent. “That’s the difference stability makes,” Marsh said. “When people have skills, support and purpose, the outcomes change.” Goodwill’s commitment extends inward, as well. Employees who are in good standing for 90 days can attend Academy programs tuition free. Career navigators help employees plan next steps, whether within Goodwill or beyond it. “It’s not about what we want for them,” Marsh said. “It’s about what they want for themselves.” Additional employee programs address often-overlooked barriers. The Good Smiles initiative covers up to $5,000 in dental care for employees who earn less than $45,000 annually, recognizing that oral health can impact confidence, employability and overall well-being. “It’s not charity,” Marsh said. “It’s an investment. We’ve seen it completely change someone’s outlook and their opportunities.” Transportation challenges are addressed through donated bicycles that are repaired and provided to employees and program participants. Helmets, locks and even riding lessons are included for students and employees when needed. Behind the scenes, Goodwill works to steward donations responsibly. Items are sold in the store where they are donated whenever possible to minimize transportation costs. Unsold goods move through outlet sales, e-commerce platforms or recycling channels designed to reduce landfill waste. “We’re trying to be zero waste,” Marsh said. “We want to squeeze

every bit of good out of what’s donated before it ever becomes trash.” Marsh said textiles are baled and sold for reuse or recycling, and electronics, jewelry and other valuable items are evaluated for resale or auction. Rare or luxury items can be found in their online storefront, which offers items from nationwide storefronts. As technology reshapes the workforce, Marsh believes Goodwill’s mission has never been more urgent. Automation and artificial intelligence are displacing entry-level and low-skill jobs, leaving those without education or training increasingly vulnerable. “We’re heading into an AI crunch,” Marsh said. “The people most impacted are those without education or training to fall back on. Donations help us prepare people for what’s coming next.” At the same time, Marsh said Arkansas’ growing economy depends on a skilled workforce. Goodwill serves individuals who have been historically disconnected from opportunity, helping them move into roles that support economic growth statewide. For donors, Marsh said he hopes the public will understand that where and how donations are used matters. Not all donation bins and thrift models operate the same way, and some for-profit organizations collect donations that leave the state, the proceeds benefiting shareholders rather than communities. As Arkansans prepare for a new year, donation decisions carry a quiet power. A bag of clothes can fund a high school diploma, and a few pairs of shoes can support job training. During a season defined by renewal, donating with intention allows that renewal to extend to others, strengthening communities one opportunity at a time. “Know where you’re donating,” Marsh said. “If you give to Goodwill, you’re funding diplomas, careers and second chances.”

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murder mystery

The Dev l’s Dinner By SARAH RUSSELL

f you cook the devil’s dinner, you can expect to get burned. At least, that is what happened to the whole lot of them — although there may still be someone out there who got away with murder. In January 2004, Judge Bob Castleman Jr. was in court but not behind the bench. The retired judge and his son, Jerrod, were facing federal charges. A few years earlier, they oversold a vehicle to their Pocahontas neighbors. The Stantons balked at the number of needed repairs. It became more than a brawl of words when, in June 2001, 16-year-old Jerrod and his red Chevy Blazer ripped doughnuts through the Stantons’ lawn. The next time he came to landscape, Jerrod left with his own hefty repair bill. Albie Stanton and his 9 mm had been waiting. A year later, Stanton’s wife was opening a package addressed to him when, among the Styrofoam peanuts, there was a pair of beady eyes staring her down. Cops made a quick casualty of the live copperhead, but there would soon be two more. Sending something nasty through the U.S. Postal Service incurs federal charges. Fingerprint analysis of the package pointed right back at father and son. The night before their trial, the feds drug-tested the two. They really should just have had a beer, their testing positive resulting in more charges. Due to a previous conviction, Jerrod got more time, but it was Bob who lost more. His law license was gone, as was the respect of the community that raised him. In April 2011, a man entered the Walnut Ridge Farm Service store. The employee did not recognize him, but his antenna was up nevertheless. No sooner had the guy gotten back in his truck than a woman got out. She was not buying milk either. What they did buy prompted the employee to make the call. The Travis Perkins Hoxie police chief had eyes on them immediately. Their pulled-over vehicle proved to be a virtual supply truck for making meth. The pair were cuffed. As a 19-year-old teenager up on drug charges, Becky Sharp had once stood before the decades older Castleman. He did not scare her straight. Instead, she left that courtroom with another bad habit. Now 30, Sharp was his long-term girlfriend. When the search warrant was executed on Castleman’s 262 acres, it revealed quite the family business. Jerrod and five more people were arrested. Among them was Travis Perkins, 34, a welder who had given his skills over to cooking meth. Turns out he made special deliveries too. Better check the flower garden outside the courthouse, the feds had

