AY About You June 2026

TEEING UP FOR MENTAL HEALTH

September 14 & 15, 2026

Chenal Country Club

Join us for our Bolo Bash Golf Tournament, one of Arkansas’ largest charity golf tournaments, in support of Baptist Health Behavioral Health Services.

Every swing helps break down barriers to care. Funds raised will provide critical therapy and medication assistance for uninsured patients, expand rural telehealth services, fund suicide prevention education, and secure safe transportation home for recently discharged patients. Together, we can help individuals and families receive the compassionate, comprehensive behavioral health support they need and deserve.

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SOUTHLAND OFFERS MORE THAN EVER BEFORE — ARE YOU READY TO PLAY?

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST IN ARKANSAS!

There’s so much to explore in Searcy! From downtown events and foodie approved eats to holiday lights and a high quality of life, our “big small town” is your perfect place for a weekend – or a lifetime. Get started at experiencesearcy.com today. Upcoming Events

> Farmers’ Market | Saturdays

> United We Stand | July 4

> White County Fair | Sept 14-19

> Get Down Downtown | Sept 25-26

> Holiday of Lights | Nov/Dec

> New Year’s Eve Bash | Dec 31

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

Heather Baker hbaker@aymag.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Dwain Hebda dwain@aymag.com

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Darlene Hebda darlene@aymag.com

COPY EDITOR

Sarah DeClerk sdeclerk@aymag.com

STAFF WRITERS

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MANAGING DIGITAL EDITOR

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ONLINE WRITER

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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.

Emily James is a freelance photographer recognized for her intentional, humanfocused style and commitment to honesty and genuine representation. She coowns ECLIPS Productions with her husband, Ethan James. There they produce artistic, storydriven visual media, including promotional campaigns and real estate marketing.

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

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.

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.

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.

Genevieve Townley is the owner of Wonderlily Photography and resident of Hot Springs. She loves photography, her two kids, ages 18 and 20, her dog, Maggie, and her husband of 23 years. She also loves anything that involves going to the beach. Townley has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.

Chris Davis was born and raised in Sherwood but now resides in North Little Rock with his wife and son. When his son was born, his wife asked for a new camera to take pictures of their little one. From there, his love of photography grew, and he is proud to be one of the contributing photographers at AY About You magazine.

AY About You Magazine is published monthly, Volume XXXIX, Issue 2 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.

A quality education is at the top of our priority list for our child’s future, so we found a plan. No matter what higher education looks like when they’re ready for it, we’re saving today for their brilliant future.

The Arkansas Brighter Future 529 Plan allows our education savings to grow tax-deferred.

And every little bit helps. Our focus is our child’s future and we have a plan.

Help make your child’s future brilliant with an Arkansas Brighter Future 529 Plan. Open your account today.

Hello, Summer!

It hardly seems possible that we have already reached the midpoint of 2026, but the rising temperatures and call of the lake cannot be wrong — it’s summertime!

If you were to ask 100 Arkansans whether they preferred the blue skies of summer to the crisp bite of, say December, I’d bet the answer would be almost unanimous for the former, blazing heat and all. The Natural State doesn’t slow down as the humidity goes up, as this edition of AY About You attests.

Maybe your summer jam is music, and, if so, we’ve got your covered. Not only do we spell out some of the best live music in the state this month — like we do every month — but AY is the source for interviews with headliner artists as they prepare to play the state. This month, we sit down with rocker Melissa Etheridge and country hunk Jake Owen, both of whom will soon return to entertain their Arkansas fans.

We also preview the upcoming Arkansas Folklife Festival, coming to the North Little Rock riverfront. This special event celebrates everything Arkansas, as well as the 250th birthday of our great nation, with music, art, food and good times. Country rock superstar Lucinda Williams and blues legend Bobby Rush will headline this incredible, family friendly event — and it’s free!

Also in this issue, we salute the top votegetters in the “AY’s Best of 2026” readers’ poll. From accounting to zoos and barbecue to yard work, the people have spoken on the very best the state has to offer. Hundreds were nominated, thousands of votes were cast, and only one was left standing in each category. Congratulations to them all!

There’s so much to see and do in Arkansas; it is a good thing that the days are at their longest just to fit it all in. Wherever you do this month, take AY About You along, and don’t forget to share your adventures with us. We’d love to see what you’re up to in the Natural State!

Heather Baker, President & Publisher hbaker@aymag.com

CONNECT

READER FEEDBACK INSTAGRAM

We absolutely love working with AY About You! Their team consistently goes above and beyond to highlight what’s happening at the Garvan Gardens, and they have been incredible partners in helping share our events with a wider audience. Their coverage is always professional, timely and beautifully done — truly capturing the heart of each experience. It means so much to have a media partner that not only supports local organizations but genuinely cares about telling meaningful stories.

We’re so grateful for their continued support and highly recommend AY About You to anyone looking to stay connected to the very best of Arkansas!

Kristin Mangham, Garvan Woodland Gardens

AY About You is simply the best! We truly enjoyed collaborating with Heather and her team to spotlight Alzheimer’s Arkansas. From start to finish, their work was thoughtful, professional and deeply intentional about capturing what matters most. Heather brings a level of care, integrity and excellence that is simply unmatched. She understands the heart behind the mission and tells the story in a way that honors it fully. Her attitude and passion for the work make the entire experience seamless and meaningful.

Heather is truly a champion for so many, and we are incredibly grateful for her dedication and partnership. We can’t thank her enough and are already looking forward to future collaborations!

Highly recommend!

Karen Walker, Alzheimer’s Arkansas

BREAKING BAD HABIT: INSIDE MUSICIAN JACK BENNETT’S EVER-EXPANDING MUSIC CAREER

So honored and appreciative to have been featured in this! Thank you so much to AY About You and Alex Hardgrave for the article!

Jack Bennett

I reached out to Sarah [DeClerk] for an article idea, and she responded promptly and professionally. She wrote an amazing articl, and I appreciate her professionalism and articulation. 10/10 recommend!

Kellie Schulze, Buffalo Base Camp

TRENDING ON AYMAG.COM

Feltner’s Whatta-Burger closes after 58 years

Arkansas Weekend Events

Arkansas native Hart Denton to appear in Nnew ‘Yellowstone’ spin-off

Opening date revealed for Buc-ee’s

AY’s Best of 2026

After

years in

we delivering miracles

Lee Schwander was born on March 20, 1998, 13 weeks before his due date. Weighing only 2 pounds, 7 ounces, he required highly specialized care from neonatologist Dr. Whit Hall and his care team in the neonatal intensive care unit. His hospital stay lasted two months, including a week on a ventilator and a possible brain bleed that put his parents, Johnna and Howard Schwander, on an emotional roller coaster. Lee soon caught up to other kids his age and grew up and went to school in Little Rock. He now works at Hugg and Hall Mobile Storage and will soon be getting married.

“I’ve heard my whole life that I’m a medical miracle. I guess I’m a little blessed, thanks to the people at UAMS who helped me through those rocky first months.”

– Lee Schwander, Little Rock

5Top

you just can't miss!

ARKANSAS COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS

June 1

Reynolds Performance Hall — Conway

Honor Arkansas’ rich music history and support the state’s musical future at the annual Arkansas Country Music Awards. The event will award up-and-coming musicians, as well as household names, in nearly 30 categories for their hard work and contributions to country music. The red carpet event will feature live performances, four Arkansas Country Music Hall of Fame inductees and some surprises. AY Media Group is honored to be a sponsor of the event.

BLUE JEANS & BUBBLES

June 5

The Sanctuary at Argenta — North Little Rock

Blue Jeans & Bubbles is a one-of-a-kind summer celebration, blending casual denim with sparkling champagne to support Ronald McDonald House Arkansas & North Louisiana. AY Media Group is a proud sponsor of this year’s event.

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP RUNNING OF THE TUBS

June 6

Bathhouse Row — Hot Springs

Located at the historic Bathtub Row in Hot Springs, the World Championship Running of the Tubs is always a wet and wild time. Watch costumed teams race bathtubs on wheels in an effort to win the Stueart Pennington Cup. This event is free and fun for the whole family.

JUNETEENTH IN DA ROCK

June 20

Mosaic Templars Cultural Center — Little Rock

Join in a celebration of freedom, culture and community at the biggest Juneteenth festival in Arkansas. Enjoy live music, a speaker summit, family-friendly activities, a 5K run, a street festival and more.

ARKANSAS FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL

June 26-28

Riverfront Park — North Little Rock

Revelers will not want to miss the inaugural Arkansas Folklife Festival, a three-day celebration of the music, food, stories and traditions of the Natural State. Best of all — it is free! The event is included in the Smithsonian’s “Of the People: Festival of Festivals,” a nationwide celebration connecting festivals across the country in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.

Jake

Riverdance

THE CENTER OF AN UNFORGETTABLE HOT SPRINGS GETAWAY

Oaklawn is one of those Southern traditions that has always defined a trip to Hot Springs. Feel the energy of the 24/7 smoke-free casino, slip away for an afternoon at the Forbes Four-Star Astral Spa or settle in for dinner and cocktails at one of our Forbes Recommended restaurants. Stay the night at the Forbes Recommended on-site hotel and wake up near everything else the city has to o er. In Hot Springs, Oaklawn is where it all comes together.

RACING / SMOKE-FREE CASINO / HOTEL / SPA / EVENT CENTER / DINING

by Heather Baker

A Magical Escape at A Magical Escape at

LAKE OUACHITA Weekender The

RRecently, my husband, Ryan Parker, our teddy bear goldendoodle, Charlie Brown, and I traded our usual whirlwind schedule for a serene weekend at Mountain Harbor Resort & Spa on the shores of beautiful Lake Ouachita, just about 32 miles west of Hot Springs. We arrived with our heads and our phones buzzing from a hectic workweek, ready — no, desperate — for some lake therapy. Mountain Harbor was just the ticket.

Nestled in the Ouachita National Forest, the family-owned gem offers the ideal mix of adventure, relaxation and Southern hospitality. From luxury houseboat stays to spa pampering and trail explorations, it is an ideal getaway for couples, families — and dogs! Mountain Harbor is wonderfully pet friendly, everyone on the team loves dogs, and you will see other pups happily running around the open grounds. The spacious, leash-free areas across much of the resort make it a dream for families traveling with their furry friends. Charlie was in heaven.

Friday: Horses and Houseboats

We arrived midmorning and were warmly greeted by the entire Mountain Harbor team. Owners Bill Barnes and Barbara Harvel, along with Projects and Marketing Manager Pati Brown, Harbor Master Todd Gadberry, Food and Beverage Director Jennifer Brewer and her team at the Lodge Restaurant, and so many other friendly faces made us feel instantly at home.

Right after check-in, Ryan and I headed over to Mountain Harbor Riding Stables for a guided horseback ride. The family-owned barn, recently purchased and now operated by Judy McDonald and her family, offers gentle, well-trained horses and welcoming guides who make the experience suitable for beginners and seasoned riders alike.

Our ride through the Ouachita National Forest was pure magic — peaceful, scenic and incredibly relaxing.

Our ride through the Ouachita National Forest was pure magic — peaceful, scenic and incredibly relaxing. The experience is truly entry level and accessible for anyone; a young child rode right along with us on our tour. Judy’s 6-year-old granddaughter, Adeline, was definitely the boss of the trail ride — she knew exactly what she was doing and kept everyone smiling. Our guide kept things fun with jokes and shared little bits of trivia about the forest along the way.

We had the special privilege of riding two of the stable’s favorites: I was on Smoke, who definitely had the most personality and attitude, just the way I like it, while Ryan rode sweet Fudge. It was one of the highlights of the whole weekend and something I highly recommend everyone book during their stay.

My bags — and Charlie’s — then went straight to a stunning luxury houseboat, where we met our DreamChaser hosts, Benny and Paula Fuhrman. They made settling in effortless and fun.

DreamChaser Houseboat & Water Toy Rentals has a fleet of houseboats that provide a luxurious stay for both large groups and couples.

DreamChaser Houseboat & Water Toy Rentals has been a Lake Ouachita staple since 1989, offering guests the ultimate floating getaway right from the Mountain Harbor marina. The company’s fleet of seven luxurious houseboats ranges from 58 feet to 84 feet and comfortably sleeps 10 to 17 people depending on the model. Options include the Sundowner, which, at 58 feet by 15 feet, sports four queen bedrooms and sleeps 10, up to larger vessels, including the Ouachita Lady, measuring 84 feet by 16 feet and sleeping 17 with multiple queen bedrooms and sleeper sofas.

Every boat is a true home on the water: hot tubs, water slides, flybridges, sun decks, linens, towels, satellite TV and fully equipped kitchens with gas grills — all the comforts you need while surrounded by stunning lake views.

The houseboats have so many rooms, cozy nooks and thoughtful amenities that it feels like a floating condo with endless surprises. One of the sweet, funny touches Ryan and I loved was discovering a hidden “Little Jesus” figure tucked away inside, part of a fun game DreamChaser places on the boats for kids and big kids like us. It is those little personal details that make the experience even more special and heartwarming.

Benny gave us a thorough captain’s orientation and driving lesson right at the dock and then pulled out a huge map to show us just how vast Lake Ouachita really is. As Arkansas’ largest lake, it covers more than 40,000 acres and offers more than 200 islands and endless coves, all nestled within the Ouachita National Forest. It was eye-opening!

Once we were comfortable at the helm, we cruised out and docked at a secluded island. I loved stepping off the boat to explore, wandering among the rocks and driftwood, soaking in the peaceful surroundings, and simply sitting to watch a beautiful sunset.

At 40,000 acres, Lake Ouachita is the state’s largest lake and boasts more than 200 islands.

Later, we relaxed in the hot tub on the top level, gazing out at the mountains. The landscape was absolutely remarkable. Surrounded by dense forest and pristine waters, it felt like we were in Hawaii rather than Arkansas. We saw very few people the entire time, making

it feel like we had our own private island. It was such a different, secluded experience compared to other lakes I have visited, and the freedom to move from spot to spot made for an unforgettable escape.

When packing for a DreamChaser houseboat, treat it like renting a fully furnished condo on the lake for the weekend. The boats come well equipped with all the basics, such as kitchenware, linens, towels, coffee maker, etc., but bring your own food and your favorite cooking supplies, spices and condiments so you can settle in and cook exactly the way you like. It makes the stay feel even more like your own personal lakeside home.

Back at the houseboat by midafternoon after more island hopping, Benny and Paula hosted a wonderful time on the water. (Pro tip: Jet skis are available for rent right from the houseboats if you want extra thrills on the lake.)

Later, the Fuhrmans grilled an incredible dinner of fresh salmon and Argentine red shrimp, roasted baby rainbow carrots, a crisp salad, and fresh fruit with chocolates for dessert. Spending the night rocking gently on the water in that luxurious houseboat was truly unforgettable.

Saturday: Lunkers and Lodging

Morning brought the promise of a guided fishing excursion with harbor master and passionate angler Todd Gadberry, who meets guests at the marina aboard one of the sleek new 2026 Aloha party barges. Guided fishing is a highlight here on one of Arkansas’ top fishing lakes and highly recommended. Even if the weather does not cooperate, no worries! The team pivots beautifully with lodge brunch and early cottage check-in.

I enjoyed a casual lunch before transferring to our cottage. This was no little cabin; it was a grand, spacious retreat with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, including a luxurious master suite complete with its own fireplace and large bathroom. The beautiful covered porch featured a private hot tub, rocking chairs and sweeping views of the lake. Tucked away and hidden among the trees, it felt like our own private sanctuary — peaceful, relaxing and totally secluded.

What truly stood out was the incredible attention to detail in the decor. Each room has its own distinct style, including thoughtful artwork on the walls, an eclectic mix of antique and modern pieces, and a rustic charm

From enjoying great food to relaxing with my dog, Charlie Brown, the trip provided a much-needed getaway.

that makes every corner a delight to explore. I loved wandering through and admiring the unique touches.

I later learned that Pati, the lodge manager, pours her heart and careful attention into decorating all the cottages, and it shows in every beautifully appointed space. Mountain Harbor offers cottages in all different sizes and configurations, so whether you are a couple or a large group, there is one that fits perfectly.

Then came the highlight of pure relaxation: a couples massage at Turtle Cove Spa for Ryan and me. We indulged in a blissful session featuring hot stones paired with specialized sound therapy — deep, resonant sounds designed to relieve stress and promote profound calm. With soft music playing and gentle rain falling outside, I actually drifted off to sleep. The skilled therapists worked wonders in the serene, nature-inspired setting. It was the quintessential pampering moment and a truly specialized experience unique to Turtle Cove.

The skilled therapists worked wonders in the serene, natureinspired setting. It was the quintessential pampering moment and a truly specialized experience unique to Turtle Cove.

That evening, we had dinner delivered straight from the Harbor Lodge Restaurant to our cottage. We settled onto the porch with our meal, rocking gently while overlooking the lake as the rain softly fell. That is what this place is truly about: simply enjoying the peaceful community the team has created. Mountain Harbor has made everything so convenient and spectacular, you have every amenity right at your fingertips, yet you feel wonderfully tucked away from the bustle of everyday life. It is the perfect escape.

Sunday: Hymns and Hiking

Sunday morning, we rose and were warmly invited to join Bill and several members of the Mountain Harbor team at Joplin United Methodist Church. It was a beautiful service filled with heartfelt worship, singing and the genuine sense of community that surrounds this special place.

After church, a leisurely breakfast at the Lodge Restaurant fueled a wonderful morning trail walk along the stunning, forested Lake Ouachita Vista Trail with the owners, “just Bill” and Barbara.

Walking with Bill is an experience like no other. This man has poured his heart, sweat, tears and lifelong dedication into Mountain Harbor. He grew up here, working alongside his father, and has dedicated his life to preserving its beauty while creating something truly special. One can feel his deep care in every detail. He wants every guest to have an incredible, safe experience as they become part of the Mountain Harbor family.

He also has a profound love for our country that is beautifully represented all across the resort through American flags flying proudly and thoughtful historical preservations throughout the property. He even maintains a military museum on the grounds that honors our veterans and service members. It is a very special part of who he is, and I highly recommend asking him about it when you visit.

That stroll with Bill and Barbara quickly became one of my favorite parts of the entire trip. Listening to his stories about Arkansas tourism, how the resort has evolved and their exciting plans ahead — including new treehouse accommodations I cannot wait to try next time — was inspiring.

Whether you are seeking adventure on the water, peaceful forest trails or a total unwind at the spa, Mountain Harbor delivers on every front. I cannot recommend the DreamChaser houseboats enough; they are ideal for a big group or simply a romantic couple’s getaway. Ryan and I cherished every sunset and sunrise together on the water — it was pure peace.

This place has given us new friends and a completely different, deeper experience of Arkansas. Ryan, Charlie Brown and I will remember this weekend forever. If you are looking for a true lake escape filled with magic, memories and relaxation — for the whole pack — put Mountain Harbor on your list. You will leave refreshed, recharged and already planning your return.

That is what this place is truly about: simply enjoying the peaceful community the team has created.

B Beautiful Looks That Last

By DWAIN HEBDA

Browsing Acme Brick, Tile and Stone’s 8,000-square-foot showroom in Maumelle offers the homeowner a range of attractive and durable options for boosting the curb appeal and beauty of any home.

Serving the entire central Arkansas region for the past 35 years, Acme Brick, Tile and Stone offers an impressive variety of brick,

stone, masonry fireplace systems and hardscape products, as well as one of the most extensive selections of porcelain, natural stone and glass mosaic in the area.

“People know us for brick, and that’s understandable because that’s what we’ve built our reputation on over the past 135 years,” said Chase Crabtree, district manager, “but once they visit our showroom, people immediately understand we’re a lot more than just a brick company.”

The company not only sells brick; it manufactures it at four in-state plants, three primarily focused on residential brick and one being devoted strictly to commercial brick. This provides better product quality assurance while supporting Arkansas jobs and craftsmanship. The company stands behind its brick products with a 100-year warranty. Acme Brick has had a presence in central Arkansas for over a century. The company purchased its first Arkansas property in 1919 and began production at its nearby Malvern facility in 1921.

“Brick is always going to be at the heart and core of our business because that is what Acme Brick was founded upon, but we are proud to offer so much more than brick for our customers. In this region of the country, brick has always been the foundation of much of the new construction because it provides such a classic look with a durability that’s made to last for generations,” Crabtree said.

“It requires little to no maintenance, which makes it a good foundational piece to any home while providing a timeless yet impressionable look.”

Not unlike clothes or music, building materials go through various periods of popularity with the buying public, and right now, brick is having a moment. The latest Journal of Light Construction “Cost vs. Repair Report” ranked improvements to the home by which ones deliver the highest return on investment. Exterior improvements led the field at a whopping 200-percent ROI, and, as Glen-Gery’s recent “Trends in Design and Renovation” report indicated, brick is the preferred exterior building material for almost half of the homebuilding or renovation public.

One big reason for that, as Home Living Handbook put it, is because brick offers the best of all possible worlds.

“From modern new builds to timeless renovations, architects and homeowners alike continue to choose brick exteriors for their durability, aesthetic appeal and resilience,” wrote Emily Fazio. “In the face of shifting weather patterns and increasing demand for sustainable, low-maintenance materials, it’s a tried-and-true choice, so no surprise that the popularity of brick homes isn’t waning.”

Another reason for the popularity of brick is the many styles and colors bricks come in these days, lending themselves to virtually every design palette.

“Regardless of a building’s style, brick

can deliver bold architectural designs and creative finishes,” said Tim Leese, marketing director at Glen-Gery. “They offer a result that’s equally beautiful, impactful and distinctive yet durable and strong, withstanding even the harshest conditions.

“Brick is a long-lasting material that embodies form and function, overlaying beauty, strength and resiliency. Homeowners and designers no longer have to choose and can instead get the best of both worlds.”

As a glance at the company’s catalogue reveals, Acme Brick, Tile and Stone delivers the customer a wide range of options when it comes to brick color and texture, from variations of classic red to brown, black, gray, cream, white, yellow and orange. There are likewise many finishes and washes available to deliver finished looks that are strictly uniform and classic to vintage to distressed.

Crabtree said of late, a traditional white brick called White Bluff and a more contemporary white, Silvercreek, have been very popular among today’s homeowners, many of whom are using brick differently than their parents and grandparents did.

“Back in the ‘80s, ‘90s and even the early 2000s, pretty much all homes and new builds were 100-percent brick,” he said. “Now we’re seeing a transition to multiblended products being used on exteriors, and that is where Acme has really pivoted to providing solutions for those changing exterior profiles that homeowners are seeking.”

“Regardless of a building’s style, brick can deliver bold architectural designs and creative finishes. They offer a result that’s equally beautiful, impactful and distinctive yet durable and strong, withstanding even the harshest conditions.

— Tim Leese, marketing director, Glen-Gery

For those homeowners seeking a look other than or in tandem with brick, Acme Brick, Tile and Stone offers a range of exterior cladding products that provide beauty, weatherization, ease of installation and long functional life.

The company carries residential and commercial lines from MAC Metal, Quality Edge and a recently acquired new line, Vicwest, of which Acme Brick, Tile and Stone is the exclusive retailer in Arkansas. All the lines offer outstanding warranties, are available in matte or textured finish to mimic wood or a range of fashionable solid colors. The products are also very low to no maintenance and resistant to warp, rot, pests and fire. Best of all, the products are easy to install, ideal for the do-it-yourselfer or for the installer of the client’s choice.

Crabtree said people are often surprised to find the store carries such products, but once they discover the wide inventory selections, they like what they see.

“We’ve been just a brick and mortar business in the past, but over the last 10 years, specifically, we’ve really made a transition into other products outside of brick and stone like the exterior cladding,” he said. “We represent several lines, so there’s multiple options, multiple colors. There’s a solution for everybody and multiple profiles for anything that’s in demand right now.”

Crabtree said in addition to the company’s product features, one big advantage of dealing with Acme Brick, Tile and Stone lies in the company’s people and the helpful, knowledgeable way staff approach each and every customer.

“Our staff is really, really great. Our office in Little Rock represents 34 counties in the state, and many of our employees are longtimers. Two even have 30-plus years with Acme. That’s a really big wealth of knowledge,” he said. “We take a lot of pride in being a manufacturer and selling locally made products right here from the Natural State. With us having plants here in Arkansas, we have that direct line of communication to our plants on what’s going on and how we can improve the things that we’re doing. I’m proud to be involved in new product development right now for new blends for the ever-changing market, and to be able to have that connection so close within our organization is outstanding.”

“People know us for brick, and that’s understandable because that’s what we’ve built our reputation on over the past 135 years, but once they visit our showroom, people immediately understand we’re a lot more than just a brick company.”

—Chase Crabtree, district manager, Acme Brick, Tile and Stone

ACME BRICK

The Best Thing To Have Around Your House.

Acme’s Little Rock Showroom proudly serves customers throughout the Central Arkansas region. Inside our expansive 8,000-square-foot space, visitors will find an impressive selection of brick, stone, masonry products, and hardscape solutions designed to elevate any project.

Acme also offers the largest variety of metal siding in Central Arkansas, featuring both realistic woodgrain finishes and bold solid colors to match any design style. Built for long-term performance, these products provide exceptional durability with little to no maintenance worries, backed by warranties ranging from 40 years up to a lifetime. Whether you’re building, remodeling, or exploring new ideas, Acme provides the materials and inspiration to bring your vision to life.

America’s 250th birthday ushers in a red, white and blue summer

Oh, Beautiful

Each summer brings a rush of red, white and blue to homes as families celebrate the season, bookended by Memorial Day and Labor Day with the Fourth of July at its height. This year, however, promises to be more patriotic than ever as America celebrates its 250th birthday.

Yes, stars and stripes were the only topic of discussion at market this year — next to getting an early start on Christmas trends — and home decorators buying for Independence Day had better shop early to get their hands on the good stuff.

There are so many ways to bring patriotic colors into the home. Let’s start with the front door. Local shops such as FlagandBanner.com are sure to do a brisk business in flags and bunting this year, while the team at Norwood-Day Floral Co. in Little Rock is getting ready for a red, white and blue wreath frenzy.

By CHRIS NORWOOD, AIFD, PFCI, AAF

Photos courtesy of NORWOOD-DAY FLORAL CO.

For the wreaths, I start with a chicken wire frame and then fill it in with a base of green. We have a really fun silk eucalyptus base that gives the wreaths a lot of vol ume. I add red roses on top of that, and then I go over the whole thing with blue hydrangea, cornflower and scabiosa for a wildflower look. I finish the wreath by wrapping it in ribbon.

We at Norwood-Day are going big on ribbon this year. We have plenty of patriotic themes, from stars and stripes to reversible red-and-blue ribbon. Use them to wrap a light pole, weave through ban isters or add an extra touch of America anywhere it is needed.

