Fayetteville, AR July 2024

Finding Community and a Home Away From Home

Hey there! My name is Cassie Thomas, one of City Lifestyle’s photographers. I recently joined the team and couldn’t feel more excited and grateful to be able to capture such a beautiful city!

I was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and moved to Northwest Arkansas to attend John Brown University. I graduated with a bachelor's degree in photography and graphic design. Since college, I have had the opportunity to shoot for Sam’s Club, Darcy Apparel, NWA Fashion Week, Impressions Online Boutique, and more. I have a love for fashion and product photography but am so excited to shoot more lifestyle material and look forward to being challenged with the various subjects I will be photographing for this magazine.

I fell in love with this area during my time in college and couldn’t quite get myself to leave. While I live in Bentonville, I work mostly in Fayetteville and have loved every second of my time here. I have always loved Fayetteville, but working here has really allowed me to see the culture, energy, and creativity this city has to offer. I also do photography for Darcy Apparel on Block Street and work in the store. I have loved experiencing the sense of community with all of the small businesses and artists on the downtown square and in the city as a whole. Navigating life after graduation can be very confusing and stressful, but working here has really given me a sense of belonging and purpose.

One of my favorite things to do in Fayetteville during my time in college was to read and study at Puritan with friends, followed by a long stroll through the aisles of the Dickson Street Book Shop. I have so many fond memories of getting to know some of my now lifelong friends over a warm latte and avocado toast. We would drive 40 minutes from Siloam Springs to spend the whole day in Fayetteville because we loved it so much. It’s memories like those that make Fayetteville feel like a second home to me.

I feel so lucky to be part of such an amazing city and cannot wait to continue to grow the community here and showcase the beauty of this city through my work with City Lifestyle.

CASSIE THOMAS, CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

July 2024

PUBLISHER

Gavin Magee | gavin.magee@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Anna VanHorn | anna.vanhorn@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Clay Ridgeway | clay.ridgeway@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Riley Atkinson | riley.atkinson@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Landon McKay, Sydney Johnson, Trevor Spencer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Emily Hendrick, Cassie Thomas

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

Fayetteville Farmers Market

MOUNT COMFORT

VETERINARY CARE

We are a female-owned small business in Fayetteville, and are proud to be the first and only Fear Free Certified Veterinary Practice® in the state of Arkansas. Veterinary medicine is our profession. Enhancing the human/animal bond through life-long compassionate care is our calling. Wherever life takes you, we’re here for the journey!

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Local pets have enjoyed summer strolls on the vibrant Fayetteville Downtown Square. 2: Arkansas Men’s Baseball team had a heartbreaking yet incredible season, showing promise for next year. 3: Enjoy a refreshing drink on the inviting front porch of Pink House Alchemy. 4: Bachelorette weekends have been celebrated with friends around town! 5: Elevate your summer style with unique finds from “Your Grandpa’s Vintage” store. 6: Tune into “Flavors of Northwest Arkansas” podcast featuring the classic Cafe Rue Orleans. 7: One of the best features of Fayetteville is the incredible natural beauty and vibrant flowers of summer

Cool Down with CoolSculpting!

TARGET AND ELIMINATE STUBBORN FAT FOR GOOD WITH COOLSCULPTING ELITE!

This non-surgical treatment is FDA-cleared to freeze away fat in 9 different areas of the body. Premier Dermatology & Aesthetics has been a top CoolSculpting provider since 2011, making Premier NWA’s most-trusted body contouring practice.

8 SUMMER HOT SPOTS

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY JOHNSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSIE THOMAS

FROM SNOW CONES TO SUNSETS, DISCOVER THE BEST LOCAL EXPERIENCES TO BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT.

Happy summer, Fayetteville friends! With the season’s official arrival comes the blazing sun. While we relish in the warmth and the opportunity for a golden tan, escaping the relentless heat becomes a welcome retreat. That’s why we’ve curated a list of 8 summer destinations to include in your seasonal plans. These activities promise enjoyment for all ages, from the young to the young at heart. Read on, and add ‘em to the bucket list!

1. Sissy’s Snow Cones: There’s truly no better way to beat the heat than with an ice cold treat. Located in a snow cone stand on N. College Ave, the mission of Sissy’s is to “leave boring behind.” While the snow cones and the service are reason enough to visit, their heart for service is the icing on the cake. Every Tuesday, Sissy’s donates a portion of profit to a local cause, even allowing customers to submit charitable foundations they’re passionate about! Check out Sissy’s for the best gourmet snow cone in Fay.