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been told. Seems Perkins did not mind depositing some meth there on his nightly way home. So just who retrieved that in the morning? Tongues were on fire around town as Trisha Mulligan, a woman working for the district court judge, was arrested. She was the police chief ’s wife. All of this was covered by local reporter George Jared, who has gone on to be recognized as an award-winning journalist and best-selling true crime author. His book The Creek Side Bones is a collection of murder cases he has covered. And yes, this case is in that book because soon there was a murder too. On April 15, 2013, Jared got a sit-up-straight call from Randall Byrd, one of the men involved in the meth operation. Perkins would not be going to court in three days, Byrd said. His next stop was the cemetery. How did he know that? Because Byrd just found him in his bed dead of two gunshot wounds. Perkins knew plenty. Charged or uncharged, there were people out there who had motive to murder him. The Castlemans feared he would testify against them in retaliation for Jerrod giving up his close friend Perkins to the feds. One media outlet indicated Perkins was going to do just that, but a friend of Perkins’ later said that was not necessarily going to be the case. As Perkins pointed out to him, his sentence would be about the same either way. To deflect murder charges, Jerrod offered up his father instead. He need not have bothered. Jerrod had an ankle monitor on; the feds knew exactly where he had been that night. Bob was at the Southland Park dog track in West Memphis with a former girlfriend of Jerrod’s, but she failed to make Bob’s story airtight. Around midnight, she told authorities, Bob gave her his phone and credit card, telling her to use them as she liked. How long was he gone? Well, she did not see him again till about 4 a.m. Could prosecutors convince a jury that Bob had driven those dark back roads both ways and committed a murder in that time period? Problematic, too, was the lack of any witnesses who could place him in Pocahontas that night or driving anywhere else either. To be clear, no one has ever been charged in Perkins’ death. Still, a quirk in the law allowed the murder to be used against Bob. A sentence can be increased if the defendant killed someone while committing another crime — i.e., if Bob offed Perkins while Bob was running his drug operation. Having cut a deal for a lighter sentence, Jerrod testified that his father was Perkins’ killer. As a result, Bob’s sentence was substantially more than for normal drug charges. Now in his 70s, Bob was remanded to 40 years in a maximum-security federal prison, his release date being set as Aug. 8, 2047. This case reflects the seriousness of the problem Arkansas is dealing with. In 2020, a drug use study by Millennium Health showed Arkansas led the nation in meth use, Iowa ranking second. No surprise, then, that in 2018, on a rural Iowa road, a 36-yearold ex-con out of Arkansas was pulled over. The car’s cargo included meth and other drugs. Clearly Jerrod Castleman was still continuing the family legacy. The Castlemans’ operation was, at the time, described as one of the largest meth manufacturing operations in the South. Despite that, Jerrod, Bob, Perkins and the others were still just expendables. In the drug world, the arrests, convictions and deaths of the expendables serve as a purposeful distraction, allowing the bigger players to continue poisoning communities while they hide in plain sight. The Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force is another group that has been operating unseen. In return for their life-risking efforts, the members of the multiagency, multistate group were able in November 2025 to arrest 11 higher level operators out of northeast Arkansas. They will, however, tell you this is not over. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, confirmed that stating the law’s commitment continues to be to “prioritize investigations involving methamphetamine, as well as the other leading substances causing drug overdose deaths in Arkansas, including cocaine, opioids and fentanyl.” That operation no doubt saved lives, but in Arkansas, there are those who continue to cook the devil’s dinner, and even more people are sure to be burned by it. Regular folks, friends and neighbors, fathers and mothers, sisters and brothers will have their lives shattered. Tears flow, but the devil laughs on.

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This case reflects the seriousness of the problem Arkansas is dealing with. In 2020, a drug use study by Millennium Health showed Arkansas led the nation in meth use.

Bob Castleman Jr.