Beyond wreaths and ribbons, there are also plenty of door decals, door hangers and ground stakes with mo tifs that include rockets, fireworks and more.

As far as flowers go, there are plenty of ways to incorporate red, white and blue buds into a design scheme. One cute idea is to arrange blue bottles down a long table, each filled with one or two red or white stems. Pro tip: Break out an old red vase used for Christ mas decorations, and fill it with blue and white blooms for a patriotic look.

When you are decorating with flowers outside, be sure to avoid flowers that wilt in the heat, such as tulips and irises, and use heavy containers that will not tip over in the wind.

Home hosts are sure to be busy this year, but fortunately, they can find tons of high-quality paper products with the America250 theme. Look for star-spangled plates, cups and napkins of all sizes to complete a Fourth of July barbecue or pa triotic pool party.

There are also plenty of patriotic home goods for those look ing for something a little more lasting. The America250 celebra tion makes this year a great year to stock up on items that will be used for summers to come. There are plenty of red, white and blue pitchers, tea towels, pillows and blankets on the market right now. I even found some vintage kitchen towels made from flower sacks printed with scenes of Americana.

There tend to be two ways you can go when you are decorating in stars and stripes One is with stark whites and vibrant colors that

make for a peppy, playful look. The other is with tarnished whites and muted reds and blues for a more antique style straight out of M*A*S*H. That show was still on the air when America celebrated its bicentennial. I was a child in McCrory at the time, but I remember July 4, 1976, well. Back in those days, we used to roast a hog in a dug-out pit in the back yard for the Fourth of July. Since the pig required constant supervision, we stayed up through the night, shooting off fireworks and having a great time.

It is amazing that the United States is now 250 years old. How incredible is it that the country has survived this long while upholding the values laid out by our Founding Fathers? As we remember those who helped achieve American independence during the Revolutionary War, I want to say thank you to the brave men and women defending our country today.

Have a great, patriotic summer!

Chris Norwood and Christina Day-Essary are co-owners of Norwood-Day Floral Co. in Little Rock. For more information, visit norwood-day.com.

Sweet

Repeat

Chef Payne Harding takes second consecutive Delta Diamond Chef crown

By DWAIN HEBDA //

Chef Payne Harding of Cache Restaurant in Little Rock knows a little something about cutting things close. Not only are the celebrated chef’s knife skills on point — something of an occupational necessity — but he is making a habit of winning chef competitions by razor-thin margins.

In 2024, Harding won the inaugural Delta Diamond Chef competition by a mere two points over Chef Matías de Matthaeis of Red Oak Steakhouse at Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff. On May 4, Harding repeated his winning ways, edging out the tandem of chefs Wendy Schay and Jill McDonald of the Croissanterie in Little Rock, as de Matthaeis came in a close third before a packed house of more than 300 at Saracen Resort Hotel’s new event center.

Payne Harding

“The very first year, I was extremely nervous. I had to pass the first round. Then you had to pass the second round just to get to the finals,” said Harding, who, as defending champion, gained a bye straight to the 2026 finals. “Frankly, I was quite intimidated the first year going into the finals and even the first two rounds. When I won the first competition, one of the judges came up to me and said I won because I had the best flavors, and that kind of stuck with me. I realized flavor was the most important component.

“After that one, there was an eight-, maybe nine-month layoff in between competitions, and I really, really dedicated myself to this year’s competition. I probably started practicing seven months out and got a dish down. I practiced four or five nights a week for a good three, four months for this competition, and I did a ton of research. As a result, I was very confident going into the competition.”

Harding’s winning menu included a showstopping rack of Dover sole stuffed with spinach crab and mascarpone cheese alongside a parsnip puree and lemon beurre blanc, confit potatoes with glazed root vegetables, and fried sage. He topped that off with truffle egg custard with lemon crema and caviar topped with a Parmesan cracker. The fish was not only exquisitely flavorful but masterfully prepared and presented.

“We sell a lot of Dover sole at the restaurant, and I knew I wanted to work with that particular fish. It’s a luxurious fish, it’s a fish that you only see in high-end dining, and it’s very versatile,” Harding said. “We prepare it classically at the restaurant, but high-end chefs take different preparations, and so I started researching menus and websites and read certain cookbooks about it. I nailed down a certain preparation of Dover sole no one has ever seen in Little Rock.”

Payne’s wow factor came from his expert butchering; he butterflied and stuffed the fish while he frenched the delicate bones for a stunning display.

“It’s an extremely cool presentation that no one has ever seen before, and it was delicious as well,” he said. “I knew the judges would love it. I told my team that if we executed the dish properly that we had a very strong chance of winning.”

Even with his dazzling entree, Harding’s bid for a second title was not assured until the last ballot was tallied. That is because Schay and McDonald showed their culinary muscle, producing a menu that solidified the pair as ones to watch for the future. They prepared

croissant-crusted Arkansas catfish with a tartare beurre blanc, buttered carrots and asparagus, purple pommes duchesse, miso roasted red cabbage, pickled slaw red onion jam, and ube tuile.

“We were very happy with our dish, and we did every bit of it on the clock and in the 50 minutes allotted,” Schay said. “Our only hiccup was not having used these particular ovens and induction ranges at the competition before. The ones we normally use are a little bit different, but overall, the setup was nice, and things went great”

Schay said the event itself did a fine job of showcasing the culinary talent that exists in Arkansas and the skills and passions that do not always get their due.

“The talent in Arkansas is highly underrated,” she said. “As events like this showcase that talent. It’s an opportunity to grow the industry. There is a lot of potential and diversity from across the state; it was nice for it to be opened up to more chefs this year, which gave us a chance to meet and network for future projects.

“It’s hard to assess the cooking from each chef when everyone is so different, with different styles and ingredients, so the ability to network with other restaurants and chefs for vendors and collaborations is vitally important for our industry. We can only grow this industry if young people can see what we do and want to participate. It also gives current chefs and restaurants an outlet for creativity and development.”

Heather Baker, president and publisher of AY Media Group, which was among the list of major sponsors for the evening, said the level of competition had taken a major step forward.

“Last time was a great debut, but 2026’s Delta Diamond Chef was exceptional,” said Baker, who also served on the organizing committee and as the event’s emcee. “The menus of all three of our competitors was Michelin Star-level, and I did not envy the judges one bit. Many people don’t realize the level of culinary skill that we have here in Arkansas, but word is starting to get out.

“Whenever we feature a restaurant or chef in AY About You, it always ranks as one of the most popular and widely read articles in that issue, so I think people all across the South and throughout the country are really starting to pay attention to what is going on here in the Natural State.”

As Baker noted, a lion’s share of the credit for the success of the event and its continued development lies with Todd Gold, senior director of hospitality at Saracen Casino Resort and president of the American Culinary Federation Arkansas Delta Chefs Association. A veteran of nearly 40 years in the state’s hospitality industry, Gold has long been a vocal advocate for Arkansas food and the talented people who prepare it and boasts more than a decade of experience organizing and hosting competitions, including Delta Diamond Chef, his brainchild.

Gold said he was more than pleased with the turnout, the new venue and the overall quality of the competition itself.

“Well, first of all, with the scores themselves, you’ve got four judges independently scoring the three competitor teams, and those are tallied together, and you get the average,” he said. “Half a point separated third

and second place and, again, between second and first place. You couldn’t ask for a competition any closer.

“If any of those teams had done one thing differently that the judges liked, it would’ve changed the whole end result. That’s how close it was. I was so blown away with all three competitors’ plates.”

In addition to the competition, the evening recognized some of the best culinary talent in the state via the American Culinary Federation Arkansas Delta and Central Arkansas Chef's Associations awards. Some of the evening's honorees had the additional honor of preparing the fare enjoyed by attendees.

“Being recognized among this year’s Arkansas Delta chefs is both humbling and deeply meaningful,” said Chef Jinnings Burruss Jr. of the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff, who was named ACF Arkansas Delta Chapter Chef of the Year and prepared the

main course. “The award represents some of the finest culinary talent in the region, so to be acknowledged by peers with the award is truly an honor.

“For me, the recognition reflects not only a single dish but the culmination of nearly four decades of work in culinary arts, hospitality leadership and education. It also reinforces the importance of mentorship, lifelong learning and preserving culinary traditions while continuing to innovate.”

Other award winners echoed how meaningful it was to be recognized by their peers in various categories. Catherine McCormack, 3D assistant teaching professor of baking and pastry arts at the University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Institute, was one of them.

“This recognition represents all my mentors, chefs, coworkers, educators and friends who supported and challenged me throughout my journey,” said McCormack, named Pastry Chef of the Year for the ACF Central Arkansas Chapter. “Some of them I met at 16, some at 18, and they’ve played such a huge role in my life. It reminds me how important mentorship and opportunity are in this industry, and it motivates me to continue growing, learning and giving back to the culinary community.”

The evening was equally impactful for those in the student division, representing the next generation of great Arkansas cooks and bakers.

“I think many people underestimate the level of discipline, teamwork and attention to detail required in the culinary world,” said Alyssa Frisby of Lonoke, second-year student at UA-PTC who was named Student Chef of the Year. “There is so much preparation, communication and problem-solving happening behind the scenes. The most rewarding part has been seeing my confidence grow in the kitchen both as a student and as a professional. It’s truly an honor to be recognized alongside such talented chefs and students. I’m grateful for the support of my instructors, classmates and colleagues who have encouraged me throughout this journey.”

Gold said the amount of work and preparation that Delta Diamond Chef requires of organizers mandates that sufficient time be provided between competitions.

“Our next competition’s going to be in September of 2027, so we’re about 16 months out now, which is good,” he said. “To be honest with you, this has so many moving parts, and there’s so much activity that happens to bring all the different pieces together that it takes us 14 to 16 months to be prepared to do all this.”

As for Harding, he said he is stepping back from the competitive aspect of Delta Diamond Chef, although he has agreed to help organize the next event.

“I told Todd I would be on the committee next year, but for now, I am done competing,” he said. “The amount of dedication and the amount of stress and the amount of work, not to even mention the amount of groceries I have to purchase for practicing, I don’t see myself competing for at least two or three years.

“I really have nothing left to prove to myself or to the public. I think you should quit when you’re on top, and that’s where I’m at.”

American Culinary Federation

Arkansas Delta Chef's & Central Arkansas Chef's Associations AWARD WINNERS

Student Pastry Chef of the Year: Cathy Melvin, ACF Central Chapter

Student Chef of the Year: Alyssa Frisby, ACF Central Chapter

Pastry Chef of the Year:

Catherine McCormack, ACF Central Chapter

Matías de Matthaeis, ACF Delta Chapter

Educator of the Year: Kenneth Lipsmeyer, UA-PTC

Chef of the Year: Payne Harding, ACF Central Chapter

Jinnings Burruss Jr., ACF Delta Chapter

Lifetime Achievement Award: Duke Eyman

Delta Diamond Mixologist Competition Winner: Roy Armstrong, Cypress Social, North Little Rock

Delta Diamond Mixologist Competition People’s Choice Winner: Sarah Repp, The Fold, Little Rock

Delta Diamond Chef Competition Winner: Payne Harding, Cache Restaurant, Little Rock

DELTA DIAMOND MENU CHEFS

Hors d’oeuvres: Chefs Tyrone Fox and Ashley McAfee Keaton, Saracen Casino Resort

Amuse-bouche: Chef Jordan Davis, Chenal Country Club

Breads: Chefs Chocla Lea and Kelli Marks, UA-PTC

Appetizer: Chef Michael Qandah, Red Oak Steakhouse, Saracen Casino Resort

Salad: Chef Jennifer Danser, Saracen Casino Resort

Intermezzo: Kenneth Lipsmeyer, UA-PTC

Main course: Chef Jinnings Burrus Jr., UA Pine Bluff

Desserts: Chefs Matías de Matthaeis and Daira Gómez, Saracen Casino Resort

Wines/wine service: E & J Gallo Winery

JSummer l F av r s

l av r F s Summer

Meatloaf with blueberry glaze brings together unexpected seasonal flavors

By MARGIE RAIMONDO // Photos by MARGIE RAIMONDO

une is when everything begins to ripen. Basil is fragrant enough to stop you midstep. Blueberries stain your fingers before you even make it home. The days begin to stretch past supper, and the soil is finally warm enough to mean business.

Gardens shift from planting to picking as the first harvests begin arriving in waves.

This meatloaf draws from Sicilian tradition: simple, deeply flavored and built on good ingredients. Grass-fed beef is mixed with breadcrumbs softened in milk and egg, fresh basil and parsley, and a generous handful of grated pecorino. The result is tender, savory and rich but still restrained enough to welcome the bright finish of agrodolce.

The blueberry agrodolce is what transforms this dish. Italy’s ancient sweetand-sour sauce takes on an Arkansas accent here, encompassing fresh blueberries simmered with honey, red wine vinegar, olive oil and a pinch of salt until they collapse into a glossy, jewel-dark glaze. It balances the richness of the beef with sweetness, brightness and just enough edge.

Spoon the glaze generously over the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of baking so it cooks into the surface and deepens, becoming both rustic and elegant.

PRO TIP:

You can make an extra meatloaf to freeze for another meal. Put it in a freezer-ready container before cooking it. When you are ready to eat it, remove from the freezer, let it thaw, and cook as directed above.

Sicilian Meatloaf with Blueberry Agrodolce Glaze

Meatloaf

• 1 1/2 pounds Arkansas grass-fed ground beef

• 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• 1/2 cup grated onion

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/2 cup grated pecorino or Parmesan

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Olive oil, for drizzling

Blueberry Agrodolce Glaze

• 1 cup fresh Arkansas blueberries

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Pinch of salt

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 375 F.

2. In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in the milk and egg for 5 minutes.

3. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumb mixture, grated onion, garlic, basil, parsley, pecorino, salt and black pepper. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly oiled baking dish or on a parchment-lined sheet pan. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.

5. Bake for about 65 minutes.

6. Meanwhile, make the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, honey, red wine vinegar, olive oil and salt. Simmer over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries burst and the mixture thickens into a glossy glaze.

7. After the meatloaf has baked for 50 minutes, spoon the glaze generously over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the center reaches 160 F.

8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Spoon any extra glaze over the slices before serving.

LOCAL FLAVORS

Across Arkansas, blueberry season arrives not on a truck but at the end of a gravel road.

At Sta-n-Step Blueberry Farm in Fayetteville, rows open to the morning light a few days each week through early July. On the west side of Little Rock, Berry Haven Farm welcomes visitors daily, growing berries with a natural approach that reflects the rhythm of the land. In the Arkansas River Valley, Renee’s Berry Garden tends both blueberries and blackberries with a focus on soil health, harvesting from late May into summer.

Farther south in Grant County, A & B Berry Farm opens its gates from sunup to sundown, while in the Ozarks, Neal Family Farm pairs its berry rows with a dozen beehives offering honey alongside the harvest.

These are not commodity berries shipped from afar. They are sun-warmed, hand-picked and fleeting — berries that taste the way they are meant to taste.

THE VOTES ARE IN

‘AY’s Best of 2026’ winners list is here!

There is a timeless saying that goes, “Whatever is worth doing at all is worth doing well.”

As one of the largest and most comprehensive reader’s polls in Arkansas, “AY’s Best of 2026” highlights those individuals and businesses performing at the highest level across more than 300 categories — from physical therapy clinics to private schools, fine dining to food trucks, dog groomers to dry cleaners.

When it comes to putting together this list, our team at AY About You makes sure we do it well, by taking our nominees through multiple rounds of voting to narrow it down to those who are truly the best.

The journey starts in January, when readers from all over the state send in thousands of nominations across categories in retail, beauty, dining, media, healthcare and more. From there, the field is narrowed down to the top five in each category. In March, we kick off the second phase of the competition, during which readers cast votes to help their favorites secure a topthree spot. Those top-three finalists are honored in the May issue every year as “AY’s Best Of.” However, in the end, we narrow it down to the big winner in each category.

Now the time has come to reveal who is on the top of the podium — those who got the most votes in their respective categories. We applaud all the individuals and companies named in the following pages, and we thank our readers for once again playing an important role in naming the best businesses and service providers in Arkansas. By telling us where you spend your time and money, you are not only giving praise to your favorites but making sure visitors and new Arkansas residents have local recommendations all in one convenient place.

Without further ado, the following pages contain the undisputed best of what Arkansas has to offer. These businesses and people exemplify that “whatever is worth doing at all is worth doing well.”

Congratulations to “AY’s Best of 2026” class!

We would like to express a special thank you to this year’s sponsors:

Care at the Core

‘AY’s Best of 2026’ winners share a common mission

Good healthcare can be measured by numerous complicated metrics. No matter how one measures success, however, it comes down to one thing — caring for patients. AY About You spoke with three “AY Best of 2026” winners in multiple healthcare categories this year, and though they all occupy different spaces of health, one thing they have in common is putting their patients first at all times.

(Photos courtesy of Arkansas Surgical Hospital)

By ALEX HARDGRAVE

Arkansas Surgical Hospital, which won Best Physician-Owned Hospital, opened its doors 21 years ago, revolutionizing care in the local market in the process.

“A group of doctors dreamt it up because they felt like their patients deserved a greater experience,” said Brian Fowler, CEO. “They thought that there was a better way to deliver care and that they could be more efficient.”

ASH specializes in a select areas of practice, including orthopedic and spine surgery, urology and breast oncology.

“Getting patients back to mobility and health is what we do,” Fowler said.

He added that the team completes many of the same surgeries over and over again, meaning their skills are top notch.

Over the years, the experienced staff, which has grown to more than 300 people, including doctors, nurses and support staff, has prioritized high-quality care for lower costs.

“What we’re trying to deliver on today isn’t different than it was 21 years ago,” Fowler said.

What has changed is the size of the hospital and the technology at the staff’s disposal. ASH started with 16 patient suites and five operating rooms, but as more physicians came on in the first few years, ASH quickly expanded to nine operating rooms and 41 patient suites.

Today, the hospital has 13 ORs and has added four recovery suites.

ARKANSAS SURGICAL HOSPITAL AUSTIN FAMILY DENTISTRY

Dr. Bryan Austin opened his own practice soon after graduating from dental school in 1993. Since then, Austin Family Dentistry has grown to two locations, which both offer a wide range of services and cutting-edge technology. That has earned the practice the distinction of Best Family Dentist in “AY’s Best of 2026.”

“[Awards] come from the fact that we’ve been around for 33 years,” Austin said. “It gives us the confidence that we’re doing something right.”

Since moving into the current location in Maumelle in 1996, the practice has expanded from four operatories to 10. In 2014, Austin opened the Little Rock location, which is led

“We’ve tried to make our growth strategic,” Fowler said. “You never want to grow too big and have wasted space, but you don’t want to be behind when a physician wants to come on board or you experience patient growth.”

The plan for the coming years is to continue to recruit physicians, as some current ones are looking to retire. Fowler said he expects the demand for care will increase as the baby boomer generation continues to age.

The hospital will also keep up with new technology as it develops but, as Fowler said, “new technology does not always make it the right technology.” He said even if ASH has the latest and greatest tools, successful outcomes stem from the skills and care from the healthcare professionals at ASH.

Everything ASH does coalesces into winning numerous awards over the years, including multiple recognitions through the years in the “AY Best Of” poll.

“[Winning awards] validates that the things we’re doing matter and that we’re directionally going the right way and that the decisions we make are for the benefit of the patients, community and staff,” Fowler said.

by Dr. Tara Pappas Scallion, and, in 2022, he brought Dr. Brett DeCoursey on as a partner at the Maumelle practice.

Austin Family Dentistry offers a one-stop shop for all things dental, including orthodontics, Invisalign, sleep apnea testing, temporomandibular joint treatment and even Botox.

Thanks to improvements in dental technology, services have become quicker and less painful. One new piece of technology is a mouth-mapping machine that does what molds used to do for building retainers and crowns. That means no more gooey impressions, Austin said.

While Maumelle’s population growth shares some of the credit for the growth of the practice, Austin was quick to point out that the real catalyst is quality care.

“How we treat our patients and the atmosphere we create has allowed us to be successful,” he said. “We’re always laughing and joking and kidding around and just having a good time.”

WRIGHT PLASTIC SURGERY & MED SPA

Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa, opened by Dr. Eric Wright in 2018, was founded on the goal of delivering personalized care consistent with each patient’s needs.

“I wanted to build a practice that feels professional yet approachable, where I could spend more time listening to each patient’s unique story and developing tailored plans that help them look and feel their absolute best,” Wright said.

Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa sets itself apart through two main elements: training and the team. A board-certified plastic surgeon, Wright brings a high level of technical skill to every procedure, backed by a team that is collaborative and supportive.

“Our team is handpicked for their kindness and skill, ensuring that every patient feels supported,” he said. “We prioritize education from the very first phone call, easing fears and building a foundation of trust with the patients that extends long after the surgery is over.”

Since it opened, Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa has grown from purely a surgical office to an “aesthetic destination,” Wright said. The team has expanded its medical spa services over the years, using cutting-edge technology such as lasers to offer nonsurgical aesthetic improvements.

Along with expanding the team over the years, Wright recently opened Plastic Surgery Suites of Arkansas, a private, state-of-the-art accredited surgical facility.

“This allows us to offer a seamless, discreet and high-end experience from the first consultation through recovery,” he said.

Wright said he wants the practice to be synonymous with compassion and expertise in Arkansas. As the business moves forward, the team is focused on integrating innovation, including the most advanced, evidence-based technologies and a level of education needed for patients to make safe, informed decisions.

“While procedures vary from mommy makeovers and breast augmentations to facial rejuvenation, the underlying goal is almost always restoring confidence,” he said. “Most of our patients want to feel like the best version of themselves again.”

Wright Plastic Surgery has won many awards and accolades over the years to which they can add, from “AY’s Best of 2026,” Best Medical Spa/ Nonsurgical Cosmetic Clinic, Best Esthetician for Maegan Whitehead, Best Nurse Injector for Paige Kelly and Best Plastic Surgeon for Wright.

“[AY’s Best of] is an incredible honor because it comes directly from the people we serve,” he said. “For our team, it’s a validation of the hard work they pour into every patient’s care. To see our nurse injectors, aesthetician and staff recognized by the Arkansas community affirms the direction we are headed for excellence and genuine patient care.”

Photos By: Sarah Oden

unleashed HEALTH & FITNESS

At 51 years old, Stephanie Newcomb is proving that strength conf idence and purpose only grow stronger with time and this year her dedication was recognized as she earned the title of Best of the Best winner for Unleashed Health and Fitness What makes Stephanie stand out is not just her commitment to f itness, but the way she inspires others through authenticity, discipline, and encouragement She has built a platform that motivates women to prioritize their health, embrace ever y season of life, and believe their best years are still ahead of them

For Stephanie, wellness has always been about more than appearances Her focus is longevity, vitality, and having the strength and energy to fully show up for her family and future generations Through regular training, recover y, health check-ins, and a consistent wellness lifestyle, she continues to lead by example while growing stronger physically, mentally, and emotionally ever y day At 51, she is showing women ever ywhere that it is never too late to take control of their health and become the strongest version of themselves

Through Unleashed Health and Fitness, Stephanie has made f itness more accessible and realistic for busy women by creating tools and resources that f it into ever yday life including her new app designed to make exercising easier, more convenient, and more sustainable Whether someone is just beginning their wellness journey or looking for renewed motivation, Stephanie’s mission is to help others feel stronger, healthier, and more conf ident one step at a time Connect with Unleashed Health and Fitness to learn more, get inspired, and star t building a healthier lifestyle that lasts

To get connected with Unleashed Health and Fitness, visit the website to explore inperson f itness classes, oneon-one personal training, online health coaching, and Stephanie’s new app designed to make staying active and healthy easier than ever.

unleashedhf com

‘ARDENT

IN SPIRIT’

Passion, drive to serve distinguish Conway Regional as ‘AY’s Best of 2026’

By SARAH DECLERK

It is an honor to win just one award in AY About You’s “AY’s Best of 2026,” the prestigious statewide poll that asks readers to pick their favorites from thousands of contestants across hundreds of categories. Winning 21 awards, though, is practically unheard of — and that is exactly what Conway Regional Health System did.

“People are called into the vocation of healthcare with a desire to help others and make a meaningful difference in our community,” said Matt Troup, president and CEO. “Serving in healthcare inherently demands sacrifice, which is often unrecognized or unseen. These awards are a great recognition of the fantastic work we do as a team. We feel proud and honored.”

Not only did the health system win Best Hospital and Best Overall Company, but it also received Best Cardiology Clinic, Best Gastroenterology Clinic, Best Home Healthcare, Best Orthopedic Group, Best OB-GYN Clinic, Best Pain Center, Best Physical Therapy Clinic, Best Radiology Clinic, Best Rehabilitation Hospital, Best Sports Medicine Clinic and Best Place to Have a Baby.

In addition, Conway Regional received Best Dentist for Dr. Gary Jones; Best Foot & Ankle Surgeon for Dr. James Head; Best Hand Surgeon for Dr. Bryan Head; Best Health Coach for Cassidy Teague; Best Neurologist for Dr. Keith Schluterman; Best Orthopedist for Dr. Thomas Roberts; Best Pain Specialist for Dr. Mikio Ranahan; and Best Surgeon (Upper Extremity) for Dr. Jay Howell.

The health system strives for quality and seeks to serve the community to the best of its ability; however, Troup said being named the best among so many worthy hospitals is not the ultimate objective.

“What is clear is that we have a very passionate patient and employee base,” he said. “We are advocates for our calling, ardent in spirit and in answering our calling.

Recognitions like this are indicators of that passion and drive to serve. I think that’s contagious, and patients want to receive care from a health system that is in the fight to improve health right there with them.”

He credited the staff at Conway Regional as the reason for the health system’s success, adding that the company could not have earned recognition in “AY’s Best of 2026” without an engaged, aligned team.

“Our culture has a vigor and an energy that is contagious,” he said. “Staff want to work here because they want to be part of a culture that is growing and leaning into providing compassionate, high-quality care. People want to be a part of a winning team and culture, and that has enabled us to do more — expand services, launch new programs and engage our team in ways that are distinctive in our industry.”

Matt Troup, president and CEO

Dr. Donald Steely, cardiologist at Conway Regional Cardiovascular Clinic, said it was “very exciting and humbling” to be named Best Cardiology Clinic.

“We sincerely thank everyone who voted for us and will continue working hard to live up to this honor,” he said.

In addition to delivering high-quality care while treating patients like friends, neighbors and family, the clinic stands out for its commitment to staying on the cutting edge of treatment, he said. A key focus area for the clinic now is renal denervation, an innovative approach to treating stubborn hypertension without medication.