2. Pickleball at PB & JJ’s: Gather your family and friends for a funfilled day of pickleball at PB & JJ’s at JJ’s Live. This summer hot spot offers pickleball courts available for booking online anytime from 8am to 10pm. Middle of the week? This spot also serves as a great venue for teambuilding, a surefire way to get your team out of the office this Summer. Visit their website to reserve your court and enjoy some friendly competition in a vibrant atmosphere.

3. Fayetteville Funky Flea Market: This hidden gem boasts a oneof-a-kind shopping experience. With a whole lotta junk in the Funk, you could spend a whole day uncovering unique vintage finds! “I have spent hours here decor shopping, birthday gift hunting, hanging with the girls, and more! Plus they have the two cutest cats named Fay and Funky!” - (Bella Aldrete, student) When the sun is scorching, an indoor shopping experience is the best way to spend the day.

4. Boulders & Brews: Have you ever come across an indoor rock climbing gym combined with a coffee shop? Neither had I until stumbling upon Boulders and Brews. It’s a top-notch indoor rock climbing destination that captures the essence of climbing while fostering an inclusive atmosphere for newcomers. With offerings like a bouldering league, kids’ summer camps, and a year-round youth program, Boulders and Brews aims to create a supportive environment where climbers of all levels can feel at ease advancing their skills!

5. City Park: Created by locals for locals, City Park is a communal spot with mouthwatering food and drinks. From frozen margs, to smashburgers and street tacos to ice cold beer, the menu has something for everyone. This is truly my go-to spot whenever I am seeking a casual dinner with a group of friends. As stated by the owners, “We want your dining experience to feel like an extension of hanging out with friends, so come by, grab a drink, and stay awhile!” Say less.

6. Fayetteville Public Library: There are very few things better than getting lost in a good read - especially by the pool. When summer hits, Fayetteville Public Library is a hotspot with the best new books, community events, and a public workspace for a change of scenery. Located downtown, the architectural beauty has four stories, each with a unique vibe. If you’re a reader, browsing the bookshelves is an elite way to escape the heat.

7. Mt. Sequoyah: Last but not least, we have the perfect sunset spot. Whether you want a romantic date, a spot to catch up with an old friend, or simply need time to think, Mt. Sequoyah is the perfect place. I’ve seen people sit up here and journal, and I’ve seen people propose - Either way, the beauty of this overlook paired with the giant white cross provides a unique sense of inspiration that’s hard to beat.

8. Fourth of July Fireworks: Celebrate the 4th of July locally this year! The Walmart AMP in Rogers will be celebrating the fourth with a patriotic concert and fireworks. Enjoy this stunning performance by the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas, honoring America’s beauty and veterans. A few other firework displays a short drive from Fayetteville include: Farmington, Prairie Grove and West Fork.

While there are countless summer activities in Fayetteville, we’ve given you some of our favorites that you simply cannot miss! If you end up giving these suggestions a go, be sure to tag us in the photos @fayettevillecitylifestyle so that we can beat the heat together. Cheers to summer!

“THESE ACTIVITIES PROMISE ENJOYMENT FOR ALL AGES, FROM THE YOUNG TO THE YOUNG AT HEART.”

At Uptown Eyes, we love sharing our “polish” to make your experience with us shine. We offer personalized eyecare and a curated collection of eyewear from independent brands focused on craftsmanship, artistry, and community –just like us!

JET AWAY

WHERE COMFORT MEETS CONVENIENCE

AIRCRAFT with Jett

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY JOHNSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY HENDRICK & CASSIE THOMAS

Picture an airport journey devoid of stress. No long lines, no rush against time, no security hassles, and no disruptive children kicking your chair. In place of typical airport atrocities, envision having everything you desire right at your fingertips: Custom catering, a personal concierge, seamless car-to-jet service, and beyond! All it takes is to inform the concierge of your preferences. If only such a haven existed...

Now that you’re hooked, this paradise DOES exist with Jett Aircraft. Lance Creamer, founder & CEO, began as a hobbyist pilot in the 80’s, and founded Jett Aircraft (named after his cherished grandson) in 2011. Lance recognized that Jett Aircraft might not be the first of its kind, but it could strive to be the very best.

He wanted to model the aircraft after a black stallion, renowned for its elegance, swiftness, and strength. Recognizing the parallels between stallions and the aircraft he pilots, his vision was inspired. In favor of anonymity, each plane is mysteriously referred to as “Darkhorse,” without disclosing passenger details.

The Jett experience is unmatched. Every passenger receives personalized attention, with the repeat customers’ preferences being meticulously honored on every journey. For instance, one passenger consistently boards with his preferred ice-cold beer in hand. Even the pups are well taken care of, with a “bark box” complete with dog treats galore. Lance’s aim isn’t to become the largest charter operator, as preserving the authentic bond with each client is paramount.