Jerrod Castleman

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diamonds

Tosca Zoppé A

Business Owner/Artistic Director/Equestrian | Greenbrier t 3 days old, Tosca Zoppé had her first elephant ride, signaling the beginning of her career in the family’s circus. Soon afterward, she was performing as a ballerina on horseback, and as she grew, she excelled in equestrian artistry. As a sixth-generation performer, she carries on her rich heritage of bareback equestrian arts, a family legacy that dates back to 1842. Zoppé has had an extraordinary life performing a variety of circus disciplines in all 50 U.S. states, throughout Canada and in multiple countries around the world. Now calling Greenbrier home, she directs her family’s theatrical production and continues to be the creative vision behind the Zoppé Circus.

WHAT WAS IT LIKE GROWING UP IN A CIRCUS FAMILY? I’ve traveled since the day I was born, so you could say growing up in a circus family was and still is completely normal to me. For most kids, it would be a wild adventure, and, at times, it was for us, as well, but a beautiful one. From the time I was little, I toured the U.S. and Canada with my amazing family, learning the art of performing. Circus is a place of family, love and connection. Although you’re traveling all over the world as a child, you’re doing it with your family and with people that you truly care about. All circus families have different skill sets, so perhaps one friend is a trapeze artist, the other a tumbler, and perhaps another has elephants as their family companions, so you learn every aspect of it. It’s almost as if you are in circus university from the time you’re born. DID YOU ALWAYS WANT TO PERFORM? Yes, I have always wanted to perform. Perhaps it’s because I was performing before I knew anything else — my first official performance was at 2 years old — but I’m sure that I was in the ring before that. When the time was right, I started practicing on horses with my father around the age of 4.

WHAT ARE THE NAMES OF YOUR HORSES? WHAT BREED ARE THEY? Romeo, our veteran, is 26 this year and still tours with us. He was born on our farm and is retired but refuses to stay home. The circus is his life, and without it, he gets very depressed. He is a Percheron/Appaloosa cross. Zingaro is a gorgeous black Brabant. Violetta is a beautiful Brabant/ Percheron cross, who is new to us this year. Bisu, a Gypsy Vanner, is also new to us and is in training. Then we have all of the littles: Bianca, the little white one who never wants to get on her pedestal; Valentino, the black one that is always the comedy relief, and we have two more little ones that are in training, Bianco and Arlecchino. WHAT SUSTAINS YOUR EXCITEMENT AND ENTHUSIASM AFTER DOING THIS FOR SO LONG? I think it goes back to my heritage and feeling the connection with the audience and love of performing. It’s important to me to keep this tradition alive; I am very blessed that I’m married to someone that did not wish to take me away from this but engulfed himself in every aspect of it. Jay truly loves the circus and our history and heritage as much as I do. WHAT DO YOU HOPE AUDIENCE MEMBERS TAKE HOME FROM EVERY PERFORMANCE? My hope is that it resonates with people in the way that it feels like home and feels like a safe place for them whether they’re 5 or 85, that it feels familiar and it feels friendly and offers connection. That’s my hope anyway. I want my legacy to be that I was like my mama, perhaps just a little bit, in that I spread love and joy and gave people a place to feel like they were being hugged by the whole circus. The monthly “Diamonds” feature shares the lives and views of a diverse roster of proud Arkansans who are doing amazing things and are outstanding representatives of the Natural State. To nominate someone, email dwain@aymag.com.

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we fighting cancer together Married 54 years, Carl and Andrea Meurer have shared life’s highs and lows, but nothing prepared them to both be patients at the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute. One week after Andrea completed treatment for Stage 3 ovarian cancer under the care of gynecologic oncologist Dr. Monique Spillman, Carl’s routine screening revealed intermediate-stage prostate cancer. Dr. Tim Langford, Urologist, and Dr. A. Murat Aydin, Urologist Oncologist, used groundbreaking NanoKnife focal therapy, a minimally invasive outpatient treatment that uses targeted electronic pulses to isolate and destroy his cancer cells. As the first Arkansan to receive focal therapy, Carl avoided a complete prostate removal. Today, Carl and Andrea are cancer-free, grateful to God and their doctors and back to what brings them the most joy — grandparenting. “We feel blessed to have UAMS and the best treatments available. We can’t thank them enough for carrying us through the hardest year of our lives.” — Carl and Andrea Meurer, Little Rock

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