“Over the past 25 years, we have consistently been the first in our area and, oftentimes, the state to offer new procedures in interventional cardiology and pacemakers,” he said. “Most recently, Conway Regional became the first medical center in central Arkansas to offer the Medtronic Symplicity blood pressure procedure. This minimally invasive treatment targets overactive nerves near the kidneys to

“Our culture has a vigor and an energy that is contagious. Staff want to work here because they want to be part of a culture that is growing and leaning into providing compassionate, high-quality care.”

— Matt Troup, president and CEO

reduce blood pressure when medication and lifestyle changes are not enough, bringing innovative care options closer to home.”

In addition to earning Best Cardiology Clinic for the third consecutive year, Conway Regional Cardiovascular Clinic has been recognized by the American Heart Association’s Get with the Guidelines coronary artery disease program, including making the Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll in 2025.

The clinic also ranks in the top 5 percent nationally for emergency treatment of heart attacks with an average STEMI door-to-balloon time of 45.5 minutes, Steely said.

At the Conway Regional Gastroenterology Center, Dr. Neelima Rao said it “feels great” to be recognized as Best Gastroenterology Clinic.

“It validates our dedication and commitment to patient care and encourages all the physicians, nurses and staff to continue to focus on the best possible experience for the patient and to provide high-quality care,” she said.

From integrating the most advanced technology and equipment to providing seamless specialized and comprehensive care due to its location within the medical center, she said the clinic emphasizes patient experience despite its incredibly high volume.

“Patient satisfaction is key to any clinic’s success, and we try to provide this with an efficient check-in process, scheduling services, clear explanations of procedures and easy access to our office staff,” she said.

“We also work to reduce wait times, focus on preventative care and provide high-quality endoscopy, which are all keys to very high patient satisfaction.”

From the physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants to receptionists and other ancillary staff, a team approach is key to providing a high level of care, she added.

“We have the best staff in the state,” she said. “Our success is due to our front-desk staff making sure we have an efficient check-in system and procedure scheduling. They send timely calls, texts and emails to prevent patients from being lost to follow-ups. They give clear explanations of procedures, prep instructions and follow-ups. They are easily accessible to our patients. Our endoscopy techs and nurses are the best in the business. Our clinic would not be the same without our exceptional staff.”

She added that the program is looking to advance to new heights by hiring experts in several subspecialities to create a liver care center, an inflammatory bowel disease program and a motility program that will provide expert care to patients from across the state.

“We would like to thank each and every one of you for believing in us and trusting us and voting us as the best clinic in Arkansas,” she said. “We

“Patient satisfaction is key to any clinic’s success, and we try to provide this with an efficient check-in process, scheduling services, clear explanations of procedures and easy access to our office staff.”

— Dr. Neelima Rao, gastroenterologist

will continue to strive to give you the best care in the state and continue to focus on patient care and satisfaction above everything else.”

Michelle Pimentel, director of nursing at the women’s and infant’s department, said being named Best Place to Have a Baby is “an incredible honor.”

“Being named Best Place to Have a Baby by our community means families trust us during one of life’s most important moments,” she said. “That recognition belongs to our dedicated caregivers, who deliver compassionate, high-quality care every day.”

She added that a combination of advanced clinical care and deeply personal support for every family distinguishes Conway Regional as Best Place to Have a Baby. The hospital prioritizes individualized birth plans, family-centered care, and extensive education before and after delivery, she said.

“Families consistently tell us they feel heard, supported and cared for like family,” she added. “That trust is what sets Conway Regional apart.”

Pimentel said the keys to Conway Regional’s success are its people, its commitment to quality and its focus on the patient experience.

“We invest in highly skilled maternity and neonatal teams, maintain strong safety and quality standards, and intentionally deliver personalized, family-centered care,” she said. “Listening to our patients and continuously improving based on their feedback helps us provide an experience that families trust and recommend.”

The department is currently focused on continuous quality improvement, supportive innovations and long-term community impact, she said. Future goals include expanding access, strengthening quality and reimagining how to support families beyond the hospital walls.

“We are committed to reaching and supporting rural health families while maintaining a high-quality delivery environment

“Being named Best Place to Have a Baby by our community means families trust us during one of life’s most important moments. That recognition belongs to our dedicated caregivers, who deliver compassionate, highquality care every day.”

— Michelle Pimentel, director of nursing, women’s and infant’s department

grounded in accountability and high-impact strategies,” she said. “Looking ahead, we aspire to enhance our program services by expanding lactation innovation, telemedicine options and home health visitation, creating a more inclusive, sustainable and supportive model of maternity care that helps our communities grow and thrive.”

Troup said Conway Regional is actively evaluating ways to improve maternal health in Arkansas.

“Eight hospitals have closed their OB programs in the last six years, creating maternal deserts,” he said. “We want to help serve these communities and explore ways to extend care for moms and babies. Further, we will continue to work with likeminded stakeholders in our communities to strengthen healthcare in our state.”

Preparing for the future both locally and at a state level is a priority across the board, he added.

“Healthcare in our state is underfunded, and the viability of community-based healthcare is threatened,” he said. “The pressure to manage expenses, ensure we’re being paid fairly by insurance companies and grow to serve our community has never been greater. We need politicians, employers and our community to appreciate the fragility of funding for healthcare in our state.”

As he reflected on the “Best Of” honors and the dedicated healthcare professionals at Conway Regional who made them attainable, Troup said he was reminded of Genesis 12:2-3, in which God tells Abraham he will be blessed to be a blessing.

“The purpose of blessing isn’t to inflate Abraham’s ego or solely for his mental wellbeing,” Troup said. “His blessing is intended to bless and benefit others. That’s the focus. I feel blessed by this recognition, and that blessing helps others. This recognition is indicative of a blessing to our team.”

Bryan Head, MD

Top 3 Finalist

Best Hand Surgeon

James Head, MD

Top 3 Finalist

Surgeon and Surgeon (Lower Extremity)

Tom Roberts, MD

Top 3 Finalist Best Orthopedist

Jay Howell, MD

Top 3 Finalist Best Surgeon (Upper Extremity)

Austin Cole, MD

Top 3 Finalist Best Orthopedic Surgeon

“We sincerely appreciate every vote and every bit of support. Thank you for believing in Flawless Med Spa.”

Opening Hours By Appointment ONLY

Monday — Thursday: 8:00 am — 5:00 pm Friday: 8:00 am — 12:00 pm 2700 N Prickett Rd #1c, Bryant (501)215-5313 flawlessmedspa.info Flawless Med Spa flawlessmedspabryant we are dedicated to providing personalized, innovative, and luxurious body treatments. Our mission is to help our clients relax, rejuvenate, and achieve their aesthetic goals.

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Daphne G.

Health To Your

‘AY’s Best of 2026’ winners offer unmatched wellness and beauty services

By MAK MILLARD

Makingone’s way to the top of the “AY’s Best Of” rankings is never an easy climb, but standing out in the health, wellness and beauty categories can present a challenge of especially steep proportions, if only for the nearendless array of options. That is all the more reason to celebrate AY About You readers’ No. 1 choices in these arenas — many of whom have outdone themselves and captured the title of “AY’s Best of 2026” in myriad other categories, as well. From treatment to prevention, from primary care to skincare and from the inside out, below are a few of those esteemed providers and aesthetic experts who have earned their place at the peak.

Revive Health & Wellness

Best Family Practice

From its founding in 2024 to being named AY’s Best Family Practice of 2026, Revive Health & Wellness in Malvern has quickly made an impact in owner Courtney McKinney’s hometown and beyond.

“Being named ‘AY’s Best of 2026’ is incredibly humbling and means so much to our entire team,” she said. “It’s a reflection of the hard work, compassion and dedication that goes into caring for our patients every single day.”

McKinney said she and her team take time to understand a patient’s full picture to create a plan personalized to each patient’s needs and goals. That can include anything from basic primary care, mental health support and hormone balancing to weight management, addressing vitamin deficiencies and larger lifestyle changes.

“We don’t believe in rushed appointments or just treating symptoms,” McKinney said. “We’ve built a family atmosphere where people know they matter, and I think our patients can genuinely feel that.”

Revive is also central to McKinney’s vision for promoting wellness, in an even larger sense, in the Malvern community and surrounding areas. Revive Health & Wellness funds Revive

Community Outreach, the nonprofit McKinney owns and leads, which works to address food insecurity, homelessness and basic needs for people across the region. Looking ahead, McKinney said she and her team are excited to keep expanding the ways in which they can serve their community.

“Most importantly, we want to continue building trust with our community and creating a place where patients feel supported, valued and empowered in their health journey,” McKinney said.

Revive Health & Wellness 350-284-250

1517 S. Main St., Malvern 501-382-1577 health-revived.com

Beauty Boss Co.

Best APRN — Randi Rodgers

Best Facial/Skin Care

Best Nurse Practitioner — Kayla Sanders

Best Wellness Clinic

Best Cabot Business

Best North Little Rock Business

Owner, advanced practice registered nurse and aesthetic injector Kayla Sanders

opened Beauty Boss Co. with the mission to help people feel confident, healthy, empowered and truly cared for. The Cabot-based aesthetics and wellness practice has since expanded into North Little Rock and even outgrown its original location.

“To be voted Best Business in both Cabot

and North Little Rock is incredibly humbling because those communities have supported us from the very beginning,” she said. “It’s validation that people recognize not only the results we provide but also the experience, education, safety and level of care we strive to give every client who walks through our doors.”

The support of both communities, where loyal clientele and patrons are invested in seeing local businesses succeed, has allowed Beauty Boss Co. to continue expanding its services, growing its team and pouring back into those areas. That backing has also been essential as Sanders and her team work to stay ahead in a still-exploding industry.

“I also think people are becoming more educated consumers,” Sanders said. “They want qualified providers, transparency and a personalized approach rather than a one-sizefits-all experience.”

The next season at Beauty Boss Co. is already looking bright, as well, with more aesthetics and wellness services and investments in training through the Beauty Boss Academy. Sanders said one of her biggest goals is to continue to create an elevated client experience while also helping mentor and educate other providers.

“I want people to see that you can grow a successful business while still genuinely caring about your clients, your employees and your community,” she said.

Beauty Boss Co.

1604 S Pine St., Suite C, Cabot

501-628-8642

7339 N. Hills Blvd., Suite 100, North Little Rock

501-831-6100

beautyboss.co

Beyond Wellness

Best Aesthetic Nurse — Sidney Bennett

Best Holistic Healthcare Clinic

Best Hormone Specialist — Christa Jackson

Best Hydrafacial

Ask 10 people to define “holistic healthcare,” and they might give 10 different answers. Cutting through the buzzwords, one finds treatments characterized by their place in a person’s larger health picture, combining fragmented areas of a patient’s health into one unique plan.

Beyond Wellness founders Matt and Ashley Huneycutt set out to make their practice the epitome of that transformative approach.

“True wellness care looks at how hormones, nutrition, metabolism, aesthetics, lifestyle, stress, sleep and preventative medicine all work together to impact a patient’s quality of life,” Ashley said. “At Beyond Wellness, we combine evidence-based medicine with a personalized approach so patients feel heard, understood and supported throughout their journey.”

Being named “AY ’s Best of 2026” is humbling, she added, because it comes directly from the people and communities the Beyond Wellness team serves. To stay ahead in rapidly evolving areas such as hormonal wellness treatments, providers regularly pursue advanced training, stay current on emerging research, and collaborate with leaders in functional and hormone medicine to ensure Beyond Wellness is offering safe, effective and modern options.

Expansion remains in the cards, whether that be through investments in education and technology or widening the state’s access to advanced wellness and aesthetic services. Beyond Wellness believes the future of healthcare is “proactive, preventative and patient-centered,” Ashley said, and she and the Beyond Wellness team are excited to continue being leaders in that direction.

“Our goal has always been to raise the standard for what healthcare and wellness experiences can look like in Arkansas. For our team, this recognition reinforces that their hard work and dedication make a real impact,” she said. “For our community, we hope it shows that Arkansas can lead the way in modern wellness care and innovation.”

Beyond Wellness

356 288

Locations in Little Rock (Chenal and Hillcrest), Hot Springs and Rogers (coming soon) 501-476-7171

beyondwellnessar.com

Mack Rae Permanent Cosmetics Best Microblading

It is little wonder why licensed micropigmentologist Mackenzie Rae Peirce, the face and name behind Mack Rae Permanent Cosmetics, has found her name on AY readers’ lips as “AY’s Best of 2026.” A trailblazing figure in central Arkansas permanent cosmetics, Peirce has been consistently recognized for her superb work, sanitary environment and professionalism. The “Mack Rae” difference, she said, is as much about the experience as the results.

“I never want clients to feel rushed, intimidated or like they’re just another appointment on the schedule,” Peirce said. “Every face is different, every story is different, and I take a very personalized approach to each set of brows. My goal is always to enhance someone’s natural beauty in a way that still feels soft, timeless and them.”

Skin type, facial structure, lifestyle and healing all play a role in the final look, which is why, Peirce said, proper education, artistry and technique matter so much in her industry. She is constantly investing in advanced training, learning new techniques, staying up to date on products, pigments and skin science, and studying current trends, all while keeping her results natural and wearable.

“Being named ‘AY’s Best of 2026’ is honestly such an honor because it reflects the trust and support of my clients and community,” Peirce said. “Behind every award are real people who chose me, supported me, referred their friends and family, and believed in what I’ve built. I want my business to be known not only for beautiful work but for kindness, professionalism and making people feel more confident when they leave than when they walked in.”

Mack Rae Permanent Cosmetics

3020 East Kiehl Avenue, Sherwood 501-366-8947

mackraepc.com

Franks Dermatology

Best Dermatology Clinic

Another“AY’s Best Of” regular, Franks Dermatology is sought after by patients across Arkansas for medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology, from regular skin checks to managing complex chronic conditions. Along with connected medical spa SKN at Franks Dermatology, the Franks team, led by Dr. Hayden Franks, makes every decision with one question in mind — that is, “What is best for the patient?”

“Being named ‘AY’s Best of 2026’ belongs to our patients as much as it does to our team,” Franks said. “It is a reminder of our commitment to why we show up every day to listen, to learn and to make quality dermatology care accessible to every Arkansan.”

Working alongside Franks are physician assistants Bailey Pollock and Liz Turbeville. Franks also leads ongoing education for his team to ensure patients are receiving the most up-to-date care and treatments based on the latest research and technology. For example, Franks Dermatology offers advanced biologics for chronic conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, options Franks said can be life changing for patients who have not found relief with traditional methods.

“Staying current isn’t a perk,” he said. “It’s how we make sure every Arkansan who walks through our doors gets the best care available today.”

The Franks Dermatology team is focused on keeping up the good work going forward, including expanding access to care for both new and returning patients, deepening staff expertise, and continuing to offer advanced treatments closer to home — all captured by the practice’s mantra, “Healthy skin looks good on you.”

Franks Dermatology

4220 N. Rodney Parham Road, Suite 320, Little Rock 501-246-1042

franksdermatology.com

Practical Wellness Clinic

Best Cosmetic Injectables

Best Medical Weight Loss Clinic

For nurse practitioner Stephanie Young, opening Practical Wellness Clinic in Bryant was yet more proof of her ability to stay focused and bring her dreams to fruition, much like completing her nursing degree and master’s in women’s health had been before that. She built Practical Wellness Clinic on the principles of preventative care, wellness promotion and antiaging — pillars that have won over AY readers and voters thanks to the practice’s combination of expertise, proactive approach and genuine care.

“I love having the ability to change people’s lives,” she told AY About You previously. “I love the relationships I am able to build with my clients and feel blessed that they allow me into their lives and health.”

In the boom era of medical weight loss and cosmetic injectables, being named the practice of choice for AY readers and voters among a sea of competitors and options is no small feat. Young is joined by a team of registered nurses and certified laser technicians with decades of combined experience, all of whom are constantly looking for smart, innovative ways to meet clients’ needs while remaining accessible.

“We’re not just looking to fill you up and send you out with a quick fix to whatever problem you came in with,” she told AY. “We really want to help figure out the best and most well-rounded therapeutic approach for our patients.”

Practical Wellness Clinic

AY’s Best Pain Center

Conway Regional Advanced

Pain Management Center

AY’s Best Pain Specialist

Mikio Ranahan, MD

Keith Schluterman, MD

Conway Regional Neuroscience Center

APRN

Beauty Boss Co. Aesthetics & Wellness — Randi Rodgers, APRN

ACUPUNCTURE

Evergreen Acupuncture

AESTHETIC NURSE

Beyond Wellness — Sidney Bennett

ALLERGY CLINIC

Little Rock Allergy & Asthma Clinic

ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY

Presbyterian Village

AUDIOLOGY CLINIC

Hear Again America

BARBER SHOP

Bluewater Barber + Supply

BARIATRIC SURGEON

Baptist Health — Eric M. Paul, M.D.

CBD STORE

Healing Hemp of Arkansas

CANNABIS DISPENSARY

Good Day Farm

CARDIOLOGY CLINIC

Conway Regional Cardiovascular Clinic

CHIROPRACTOR

Chiropractic Health & Rehabilitation

COSMETIC DENTIST

Smile Dailey — DJ Dailey, DDS

COSMETIC INJECTABLES

Practical Wellness Clinic

COSMETIC SURGEON

Dr. Suzanne Yee Cosmetic & Laser Surgery Center — Suzanne Yee, M.D.

COUNSELOR/THERAPIST

Blackbird Therapy and Wellness — Jaime Starling

DENTAL PRACTICE

Dunn Family Dental

DENTIST

Conway Regional Interfaith Dental Clinic — Gary Jones, DDS

DERMATOLOGY CLINIC

Franks Dermatology

DIETITIAN/NUTRITIONIST

Baptist Health Bariatric Center — Mitchell Kirby, RDN, LD

DOCTOR-OWNED HOSPITAL/FACILITY

Arkansas Surgical Hospital

ESTHETICIAN

Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa — Maegan Whitehead, LE

FACIAL/SKIN CARE

Beauty Boss Co. Aesthetics & Wellness

FAMILY DENTIST

Austin Family Dentistry

FAMILY PRACTICE

Revive Health & Wellness

FOOT & ANKLE SURGEON

Conway Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center — James Head, M.D.

Not mass-produced health c

Curated c

Conway Regional Therapy Services blends access and excellence to support independence in daily life, functional recovery, and a personalized path to progress. Our therapy team creates individualized plans that integrate hands-on expertise with compassionate guidance. We focus on helping patients build the skills and con dence needed to return to the activities that matter most.

To learn more, visit: crhs.healthcare/therapy

Superior Senior Care named Best In-Home Care in ‘AY’s Best of 2026’

Superior for a Reason

Arkansas seniors and their loved ones deserve high-quality care that is as unique as the places they call home. A regular name on AY’s “Best Of” lists over the years, Superior Senior Care has offered flexible, personalized in-home care support since 1985, helping seniors stay independent whether they need occasional assistance or daily care.

As the first licensed and nationally accredited caregiver referral service in the state, Superior Senior Care is one of Arkansas’ most trusted elder care operations — not to mention earning the title of Best In-Home Care as voted by readers of AY About You. The company’s unwavering commitment to providing the best possible care now extends to 27 locations that connect thousands of care seekers with professional caregivers every day.

“To us, being ‘AY’s Best’ means setting the standard for compassion, professionalism and reliability in senior care,” said Kim Hurst, marketing and recruitment manager. “We hope to lead by example and show that high-quality care starts with putting clients first and maintaining a genuine commitment to helping seniors live safely and independently at home.”

Superior Senior Care stands apart because of its unique model and unwavering focus on individualized care. The company has empowered clients and caregivers through choice, transparency

and flexibility for more than four decades. The caregivers referred by Superior Senior Care, Hurst said, are dedicated professionals who take pride in delivering exceptional service, and the company’s local offices ensure that every family receives personal attention and support.

“We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all care,” she said. “We believe in care that fits the person.”

At the end of the day, Superior Senior Care is about people — the seniors who want to stay in their homes and the caregivers who make that possible. As a locally owned, family company, the Superior Senior Care team is proud to support both groups and honored to be a trusted resource for families across Arkansas.

“To the AY readers and everyone who voted for us, thank you,” Hurst said. “Your support means the world to our team and the caregivers who show up every day to make a difference in the lives of Arkansas seniors. We are honored to serve our communities, and we remain committed to providing the highest level of care for years to come. Thank you for choosing us as your ‘Best of 2026.’”

620 Ouachita Ave., Hot Springs 501.321.1743 superiorseniorcare.com

BEAUTY & HEALTH

GASTROENTEROLOGY CLINIC

Conway Regional Gastroenterology Center

HAIR SALON

Salon J’adore

HAND SURGEON

Conway Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center — Bryan Head, M.D.

HEALTH COACH

Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center — Cassidy Teague

HEALTH FOOD STORE

Ann’s Health Food

HOLISTIC HEALTH CARE CLINIC

Beyond Wellness

HOME HEALTHCARE

Conway Regional Home Health

HORMONE SPECIALIST

Beyond Wellness — Christa Jackson, APRN

HOSPICE

Arkansas Hospice

HOSPITAL

Conway Regional Medical Center

HYDRAFACIAL

Beyond Wellness

IN-HOME CARE

Superior Senior Care

LIFE COACH

Tap in University — Quen Spencer

Because of our amazing community, we’re proud to be the winner in three categories! At New Path Mental Health & Wellness, we believe everyone deserves care that’s compassionate, personalized and effective.

Our experienced team provides therapy, medication

LONG-TERM CARE FACILITY

Briarwood Nursing & Rehabilitation

MAKEUP ARTIST

Brittany Hill Makeup Artist

MASSAGE THERAPIST

Integrated Bodywork Clinic

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT/STORE

Diamond Medical Equipment & Supply

MEDICAL SPA/NONSURGICAL COSMETIC CLINIC

Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa

MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS CLINIC

Practical Wellness Clinic

MEMORY CARE FACILITY

Greenbrier Nursing & Rehabilitation

MENTAL HEALTH FACILITY

Renew Mental Health & Wellness

MICROBLADING

Mack Rae Permanent Cosmetics

NEUROLOGIST

Conway Regional Neuroscience Center — Keith Schluterman, M.D.

NEUROSURGEON

Pinnacle Spine & Neurosurgery — Gautam Gandhi, M.D., Ph.D., FAANS

NURSE INJECTOR

Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa — Paige Kelly, BSN, RN

NURSE PRACTITIONER

Beauty Boss Co. Aesthetics & Wellness — Kayla Sanders, APRN

ketamine therapy and support for ages 4 and up—available in Conway, Little Rock and statewide via telehealth.

Thank you for trusting us—we’re honored to make a difference in your journey!

We accept most major insurances including TRICARE. We also offer Telehealth statewide!

We are an independently owned practice that strives to give patients and their families the best care possible. Most insurances accepted. Our providers want to make sure patient’s concerns are heard and addressed in a timely manner. Call to schedule your appointment today!

Named “Best Place to Have a Baby ” by

AY readers for seven consecutive years SEVEN YEARS IN A ROW!

Nurser y alliance with Arkansas Children’s Hospital

Specialized team including a newborn speech pathologist and a neonatolog y APRN

Our Labor & Delivery team brings together innovative services and specialized care to welcome your baby into the world – with compassionate providers here for you both. This is not mass-produced health care. This is your family’s health care

Thank you for voting us the best oral surgery and implant clinic!

Dr. John P. Batson, DDS, OMFS

Our Services

• Oral Surgery

• Dental Implant

• Corrective Jaw Surgery

• Pathology

• Trauma

• Wisdom Teeth

• Stem Cells

BEAUTY & HEALTH

NURSING HOME

Sherwood Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

OB-GYN CLINIC

Conway Regional Renaissance Women’s Center

ONCOLOGIST

Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute — Brad Baltz, M.D.

OPHTHALMOLOGIST

Little Rock Eye Clinic — Christian Hester, M.D.

OPHTHALMOLOGY CLINIC

Little Rock Eye Clinic

OPTOMETRIST CLINIC

Legacy Eyecare

ORAL SURGERY AND IMPLANT CLINIC

Dr. John P. Batson

ORTHODONTIC CLINIC

Vondran Orthodontics

ORTHODONTIST

Kita Orthodontics — Alexander Kita, DDS

ORTHOPEDIC GROUP

Conway Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center

ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON

Baptist Health — Adam Norwood, D.O.

ORTHOPEDIST

Conway Regional Health System — Thomas Roberts, M.D.

PAIN CENTER

Conway Regional Advanced Pain Management Center

PAIN SPECIALIST

Conway Regional Advanced Pain Management Center — Mikio Ranahan, M.D.

PEDIATRIC CLINIC

Rooted Pediatrics

PEDIATRIC DENTAL CLINIC

Conway Pediatric Dental Group

PERMANENT COSMETICS

7th Street Tattoos & Piercing — Cara Colclasure

PHARMACY

Westside Pharmacy & Compounding

PHYSICAL THERAPY CLINIC

Conway Regional Therapy Services

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT

Arkansas Children’s — Eva Barlogie, PA

PLACE TO HAVE A BABY

Conway Regional Medical Center

PLASTIC SURGEON

Wright Plastic Surgery & Med Spa — Eric Wright, M.D.

PODIATRIST

Barg Family Clinic — Naval Patel, DPM

PROSTHETICS CLINIC

Horton’s Orthotics & Prosthetics

RADIOLOGY CLINIC

Conway Regional Imaging Center

Northwest Arkansas’ Premiere Independent Living Community

Discover a lifestyle of freedom, fun, and fulfillment in Northwest Arkansas’ community. Our facility is designed to provide a vibrant and engaging environment, where you can embrace an active lifestyle while enjoying the comforts of a well-appointed home.

Grand Village offers:

• Indoor Pool

• Fitness Center

• Saunas

• 100 seat theatre

• Outdoor grill and dining areas

• Library

• Lounge and bar

• Pool table and shuffle board

• Card games

• Hiking trail

• Frequent outings throughout Northwest Arkansas

• Chef prepared meals included in monthly rent

• Full size cottages also available to rent

Get in touch for floor plans, pricing, and availability!

www.grandretirement.com • 479.435.7500

BEAUTY & HEALTH

REHABILITATION HOSPITAL

Conway Regional Rehabilitation Hospital

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Grand Village at Clear Creek

SEMAGLUTIDE/WEIGHT LOSS

Kimtox Aesthetics & Wellness

SPA

Oaklawn Hot Springs — Astral Spa

SPECIALTY HOSPITAL/CLINIC

OrthoArkansas

SPORTS MEDICINE CLINIC

Conway Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center

Murphy

SURGEON

Saline Surgery & Weight Loss Clinic — Lewis Porter, M.D., FACS

SURGEON (LOWER EXTREMITY)

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences — C. Lowry Barnes, M.D.

SURGEON (UPPER EXTREMITY)

Conway Regional Health System — Jay Howell, M.D.

TANNING SALON

Sunlimited Tanning Salon & Day Spa

UROLOGY CLINIC

Arkansas Urology

WELLNESS CLINIC

Beauty Boss Co. Aesthetics & Wellness

Turpentine

United

Briar wood Nursing and Rehab is a 120-bed skilled facility located in an urban setting within the heart of Little Rock, in the neighborhood of Briarwood. We are located just minutes from downtown Little Rock and are only one block off interstate 630.

We provide long-term care and short-term rehab care. All residents are monitored throughout the day with assistance in providing daily care as is needed: bathing, dressing, feeding and providing medications. Briarwood staff also work at ensuring the best care for residents through individual care plans of residents' needs, as well as daily activities, which allow for a variety of interests and abilities.

Nearly all - 98 percent - of our rehab residents return to the community as a result of positive, caring therapists. Briarwood's approach has provided healing to many people in the community.

At Briarwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, we are committed to ensuring that the best possible care is given to you or your loved one in an atmosphere that is calm, quiet and focused on healing. We endeavor to ensure that all aspects of your well-being — mental, physical and spiritual — are cared for in a peaceful and safe environment. Our staff strive to promote dignity, respect, and independence as much as possible, in a beautiful, soothing enviornment that was designed with our residents' comfort in mind. Briarwood's service-rich environment is made possible by its dedicated staff, from our nursing staff and therapists, to our operations and administrative employees. At Briarwood, our residents enjoy three generations of staff and families. That is over 30 years of service to the community!

HOT SPRINGS

Hammer & Stain Hot Springs

JACKSONVILLE

Goodsell Truck Accessories

JONESBORO

Renew Mental Health & Wellness

LITTLE ROCK

Norwood-Day Floral Co.

NORTH LITTLE ROCK

Beauty Boss Co. Aesthetics & Wellness

PINE BLUFF

Sissy’s Log Cabin

ROGERS

Phat Tire Bike Shop

RUSSELLVILLE

Lee Ann’s Fine Jewelry

BUSINESS CLOTHING

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING

Turquoise Turtle Boutique

FORMAL

First Impressions

MEN’S

Mr. Wicks

SHERWOOD

Y’allternative Market

SPRINGDALE

Pediatrics Plus

TEXARKANA

The Eagle Bourbon & Wine Lounge

WOMEN’S CLOTHING Sage Boutique

Consistency

is Key

By ALEX HARDGRAVE

Four Arkansas restaurants show years of hard work pays off

What makes a great restaurant?

Is it somewhere the staff knows the regulars’ names and usual orders

Is it a place that takes guests out of the real world for a minute, whisking them away on a culinary adventure?

Maybe it is a restaurant that one has frequented since childhood, where the nostalgia tastes just as sweet as the items on the dessert menu. Whatever parameters

AY About You readers used while choosing their favorite contenders in the “AY’s Best of 2026” poll, a few restaurants came out on top.

Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse

Best Steakhouse and Best Fine Dining

Since 2007, Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse has been inviting diners to enjoy the best grades of beef in the world right in west Little Rock.

Arthur’s is a mainstay in Little Rock, welcoming locals back time and time again, but it is also a destination for those visiting the city.

The selection ranges from dry-aged prime beef, Australian wagyu and authentic Japanese Kobe, but the quality does not stop at beef. The restaurant also serves fresh seafood, chicken, lamb and pork, as well as great vegetarian entrees.

All dishes can also be paired with a drink from the awardwinning wine list that features more than 350 wines from Arthur’s wine cellar.

Anyone who has visited Arthur’s knows that while proteins are a main event, the sides cannot be overlooked. Diners will not want to miss the mac and cheese, creamed corn, or truffle fries.

Then top it all off with everyone’s favorite course — dessert. The bananas Foster, which is served up with enough for two and set on fire at the guest’s table, is a feat in itself. Other dessert options include cheesecake, bread pudding, and white chocolate and dark Belgian chocolate creme brulee.

Arthur’s also takes care of the customers like they are family and has consistently won awards not only for the food but for the hospitality.

“It takes consistency,” owner Jerry Barakat told AY last year, “I will not try to cut a single corner. It’s always fresh. It’s always quality.”

A lot of the restaurant’s staff has been working there for years, which keeps the service top notch. That retention is thanks to the way Barakat treats his staff.

“Treat them like family,” he told AY. “Treat them with respect. … Without them, we are nothing. Just treat them the way you would like to be treated.”

Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse 16100 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock 501-821-1838 arthursprime.com

Monday through Thursday: 5 to 9:30 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 5 to 10:30 p.m.

Sunday: 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3 to 9 p.m.

McClard’s Bar-B-Q Restaurant

Best Barbecue

Housed in the four walls of McClard’s Bar-B-Q Restaurant are years and years of history. McClard’s started in 1928, when Alex and Alice McClard started selling barbecued goat. Now, almost 100 years later, the restaurant has seen four generations pass through its walls and many items added to its menu.

“A lot of people have come to McClard’s their whole life,” said Bobby Dennis, spokesperson. “When people walk through the door, the first thing they do is look around, and they feel like they’re almost stepping back in time.”

Along with Arkansas residents, famous names have visited and are now memorialized in photos on the walls of the restaurant.

The COVID-19 pandemic almost closed the historic place permanently, but a man named Lee Beasley bought it to keep it alive.

“It was a business decision, but at the same time, it was a nostalgic decision,” Dennis said.

Beasley and the team have worked hard to preserve the food and vibe of McClard’s over the years. Dennis said that consistency is what has made McClard’s so successful.

“You’re seeing history, but you’re also tasting it,” he said.

While the smoked meat and famous barbecue sauce are the items one has come to expect from the restaurant, there is also an iconic item one might not expect to find at a barbecue place — tamales. Hand-rolled every day and made with meat from the ends of the restaurant's signature ribs, these tamales are a cannot-miss when making a pilgrimage to McClard’s.

The team has added a few more items since Beasley took ownership, but they are still classic, old-school fare, including a bologna sandwich, barbecue nachos and smoked chicken wings.

“You’re smelling it long before you get there,” Dennis said.

McClard’s Bar-B-Q Restaurant

505 Albert Pike Road, Hot Springs mcclards.com

Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe

Best Greek Restaurant

Tuesday through Thursday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday: opens 11 a.m., closing time varies

Taziki’s, a fast-casual Mediterranean concept, was first brought to Arkansas by the Keet family in 2008. Since its first location, the number of locations the family owns has increased to seven in Arkansas and two in Oklahoma. An additional location is set to open soon in Rogers. Jake Keet said he chalks up the growth and success over the past 18 years to the employees, the guests and, of course, the food.

Keet said the salmon feast is one of the best sellers, along with lamb and new quinoa bowls.

“Serving fresh and healthy food in a timely manner is a competitive advantage,” he said. “That and great service from our amazing staff has helped us along.”

While the food is served fast and delicious, the casual environment is also important to the overall experience. Keet said people can truly come as they are to any location, dressed in flip flops or a business suit.

It is a family business that is focused on offering healthy food to other families. Jake said his father, Jim Keet, has said working with his family has been the greatest pleasure of his life and the thing he is most proud of.

“That holds true for all of us,” he said. “We all love each other and love getting to be around each other. It’s been a blessing.”

Winning Best Greek Restaurant in this year’s “AY’s Best Of” poll, is an “affirmation of the hard work that our people put in every day,” he said.

As for what to expect for the next 18 years in business, Keet said consistency wins the race.

“With everything we do, we try to put one foot after the other,” he said.

Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe

Multiple Locations tazikis.com

Three Fold

Best Asian Fusion

There is an old saying that good things come in threes. Lisa Zhang, owner of Three Fold, said she carries that meaning throughout her restaurant, from the menu to the building’s interior design.

“In doing so, we aim to achieve fast but quality food that’s made from scratch,” Zhang said. “In a sense, this effort is a declaration of the quality and hard work that we put into our service, focusing on speed, quality and cleanliness.”

In 2015, Zhang started Three Fold to bring three Chinese dishes — noodles, dumplings and buns — to Little Rock. Since then, the business has grown from a hole-inthe-wall establishment on Center Street into a busy downtown lunch spot located on the 600 block of Main Street. There is also a location at Pleasant Ridge Town Center.

While the menu feels modern, it is actually rooted in more than 2,000 years of history.

Zhang said that thanks to consistently following the Three Fold mission, the restaurant has become a staple for many.

“We’ve learned that it’s become a comfort food to many working in downtown Little Rock through their votes for us year after year as one of AY’s best,” she said.

The restaurant will remain steadfast in its principles, even into the future, Zhang said.

“I hope that customers can understand our objective for the business was and is not to make a better business in the financial sense of running a business, but rather, our focus and priority is always on serving them better,” she said. “All our development in the past 10 years and those in the future will always be based off of this goal.”

Three Fold

611 S. Main St., Little Rock

501-372-1811

Monday through Friday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday: 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

11525 Cantrell Road, Suite 101, Little Rock

501-500-2005

Monday through Saturday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. eat3fold.com

DINING

ASIAN FUSION

Three Fold

BAKERY

Community Bakery

BARBECUE

McClard’s Bar-B-Q

BARBECUE SANDWICH

Count Porkula

BREAKFAST

Big Bad Breakfast

BRUNCH

Lost Forty Brewing

BURGER

Big Orange

BURNT ENDS

Blue Ember Smokehouse

BUTCHER SHOP

Hogg’s Meat Market and Catering CATERER

Vibrant Occasions Catering

CATFISH

Eat My Catfish

CHEESE DIP

Baja Grill

CHEF

Brood & Barley — Brayan McFadden

CHINESE RESTAURANT

Fantastic China

CINNAMON ROLLS

Cinnamon Creme Bakery

COFFEE SHOP

Gibson’s Cat Café

COOKIES

Ed’s Custom Bakery

CREOLE/CAJUN

The Faded Rose

DESSERT

Oh My Lanta Sweets

DINING FOR KIDS

The Purple Cow Restaurant

FINE DINING

Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse

FOOD TRUCK

Tacos Godoy

FUN DINING EXPERIENCE

Revival :: restaurant + beer garden

GREEK RESTAURANT

Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe

HAPPENING/ENTERTAINMENT RESTAURANT

Murry’s Dinner Playhouse

HIDDEN GEM

The Grumpy Rabbit

INDIAN FOOD

Star of India

INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE

Birdies Cabaret Theater and Lounge

ITALIAN

Pasta Grill

MARGARITA

Camp Taco

MEXICAN Local Lime

PATIO

Hill Station

PIE

Charlotte’s Eats & Sweets

PIZZA

Shotgun Dan’s Pizza

RESTAURANT (GENERAL)

Allsopp & Chapple

RESTAURANT (NEWLY OPENED)

Tall Paul’s

DINING

RESTAURANT

Cypress

U.S. Pizza Co.

SANDWICH SHOP

Cross Creek Sandwich Shop

BIKE

Spokes

SEAFOOD

SEASONAL

Brood & Barley

SPECIAL

Sonny

STEAK

Doe’s Eat Place

STEAKHOUSE

Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse

SUSHI

Rock N Roll Sushi

SWEET & SAVORY

Scoops Homemade Ice Cream

MUSEUM

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

MUSICIAN

Jack Bennett

NEIGHBORHOOD FESTIVAL

Dogtown Throwdown

OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL

Silver Dollar City

PLACE

Pickleball Kingdom

PLACE

Oaklawn Hot Springs — Mainline

RESORT

Mountain

SEASONAL

Little

SPORTS

Brewski’s Pub & Grub

THEATER

Stage

TOURIST

Oaklawn Hot Springs

TRIVIA HOST

Roger Scott

— Thank you for voting for us! —

BEST EXCAVATION COMPANY!

VOTED TOP 3 IN THREE CATEGORIES! Best Excavation Company Best Place to Work Best CEO

We are honored to be recognized as AY ’s Best Excavation company for 2026! This recognition belongs to all of our employees, our clients and our community! James A. Rogers Excavating has always been about more than construction — it’s about people and community, and our mission is simple: work hard, do the job right, and leave a lasting, positive impact across Arkansas.

Chris MeyerPresident/CEO

Thank you for voting us winners:  Best Gutters

Best Solar Power

first-time winner

A Real Winner

Cassie Sharpmack proves a woman’s place is in homebuilding

There are not too many women in Arkansas who have carved their own space in the heavily male-dominated residential construction industry, let alone shot to the top of their field in three short years. Chassie Sharpmack, founder of CS Custom Homes in Cabot, is one of them.

Sharpmack’s eye for design, passion for building and all-around grit has shaken up the central Arkansas builder community. In addition to growing into one of the most indemand builders in central Arkansas, she also landed “AY’s Best Of ” nod for Best Repair-Remodel.

The accolades are the latest in a string of accomplishments for the young businesswoman. She started in spec houses and then quickly graduated to custom homes off referrals, a testament to the quality and style of her builds.

“The first one I built for someone in my church,” she told AY About You in January. “After that, I met a guy who had developed a neighborhood in Heber Springs. He’d walked through one of my specs in Sherwood and wanted me to build it for his neighborhood, so I built that up there for him, and we were off and running.”

Sharpmack’s overnight success is all the more amazing considering the very different career path she started down. The Pine Bluff native graduated from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway and began her professional life as a registered dietician at Arkansas Children’s.

After nearly a decade in that field, she hired a company to create a new home from the ground up.

“I really got into it,” she said.

Later, when the family decided to build another house, Sharpmack realized her interest was not just a passing fancy, and she convinced the builder to give her a job.

“I think he hired me thinking I’d be more like a secretary, and he found out really quick that wasn’t what I wanted to do,” she said. “I became a project manager for about three years before getting my general contractor license and starting on my own.”

The casual way in which Sharpmack tells the CS Custom Homes story belies the hurdles that stood in her way. With zero background in building and an industry that was none too keen on helping a woman learn, she had to stand her ground more than once to do her job and advance her knowledge of the business.

“I had to put up with a lot from people who didn’t think I was worth having around,” she said. “The company I was with had two male project managers, and I would just literally get in the truck with them and follow them around. They couldn’t get rid of me.”

That kind of gumption combined with a drive to learn on her own got the company off the ground. That, paired with her natural customer service skills, easygoing communication style and no-quit attitude, made Sharpmack a formidable competitor in the market right away, especially among female clients.

“I had a client, an older lady, who I think my gender made her more comfortable,” she said. “I’ve had women as clients who really had no idea what they wanted or what to do or what to pick. After I met with them, they were like, ‘We trust you.’ That’s a great feeling.”

As for male clients, some of whom do a double take upon meeting her for the first time, she has one additional ace up her sleeve.

“Some of the husbands are like, ‘Are we really hiring this little blond girl to build our house?’” she said. “I’m an only child, and I was in my dad’s shop a lot. He built cars, which is how I got my name, Chassie. I can relate to men on that level, you know? I’ve just always wanted to do the things that nobody else thought that I could do.”

“I’ve just always wanted to do the things that nobody else thought that I could do.”

— Chassie Sharpmack founder of CS Custom Homes

By DWAIN HEBDA

HOME, HOME SERVICES & FINANCE

2026

FURNITURE

White Furniture Co.

FURNITURE UPHOLSTERY

Robby Chism Upholstery

GUTTERS

Arkansas Solar Solutions

HVAC SERVICE

Middleton Heat & Air

HOME ACCESSORIES

Down South

HOME APPLIANCE REPAIR

Appliance Works of Arkansas

HOME APPLIANCE STORE

Metro Appliances & More

HOME AUTOMATION

Professional Computer Services, Inc.

HOME CONTRACTOR

Newcomb Construction

HOME GLASS

Alpine Glass & Windows

HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE

Fuller and Son Hardware & Lumber

HOME SECURITY

Beyond Sound & Security

HOMEBUILDER

Homes by Jerrod

HOUSEKEEPING

Two Maids Little Rock

INSURANCE FIRM

MidArk Insurance — Waylon Biggs Agency

INTERIOR DESIGNER

Amy Wheeler Designs

INVESTMENT FIRM

Small Wealth Management

KITCHEN STORE/SUPPLY

Krebs Brothers Restaurant Supply Co.

LAWN CARE

Simple Solutions Lawn Care

MORTGAGE LENDER

Primary Residential Mortgage — Conan Watters

PLUMBER

Victory Plumbing

REAL ESTATE AGENT

RE/MAX Elite — Staci Medlock

“Fuller and Son Hardware has been serving central Arkansas since 1921. Being family owned and operated, we take pride in providing top notch service to each of our customers through our Triple Guarantee.”

REAL ESTATE COMPANY

The Charlotte John Co.

REPAIR/REMODELING

CS Custom Homes

RESTORATION SERVICES

Metro Disaster Specialists

ROOFING

Rock Solid Roofing

SEASONAL DESIGNER

Norwood-Day Floral Co.

SIDING

Wilson’s Home Improvement

SOLAR POWER

Arkansas Solar Solutions

SWIMMING POOLS

Luxury Pool & Spa

TITLE COMPANY

Commerce Title & Closing Services

TREE SERVICE

C&C Tree Service

WINDOWS

Alpine Glass & Windows

Crafting Dream Homes in Central Arkansas Since 2020

Crafting Dream Homes in Central Arkansas Since 2020

2026

2026 Thank You! for voting us AY ’s best tree service!

Breanna P.

They showed up on time and got the job done ! I would highly recommend these guys. When the job was finished the area where the tree was cleaned and raked up every twig. You would’ve never known a tree stood there.

first-time winner

Family Tree

Roots run deep at multigenerational tree service

Trees are something people often do not think about until there is a reason. Trees are beautiful, provide shade and help regulate the temperature of a home, but they can also lead to disaster if they are not well cared for. A falling limb can damage a roof, destroy a vehicle or even end someone’s life.

That is why it is essential to have a reputable tree service in one’s back pocket. After just five years in business, C&C Tree Service in Little Rock has garnered such a reputation, having been voted Best Tree Service for the first time in “AY’s Best of 2026.”

“It’s amazing, the best feeling ever,” said Debbie Shamlin, co-owner with her husband, Chuck, and son, Chase. “Just to get the opportunity to even be in the running for it and then to win it, we’re very humbled and grateful and excited.”

Chuck was the third generation of his family to work in the timber industry, primarily dealing with large tracts of wooded land. Chase started working with him during the summers as a teenager.

Both men have a passion for trees, but over recent years, demand for wood used to make paper products began to wane.

“Logging, in general, has taken a really big turn in the industry. It’s not nearly what it used to be,” Debbie said. “If you think about it, so many things have gone paperless. Kids in school these days, they’re not even using a paper and pencil usually. They’re doing everything on the internet, so the demand for that side of the industry has slowly started to dwindle down.”

That led the Shamlins to start a residential tree service company, C&C Tree Service, both to diversify their income stream and secure a livelihood for Chase and his growing family.

“I take pride in the fact that we are locally owned. We aren’t a big chain. We’re a family-owned business,” Debbie said. “We always want to stay grounded in that. We always will remember where we came from, where we started, so there’s no job too big or too small for us to take on.”

The business handles tree-related services such as removal, trimming, pruning, storm cleanup, land clearing, bush hogging and skid steer mulching. C&C Tree Service can also provide gravel-spreading services to build pads for structures or build and maintain driveways.

Debbie said the company’s work ethic and morals set it apart as Best Tree Service, adding that C&C is committed to providing fair work at a fair price.

“Our goal is to exceed everyone’s expectations and treat each customer like they were our own family,” she said. “I think that’s what sets us apart. We’re not just out to make a quick dollar. We’re out making a difference. We’re not a jump-in-this, flyby-night company because there’s a lot of them out there. They think it’s a quick way to make a dollar. This is a lifelong commitment to us.”

Family ownership means the Shamlins are fully invested in the reputation of the business, she added.

“This isn’t just something we do; it’s all we do,” she said. “Our reputation precedes us. It means everything to us because we’re in it to stay, so we’re here to make sure that we have a great, polished reputation in the community. You don’t get that and gain that by doing people wrong.”

With the fifth generation of the company — Stellan, 4 — already tagging along with her father to job sites, Debbie said she hopes the business continues growing with the family.

“We hope to continue to grow and perfect and become better known in the community as the No. 1 tree service,” she said. “My son is young, and his family is expanding. They’re expecting their second daughter. This is his life and his legacy, so we just hope to continue to expand that and grow on it and continue to perfect it and just be the best we can be.”

“I take pride in the fact that we are locally owned. We aren’t a big chain. We’re a family-owned business. We always want to stay grounded in that. We always will remember where we came from, where we started, so there’s no job too big or too small for us to take on.”

— Debbie Shamlin co-owner

By SARAH DECLERK

by JANE COLCLASURE

Student of LIFE

Shannon (Bedore) Velez never met a mountain she couldn’t climb

By DWAIN HEBDA

In the sports lexicon, there is a saying to describe a player who was made to take the winning shot: “The moment isn’t too big for them.”

Careerwise, Shannon Velez (formerly Bedore) has never been intimidated when it mattered most. The Bentonville dynamo has been successful everywhere she has landed and equally so over the past decade spent building Blue Elephant Food Group and her own venture, Sightline Retail.

As if that were not enough, she endeavored to go back to school four years ago to earn her Ph.D. and is now educating the next generation of business success stories as professor of practice-supply chain at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.

To say the accomplished Velez is possessed of many hats and laurels is a gross understatement, yet the stack was crowned by yet another this spring, by AY About You’s “AY’s Best of 2026” poll as Person of the Year. Given the magazine’s reach, which numbers in the millions of views a month, the title is not one to be taken lightly, yet as she is quick to point out it is an honor that puts her ill at ease.

“I’m sure the expected answer is that I’m proud, you know, and I am. I’m proud, and I’m honored, and I’m thankful,” she said, “but I’m a little uncomfortable also. I’m just also a person who gets up and goes to work and tries to do better and tries to learn more every day and who just works really hard. I guess maybe that’s a bit of a self-deprecating answer, and maybe I have a little imposter syndrome over all of this, but I do really believe I’m still learning. I think I’m still trying to pull this all together.”

“That’s probably the underlying theme throughout my entire professional career; at the crux of all of this, I’ve never stopped wanting to learn more and do better.”

Velez’ professional journey began 27 years ago at Kohl’s in Wisconsin. Four years later, she got her first position at Walmart in Bentonville as a summer intern, a gig that touched off an 11-year stint punctuated by six promotions, ultimately finishing as senior director category space in 2014.

Time spent in those early roles taught her a lot, including how to be a more nuanced and multifaceted leader.

“I grew up in a family that was very direct with each other, and at a very young age, I learned to handle and manage direct feedback,” she said. “I brought that with me to corporate America. What I’ve had to learn as I’ve stayed in the workforce is that not everyone is like me. I’ve always had what would’ve been considered thick skin, so things didn’t rattle me, but not everybody is like that, so being able to give feedback honestly and authentically and with care has been one of the things I’ve learned that has helped me the most.

“In fact, I wouldn’t even define myself as having a leadership style now because I am always watching and learning from those around me, trying to step up my game. I’ve always looked to different managers and executives

who I worked for and took the traits that I really respected and admired and tried to incorporate those into my own personal style. I’m still doing that today.”

Lessons learned did not always come from successes. Some of the most impactful insights Velez gained were from mistakes she made along the way and the good sense she had to own them and learn from them.

“When I first graduated college, I was in planning and allocation at a large retailer, in the boys sports department,” she said. “In front of me was an order for Dallas Cowboys winter jackets. I thought, ‘Oh, well, I know where Dallas is,’ so I sent all of these winter coats to our Dallas stores. I mean, I grew up in Michigan. I never really considered they didn’t really wear winter coats in Dallas. I also didn’t know there were a lot of people outside Dallas that liked the Dallas Cowboys. It took us, like, a year to work through the inventory that I’d sent to those stores.

“I remember back then I never asked questions about anything; I just thought I knew what I was doing, and it was one of those mistakes that stayed with me. Pretending like you know too much can be one of the most detrimental things that happens to people in their jobs, while running things by leadership or your peers is one of the best things that a person can do. It doesn’t come from a point of weakness; it really comes from a point of wanting to help the whole organization be successful. I had to learn that the hard way.”

That insight, along with many others, was invaluable as she made the change from the corporate world to the life of an entrepreneur. Where many founders try to play superhero and do it all — or worse, fail to launch at all due to a perceived lack of superpowers — Velez has always leaned into what she can directly control, such as her own work ethic, open mindedness and commitment, and sought out experts to help educate her where she was lacking.

“Well, first you just have to keep going. You have to keep doing it. You have to stay in the game,” she said. “Life is full of ebbs and flows, and my career has not been a straight trend line up. I’ve had managers that I didn’t like, and we didn’t see eye to eye, which made some jobs really challenging. I’ve also worked at companies that had a lot of ebbs and flows in their finances where some years were really tough. What has been consistent is that every day, I got up, and I tried to get better over time.

“I mean, I don’t have a goal of, ‘Well, I have to be 5-percent better every day.’ That’s not realistic. It’s more about keeping that longer-term perspective in mind, the attitude of, ‘I’m not done learning, and I’m not done experiencing things.’ The older I get, I actually think the less I know, so the more I try to learn.”

As her record shows, a lot of entrepreneurs could learn a thing or two from Velez, as well. Launched in 2015, Sightline Retail has grown to work with industry heavy hitters Walmart, Whole Foods Market and Amazon while providing brands with support in sales, management, strategy, operations, replenishment, warehousing and administrative support. In 2019, Sightline was named one of the top analytics-solutions providers by Retail CIO Outlook, which cited the company’s technological chops and careful catering to client needs.

Blue Elephant Food Group USA, a consumer-packaged goods company, of which she has been CEO and now board chair, has followed the same successful arc. Velez led U.S. sales expansion efforts, which were instrumental in helping the company break into the United States market.

These and other lessons from the front lines and C-suite she shares regularly with her students as a professor, her latest challenge undertaken.

“I love the University of Arkansas; I’m so proud to be a part of the supply chain department, and I really love teaching students,” she said. “I had the nicest email from a student who said they changed their major to supply chain. It was just so remarkable. I feel like these are the accolades that I want for the rest of my career.

“I really want to help students understand the importance of supply chain even if they’re not supply chain majors, just in the sense of how it makes the world work and how all things are connected by supply chain. I’m still going to continue my board roles at Blue Elephant Food Group and Sightline, but I’m really focused on expanding supply chain knowledge through the college of business as much as I can.”

first-time winner

Acting the Part

Bobby Batson gearing up for what’s next

As an achievement, it is the culmination of years of hard work. It is perhaps also the cause of a few sleepless nights. It has undoubtedly been dependent on the support of family and friends. Most of all, though, it is a great reason to celebrate. This is not about Conway’s own Bobby Batson graduating from high school, though he was pleased to pass that milestone this year, as well. No, this is about what is next for Batson in his burgeoning acting career — a new chapter into which he will carry the inaugural title of Best Actor in AY About You’s “AY’s Best of 2026.”

“It feels great to have won the Best Actor award and to know that so many people in Arkansas are supporting me,” Batson said. “Making history as the first to receive this honor makes it all the more special.”

Only recently turned 18, Batson has already built up an impressive collection of credits. Following his older sister and brother into acting, Batson’s first role came in the form of a TV commercial at 5 years old. Maggie and John Jr. have both since taken different paths, but Batson instead caught the acting bug, continuing to accumulate experience and industry connections — something he hopes to keep doing during an upcoming gap year.

“I’m looking forward to playing new roles and hopefully being cast in more movies and TV shows,” he said.

In 2015, with a short-film credit and a few commercial gigs to his name, the budding talent hit it big as Joe Piper in the Michael Polish-directed film 90 Minutes in Heaven. He followed that up with parts in the film The 5th Wave and an episode of TNT’s Good Behavior in 2016, later adding to his filmography with a role in the 2018 horror mystery The Ghost Beyond. Along the way, he has rubbed elbows with an array of Hollywood stars, from Hayden Christensen in 90 Minutes to Michael Rooker and Theo Rossi in a more recent project.

“It’s such a nice environment, and it’s cool to be able to be part of a bigger project,” Batson told AY for a previous article.

Two of Batson’s latest films, both in post production, include The Underneath: In Fortune’s Shadow and Alien Eyes. In The Underneath — teased on the online cinema database IMDb with the intriguing description, “A knight of the underworld has three days to find his adversary and his answer” — Batson will play a character named Ward. In upcoming horror sci-fi flick Alien Eyes, Batson plays the part of Shawn. Alien Eyes also gave him his first crack at a villain role, which Batson said he enjoyed.

“It was very fun playing the bad guy, although I hope I don’t fall into a niche like some actors do,” Batson said. “I enjoy a lot of different types of acting and roles.”

Now that high school is in the rearview, Batson is headed to Atlanta, where he got his first taste of acting while his father was stationed there with the military. This time, he will be leaving home with a much larger audience of fans from the Natural State, all eager to see where his career on the screen goes from here.

“It feels great to have won the Best Actor award and to know that so many people in Arkansas are supporting me. Making history as the first to receive this honor makes it all the more special.”

— Bobby Batson

“In that year, if I’m able to get a strong foothold into acting, then that’s the career path I want to pursue, so I’m going to try to pursue it,” he said.

By MAK MILLARD

2026

PEOPLE & PLACES

ACTOR/ACTRESS

Bobby Batson

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Texarkana USA Chamber of Commerce

CHARITY EVENT

Goodwill Industries of Arkansas — Gala for Good CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Visit Hot Springs

FUNDRAISER

Ronald McDonald House Charities Arkansas & North Louisiana — Chocolate Fantasy Ball

PERSON OF THE YEAR

Shannon Velez, Professor of Practice at University of Arkansas

PLACE TO WORSHIP

The Church at Rock Creek

SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT/INFLUENCER

The Mighty Rib

APARTMENT COMPLEX

Fitzroy Riverdale

ARCHITECT

WDD Architects

ARKANSAS-BASED COMPANY

Renew Mental Health & Wellness

AUCTIONEER

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Hathaway Group

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New Path Mental Health & Wellness

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Special Olympics Arkansas

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Dat Pooch Mobile Dog Grooming

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TeamLogic IT

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Sissy’s Log Cabin

Little Rock Montessori School

Congratulations to Shannon Velez (formerly Shannon Bedore)

voted Person of the Year in ‘AY ’s Best of 2026’

Asprofessor of practice in the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Shannon Velez, formerly Shannon Bedore, is using her wealth of expertise in supply chain management to help develop the next generation of supply chain professionals.

“In supply chain, everything is connected, and I think that carries over into how I approach teaching too,” Velez said. “If I’m setting any kind of example, I hope it’s that you can make a real impact by being consistent, open to learning, and willing to roll up your sleeves and do the work.”

The board chairman and former CEO of Sightline Retail in Bentonville, Velez founded the company in 2015 and grew it into an industry leader in sales, management, strategy, operations, replenishment, warehousing and administrative support for a number of brands. Now in the classroom with undergraduates, Velez is connecting student learning with real-world product launches and challenges, partnering with innovative brands so tomorrow’s business leaders are ready for whatever awaits them on the other side of graduation.

“I’m lucky to be part of a community that values both education and industry, and I’m especially grateful to the students and partners who make the work so meaningful,” she said. “There’s a lot of great things happening here, and I’m excited to keep being a part of it.”

first-time winner

They Walk the Line

Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce takes top honors

Ever since it was founded in 1905, the Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce has been a partnership of businesses, organizations and professionals working together to build a healthy economy and improve the quality of life in the community. It has done so one ribbon cutting, one member lunch-and-learn, and one networking event at a time, serving as the glue that binds Texarkana, Arkansas, and Texarkana, Texas as one unified economic force.

Now, 121 years later, the little chamber that could sits not only on the state line but also atop AY About You’s “AY’s Best of 2026” readers poll as the best chamber in the state.

“When we were just nominated, oh my gosh, it was so exciting,” said Chloe Wardlaw, the chamber’s director of events and communications. “Even if we’d just come in top three or whatever, we’d be excited about that, but to be awarded No. 1, it was just kind of like a dream come true for our team.

“When Robin [Hickerson], our CEO, came in, we did a strategic plan during a staff retreat. We talked about what would it look like if Texarkana was the best chamber ever, so to be named the best chamber in Arkansas by AY really ties into the energy that we try to bring every single day to the office.”

One of the things that sets the communities apart, Wardlaw said, is members’ willingness to work together, something the chamber team promotes and models every day. With just five full-time staffers, managing business interests and producing myriad events for a membership of 800 means every member of the staff has to wear a lot of hats. It also means the chamber relies on volunteers including its 50-member corps of ambassadors, and people sitting on committees and helping with events.

Fostering that spirit of unity and togetherness is no easy task in any organization, let alone one split by a state line, but therein lies one of the things that makes the Texarkana USA Regional Chamber special, Wardlaw said.

“I think what makes us unique is just being super passionately involved,” she said. “Our city managers and mayors work really

hard with anyone who’s trying to come to Texarkana to bring their business in. As a chamber, we reflect that, whether through new business ribbon cuttings, which some larger chambers are getting away from, but we make them a really big deal. It’s all part of growing the economic development in the area. Everything has a hand in that.”

The chamber also supports a full slate of events throughout the year, starting with an annual celebration to kick off the year.

“That event is where we showcase our members and present awards, such as restaurant of the year, nonprofit of the year, whatever it may be,” Wardlaw said. “We also include a professional panel to push the needle and discuss what comes next in our community. It really sets the tone for the rest of our year.”

Other events dotting the calendar include state of the cities updates hosting local mayors and business leaders in specific industries, as well as women in business and various networking events, including a golf tournament and business after hours mixers.

Wardlaw said the chamber staff, the most tenured member of which has only been there two years, brings youthful energy and vitality to its work, which is igniting the business community to look toward bigger things to come. She said being named Best Chamber of Commerce by AY About You readers is just more fuel and motivation for that effort.

“We honestly were speechless when AY called. We were over the moon,” she said. “Our mission statement that we came together on is to be a connector, convener and community leader in Texarkana USA and as an organization. We do that with energy, and we elevate everything that we do. I think this award just goes to prove the hard work really does pay off and that our community members do value that.”

“When we were just nominated, oh my gosh, it was so exciting. Even if we’d just come in top three or whatever, we’d be excited about that, but to be awarded No. 1, it was just kind of like a dream come true for our team.”

— Chloe Wardlaw director of events and communications

SERVICES

LAW FIRM

The Law Offices of Katherine Blackmon

MARRIAGE/FAMILY THERAPY

New Path Mental Health & Wellness

NONPROFIT

Wolfe Street Foundation

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Something Borrowed Event & Party Rentals

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Taylor King Law — Jay Neal

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Honey Holler Marketing — Jordan Sullivan

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The Vogue Veil

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The Good Earth Garden Center

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Norwood-Day Floral Co.

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Edwards Food Giant

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TRAVEL AGENCY

Cruise Planners — Charlene Garcia

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Healthy Life Pet Clinic — Katelyn Lang, DVM

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Sissy’s Log Cabin

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Y’allternative Market

OUTDOOR LIVING

Congo Fireplace & Patio

SHOPPING CENTER

Tanger Promenade at Chenal

SPORTING GOODS STORE

Company B Arms

first-time winner

This is IT

TeamLogic IT lands top spot in annual poll

TeamLogic IT may be the new kid on the block in Arkansas, but the company is wasting no time putting the competition on notice. Launched just last December, the franchise has already engendered enough customer satisfaction and loyalty to land its first spot atop AY About You’s “AY’s Best of 2026” readers’ poll in the category of information technology services.

“It’s really an honor that we’ve been able to gather so much support and that people felt that we were worthy to vote for,” said Chris Wright, who co-owns the business with his wife, Liza. “We very, very much appreciate that.”

While the business itself is still enjoying its rookie season, Wright is a seasoned IT veteran.

“I’ve been managing technology in various industries pretty much my entire career,” he said. “[Business ownership] is something we’ve been looking to do for a long time, and it was just finally time to just jump in and do it.”

The office services a statewide footprint, focusing on enterprise clients of all sizes from within the business community.

“We tend to lean towards small to medium-sized businesses. We’re using enterprise tools, and a lot of what we do is try to help focus some of those enterprise tools and technology down to those size of businesses,” Wright said, “but we can go up as large as you want to get, really.”

“Typically, we would take over management of their network and their computers and make sure those were all functioning properly,” Liza added. “If they have any issues, they contact us, and we deal with some of it remotely, while other times, we need to come on-site. The idea is we’re that outsourced IT department, and what we’re finding is that translates well with small to medium-sized businesses.”

While Chris provides the technical know-how, aided by a nationwide network of nearly 2,000 technicians whose expertise he can tap into at any time, Liza is the relationship-builder of the firm, prospecting new business and serving as a reassuring point of contact for clients.

“Liza does a really nice job with building relationships, and that’s been really important to us throughout this venture,” Chris said. “Most businesses are relationship oriented, and Liza’s done a really nice

job with clients of making sure everybody’s comfortable with what we’re doing. I make sure that everything’s in place and functioning properly, and she reassures the client that we’re doing what we’re telling them we’re doing.”

Liza, who has worked in customer relations roles during her career, said the yin and yang she and Chris represent not only results in better client satisfaction but makes being entrepreneurs a more enjoyable experience.

“Chris and I get to work together every day, and we have enjoyed that. It’s been so much fun,” she said. “We’ve had a great time helping people with their technology and helping them run their businesses smoothly so that they can focus on what they need to.”

“I think what’s really special about this is we’ve got this network of 350 locations, 1,700 technicians, and all the breadth and depth of knowledge and experience that that brings, but yet when you’re talking to us, you’re talking to the decision-makers,” Chris said. “We’re not having to go back and reconfirm with somebody else like you sometimes have to when you’re working for someone. It’s been great being able to focus that expertise on Little Rock and Arkansas.”

Given what has transpired thus far, the couple are justifiably bullish on the future of the business. Liza said the recognition from “AY’s Best of 2026” is bound to help increase the company’s already considerable momentum.

“We have been reading AY for years and years and years and years, so it is an honor for us because we know everybody reads it in Arkansas,” she said. “Everybody loves and respects AY, so that makes this award even more of an honor, knowing we were chosen from among everyone in the whole state.”

“We have been reading AY for years and years and years and years, so it is an honor for us because we know everybody reads it in Arkansas.”

— Liza Wright, co-owner

By DWAIN HEBDA

Photo by JASON BURT

‘Special Olympics believed in me’

Special Olympics Arkansas gives athletes confidence, helps erase stigma

By ALEX HARDGRAVE

Every year, about 1,500 athletes and 5,000 volunteers gather at Harding University in Searcy for Special Olympics Arkansas’ summer games.

“Our purpose is to unleash the human spirit through transformative power and joy of sports across the state,” said Camie Powell, director of marketing and partnerships at Special Olympics Arkansas, which won Best Disability Nonprofit in AY About You's "AY's Best of 2026."

The Special Olympics started as a backyard summer camp for people with intellectual disabilities in the 1960s and has since grown into a worldwide organization.

The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games games are coming up later this month in Minneapolis, at which Special Olympics Arkansas will be well represented. The Arkansas contingency will include 90 individuals, made up of 68 athletes and unified partners competing in 11 sports.

Sports at the games include powerlifting, swimming, bowling, bocce, basketball, unified softball, flag football, soccer and more. This will also be the first year that the U.S. games will feature cornhole and pickleball as official sports.

Special Olympics Arkansas’ chapter began in 1970, two years after founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver held the first games at Soldier Field in Chicago. Since then, Special Olympics Arkansas has grown to include 17 areas, which encompasses all counties in the state. It supports 14,000 adults and children with intellectual disabilities, offering over 20 different sports and 240 competitions year-round.

At the state level, the Arkansas summer games are kicked off by a torch run across the state, which Powell said helps create awareness for what the athletes can do.

Two adult athletes who have participated in Special Olympics for over 20 years are Amy and Stephanie Price. Amy said Special Olympics has helped her to gain confidence.

“It helps you push past your limits,” she said. “I’m more capable than I think.”

Through Special Olympics activities, athletes not only gain confidence and skill but also stay healthy and physically fit.

“Just like any other athlete, we want our athletes to be training on and off the field to be the best they can be,” Powell said.

Through the organization, Amy has had the opportunity to attend the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin in 2024, and she has even performed standup comedy at a Special Olympics talent competition, where she won first place.

Along with participating in many events herself, she is also part of a unified pickleball team. Unified sports pair Special Olympics athletes with those who do not have intellectual disabilities.

“On the court, you’re just two people as a team,” she said.

Stephanie also plays unified pickleball, as well as unified golf. She said she likes the bonds she has been able to build with her teammates.

“You build up that rapport and have fun,” she said.

Along with unified sports, Special Olympics works to make schools more inclusive for people with intellectual disabilities through the Unified Champion Schools program. The program implements inclusive sports, youth leadership opportunities and whole-school engagement.

Studies show that a school that implements Unified Champion parameters reduces bullying and also improves the academic outcomes of students with and without intellectual disabilities. According to the

“It helps you push past your limits. I’m more capable than I think.”

— Amy Price, athlete

“Special Olympics believed in me before I believed in myself.”

— Stephanie Price, athlete

Special Olympics Arkansas’ website, multiyear Unified Champion Schools programming is associated with increases in standardized test scores and GPA for middle and high school students.

Stephanie said her time with Special Olympics has really helped build self-confidence.

“Special Olympics believed in me before I believed in myself,” she said.

Special Olympics has sent Stephanie to Athens, Greece, for competitions and numerous conferences. She also participates in the athlete leadership program, which allows athletes to participate in Special Olympics as

a coach, a team captain or becoming a board and committee member.

Stephanie serves on the Athlete Leadership Council, which allows athletes to report to other athletes and program leaders about what is happening in their areas.

“That was a big accomplishment in my life,” she said.

Volunteers are also integral to the organization’s success. One volunteer who has been helping since 1979 is Sally Paine. She served as the area director for Area 6 from 1988 to 2018 and said volunteering can be a lot of hard work, but it is worth it.

“I was never really wanting to let it go because [opening ceremonies] every year reminds you why you’re doing all this when the athletes get to get out and have their day.” Paine said. “I think that Special Olympics provides an outlet for these individuals that have challenges that other people would think are daunting, but these athletes get out there and have their day and show that it doesn’t matter.”

Now, since she does not serve as area director anymore, she helps coach bocce ball and bowling, where she mostly works with the adult athletes.

“They are pretty cool individuals,” she said. “The events are way upbeat.”

She recently retired and plans to keep helping with Special Olympics, possibly even becoming even more involved.

“To be the volunteer that is willing to do what is needed is, I think, every citizen’s duty or call to be a part of something bigger than yourself.” she said.

She encourages everyone to come to the tournaments for the various sports, even if just to watch and cheer people on.

“Once you’re there, you’ll see why we do the things that we do, and you’ll see how great it is and you might get caught up, and then you’ll have to come back,” she said. “It’s a great organization.”

The athletes, volunteers and Special Olympics movement are “smashing stereotypes,” through the organization, Powell said.

“It really smashes what people may think about somebody with an intellectual disability and creates a positive perception and better understanding of how people with intellectual disabilities really contribute to the community,” she said.

Paine recalled a parent of an athlete tearing up during opening ceremonies of the area games one year and telling Paine, “I never thought I’d be able to see my child walking out there doing this.”

“That shows the impact Special Olympics has not only on the individuals that get to participate but their family members and the next ripple beyond that is the community, who then can look and say, ‘Gosh, look what these athletes can do.”

Athletes not only come away from events feeling proud of themselves but also with the knowledge that they matter.

“I have a voice and I can advocate for myself and my health,” Stephanie said.

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where you’re the only bride

Welcome to The Vogue Veil—an elevated bridal experience designed for the modern bride who desires more than just a dress. From exclusive private-label gowns to a boutique all your own, we make saying “yes” feel unforgettable.

Second

SPORTS SPIRITS

Attic

More Than a Gift Shop

Waverly Wood creates an experience for customers, brides

Waverly Wood, a home decor and gift store located in west Little Rock, prides itself on being a carefully curated collection of highend goods.

Owner Meredith Benton uses her keen eye for design and decorating to create vignettes around the store that help visitors gain inspiration and visualize how an item could fit into their own home. Everything in the store feels “playful, but elevated,” she said.

“It’s elegant, but doesn’t take itself too seriously,” Benton said.

Prior to opening Waverly Wood, Benton was a wedding photographer living in Birmingham, Alabama. However, after photographing events around the country for 12 years, she felt it was time to settle down and move closer to family. This brought her to Little Rock.

“It was just getting to be time for me to think about the next stage in my life,” she said. “When I thought about my passions and my gifting and what I would enjoy doing every single day, all those things married together to equal being in retail, having home accessories, getting to play with rugs and lamps and beautiful things in the home.”

Benton’s eye for design and passion for “pretty things” goes all the way back to her childhood and can be attributed to the women in her life. Her mother would often flip through Southern Living magazine in bed at night, and Benton would sit with her.

“I grew up cuddling next to her and looking at those,” she said. “I also watched how she intentionally created spaces in our home.”

The name Waverly Wood also pays homage to this. It is the name of the street where she and many people on her father’s side of the family lived when she was growing up.

“That was the birthplace of my love for hosting and curating and setting a beautiful table and creating a great experience,” she said. “It felt like a natural fit.”

Benton said she also loves getting to be part of couples’ big day even though she is no longer photographing weddings. Waverly Wood is a very popular destination on wedding registries for couples looking to find items that are more unique than Amazon or Target.

“We have worked hard to pull things together that are really fun and really fresh and we’re trying to inspire brides,” she said. “We want to get back to the excitement about dreaming about a table and centering it around hospitality.”

Benton hopes brides who come in the store find pieces that will be unlike anything in their friends’ home and she helps them design their own spaces and tables in ways that are not intimidating to them.

Waverly Wood has been awarded Best Bridal Registry in “AY’s Best Of” poll, and while business is booming, it has not always been easy. Luckily, Benton has people in her family who have business backgrounds and have helped her. She also hired a retail consultant to nail down various details, allowing her and her small team to focus on making shoppers feel comfortable.

All her work and intentionality has cultivated a distinct space for customers to enter into, one where they feel at home and ready to find pieces that speak to them.

“We all have taken it on as our baby, and it’s been really great,” she said. “I really want Waverly Wood to be an experience for my customers. When they walk in the door, I want them to have the feeling of ‘Oh my gosh, this is so beautiful and so inspiring. It’s making me feel energized to go home and create in my own space.’”

“I really want Waverly Wood to be an experience for my customers. When they walk in the door, I want them to have the feeling of ‘Oh my gosh, this is so beautiful and so inspiring.’”

— Meredith Benton, Owner

By ALEX HARDGRAVE

Drink

AY

’s Best of 2026’ has the best places to sit, sip and stock up

By MAK MILLARD

The market for alcohol might be an old one, but it is also one that has undergone a sea change in recent years. Shifting tastes and new takes on timeless traditions have turned plenty of corners of the industry on their heads. Still, there is something about a well-made drink or classic cocktail that is hard to beat — all the better when the setting for sipping is an ideal match. AY About You readers made their voices heard across a variety of spirits- and brewing-related categories, from Best Margaritas to Best Brewpub and even Best Speakeasy. Below are just a few of that visit-worthy bunch, including Best Happy Hour, Best Liquor Store, Best Whiskey Bar and Best Seasonal Cocktail List winners.

The Eagle Bourbon & Wine Lounge, Texarkana

Best Happy Hour

Best Business – Texarkana

TheEagle Bourbon & Wine Lounge soared to the top of AY readers’ lists to take the title of not merely Best Happy Hour but also Best Texarkana Business overall. Owners Chris and Melissa Fuller have created a unique space in the southwest corner of the state, combining a cultivated taste for the good stuff with a desire to help transform their community.

“We created The Eagle heavily from our own travel experiences,” Chris said. “We hope [first-time visitors] instantly feel like they’ve stepped into a signature downtown experience, not just a bar. We strive for it to be a place where friends gather, crafted drinks are appreciated and Texarkana comes alive.”

The Fullers spent nearly two years renovating the 1800s-era building on Texarkana’s historic Broad Street their lounge now calls home. The Eagle takes its name from the couple’s late fathers, each of whom was known for his love of golf and a good drink. With an upscale atmosphere, expansive patio, curated wine list and extensive bourbon selection, Chris said the pair feel they have crafted “the perfect setting” for wine and whiskey drinkers alike.

“Creating a space that genuinely satisfies

both wine and whiskey lovers isn’t about splitting the difference,” he said. “It’s about elevating both experiences.”

A relative newcomer to the state linestraddling Texarkana entertainment district, The Eagle Bourbon & Wine Lounge holds the distinction of being the area’s only bourbon and wine bar and has already established itself as a must-visit for locals, as well as those

passing through. Patrons appreciate happy hour discounts on glasses of wine, beer and cocktails, and many swear by the superiority of its signature drink, “The Eagle” old-fashioned.

What is more, speaking of the bustling border town — the Fullers also have front-row seats to a downtown district in the midst of revitalization. There is currently “a lot of positive energy in downtown Texarkana,” Chris said, and the area’s walkability makes it easy to access all the dining, shopping and entertainment establishments The Eagle is glad to call neighbors, such as the Perot Theatre. There are a lot of great businesses around, Chris said, and he and Melissa are eager to see even more investment and foot traffic as the area grows.

“It means a lot not only to us but also the Texarkana community,” Chris said. “Being on the state line, it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle in terms of statewide attention, so it’s huge for us to be recognized as one of the best in the entire state. It’s also affirmation that we are executing the vision we had for The Eagle and what we wanted to bring to downtown Texarkana.”

“We strive for it to be a place where friends gather, crafted drinks are appreciated and Texarkana comes alive.”

— Chris Fuller, co-owner

The Eagle Bourbon & Wine Lounge 116 E. Broad St., Texarkana 870-361-1963 eagletxk.com

Tuesday through Thursday: 4 to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 3 to 11 p.m.

Legacy

Wine & Spirits opened its doors in 2015, and while owners Brandon and Michele Brewer only took the reins in 2023, they hit the ground running with aims of carrying on an already impressive track record of service and quality.

“When we took over the business, the vision was simple — be a strong voice in the community and provide exceptional service for any occasion, big or small,” Michele said. “Whether it’s a wedding, fundraiser, neighborhood gathering, party or a family dinner, we want to help bring people together in the city we’re proud to call home.”

Being the kind of establishment people actually want to come back to, Michele said, comes down to a combination of selection, competitive pricing and standout customer service, all inside one of the cleanest, most organized liquor stores in the state. The Legacy team also tries to keep things interesting with weekly tastings, classes and other in-store experiences so that no two visits are alike.

“Customer experience is everything to us. We go out of our way to make every person who walks through our doors feel comfortable, valued and appreciated,” Michele said. “Our goal has always been to build a unique retail experience you simply won’t find anywhere else, one that feels welcoming, personal and rooted in community. We believe a local liquor store should be more than just a place to shop; it should be a place where people connect, discover something new and feel at home.”

In addition to constantly learning about new brands, trends and products, Michele said the Legacy team listens closely to patrons and

“To be recognized by our customers and AY readers as the best in the state is truly an incredible honor.”

encourages requests. Growth is the goal but not at the expense of the “small-business heart” that makes Legacy special. The Brewers want to help west Little Rock grow as a destination with plenty of places for family and friends to gather and celebrate — drinks and all.

“To be recognized by our customers and AY readers as the best in the state is truly an incredible honor. We work hard every single day to improve, grow and serve them better than we did the day before,” she said. “We’re proud to be part of this community, proud to support Arkansas businesses and families, and proud to continue growing alongside the people who have supported us for over a decade.”

Rock Town Distillery, Little Rock

Best Whiskey Bar

The state’s first legal distillery since Prohibition hardly needs an introduction, not to mention an explanation for being AY’s Best anything. Since Rock Town Distillery’s beginnings in 2010, the craft distilling scene in Arkansas has continued to bloom thanks in no small part to the trailblazing work of founder Phil Brandon and the Rock Town team. If it were not enough to have made history in one regard, the Little Rock staple is as popular a place to drink the brand’s product as to buy it.

“What sets Rock Town’s atmosphere apart from other bars is that we make the spirits ourselves right here in Little Rock,” said Abbey Rolfe, head of marketing. “Guests can sip a cocktail knowing the vodka, gin, bourbon or liqueur in their glass was produced just behind the doors of our distillery, and they can even get a behind-the-scenes look at that process through one of our distillery tours.”

Keeping the quality of the bar as high as the quality of the spirits has been the result of putting the right people in the right place, Rolfe said. Rock Town makes it a point to develop from within, hiring people without experience to learn from those who know the

— Michele Brewer, co-owner

Legacy Wine & Spirits

16900 Chenal Parkway, Suite 130, Little Rock 501-821-3700 legacylr.com

Monday through Thursday: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

ropes. Bar Manager Abi Heinz, for example, has worked behind the bar for seven years, and an emphasis on training and consistency makes for the kind of experience for which patrons will return time and again.

“Being recognized by patrons and AY readers as the Best Whiskey Bar in the state means a tremendous amount to us, especially because

“What sets Rock Town’s atmosphere apart from other bars is that we make the spirits ourselves right here in Little Rock.”

it comes directly from the people who choose to spend their time with us,” Rolfe said. “Awards are always meaningful, but there’s something particularly special about recognition that reflects the experiences our guests are having week after week inside our bar.”

Rolfe also pointed to the strong sense of community the distillery works to cultivate

through its cocktail program. Almost since day one, Rock Town has featured a drink of the week on social media, a practice that gives at-home mixologists of all levels new ideas for using the brand’s spirits. An archive of every recipe is available online for patrons to search through and recreate their favorite drinks at home. The drink of the week is also offered at the bar for just $7, tax inclusive, for those who would prefer to leave the cocktail crafting to their bartenders.

“We want Rock Town to feel welcoming, creative and connected — not just a place to grab a drink but a place where people can learn, gather and experience the craft behind what’s in their glass,” Rolfe said.

Rock Town Distillery

1201 Main St., Little Rock

501-907-5244

rocktowndistillery.com

Tuesday through Thursday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. to midnight

Sunday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. 2026

Brood & Barley is no stranger to AY About You lists of all kinds, making frequent appearances on not only “AY’s Best Of” but the “Readers’ Restaurant Poll” to boot — in addition to winning the top spot as Best Seasonal Cocktail List of 2026, the establishment landed Best Appetizers, Best Restaurant for Holiday Gatherings and Best Server in the restaurant poll rankings earlier this year.

Widely considered a must-visit for anyone finding themselves in the heart of

(Photos courtesy of Brood & Barley)

North Little Rock’s Argenta Arts District, the elevated gastropub is known for an ample selection of menu items fit for most any occasion. What is more, the spot is famous for its rotating list of cocktails ready to keep up with even the most creative plates from head chef and owner Brayan McFadden.

The drink menu as a whole offers something for every palate, including a rotation of sours, porters, stouts and India pale ales on the beer front and a carefully curated wine list. A large spirits collection lends itself especially well to the award-winning cocktail menu, most of which takes pointers from the kitchen with its own variety of takes on old classics and new creations.

Half of the duo behind the restaurant alongside cousin Jess McMullen, McFadden brings “East Coast sensibility to Southern hospitality,” according to the Brood & Barley site. A Philadelphia transplant to the Natural State, he has been in the kitchen since he was just 13 years old. McFadden and McMullen opened Brood & Barley to provide unique dining experiences to guests, and from first sip to last bite, they appear to have fulfilled that mission — just ask the AY voting populace.

“Success comes from surrounding yourself with great people,” McFadden told AY About You previously. “I have been super lucky to have great people in my work and personal life. We have found some pretty good harmony so far, and we plan on keeping the rhythm going.”

Brood & Barley

411 Main St., North Little Rock

501-400-8967

broodandbarley.com

Monday through Thursday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

A FRIEND IN THE BUSINESS

Shawn McAnulty reigns among car salesmen

By DWAIN HEBDA

f there was a hall of fame for natural talent, Shawn McAnulty would reside right alongside Michael Jordan and Mozart as those born to do what they do.

In fact, McAnulty has something even better, another nod as the top vote-getter for Best Car Salesperson in the “AY’s Best of 2026” poll. It is McAnulty’s second year atop the category, and the award shares space with accolades from other publications.

“This award makes me feel great,” he said. “I mean, the guys that I’m up against, they’re great guys. Some, I am sure, have more years in the business than I’ve got, so yeah, it feels pretty good to come out on top.”

A native of Russellville, McAnulty’s career had led him to various roles, each of which helped fortify his skills as a salesman.

“People skills come naturally to me, pretty much. I’ve always been a people person,” he said. “I’ve always made a connection within seconds. It’s just a natural thing for me.”

McAnulty has sold for three different dealerships in his career, the most recent being Honda World of Conway, where, for the past five months, he has applied his skills and talents via a proven approach that is less sales pitch than problem-solving.

“I do things a little differently than most. When I come outside, when I approach a customer, I start talking to them about anything other than cars,” he said. “I ask them how they’re doing today, talk about the weather. ‘Y’all eat lunch yet?’ I’ll say just about anything, but it’s not going to be about a car.

“After we make a connection, I ask them what their needs are. Are they needing to upsize because they’ve got kids, or they’re in downsize mode because they got rid of the kids? I find out a little bit about their price point, what they’re driving now, if they loved it and, if so, what they loved about it. If they don’t love it, asking them what they don’t like or what’s not working for them, or if they are looking for a truck because they’re tired of borrowing their buddy’s or whatever. From there, I can pretty much get them into the perfect vehicle.”

McAnulty’s casual explanation makes the art of sales sound easy. It is not. Knowing what to say and how to say it are just part of the regimen — and the easy part at that. Other, equally important elements are things others are not willing to do.

“If I’m going to go into something, I’m going full in,” he said. “I

spend more hours at the lot, more than anybody. I’m there hours early, I’m sometimes there hours late. I hand out cards to anybody and everybody. If I’m having lunch at Texas Roadhouse, I’m talking to my waitress to let her know what I do.

“I use social media big time — Instagram, Facebook mainly. I use Facebook most of the time. I’ve done a little bit of TikTok but not a lot. I also make AI music, you know, talking about me selling the car with a funny video and putting it on Facebook. I just like to do creative little things, and a lot of times, I’ll take pictures with my customers in their new car if the customer is OK with that. Anything and everything to get people, when they’re sitting there, thinking of a car, to think, ‘Shawn sells cars.’”

“I mean, I care about people, and I think that’s one reason why I’ve had a lot of repeat and referral business from people telling their family members and friends, ‘Hey, you need to come see this guy.’”

McAnulty said focusing on the customer the way he does often yields backstories he does not expect. One in particular stands out.

Overserving the customer and outhustling the competition has paid off consistently. He regularly sits atop the leaderboard among the sales staff, but that is not what motivates him.

“I’m not in competition with somebody else. I’m in competition with myself to make sure the customer is absolutely happy with their purchase and their payment and all that,” he said. “I've delivered vehicles as far away as Hawaii and Florida, and I stay in touch with them.. I even called my customer in Hawaii to check on him and his family during some recent flooding.

“I sold a car to a man who had just got out of prison and got a job. He’d been in prison for three years, and he was fixing to lose that job because he couldn’t get to work,” he said. “I got him into a car and worked with the bank to where he could get it. That man literally cried at my desk, saying that I saved him.

“He came back to see me a year later, and he had a fiancee. They’re fixing to get a house. He told me that I played a big part in that because I was able to get him into a car. That was a pretty neat deal.”

America's Museum

Crystal Bridges expansion deepens chances to connect with art, community

By SARAH DECLERK // Photos courtesy of CRYSTAL BRIDGES

When Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art opened in Bentonville in 2011, it was to much acclaim. Founded by Walmart heir Alice Walton, the facility quickly became one of the premier tourist destinations in northwest Arkansas. Now having completed a 114,000-square-foot expansion, the museum can not only accommodate more works of art but more opportunities for education and community engagement.

“We hope the expansion deepens the museum’s role as a true community space for northwest Arkansas — a place people return to again and again,” said Marissa Reyes, chief learning and engagement officer. “It allows us to serve local students, families, educators, community organizations and the general public more meaningfully, reinforcing the museum as a welcoming place for learning, creativity and connection right here at home.”

The museum will host the grand opening of the expansion June 6

and 7. Increasing the museum’s footprint by half, the expansion provides new galleries, educational spaces and art studios, as well as a community floor, a new cafe and an outdoor plaza.

Austen Bailly, deputy director of curatorial affairs, said Crystal Bridges has embraced a growth mindset from the very beginning.

“While the original vision didn’t anticipate physical expansion, we’ve always focused on our impact — creating experiences that are relevant, engaging and welcoming for everyone,” she said. “Over time, the response from our audiences made it clear that growth needed to be more intentional.”

As the museum welcomed record-breaking visitation from near and far, she said, it also became more deliberate about growing its collections mindfully, particularly by incorporating more crafts and Indigenous art.

“That momentum sparked an important conversation about the

future,” Bailly said, adding that Walton asked museum staff to work with Safdie Architects in Massachusetts, which designed the original building, to create a long-term vision for thoughtful and responsible physical growth.

“Once we saw that plan come together and recognized the opportunity right in front of us, it felt like the right moment to move forward with expanding our footprint,” Bailly said.

The expansion blends seamlessly with the existing building, an architectural masterpiece marked by low-lying expanses of steel and glass topped with undulating rooftops and accented with copper and Southern yellow pine. Wrapping around ponds and surrounded by wooded natural areas, the museum is as much a study in the beauty of God’s creation as man’s.

The expansion includes an outdoor plaza, two galleries, a cafe and an education center.

The new portion of the building deepens that connection with the outdoors, adding an additional pond and an outdoor plaza that also functions as a splash pad. At the same time, the expansion integrates with the ever-evolving art trails linking Crystal Bridges to the rest of Bentonville while allowing visitors an opportunity for reflection and wonder in the great outdoors.

“The expansion isn’t designed for a single moment or path,” Bailly said. “It supports many kinds of visits, whether someone has an hour between errands or an entire afternoon to explore.”

Two new galleries were created by the expansion: a gallery to house the museum’s collection of contemporary art and a new temporary gallery that allows Crystal Bridges to host two touring exhibits at once.

The portions of the museum visitors were already familiar with changed, as well. Nearly every piece of art in the museum was moved as the existing galleries were reimagined. While such work usually necessitates a museum to close, Crystal Bridges remained open throughout the process.

In addition to practical improvements such as new lighting, new wall colors and improved seating, the galleries tell an updated story of American art through artist quotes on the walls; large-scale graphics; crafts, Indigenous art and natural minerals incorporated into every space; and novel ways of bringing art off the walls and into the room.

In one area, the chairs shown in a painting emerge into actual seating, allowing guests a chance to be a part of the art as they sit and ponder the gallery. In another, a collection of items shown in a painted room are presented in a cabinet for visitors to touch. Down a hallway, visitors can open tiny doors to reveal curiosities on the other side.

“The reimagined galleries go beyond traditional art history to create an immersive, interactive experience of art, artists and their stories,” Bailly said. “Our galleries reveal the many ways to celebrate the American spirit through art, and they highlight artists’ visions and voices.”

The new cafe, Quartz + Honey, provides additional food and beverage options on-site and offers glass walls ideal for viewing the surrounding landscape. Adjacent to the plaza is a bridal suite where couples who flock to Crystal Bridges to celebrate their nuptials can finally have a dedicated space to prepare.

One of the most anticipated parts of the expansion is the Learning & Engagement HUB, which offers a community lounge and meeting room, a digital art studio, a ceramics studio, additional art studios, a community gallery, and a teaching studio for an artist-inresidence, as well as a flexible space for learning and community programs.

“Each year, we see more students, families and educators engaging with art in meaningful ways,” Reyes said. “Last year alone, 80,000 schoolchildren came to Crystal Bridges on field trips. One of the things we’re most excited about with this expansion is having even more room to welcome students, creating space for hands-on learning, curiosity and discovery for the next generation.”

While school groups, families, educators and community members will all use the space in different ways, Reyes said that at its core, the HUB will allow people of all ages and experience levels to jump in and have fun while learning alongside each other.

Students enter through the community lounge, which provides games, books, music and interactive prompts to help young visitors feel comfortable and engaged upon arrival. Guests can then move into the hands-on studios and digital tool studio to experiment and build skills at their own pace in artforms ranging from ceramics to 3D printing.

“By learning alongside teaching artistsin-residence, using flexible classroom-style spaces in the commons and seeing peer work featured in the community gallery — including the 2026 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards — students can see themselves reflected in the museum and recognize that their ideas and creativity truly matter,” Reyes said.

She added that the goal is to deepen learning, remove barriers to participation, and build lasting connections with schools, families, educators and the wider community. With the new expansion, Crystal Bridges will be able to reach 100,000 students, more than 20,000 educators and 150,000 families a year, she said.

“It’s more welcoming, more active and more connected to real people’s lives,” she added. “The expanded museum isn’t just a place to look at art; it’s a place to participate, learn and belong.”

Ultimately, Bailly said, the expansion enhances Crystal Bridges’ mission of providing access to art for all.

“I hope the expansion strengthens the importance of an art museum as a civic space for this region,” she said. “This is a place where art, community life and everyday experience can naturally intersect. We want to be the destination for the region because we offer new and inspiring opportunities to gather, to learn, to discover, and to engage with art, architecture

and nature in inspiring spaces that support creativity, conversation and connection.”

As the museum integrates the new spaces into its day-to-day rhythm, Bailly said she hopes visitors return again and again to look, make, eat and spend time. Offering a space for curiosity, joy and discovery, the newly expanded museum allows guests to engage with American art in ways that feel personal, relevant and vibrant, she said.

“At Crystal Bridges, we’re not just expanding; we’re revolutionizing what it means to visit an art museum,” she added. “Our goal is to create a space that sparks curiosity, invites joy and reflects the full breadth of American stories. We are America’s museum.”

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THE BEST OF 2026!

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‘You’re Gonna Rise’

Fresh off new album release, Melissa Etheridge brings Raised on Radio Tour to Walmart AMP

When Melissa Etheridge released her latest album, Rise, in March, it ended a rare dry spell in the artist’s studio life. The storied singer-songwriter had been consistently churning out new music for nearly 40 years, starting with the release of her self-titled debut album in 1988.

That album earned her a ticket to the 1989 Grammy Awards, where she performed her debut single, “Bring Me Some Water,” a captivating, toe-tapping rocker that introduced audiences to Etheridge’s unmistakable voice and deeply confessional lyrics.

Her one-of-a-kind style soon swept the guitar-strumming songstress into lasting stardom. She took home Grammys for “Ain’t It Heavy” and “Come to My Window” in 1993 and 1995, respectively, and was named Songwriter of the Year at the ASCAP Pop Awards in 1996 for her highest-charting album, Your Little Secret

Rise, her 17th studio album, comes after a five-year gap in the artist’s discography and continues the soulful, personable and endlessly danceable body of work fans have loved since the ‘90s. The album is at the same time reflective, powerful and joyful, including such hits as the coming-of-age ballad “Matches,” the plunky “Davina” and the titular “Rise,” a treatise on the ups and downs of life.

Etheridge will perform at the Walmart AMP Aug. 4 as part of the Raised on Radio Tour with Wynonna Judd. AY About You caught up with the musical icon ahead of the show to talk about the new album.

AY About You: How did you get into music? Were you really raised on radio?

Melissa Etheridge: My first even memory of music was the radio. I grew up in Leavenworth, Kansas, and the radio station was coming out of Kansas City, and it was called WHB. Johnny Dolan was the DJ, and they would play everything. It was Top 40 radio, and they would play Tammy Wynette. Then they would play Led Zeppelin. Then they would play Marvin Gaye. Then they would play Tommy James & the Shondells and The Archies. It was everything. I never knew of genres. I just knew great music from the ‘60s and ‘70s, and then in the ‘70s, it moved into FM, which was a great station coming out of there that I heard everything. I had a soul

music station that I could listen to. Kansas City had great music coming out of there. I was 100-percent raised on radio.

AY: Listening to such a wide array of music growing up, what helped you find your own sound in the country space?

Etheridge: Well, the first groups that I played in, I was 13 years old, and there was a local group of older men — grown-ups — who had played before and were just playing on the weekends. Mostly it was country music in Kansas right there, but again, it was that sort of Top 40, like Eddie Rabbitt and Alabama. You know, they had hits, but they were kind of country.

I was drawn to rock ‘n’ roll, and most of my albums have been considered rock ‘n’ roll albums, and I have always said I was a rock artist, but in today’s landscape, that isn’t rock now. The music I’m making fits more in country-rock, or Americana is what they’re calling it now. I still call it rock ‘n’ roll, but that’s OK.

AY: I definitely get that with your music. It is so lyrical, and I think it always has been, listening to some of your very first albums to today. You have some really beautiful lyrics, like the opening of “Rise,” where you talk about the raven at your window flying against the wind. How has your approach to songwriting changed as you have matured? Etheridge: There’s a few things I haven’t changed, and that’s the dedication and commitment to write from my heart and soul, to write what I know, to write what I am passionate about or fearful or hopeful or loving or angry — whatever the emotion was, I always wanted to be true to it. I never wanted to write what I thought people might want to hear but that didn’t really come from my heart.

That line right there, from “Rise,” I was sitting in Florida, and it was 2025, when you remember Florida had, like, snow in January and everyone was like, “Oh my God!” and I was freezing because I was playing outdoor gigs in Florida. We had a day off, and the wind was blowing ridiculously hard, and I was in kind of a high-rise hotel, and I was sitting there with my guitar.

I was looking out the window, and this bird was trying so hard to fly the other way, or it was just trying to stay in place. I don’t know, but it was just suspended right outside my window, and I was like, “Dude, you’re working really hard,” and I just started right there because, of course, it made me think, “Wow, that’s what it’s like to go against the wind.” You’ve got to let the stream take you sometimes.

AY: Tell me about how the album came together. In so many ways, it seems like an encapsulation of a nearly 40-year career but also very fresh. Etheridge: You know, this was probably the first section of my life that I haven’t constantly been writing and putting a record out. In the ‘80s, ‘90s, it was, like, every year, almost, I was putting out an album, if not every two years. I put an album out during the [COVID-19] pandemic, but it was recorded years earlier, almost 10 years earlier, and they were recordings of older songs that didn’t make it on the first albums. So really, the last time I sat down, wrote my life, examined and put songs together for people to hear was, like, 2017, ‘18. It was The Medicine Show

So many years had passed, and I had experienced great loss, the loss of my son. I’ve learned things. I’ve looked out at life and become wiser upon some things, and I really felt like I had something to say this time, like I love being alive. Yes, I’m 64, and you know what? I’m digging this. I love that life goes up and down, and I’ve seen enough to know that you’re always moving forward and ahead.

I wanted to put these very strong emotions of love and loss, fear and pain but also joy and delight, you know, love of being alive. That’s really where the album came from, and I just let it flow out.

AY: “Call You,” as you mentioned, is about your son Beckett Cypher, who died of opioid addiction in 2020. How did the music help you process that grief?

Etheridge: I knew when I sat down to write this album that I would have to write about my son and my experience and write from my heart

about it not only because I know there’s hundreds and thousands of other families that are going through this but also because I needed to tell myself, again, and I knew that I would play this song, I would sing this song, and every time I sang it, I would keep saying, “I would not stop living, even if I cannot call you anymore.”

I’m going to live, and I’m going to love, and I’m going to get up every day and move forward because he would want me to. He doesn’t want me to stop my life because he ended his and the choices he made. He’s in a beautiful place now. I have a belief in the nonphysical. We go there, and our souls are there. That was the first song I wrote for the album was “Call You.”

AY: Was there ever a point where it was hard for you to come to the decision that you wanted to keep living, that you were going to continue being the person we all know today?

Etheridge: I had done a lot of work even before he died, really working on myself because it’s so hard on a family when you have an addict and it’s opioids. A lot of people think, “It’s just willpower. They just have to stop,” and it’s not. Opioids have such a death grip on your brain and your neural pathways. It’s why I started our foundation after he died, the Etheridge Foundation, where we do research in plant medicines and psychedelics that can change the neural pathways, can help people kick addiction so that they can change their thoughts and get out of the drug cycle.

AY: You are donating $1 from every ticket sold for your Raised on Radio tour to the foundation, right?

Etheridge: Right. I’m so grateful because it really does make a difference. It’s a huge thing, and the results that we’re coming up with are so astounding. Within 10 years, within five years, I imagine, we’re going to see a big change in how we treat opioid addiction.

AY: Rise also carries a lot of political themes that you have always had in your music. You see it in “Don’t You Want a Woman.” You see it in “The Other Side of Blue,” where you talk about post-traumatic stress disorder among veterans. What do you say to people who might think politics and music need to be separate or who shy away from including political messages because it makes their music less marketable?

Etheridge: Well, the very nature of politics is people. That’s in the word. That’s what it’s about, and I don’t think of it being political. I just appeal to the human experience, where it gets weary when we constantly fight against anything we think is different than us, when diversity scares us — where everyone has to think the same way and dress the same way, look the same way. It’s impossible. That’s not what this reality is about.

This world we’re in is all about diversity, and to be afraid of it and to try to make rules to stop it just doesn’t make any sense, so I like to write songs and sing and lift people up. When they come to see a concert with thousands of other people, many of whom are not like them, they can have that experience of joy with multitudes of people, all different, and realize that the human experience of joy is a common experience, and we have more in common than we know.

AY: What can people expect from your show at the Walmart AMP in Rogers?

Etheridge: Wynonna and I are going to rip it apart. They’re going to hear the songs that they know and love from the ‘90s or from your parents or whatever age you are, and you’re going to hear a couple new songs too. I think the album has really been received well, and it makes me very happy, so we’ll be doing new songs and those hits that you love.

AY: What’s next for your career? Where are you hoping to go now?

Etheridge: I’m hoping to enjoy every minute of it in the moment — living in the moment, loving every minute. Then we’ll see what happens. There’s a whole bunch of plans, but right now, it’s playing this tour and loving these songs and getting my new songs out to people and making memories with them.

JAKE OWEN

Time was when all one needed to know about a Jake Owen song is that the lake was cold, the beer was colder and life a barefoot breeze. The native Floridian, who plays Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff on June 4, reeled off a string of radio-friendly hits during his 20 years in the business. Singles “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” (2011), “Anywhere With You” (2013), “Beachin’” (2014) and “Down to the Honky Tonk” (2018) barely scratch the surface of the irresistible, good timin’ tunes that put him on the musical map.

The success of nine No. 1 singles and three No. 1 albums did not come without detractors, those who decried the rise of bro-country as rotting the genre from within. A frequent target of such ire, Owen seemed to embody everything leading country music to hell; specifically, he was too pop, too packaged, too purty.

Thing was, while such sentiments stung, Owen himself kind of agreed with the critics. During recent interviews, he admitted that being part of the Nashville machine, while profitable, left him empty as an artist, his biggest hits coming on the backs of other people’s songs. Behind the megawatt smile and easily digestible tunes, Owen chafed for having something to say and nowhere to say it.

While there are not many people brave enough to so deeply bite the hand that fed them, as Owen did in 2024 leaving Big Loud, which had shepherded him to superstardom, for his own shingle and music on his own terms, that is just what the 44-year-old did. The next anyone would hear from him and his own independent label, Good Company Entertainment, was Dreams to Dream, a record that has flabbergasted the critics for its raw lyrics and heartfelt discussions on wrong turns and lessons learned.

Engineered as it is by Shooter Jennings, son of country legend Waylon Jennings, the record came with a certain amount of buzz, but nothing prepared listeners for what Owen had in store. Older, wiser and with a few more dents on his once-airbrushed façade, he shuns the whiskey-onthe-water ravers and bonfire ballads for something with a lot more grit.

The songs are as straight-ahead and honest as about nything the old

MIDDLE AGE CRAZY

Jake Owen proves growing up doesn’t mean growing old

By DWAIN HEBDA

masters ever recorded and light-years from most of what still seeps out of Nashville these days. Owen nails the delivery of “Middle Age Crazy,” seen through the eyes of a man who wakes up at the midpoint of life with the scars of wrecked relationships and duels with the bottle wondering what’s next. “Long Time Lovin’ You” could have been plucked from Don Williams’ catalog as “Them Old Love Songs” was pulled from Waylon’s.

Arguably the standout track, the title number shows all the elements of what Owen was trying to do and say. The song, told by a country boy lured by bright lights who winds up worldly-wise yet far, far from home, hearkens the vibe of Willie Nelson’s “Bloody Mary Morning,” and Waylon’s “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way,” songs less about the perils of chasing a dream as what happens when you catch up to it.

Owen’s triumphant reinvention might not sell for squat, and his shows are not abandoning the summertime party songs that gained him his audience. Fans who attend his concert at Saracen are in for a heaping dose of the hits that first made them fall in love with him, and a good time and good vibes will undoubtedly be had by all.

But at some point in the show, he will slip in a little of the new stuff, songs he said many fans have had to get used to and a portion of whom perhaps never will. For those who take the time to listen, however, Owen’s latest batch of music cuts to the heart of growing older in a world that worships youth, tangling with life and coming out bruised but intact.

Owen opened up to AY About You about his new record and much more.

AY About You: The thing that impresses me so much about Dreams to Dream is it does something a lot of artists really struggle with, and most of them cannot pull off, and that is how to grow up in their art form. Tell me about putting out a record this, dare I say it, this grownup and so different from your earlier work.

Jake Owen: I just felt, honestly, it was time for me to put a record out full of songs that resonate with who I am at this point in my life. I think some artists are scared, and I don’t say “scared” to knock them; I say they’re scared maybe due to their own personal insecurities of trying to stay

young in a business that’s very vain and wants you to always be young, you know? There was something really cathartic and freeing for me about just being honest about where I am in my life right now.

I didn’t want to just be the singer of a song, I wanted to be the storyteller of a song that I’m living through. Some of those songs on that album are songs I didn’t even write, but they resonated with where I am in my life right now and kind of the whole aesthetic of the record. I felt like it kind of tied everything together.

AY: I’ve read several articles from when this first came out where you said, “This goes gold, great. This goes platinum, great. Doesn’t go anywhere, great. I just really wanted to do something that was meaningful to me.” That sounds pretty liberating.

Owen: All I want as an artist is for people to consume my music and enjoy it. There’s been many times where we — myself, my team, my

anyone in country music to cover Waylon Jennings. Would you have attempted that had Shooter not been on the board?

Owen: Yeah, probably, just because I love Waylon and I have always loved his voice, and his music kind of fit with what I like to sit down with my guitar and play. I always loved that song, and I was playing it for Shooter, and I said, “Man, I feel weird asking you because I don’t want you to think I’m pandering to your dad here, but this song fits the album, and I think it would be a cool way to do it in our own version,” and he was like, “Hell, yeah. Let’s do that,” so that was cool.

AY: A lot of your fans know you for out on the lake, cold beer, shot of whiskey kind of stuff. What has the response been to this new material? I mean, after all, they’re 20 years older too and not the people they were back then.

Owen: I think a lot of people have enjoyed it and enjoyed the effort and

producers, whatever — we’ll all go and make a record in hopes that people enjoy the direction we’re going. It just felt nice this time around to go make a record and not hope anything, just feel like, “Hey, I like this, and I think they will too,” and be confident in that. There’s really no way to be disappointed at that point because nothing about this album has been disappointing for me. It’s been very fulfilling.

Sometimes you can chase what you think is commercial or what you think will work, and then when it doesn’t, that’s a bad feeling, but when you just do something you love and not care if anyone else likes it, that’s a very special feeling that I think we all long for.

AY: Did you find the freedom to do whatever you want a little bit intimidating? Like, the first track you worked on, did you have a moment where it was, “OK, Jake, you wanted this. Here you go.”

Owen: I actually didn’t. There was a lot of excitement from Shooter for us to make this album. He was really encouraging to me from the beginning to just follow my heart. He kept acknowledging, like, “Man, this is the type of music you need to be singing. I love hearing your voice like this,” so for me, it wasn’t hard at all because I had someone sitting there, encouraging me to do something I was already excited about doing.

There have been times within my career where I’ve been excited to do something and I’ve been talked out of it. When you have a career where you have a lot of hits in a certain type of genre or in a way where they pigeonhole you into what people expect from you, then that is what your team around you wants you to continue to do. When you come to them with some outside idea, it’s scary for people. It’s scary for your team to wrap their brain around something that’s outside the box they’re living in, so it was really comforting for me that Shooter embraced a wild idea. He believed in his heart it would be good for me, and I really found a lot of comfort in that.

AY: Speaking of Shooter, you have one of his dad’s songs on here, “Them Old Love Songs.” That’s really swinging for the fences for

understand they’ve also grown with me as fans, which is cool. I also still have people that, when they think of me, they think of summertime fun songs. I think it confused them, to be honest. I really didn’t get much negativity, I just got people that were like, “Yeah, you know, it’s not really what I’m used to hearing Jake do,” but then there were people that were really, really positive and said, “Man, you should keep making music like this,” so that felt good too.

At the end of the day, I’m making music, man. I’m making a living. I support my family. I’m a happy guy. I don’t really have any type of daily regrets about any of this.

AY: How much has this project rejuvenated whatever you felt for music? What has it done for you as an artist?

Owen: Oh, I just think it’s just validation. Any one of us that’s a dreamer wants to be validated by other people. Like, when you started this conversation, you said, “I’ve got to tell you, man, I like the effort on your new record.” That in itself is exactly why I did it. I did it for people like you who understand music and appreciate music that has value as opposed to just regurgitating the same thing over and over.

I honestly think I have a little more credit than I had before with people thinking I was just a one-trick kind of pony. If anything, I got a little more street cred, I guess, especially having Shooter on it. That helped me a lot.

AY: Well, it is an amazing record, which brings us to your upcoming concert at Saracen. We’re looking forward to welcoming you back to Arkansas. What can fans expect from the show?

Owen: You know, we’ll play some of this new music, but they can expect what I’ve always done when I show up and play a show for people. It’s more than just the music, you know? It’s about entertainment value, as well. Anybody can stand there and sing you their songs, but a part of people coming out and listening to music is wanting to feel something and be entertained. I really take a lot of pride in giving that, and I feel like we do a really good job letting people have a really good time while they’re there with us.

arts&culture

A Natural State

of Mind Arkansas Folklife Festival celebrates state, nation’s birthday

By DWAIN HEBDA // Photos courtsey of ARKANSAS FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL

WRachel Reynolds

hat do you get when you combine a historic national birthday with a party showcasing Arkansas food, crafts, culture and fun — and make it free, to boot? The answer is a brand-new event, Arkansas Folklife Festival, coming to Riverfront Park on the north side of the Arkansas River.

“I knew from the very beginning I wanted to do it in central Arkansas for several reasons,” said Rachel Reynolds, executive director, who came up with the festival. “The Arkansas River is that great connector, right? There’s things that bring folks together, and those are music, food and water, so the Arkansas River is a big part of our story and the American story.”

The event is a three-day blowout of national and local performers, great food, artwork and craft vendors, all of which, in some way, have a connection to and celebrate the unique culture of the Natural State. AY Media Group is proud to be presenting media sponsor for the festival.

“The music’s going to be awesome. The festival will celebrate our dance traditions from across the state, everything from country soul line dancing and square dancing, to dance forms of the Marshallese, Hispanic, Indian and Latinx communities, all those things,” Reynolds said. “Same thing with food; you can get your Delta tamales, your beans and cornbread, beer, wine and spirits. Every piece of this is curated and provided for and by Arkansans.

“People will be demonstrating everything from outdoor cooking to Native American gardening traditions and master artisans making Bowie knives. It’s got so many components to excite people and serve as that hub for art and cultural events.”

The seeds of what would become the Arkansas Folklife Festival began with a mysterious email. Reynolds, an Arkansas native, got the note in late 2024 from an organization calling itself the Emerson Collective in Palo Alto, California.

“They said, ‘We found you and your work, and we would like to know, through the lens of your work, how you would choose to celebrate America250,” said Reynolds, a folklorist, fiddler and

community-based cultural organizer. “I thought it was spam.”

Reynolds ignored the email only to have the group reach out again, and once she was satisfied that it was a legitimate request, she knew exactly how to answer.

“I had the opportunity in 2023 to guest curate the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington D.C.,” she said. “The topic was the Ozarks, and from the first conversation with them, I wanted to tell the real story, the story that hadn’t been told about the First Nations through new immigrant populations, and in-migration and outmigration and all that. They supported that, and it made for a really wonderful experience.

“The festival there in D.C. was two weeks long, and we were all in the same hotel, and we were eating together and playing music together and telling stories and talking about what it was to be an Ozarker. It was a bunch of people that had never spent a lot of time together, and everybody was really hungry for that, I don’t think any of us realized how much. There were all these beautiful projects and relationships and networks and things that came from that shared space. I came back wanting that for our state.”

Once she had set her sights on the Arkansas event, Reynolds again

leaned into the relationships and connections she had made with the Smithsonian. That dialogue led to the Arkansas Folklife Festival being included in “Of the People: The Smithsonian Festival of Festivals,” a series of programs and exchanges marking the 250th anniversary of the United States and showcasing the nation’s remarkable cultural landscape.

Headlining the musical portion of the festival are country/folk artist Lucinda Williams and blues legend Bobby Rush.

Rush, who takes the stage June 26, is an internationally recognized blues master who came up through the jukes and clubs of Louisiana, Arkansas and Mississippi and learned his craft at the elbow of fellow giants B.B. King and Muddy Waters. Born in Louisiana as Emmett Ellis Jr., he took the stage name Bobby Rush out of respect for his father, a minister.

Settling in Chicago in the 1950s, his musical legacy spans more than five decades and continues with a heavy touring schedule even today. Known for his electrifying live performance, Rush has won three Grammy Awards, been inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, and taken home 18 Blues Music Awards.

“I never thought I would be here this long,” Rush said. “I was 83 years old before I won a Grammy, but it’s better late than never. I’m not just an old guy on my way out.”

As for his chosen genre, he called the blues “the root of all music” and “the mother of all music.”

“If you don’t like the blues, you probably don’t like your mama,” he said.

“Bobby Rush is 92, and he was just on the Oscars. He’s playing somewhere every night,”

Reynolds said. “His career is so varied. He has Grammys and Grammy nominations and film work and all these things, and he’s always coming back to Arkansas, contributing to Arkansas culture. He’s iconic.”

Headlining the musical lineup on June 27 is Williams, recently named one of the “Greatest Living American Songwriters” by the New York Times. Born in Lake Charles, Louisiana, her father, the late Miller Williams, was an Arkansas-born poet and college professor who after several stops eventually landed at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville in 1970.

Inheriting her father’s poetic flair, Lucinda proved a musical prodigy, writing by the time she was 6, playing guitar by age 12 and performing for the first time at age 17 in Mexico City. She would go on to tour the world and release 17 original albums, one of which, 1998’s Car Wheels on a Gravel Road, earned her one of three Grammy Awards and almost unanimous critical acclaim. Rolling Stone, for example, called Car Wheels on a Gravel Road “perfect.”

In addition to her recent New York Times accolade, TIME magazine named her America’s Best Songwriter in 2002, and, in 2011, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award for songwriting from the Americana Music Association.

Touring this year in support of her newest effort, World’s Gone Wrong, Williams was a swing-for-the-fences kind of get Reynolds was not sure she could land.

“I took a leap of faith and came in at the very bottom of her price point and just made the argument of why her, why now, why this festival,” Reynolds said. “We’re so thankful that she put us on her tour; she’s jumping off of Bob Dylan’s tour to come do this con-

cert. It’s just going to be really wonderful, and we’re thrilled to be able to have her.”

All events for the Arkansas Folklife Festival, including the musical performances and headliner concerts, are free thanks to the generosity of sponsors. Susan Erwin Prowse, one-half of the acclaimed Arkansas duo Cliff & Susan, serves as the marketing director for the festival. She said the leadership, vision and work done by Reynolds is inspiring, and the free admission means more people will be able to come and experience what she believes will be a blockbuster event.

“Just sitting and visiting with Rachel and seeing her heart and what she’s created, it’s beautiful.” Erwin Prowse said. “[The festival] is everything I love about Arkansas: music, art, culture, community. I love being an ambassador for Arkansas no matter where I am in the world, and this event helps amplify that message.

“I feel like this is a legacy play for the people who are going to be involved in this because it can grow into something much greater than ourselves. We’re just the conduit for something that needs to happen, a collective of past, present and future culture, music, art, food and community. There really is something of a voice being heard for all of those Arkansans across the state, and the amount of work that Rachel’s put into this as the vision of it all is just, I think it’s beautiful and necessary and needed.”

Looking forward, Reynolds said she plans for the festival to be an annual event — in fact, she is already mapping out the 2027 event — but also wants the organization to grow and expand into supporting local arts and cultural events within each of the state’s 11 designated cultural regions and subregions.

“The larger vision that I really want to see is we’ve been working on creating a hybrid financial structure that is a for profit and not-for-profit hybrid organization where a piece of the profits from the for-profit side can go into the nonprofit and be a foundation for Arkansas culture,” she said. “That foundation would support community-based artistic and cultural organizations across the state. What I really would love to be able to do is become a microgranting agency that could support smaller events in each of these cultural regions.”

For now, the group has its hand full for the inaugural event. Reynolds said while the details are many and the hours are long, she takes inspiration from the Smithsonian program’s tagline, “Culture Of, By and For the People,” a motto that resonates deeply as what she wants the Arkansas event to be.

“There’s all these different experiences that together make up the whole of who we are, but unfortunately, we don’t hang out together [in Arkansas] across the cultural geography,” she said. “The Ozarks isn’t hanging out with the Delta, and the Delta isn’t hanging out with the River Valley, and that is before we even begin to discuss the societal, political, however you want put it, situation we find ourselves in now that’s been really divisive.

“I really want to center this on the people that make this country great every day and who make the state great every day. I really want to build this thing in community and have Arkansans show us who and what Arkansas culture is and let that come through in this statewide festival. I want to give any and every Arkansan a chance to show up and see themselves and their community and feel that sense of pride and joy about who we are.”

Boss The

Arkansas’ master showman

Michael Marion reaches a golden milestone

“I love going to concerts; to this day, I like to go out and see the crowd and think about how I helped make this work for everybody. I’m glad to be a part of it.

Avisit to the offices of Simmons Bank Arena is an assault on the senses. Down the long tunnel from the ground-floor box office entrance, past a mural of a “Bohemian Rhapsody” lyric (“Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?”) and through a set of glass doors, one is suddenly enveloped in a living scrapbook of events and performances gone by.

Framed concert posters encrust every available inch of reception room wall space, forming a patchwork history of the beloved venue. Other mementos are equally telling of the history of the place, the simplest of these artifacts being two framed North Little Rock street signs. “Alltel Arena” proclaims one; “Verizon Arena” reads the other.

Stepping into Michael Marion’s office, the story continues. In fact, stories are what the general manager from Mississippi is all about, and 50 years in the concert business has given him volumes to share with at least a couple books’ worth that are off the record. Of those he drops hints and talks in code so as not to waste a good tale yet without offering positive identification.

Such are the perks of a life not on stage but yet filling it for countless thousands of music fans over the years, building Simmons Bank Arena into a muststop for acts in the process. From his days as a collegian booking concerts to years spent in talent agency work to his last stop in North Little Rock, his has been a career notable for landing musical giants one after the other and welcoming them back time and again.

“When I came here, I was fortunate in that I knew a lot of people, and they trusted me,” he said. “I had good relationships with a lot of agents and promoters, so I don’t feel like there was a real learning curve of ‘Who is this guy running this building?’ They all knew me and I knew them. We opened [Alltel Arena] with Elton John. We had Neil Diamond. We had Bruce [Springsteen]. Then, a couple years later, we had Eric Clapton, who had never played the market.

Hearing Marion talk about his rock 'n' roll idol reveals a lot about what has made him so good leading the arena all of these years. First, as anyone who follows him knows, Springsteen delivers a lot of concert for the entertainment dollar; second, he is known for his rapport with fans, the most diehard of whom dub themselves Bruce Tramps for the line in “Born to Run” that goes, “Tramps like us, baby we were born to run.”

While a professional relationship with musical artists is just that — business — there is something to be said for retaining a youthful excitement for the magic of music concerts, even after five decades. Marion has that and it is an attitude that tends to catch what a more jaded eye might miss, be it a fan amenity or artist creature comfort, lending to the experience onstage, backstage and in the gallery.

“I always tell people we’re not making widgets here. We’re making memories,” he said. “I want folks to know that we take it seriously. Whether it’s monster trucks or Paul McCartney or whatever show it is, you’re making a memory. We take the obligation to host that part of your life seriously so that you can come, you can have a good time, you take some pictures, and you leave thinking the food was good and the bathrooms were clean.

“It’s the minutiae, you know? We take all that seriously because we want you to leave and think, ‘I had a great time at that show.’ That’s the way I feel about the shows I go to.”

“ I always tell people we’re not making widgets here. We’re making memories. I want folks to know that we take it seriously.

“I mean, we still have to get out and pitch, you know? We’ve still got to market. I go to LA a couple times a year, go to New York, go to Nashville, call on agents. ‘Hey, we’re great. Aren’t we great? Don’t you think we’re great?’ I’ve always said there’s no agent in Los Angeles, Nashville or New York saying, ‘If we don’t play North Little Rock, our careers are over,’ as much as we like to think that.”

Truth be told, Marion’s office is so crammed with memorabilia from his favorite artists and from his personal accomplishments that the walls can feel a little close. The most space is dedicated to his unquestioned musical favorite, the aforementioned Springsteen, who leaps out from mementos of every size stuck, standing or shelved wherever one looks. Marion has seen The Boss more than 35 times, the first as a greenhorn student promoting campus entertainment.

“First time I saw him was when I booked him at Mississippi State in 1981. That’s the poster right there,” he said, pointing. “I didn’t get to watch the whole show, but I watched enough to know that I liked this guy. Ten days later, he was playing Memphis, and a bunch of us went up there, and I was hooked.

“I’m going to Chicago next month and Cleveland. I’ve seen him in Cleveland once before. My wife and I went up there to see him last time, went to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Now my son’s going, and I’m going to take him to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.”

Following his stint in 1976 as chairman of the Mississippi State University Student Association Social Committee, where his first booked concert was a then-unheralded but promising piano player from up north named Billy Joel, Marion was hired in 1977 as the program’s advisor. The Commodores, Linda Ronstadt, Hall & Oates, and Robert Palmer all appeared on campus while he was at the helm.

In 1982, he took his master’s degree in business administration and headed west, where he landed a job as an agent for Triad Artists, later to merge with William Morris Agency. Over the next six years, he worked a territory from Virginia to Texas.

“When I lived in LA, as soon as I opened my mouth, they’d say, ‘Are you from Texas?’ I’d say, ‘No, deeper South than that,’” he said. “I always said my territory was everybody that talked like I did.”

While some of his co-workers were predominantly in the nightclubs, looking for the next superstar to sign, the bulk of Marion’s work came in booking artists within his territory. At this, he pulled out a fragilelooking day planner and flopped it open on the desk. Seemingly every line had some notation about a venue, showtime, city and state. One notation flies off the page, “Private Dancer,” denoting the triumphant comeback album and tour of Tina Turner during the mid-1980s.

“I had the good fortune of going out on the road with Tina for some dates, and she was just as gracious as she could be,” Marion said as Turner peered down from an autographed poster over his shoulder. Even in the retelling, the experience was more than mere fandom; it also

illustrates the opportunity he got to gain perspectives that helped him run a first-class venue later.

“I got a chance to see buildings do things right and do things wrong,” he said. “For example, in our backstage area, we have a nice performer dining area because when I went to one building with Tina, they had taken a storage room and used it for that, and it was nasty and piped and draped, and it looked just awful. So we have something much nicer.”

Being on tour, Marion also gained empathy for the less-glamorous parts of a musician’s existence, something the average fan never sees.

“I really got an understanding of life on the road and how difficult it is,” he said. “What Tina would do, she would base out of one city and fly to a bunch of dates. When she was based out of New Orleans, I flew to New Orleans, got to the hotel lobby at 2 o’clock. She got in the limo, got on a private plane, flew to the gig. Sounds real cool, right?

“Well after three or four days, you realize it’s like the second shift of a job. You’re working from 2 to 2. You’re in a different place every night. It’s just tough, so we roll out the red carpet here for the crews, for the artists because we know that’s not an easy life.”

this, but you know, when we were younger, this was rock music, and country was this, right? Well now, country’s this, and rock is this, and country has just taken over. The stuff that I call country, like Tom T. Hall, that is not today’s country. Country is basically Southern rock, so much of it.”

To navigate all this, Marion relies on a staff with enough diverse tastes in music to help him stay on top of trends and artists he has frankly never heard of but who might be a great fit for the market.

“

“Lily, who’s our under-30 over here, she helps us out with what’s going on on TikTok,” he said. “Madison who’s 30, 31, he’s a country music expert. I can ask him anything about country. Then I’ve got my assistant box office manager, Megan. She’s early 30s, and she’s all about pop music and rock, so I’ve got sources in the building where if I hear about a new act, I go, ‘Who is this guy?’

The good news is the mosh pit is over because those people have gotten too old to mosh.

When the time came, Marion not only left the agency; he left California, returning home as director of a new auditorium being built in Tupelo. His industry experience and connections paid immediate dividends for the new venue, which opened with Rod Stewart and would attract other big gets, including Tom Petty, as well the Eagles on their Hell Freezes Over reunion tour.

In 1997, he landed in North Little Rock when the arena was but a bare patch of ground, meaning every amenity for fans, artists and crew alike bears his fingerprints.

“That was what was nice about it. I was here two years before it opened. I sat with the architects, the engineers and was very involved in the design,” he said. “We could walk backstage today, and I can show you all the 4-foot doors for moving those carts in and out and the loading docks and the rollup door.”

Asked why, with such a good thing going in his hometown, he jumped to central Arkansas even with all that input he was afforded, and Marion said he not only felt at home in the community, but he knew the potential of the market from his days with the agency.

“I knew this market could be a good, solid secondary market,” he said. “There was a lot of pent-up demand; people had done shows at Barton [Coliseum], but they needed a new building. North Little Rock routes really well; Interstate 30 starts here, 40 goes through here. Sometimes it’s good to be in the middle of nowhere, you know?

“Then, of course, when I got here, it’s a great town, great people. I’d lived in LA, I’d lived in Tupelo, and this was kind of that just right — big enough to offer some things, small enough to get around.”

Having spent nearly 30 years of his 50-year career in North Little Rock, Marion has seen a lot come and go. He still shakes his head at The Rolling Stones’ A Bigger Bang tour that required 26 trucks to haul the elaborate stage and equipment. McCartney’s convoy was not far behind in size. Marion recalled family entertainment from acrobats to Disney on Ice to pro wrestling to Lipizzaner horses that have all taken their turn, as did the bygone Riverblades hockey and Twisters indoor football.

There is other trivia, led by George Strait who, according to Marion, holds the record for both the most concerts at the venue and the largest crowd at a little more than 18,000 people. In contrast, there is U2 and Beyoncé, who remain his elusive unicorns, having never played there.

He also remembers in a different light the events after the COVID-19 outbreak, when all concerts and events stopped and the future of touring was in doubt, to say nothing of the incredible shifts in genre and business models of the music industry today.

“It’s certainly an interesting time,” he said. “I rattle along forever about

“We also have a system of radio people and people in the entertainment business. If I get a call about an artist, whether I know them or not, we’ll survey these people and ask how they think this show would do here. The agent’s always going to tell you, “Well, it sold out the Hollywood Bowl.’ Well, you know what? I don’t care. How did it do in Birmingham? How did it do in Greenville, South Carolina? How was the show in Moline, Illinois? Those are the kind of markets I want to know about.”

Over the years, Marion has also had to address the unfortunate sides of a shifting society by installing walk-through metal detectors and tracking a band’s reputation so as to feed the public what it wants without inviting undue problems. Some issues, though, just take care of themselves.

“The good news is the mosh pit is over because those people have gotten too old to mosh,” he said. “We’ll do some of those super heavy metal or speed metal bands, and those folks can’t move like they used to. I’m glad that that is over with.”

Moshing may no longer be on the menu, but that has not slowed down the parade of nostalgia acts that make up a big part of any season’s tours. Marion said there is major demand for the acts of yesteryear by those who saw them during their heyday, which, in turn, creates new generations of fans.

“You think about somebody like Fleetwood Mac and those bands, they never really went out of fashion,” he said. “I think about my son, who’s 29, and I’ll never forget when he came home in the eighth grade one day and said, ‘Dad, do we have any Queen records?’

“When I was growing up, I wouldn’t have listened to anything my mom and daddy listened to, but my kids, and all those kids, listened to everything we did because we had good music, and people still want to hear that, no matter who’s original, who’s not and how much does that even matter? Chicago doesn’t have any originals left, but where else are you going to hear that music?”

Marion is engrossing for any music lover, especially those with some miles on them, so much so that at one pause in the conversation, he looked around to see the lobby lights were shut off, the staff has gone home, the box office had closed, and the arena was deserted. Not so with the 70-year-old general manager, however, not on this day or in the near future. He said the job is as much fun and as relevant as ever. As Bob Seger once put it, “Come back, baby, rock ‘n’ roll never forgets.”

“I remember when they began streaming concerts, they said ‘Oh, people are going to quit going to shows.’ No,” he said. “I’m a firm believer that people want to be in the same room with their favorite artist and enjoy their music. They want to go with their friends, they want to hear the artist say, ‘Hey, Little Rock!’ That’s what it’s about, and I think that will never change.

“I love going to concerts; to this day, I like to go out and see the crowd and think about how I helped make this work for everybody. I’m glad to be a part of it.”

A Cowboy’s Ways

Actor, stuntman Randall Oliver rides his way to quiet renown in faith-based film industry

The name “Randall Oliver” might not immediately ring a bell, but anybody who has watched any amount of television has probably seen him on screen.

Not only was the actor and stuntman in the background of RoboCop and RoboCop 2, but he also played a bartender in the 1987 crime series Houston Knights, an oilman in the early ‘90s sitcom Down Home, an emcee on Baywatch, and Dogbreath in the rootin’-tootin’ cowboy competition Wild West Showdown. He even worked alongside Joe Estevez on projects such as the 1996 film Werewolf.

Now based in Ozark, Oliver has more recently become a top pick for family and faith-based movies, having starred in such films as A Whisper of Faith, The American Miracle and Cream of the Crop, which won Best Local Film at the Maryland International Film Festival in 2023.

Oliver spent his early days about as far from the spotlight as one can get, moving with his family from place to place as his father, a career military man, traveled across the U.S. and even to Germany on deployment.

“My friends averaged maybe two years before we moved someplace else,” Oliver said. “I think that had a lot to do with why I became an actor because I met so many people in so many different languages.”

When he was in fourth grade, his father retired, and the family settled in Texas,

By SARAH DECLERK //

RANDALL OLIVER

where they managed a herd of cattle. Ranch life suited the young man, who took to rodeo in high school, riding bareback horses and even trying his hand at bull riding.

A natural athlete, baseball was his favorite sport, and his father, who was his coach, had aspirations that his son would eventually go pro.

“People always ask me, ‘Who do you model your career after?’ or “Who do you like the most? Who’s your idol as an actor?’” Oliver said. “I say, ‘I don’t have an idol as an actor.’ The only two idols I have in my life are Jesus Christ and Richard Oliver, my father.”

His father’s dreams were not to be realized, however. Although Oliver attended college on a baseball scholarship, he dropped out after two years and went to work as an electrical lineworker. Fate intervened in the young man’s life when he was approached by a modeling agent in Houston.

“Somebody came up to me and said, ‘Hey, man, have you ever thought about modeling? You’ve got a pretty good look,’” Oliver said. “I said, ‘No, I never thought about that.’ He said, ‘Well, here’s my card. Come and see us, and we’ll see if we can’t get you started in the modeling business.’”

Oliver worked his way up in the modeling industry, eventually gaining recognition with some live shows in Dallas and Houston for GQ. As he got to know the other models, he realized many of them were

Having wrangled his way into the industry as a cowboy, Randall Oliver of Ozark now primarily acts in the faith-based circuit.

“

I would fly off a horse eight times a day, doing a saddle fall. Sometimes I would land wrong. Sometimes I wouldn’t. You’re always hurting, you’re always sore, but you never let the audience know.

Oliver’s first big break came when he was cast as Dogbreath on the short-lived Wild West Showdown

”

— Randall Oliver

making good money as actors in commercials, so he started researching acting to see how he could break into the business.

His first gig was on Houston Knights, where he was working as a stand-in for heartthrob Michael Paré.

“Michael Paré talked to Gray Frederickson, who was the executive producer, and said, ‘Hey, Randall’s been here every day, working

his butt off as a stand-in. I think you ought to give him a line. He wants to be an actor,’” Oliver said. “That was my beginning right there.”

Eventually, even his father, who did not initially agree with Oliver’s career choices, had to give the young man credit for his hard work.

“One day, he looked at me, and I told him, ‘Well, I’ve got an audition today,’ or ‘I’ve got to go some place and shoot something,’” Oliver

said. “Dad made one comment that led me to believe he started to accept it. He said, ‘Son, you have tenacity. That’s for sure.’”

In 1989, Oliver moved to Los Angeles, looking to become a Hollywood actor. Jobs did not come easy, however. Oliver said he “starved for five years,” waiting tables and parking cars before the studios would even give him the time of day.

“The competition is so fierce, you know? If you get a gig in LA, you probably beat out 500 people for it or 1,000, and then I had to compete with the world-known actors from Taxi and those TV sitcoms, Cheers,” he said. “Those sitcoms were big in those days, and then they canceled, and everybody in the world knew their name. They were still out there, trying to get jobs as an actor, and I had to compete with them. I lost a lot of jobs to the name guys.”

Success did come, albeit slowly. Oliver found himself working on two live stunt shows at Universal Studios — Miami Vice Action Spectacular and The Wild Wild Wild West Stunt Show.

Good stuntmen are half crazy, he said, and they do their homework to ensure the stunts are successful and no one gets hurt.

“That’s the key — don’t get hurt,” he said, “but we always did. When I was doing the two stunt shows at Universal, I would fly off a horse eight times a day, doing a saddle fall. Sometimes I would land wrong. Sometimes I wouldn’t. You’re always hurting, you’re always sore, but you never let the audience know.”

Oliver’s horsemanship landed him the role of Dogbreath on Wild West Showdown, a Western-themed game show produced by The Samuel Goldwyn Co. in 1994, but the series tanked after just one season, leaving Randall disillusioned with Hollywood.

He took a 10-year break from acting, instead working as an ironworker in the nuclear industry. As it turns out, the acting bug is a difficult beast to overcome. Oliver decided to return to the industry after learning about the internet movie database IMDb.com during a job at a nuclear plant in Arizona.

“Out of the blue, during that job, somebody said, ‘Hey, are you really an actor?” Oliver said. “I said, ‘Yeah, I’ve dabbled in it a little bit,’ and they said, ‘If you’re a real actor, then you’ve got an IMDb page.’ They looked me up in the breakroom and said, ‘You are an actor. You’ve got an IMDb page.’

“I didn’t even know about IMDb at that time. I decided that, wow, I’ve got an IMDb page, and I’m taking a break, and I’m getting a divorce, so why don’t I think about getting back into the business?”

That is how, in 2009, Oliver reentered the industry as a cowboy in the TV movie Doc West. He continued his acting work as though he had never stopped, landing roles in Triggerman, In Plain Sight, Rugaru, Tag Team Truckers and many more.

After a storied life that has taken him across the country and around the world, including to Zimbabwe, England and Costa Rica, Oliver has most recently found himself in Ozark, where he moved to take care of his aging parents.

With his wife, Michaele, as his trusty reading partner, Oliver said he has four or five auditions a week and spends the rest of his time volunteering at his church, operating a lawn care business and helping his rancher landlord cut calves.

Kerry Wallum, an actor and producer from Marshall who has known Oliver about 30 years, described him as an honest person who knows about safety and horses.

“Way back 30 years or more, it was easy, and everybody got along and did real well,” he said. “Now it’s hard to get the right movies and the right things. We get older, and we don’t want to just do any kind of movie anymore. We’re trying to do the family, faith-based, good movies that you can show your kids and stuff, so me personally, I think he’s come a long way and is one of the better actors.”

Oliver has been getting plenty of commercial work, one of his latest in Oklahoma as part of the Route 66 Centennial, but as far as movies go, his stable these days is full of faith-based films such as A Whisper of Faith, Cream of the Crop and American Miracle

” “

Dad made one comment that led me to believe he started to accept it. He said, ‘Son, you have tenacity. That’s for sure.’

— Randall Oliver

only that; a lot of name actors are starting to work on the faith-based projects, so it brings up the budget.”

Recently, he was cast in an episode in After, a postapocalyptic series that debuted in May.

“He’s a veteran. I don’t know what else to say about it,” said Andrew Jacob Brown, director, producer and actor. “Randall, he showed up prepared. He knew what he was doing. We got along great on and off the set. He was great with all the cast members. He tells a heck of a story.”

Among other recent work, Oliver also stars as Sir Lancelot in True Armor, which is set to premier in August, and he and Wallum are working on a series for the nonprofit Spirit Horse Ranch in Mountain Home. This September, Oliver will be a guest at the Branson International Film Festival, which he helped found.

“I tell you, man, the faith-based industry, it’s harder to break into than any other genre I’ve been associated with,” he said. “I mean, they’re pretty stickler about who they work with, but that’s kind of where I want to keep things. I want to keep it more on the faith based because the faith based is the No. 1 return on your investment right now in the film industry, and not

Route 66 Centennial ad

Recognition is not always guaranteed in his line of work, he said, and one of the most important lessons he has learned is how to be humble. The key is to do the work for one’s self, not to impress others. For this cowboy, the trail is softened by the promise of salvation that awaits.

“A Whisper of Faith has gotten 80,000 views, and you know some people are going to get saved by watching that, so that is the reward,” he said. “I want to be sitting beside the King, and I want him to tap me on the shoulder and say, ‘Well done.’”

nonprofit

By DWAIN HEBDA // Photos courtesy of DAVID DUNAVANT

No one knows the power of music like a musician, and perhaps no musician knows that better than David Dunavant. Like a lot of people, Dunavant was smitten at an early age by music — heavy metal, to be precise — and he set off to master the electric guitar with attitude to burn.

“I was 12 or 13. I wanted to play Pantera, Slayer, Megadeth and Metallica. That’s it,” he said. “There’s noth ing deeper than that, man. That is just straight up it.”

It would be a nice story to say that he and the guitar pow ers that be saw eye to eye from the very first, but such was not the case — like, really, really not the case.

“I got fired by my first guitar teacher,” he said. “You know, he was older, and he wanted me to read these little nursery rhyme notes on a page. I was trying to play Pantera, so he just never factored the ‘me’ into it. He told my mom I wasn’t cut out for music and that we should try soccer.”

Dunavant’s mother found him another teacher, someone closer to his age, and by high school, Dunavant was playing in bands and gigging in local bars. In college, he majored in music, and he has a master’s in jazz guitar from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. Today he is a highly sought-after instructor who has developed his own student-centered curriculum.

“When I teach, even though I have a curriculum, half of the curriculum is blank,” he said. “I let the clients have a lot of input, and they tell me where they want to go in five years, the kind of music they’re interested in. Then I just use their music to teach them the same techniques.

“See, that guy who fired me was trying to teach me, but he went about it the wrong way. He didn’t care what I wanted out of it.”

To the casual observer, Dunavant got everything he wanted out of music, from a creative outlet to gaining a community of players to making a comfortable living — but all that is still only part of the story. Dunavant is also the mad scientist behind the Guitar Wars Educational Foundation, one of the more unique nonprofits in Arkansas. The organization awards guitars and lessons to young people across the state in the hopes of sparking a lifelong love of music and a positive outlet for youthful energy besides.

“None of us — you, me, a kid, whoever — not one picked where we’re going to be born, who we’re going to be born to, what color we’re

going to be, our parents’ jobs. No one has a say in any of this,” he said. “When I see a kid whose mom and dad are struggling to put food on the table and I know that lessons are expensive, guitars are not cheap, if there’s something I can do about it, then I’ll be damned if I’m not going to get in there and help someone out.”

Funding for Guitar Wars the group is as unique as its mission and just as much fun. Guitar Wars the event, slated for Aug. 8 at the Central Arkansas Library System Ron Robinson Theater in downtown Little Rock, is an amateur guitarist competition, the proceeds of which go to cover the group’s operations.

The competition, of which AY Media Group is a sponsor, funds what the group calls scholarships that award a brand-new guitar and four months of paid lessons to recipients. While Dunavant excludes himself from giving lessons to scholarship winners on ethical grounds, he is very involved in finding the best teachers in each county to teach them.

“The whole point of the scholarship is the kid gets to keep the guitar. We spend about $250 on that. It’s a decent instrument, and they keep that for life,” he said. “I figure out who the best teacher is in, let’s say, Pope County or wherever they’re at, and then the organization pays for four months of lessons for them. I think that gives them a good start.”

Dunavant inadvertently got the idea for Guitar Wars from one of his students whose first instrument was piano. Impressed by the student’s keyboard skills, Dunavant asked about his backstory in music.

“He played something on piano for me, and I said, ‘Man, that’s crazy that you’re that good. When did you start?’ He basically said he started when he was 10, 11, something like that,” he said. “I asked him what made a kid want to do the piano that intensely, and he goes, ‘I didn’t like it at first, and then we started doing competitions, and I won some money.’ As soon as he said that, Guitar Wars just clicked in my head.”

The 2026 event is the group’s fourth and will feature two brackets of competitors, youths 17 and younger and adults 18 and older, including beginner, intermediate and advanced divisions in each bracket. To keep it among amateurs, contestants cannot be guitar teachers or make more than 20 percent of their annual income from

playing. Contestants perform a selection of their own choosing with or without one of the competition’s approved backing tracks for a total allowable time limit of five minutes.

The first year welcomed about 50 contestants and 500 audience members, and the event has continued to grow. Last year the field flirted with its 78-contestant maximum and the audience ballooned to almost 700 people. Last year also introduced a drum-off, decided by the audience, and this year will test a wild card event in which any instrument goes.

“This year, we’re doing something called an any-instrument one-off,” Dunavant said.

“We’re hoping to get some pretty unique instruments out, hopefully have some people up there playing bagpipes and spoons and saws.”

As new as the 501(c)(3) organization is, it is still too early to see how the scholarship program has impacted the lives of its recipients. Dunavant said he hopes it opens the door to a whole new world of academic and career possibilities, not to mention personal enjoyment.

As for the organization itself, even as Guitar Wars grows and becomes more formalized — more, dare we say, grown up — he said he never wants it to lose the joy and passion upon which it was founded.

“What’s gotten back to me so far about it is that it’s had a very positive impact and not just on the lives of the child but of the family,” he said. “Everyone just seems to be so graciously thankful about the whole experience. They love it.

“I'm really passionate about the butterfly effect so in my mind just being completely honest with you, if I help 200 kids before I call it a day on this, and just one of them grows up and this had anything to do with that person helping out other kids, then that's the real winner. That to me is the long game.”

To learn more about Guitar Wars, to enter the competition or to make a donation, visit guitarwarsinc.com.

SHERWOOD

We are devoted to providing high quality care which celebrates the dignity and grace of every person who enters our facility.

At Sherwood Nursing and Rehab 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.

We specialize in Short-Term Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care services.

LRehabilitative

A New CHAPTER A New Face,

Dr. Suzanne Yee welcomes renowned surgeon to storied Little Rock practice

By MAK MILLARD // Photos courtesy of DR. SUZANNE YEE COSMETIC & LASER SURGERY CENTER

The stakes are always higher when one’s name is on the building. As one of the longest-running practices of its kind in Little Rock, any changes taking place at Dr. Suzanne Yee Cosmetic & Laser Surgery Center were bound to be the result of careful consideration on the part of the highly credentialed, widely sought-after surgeon at the helm.

That is part of what has made the arrival of Dr. Homayoun Pournik in May such an exciting development for Yee and her team.

“It means a lot to me because I’ve been looking for some time to have a partner join with me,” she said. “I wanted to find someone who had the same philosophy, cares about their patients and actually listens to patients. It took me a little while because I’ve talked to other surgeons, had a fellow and things like that, and there didn’t seem to be the right fit.”

Since opening her surgery center in 2003, Yee has staked her reputation not merely on technical skill and excellent cosmetic outcomes but on the patient experience itself. More than a litany of past surgical successes, any new addition to the practice would need to share Yee’s approach to relationship building. Luckily, Pournik’s resume impressed in both regards.

“We can learn from one another but also support each other, as well as supporting the patients that we have,” Yee said. “I feel like if I, say, go on a vacation, I know that he’s

going to take really good care of the patients while I’m gone, which is an added benefit to the patients that we have here. They’re going to get a surgeon that really cares about them, actually listens to them, and cares about making them happy and making sure that they’re happy with the results.”

Pournik came to the world of cosmetic surgery via a slightly different route than many of his peers, having previously spent 12 years becoming one of the nation’s most renowned transplant surgeons. He performed more than 300 organ transplants during that time and was the first robotic kidney transplant surgeon in both California and North Carolina, in addition to assisting a number of trauma surgeons and urologists with some of their most complex cases.

Pournik analogized the work of a transplant surgeon to that of a mechanic who can take an engine apart, rebuild it and put everything back together again.

“It’s very hard to scare me in the operating room because I’ve taken the engine out and put it back in,” he said.

The decision to leave transplant medicine after more than a decade was a practical one, since the demands of all-hours operating room work began to take their toll. Pournik instead sought a path that would allow him to utilize his expertise on a more sustainable schedule. His years of experience and in-depth knowledge of, among other things, abdominal reconstruction, tissue healing and how the body responds under stress, lent itself to cosmetic surgery and to body contouring specifically.

“He’s been practicing for a long time, and then he went to one of the busiest fellowships in the country for body work,” Yee said. “Seeing

“It means a lot to me because I’ve been looking for some time to have a partner join with me. I wanted to find someone who had the same philosophy, cares about their patients and actually listens to patients.”

— Dr. Suzanne Yee

his training, his background, knowing that he’s not just a new surgeon coming out of training meant a lot.”

Pournik’s fellowship was through the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery at Southern Surgical Arts in Chattanooga, Tennessee, one of the highest-volume body contouring centers in the nation. He trained with a team that operated in multiple rooms simultaneously, performing five to six procedures a day five days a week. While there, he completed nearly 1,800 procedures, including abdominoplasties; breast reductions; arm, thigh and back lifts; 360 body lifts; and high-definition liposuctions.

“I knew that he had a really good work ethic, and just by looking at his resume and talking to other surgeons, I knew he had really good technical skills,” Yee said. “Then, when he came to visit, he seemed to be very empathetic. He’s able to relate to people, and that was important to me. It really clicked.”

Pournik’s skills come at an ideal time for Yee’s practice in other ways, as well. Simultaneous forces have seemed to only pour fuel on the fire when it comes to the demand for cosmetic procedures, from reduction in stigma about the concept of having work done to ever-widening usage of weight-loss medications. The latter has produced scores of individuals who are suddenly in the market for excess skin removal, and having Pournik on the team will allow the cosmetic and laser surgery center to keep up with that workload while still meeting Yee’s high standards for patient care and satisfaction.

“My specialty is I do a lot of faces, and so this makes a lot of sense for this practice,” Yee said. “We’ve gotten so much busier just because, one, I think cosmetic surgery has become more mainstream, and, also, with the weight loss, it’s brought in more patients for that too. I think adding [Pournik ] is going to help with that.”

Pournik’s extensive work in and around the abdomen has given him

a skill set apt for meeting the cosmetic needs of weight loss patients. His signature procedures include the 360 body lift, lower-back lift with auto augmentation and the fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty, which is used to address both vertical and horizontal skin excess.

One advanced variation of the abdominoplasty procedure Pournik specializes in, known as the open-book technique, uses a similar concept to that of a breast lift, utilizing an additional incision above the patient’s navel to manage tension across the chest and abdomen. A procedure he and his team had performed regularly in Chattanooga, the open-book technique is not offered by many practices, giving the cosmetic and laser surgery center yet another unique offering for patients dealing with excess skin.

“It’s not widely known because the complication rate requires significant technical skill,” Pournik said, “but for patients who have had massive weight loss, it’s often what they need.”

The past year has been one of interesting and strategic developments for Yee and her team, between joining Florida-based Olympus Cosmetic Group in 2025 and now welcoming Pournik to the team. It is an exciting time to expand her practice, Yee said, and she has no plans of slowing down any time soon.

“Both of us care about our patients,” she said. “Both of us are empathetic. We both like to listen to our patients, and we feel like [this is a] plus for our practice here. You know, after 20-plus years, I’m not trying to do anything crazy. I’m just trying to add to our practice to make it better. I think that’s what this addition does.”

Even at 85 years old, Janice Sanders is remarkably spry. At a recent event hosted by the aging-services nonprofit CareLink, she abandoned her walker and hopped up onto a tabletop to address the crowd: "I'll just get up here,” she joked. “You ain't talkin' to no shorty.”

Sanders said she likes to hear people laugh. That humor has carried her through arthritis, a pinched sciatic nerve and losing her eyesight to macular degeneration. "Everything somebody my age can have, I've got," she said, “but I haven't lost my sense of humor."

“That's the advantage to CareLink — you don't have to lose your independence."

CareLink provides Meals on Wheels, in-home care, information and assistance, family caregiver support, and more, all of which is made possible through government funding, grants, volunteers and donations. For Sanders, government spending cuts are no laughing matter.

“That’s the advantage to CareLink — you don’t have to lose your independence.”

When Sanders could no longer drive, she turned to CareLink for transportation. Remaining in her own home has been deeply important to her.

"I had to depend on someone to help me stay in my house,” she said.

"If these programs were to go away," she said, "I don't like to think about it."

As Arkansas's senior population grows, so does the need for organizations such as CareLink. Thanks to donors, volunteers and engaged citizens, CareLink can keep helping seniors like Sanders live with dignity, independence and plenty of good humor too.

IMAGINE“ ”

Staying

with him up until his surgery would have given both of us so much peace.

— Erin Argo

Stay by Their Side

at Our New Outpatient Surgery Facility

It’s different here. Our new outpatient surgery facility, Champions Pavilion, keeps your child’s comfort in mind, allowing you to stay with them in a private room before surgery. During surgery, families are in individual waiting rooms for extra privacy. With multiple surgery specialties, a state-of-the-art sports facility and family centered care, we created what you imagined.

Learn more.

murder mystery The Death of Dottie The Death of Dottie

By SARAH RUSSELL

It should never have happened — not here, behind the tall gates of a neighborhood bordered so protectively by trees. This was Diamondhead, where residents had left work lives and school runs far behind, where the big decisions were golf, pickleball or a drink at the clubhouse.

Life sometimes interrupts such places, reminding us we are mere mortals. At the clubhouse in early 2023, a celebration of life was held. Quietly present among the grieving family and friends were law enforcement. This was not a natural death, after all. It was murder.

The early Saturday morning of March 4 still had some winter snap to it, so Dorothy “Dottie” Odenheimer pulled a jacket on before she stepped out her front door. The mailbox was her sole destination, so she did not bother with her phone or the dog. It is known she reached the mailbox, but oddly, she did not turn back to her house. Instead, she crossed her yard, stepping just a few feet onto her neighbor’s property. It was there investigators found a substantial amount of her blood.

Hours later, obscured by the slope of the hill, Odenheimer, 79, was found dead outside her home. First responders found another person on the scene, her husband, Frank, 92. It was immediately clear that even if he had seen or heard something, his dementia-clouded mind would never make him a credible witness.

Dottie was found by several members

“The mailbox was her sole destination, so she did not bother with her phone or the dog. It is known she reached the mailbox, but oddly, she did not turn back to her house.”

of the Diamondhead Lions Club meal delivery program, which serves residents needing assistance. Simple things such as going grocery shopping had become challenging both physically and mentally as Frank’s once-strong body just folded up on itself. The harder his condition became for both of them to handle, the more Dottie felt guilty about taking even a moment for herself.

The only time friends saw her out was when Frank gave in to a nap. Her rescue pup would then insistently pull her down the street, visibly exhausted but still with a warm smile to give out.

She was a woman who knew how to muscle through hard times, which is why there was never a complaint, never talk about Frank entering a nursing home. Years earlier, she had packed up her life in Chicago, taking her divorce papers, a set of administrative skills and a muchloved 2-year-old to the West Coast.

In California, she raised a fine son, mothered rescue dogs and worked herself into the job she really wanted, as the court liaison for the Buena Park Police Department. Technically, she was still a county employee, but she was given a uniform and a badge, and she liked that just fine.

Perhaps inspired by the uniform, her only child, Dave Neubauer, enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 17. Then Frank came along, and she became a wife again. Grandchildren began to appear, and slowing down held a certain appeal.

Having narrowed their search for retirement areas to five locations, the Odenheimers found their sweet spot at Diamondhead, a peaceful sanctuary just a few miles outside of Hot Springs. There, before Frank’s health problems, Dottie was known as the life of any party

“The day that Dottie died, heaven just got a whole lot more fun,” one friend would later comment.

Others talked about how Dottie gleefully flung herself out of a plane on her 60th birthday in defiance of her age. No merely blowing out candles for her — Dottie was the woman who savored life, the kind who would grab a friend and a glass of wine and cruise the late-afternoon streets in a golf cart until the sun began to say goodbye.

Her heart searched for ways to create magic for others too. When she heard that actor Kevin Costner’s band, Kevin Costner & Modern West, scheduled a nearby tour date, she got tickets for Coster’s biggest fan, an 88-year-old friend of hers. More than that, she wrangled a note directly to the actor, and once the show started, Costner called his biggest fan onstage and spent time with the two women after the show.

Now evil had stolen the magic from the lives of those who loved her, especially Frank. Because Dottie had been his sole provider, he legally became a ward of the state and, for his well-being, was immediately put in a memory care facility. Within days, he was gone. The medical report described it as death by heart attack because coroners rarely write “broken heart” on their reports.

There was not then and is not now a person under arrest or a motive established, which led to theories flying faster than the golf balls at Diamondhead. Money being a common incentive for murder, some

people questioned if someone wanted to position themselves as next in line for Frank’s estate. Was the death possibly the result of Frank’s relationship with his troubled son?

Investigators ultimately determined it was not. The son, who lived in California, was quickly cleared as a suspect, as were the rest of his siblings. In fact, Neubauer said Frank’s family was very gracious regarding the settlement of the estate.

A random stranger perhaps? That is possible. A neighbor reported seeing a man in a hoodie running across the golf course that morning, but that was never verified. The time of the attack was such that even the familiar sounds of delivery trucks would not begin to be heard within those gates for several hours, certainly too early for residents to be hosting outsiders at the pool or pickleball courts.

Was the crime perpetrated by someone closer to home, the work of a person who saw no one on Dottie’s street had surveillance video, or was that person emboldened by the disbandment of the Diamondhead Police Department just weeks prior?

The Odenheimer case came under the jurisdiction of the Garland County Sheriff’s Office. There have been no public comments made regarding possible suspects, motive or evidence found. That is not unusual, it being law enforcement’s responsibility to not only investigate a case but to protect its chances of being successfully prosecuted. The silence should not be underestimated, however; this case is active.

The last little bit of time Dottie and Frank Odenheimer had together was cruelly snatched away. Whether the killer is still behind those tall gates or far, far beyond, they have, in a sense, moved on. The possibility of justice has not. The public can be a part in making that happen — see something, say something. The safest a person or community can ever be is when a killer is behind bars.

When you walk into the Robinson Nursing & Rehabilitation Center you will feel a comfortable atmosphere different from any other facility you have visited. We feature tall ceilings and an open floor plan. We have a lovely dining room and a covered outdoor patio area.

When you walk into the Robinson Nursing & Rehabilitation Center you will feel a comfortable atmosphere different from any other facility you have visited. We feature tall ceilings and an open floor plan. We have a lovely dining room and a covered outdoor patio area.

We specialize in short-term rehabilitation and long-term care services. The short-term rehabilitation area has its own dining area and day room. From the moment you enter our facility, we want you to experience the difference our facility has to offer. From our light-filled day areas to our beautiful outdoor areas, we want you and your loved one to feel comfortable and safe when staying with us. You will also notice the pride we take in our facility by keeping our building sparkling clean from the inside out.

We specialize in short-term rehabilitation and long-term care services. The short-term rehabilitation area has its own dining area and day room. From the moment you enter our facility, we want you to experience the difference our facility has to offer. From our light-filled day areas to our beautiful outdoor areas, we want you and your loved one to feel comfortable and safe when staying with us. You will also notice the pride we take in our facility by keeping our building sparkling clean from the inside out.

Our team is dedicated to providing a safe and comfortable environment. Robinson Nursing and Rehab offers modern conveniences in a gracious setting. We provide daily planned activities led by certified activity directors, like social events and outings and pastoral services with spiritual care for all religions. We strongly encourage family participation in group activities, meals and celebrating family birthdays and special days.

Our team is dedicated to providing a safe and comfortable environment. Robinson Nursing and Rehab offers modern conveniences in a gracious setting. We provide daily planned activities led by Certified Activity Directors, like social events and outings and pastoral services with spiritual care for all religions. We strongly encourage family participation in group activities, meals and celebrating family birthdays and special days.

To help you plan your visits, we provide a monthly event calendar and a monthly meal planner. Robinson Nursing and Rehab does not have set visiting hours. We view this facility as the “home” of each resident.

To help you plan your visits, we provide a monthly event calendar and a monthly meal planner. Robinson Nursing and Rehab does not have set visiting hours. We view this facility as the “home” of each resident.

We try our best to communicate with patients and families to help alleviate the anxiety that accompanies this journey. 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.

We try our best to communicate with patients and families to help alleviate the anxiety that accompanies this journey. 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.

diamonds

A Aish & Baiju

As told by Kate Neal, senior carnivore keeper/interim carnivore curator, Little Rock Zoo

s evidenced by the latest phase of construction, the Little Rock Zoo is constantly improving its programs and facilities to ensure its animals are well looked after — a testament to high standards as the state’s only facility accredited through the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. One particularly adorable result of that conservation-minded work is the birth of sloth bear cubs Aish and Baiju in December. Already home to more sloth bears than any other zoo in the country, Little Rock’s new brother-sister tandem brings the zoo’s total to eight. The cubs are also crucial to the vulnerable ursa’s species survival plan, in which the Little Rock Zoo has been playing a key role.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST ENCOUNTER WITH SLOTH BEARS LIKE?

I remember coming to interview for my first job here, and they toured me in the bear area and put Cheerios in my hand. Sloth bears actually don’t have incisors. They don’t have front teeth because they suck bugs out of the ground. The bears we had at the time would suck treats out of your hand, and I remember it was the first time I’d ever seen a sloth bear. It sucked those treats out of my hand, and I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, I want this job so bad.’ There’s not a ton of zoos that have sloth bears, so it’s a real privilege to be able to work with them.

HOW IMPORTANT ARE THESE CUBS TO THE SLOTH BEAR’S SPECIES SURVIVAL PLAN?

It’s tremendously important. The parents, Kayla and Bhalu, moved here temporarily from the Philadelphia Zoo while they’re redoing their exhibit. The SSP really felt it was important to not miss an opportunity because they breed seasonally, so they come into heat in the summer. They’re delayed implanters, so we don’t have the same as a dog or a cat, where you’re like, ‘I know when they bred, so I can count out the days to know when they’re going to be born.’ It actually floats around and then decides to implant when conditions are right.

WHY DID THE LITTLE ROCK ZOO BECOME SUCH A HUB FOR SLOTH BEARS?

It was a plan mostly dictated by my supervisor, Debbie Thompson, who is the sloth bear SSP coordinator. She has done work for the Bear Taxon Advisory Group that oversees sloth bears. She’s worked with them and with sloth bears since the ‘80s, so she’s developed her whole career around bears. She will bend over backward and do whatever she can to do that is best for the sloth bear population.

WHERE DID THE NAMES AISH AND BAIJU COME FROM?

Both of the names came from employees who work for Wildlife SOS in India, one of our conservation partners. Both the Little Rock and Philadelphia Zoos have sent staff members to India to work with sloth bears and to help Wildlife SOS. We each picked the name of a person that one of our staff members felt a connection with, and then we named them in honor of those people.

CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE MORE ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP WITH WILDLIFE SOS?

One of the things that Wildlife SOS did when they initially got started was there was a tradition in India called the dancing bear trade. They worked with the native people who were doing this practice and helped them develop other means of making money, developing a new trade and then encouraging them to surrender their bears. They actually completely eradicated that practice in India, then worked with local communities to help them thrive with and appreciate the bears. That’s really what we look for in any of our conservation partners; we look for places that are looking at the whole picture. You can’t save an animal in just one way. It’s a holistic impact on the community, the environment and the animals. 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.