In the near future, Jett plans on expanding its list of destinations, aiming to include Mexico by the end of summer. Additionally, there’s anticipation

“We can’t be first in the industry, but we can be the best” -Lance Creamer

surrounding the introduction of a thrilling new aircraft to the fleet — keep an eye out for the Citation-X.

If you’re seeking a seamless, hassle-free travel experience, soar away with Jett.

T H E LAST ADVENTURES

For many, starting the second half of summer may feel like the grandeur of vacations has passed, and the dog days have begun. Luckily, because of where we live, the freedom of summer is not over. Before the busyness of fall and the school year starting, Northwest Arkansas provides opportunities for the season’s last adventures.

EXPLORING ALL THE FUN OF NORTHWEST ARKANSAS, BEYOND FAYETTEVILLE

ARTICLE BY TREVOR SPENCER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOPHIA WRIGHT ART

Exploring South

DO: Parrot Island in Fort Smith has everything one imagines for the quintessential waterpark: a lazyriver, a wave pool, and plenty of slides, like the 265foot Pelican Plunge.

SEE: Mount Magazine has many cabins and camping spots, making it the perfect place to enjoy the solace of nature with family or friends. Being the tallest point in the state at 2,753 feet, it’s the best place to see the vibrant green and glowing waters of summer.

DRINK: The Benedictine monks of Subiaco Abbey started selling to the public in 2018. Handcrafted options include Abbey Amber, Scholastic Stout, and Peter’s Chair Pale Ale, which can be enjoyed in their tasting room on the property.

Exploring East

DO: Buffalo River Canoes on Kyles Landing Road near Jasper is the perfect place to set off into the majesty of this state to see the waterfalls and bluffs of NWA.

SEE: The mission of Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is “to provide lifetime refuge for abused and neglected ‘Big Cats’ with emphasis on tigers, lions, leopards, and cougars.”  Interested in learning about wildlife and efforts to care for these animals? Head to Eureka Springs.

EAT: The Low Gap Cafe in Jasper is owned by chef Nick Bottini, who trained at the Culinary Institute of America in New York City. The Arkansas Democratic-Gazette called it “backroad gourmet.”

Exploring North

DO: Near Bentonville, the Slaughter Pen mountain bike system includes trails ranging in difficulty from beginner to expert. Ozark Trails says, “The 40- plus miles of single-track flow alongside the paved Razorback Regional Greenway and by Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, where the path is dotted with public art.”  With plenty of places to rent bikes nearby, Slaughter Pen is a great place for family and/or friends to spend a Saturday.

SEE: In Bella Vista, E. Fay Jones’ Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel stands over Lake Norwood. The breathtaking building has tall, beautiful arches made from 31 tons of steel. With 4,400 square feet of cut sheet glass, the natural light pours in.

EAT: Voted “the best fried chicken in Arkansas,” the Monte Inn near Beaver Lake is the perfect place to bring loved ones for a large, delicious meal. With a family-style serving arrangement, the Monte Ne Inn rivals your best home-cooked meal.

B o t o x & F i l l e r s L a s e r H a i r R e m o v a l E y e l i d E x p e r t s F a c i a l s

Fayetteville FARMERS MARKET

EXPERIENCE FAYETTEVILLE’S COMMUNAL ATMOSPHERE AND AUTHENTICITY AT THE FARMERS MARKET

The Fayetteville Farmers Market celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023. Its commitment to local produce within the 4-mile county region brings the community together.

Market Manager Kayla Lindsey and Outreach Manager Julia Den Herder oversee many of the Market’s operations and are both vendors themselves.

Michael Crane of Dripping Springs Garden and 40-year Market vendor says, “We always wanted to be Market gardeners. We knew we had to find a place that was by The University because they attract more diversity of people.”

Bryan and Konny Brandon bought Ozark Natural Breads, started in 1987, from Bryan’s parents when his father retired last year. “[We’ve] been making bread for Fayetteville’s folks for almost 40 years,” says Bryan. “We’ve got a pretty awesome crew. We’ve enjoyed growing with the Market. I’ve seen a significant increase in just this year from last year.”

Chuck and Doni Rutherford of Rutherford Farms, a 21-year Market vendor, offer a variety of produce, including the rare American chestnut, blueberries, blackberries, tomatoes, peppers, and more. Chuck was President of the Board for 18 years but says, “I’m just an ordinary farmer dude now.”

“We have been members of the market for 18 years,” says Marquita Den Herder of DH Farm. “We do produce fruits and plants, pastured pork, and chicken. I love the Farmers Market because it’s its own little community. We get to develop relationships with our customers, the vendors themselves are like our second family, and the atmosphere is a great place to be in.”

Henry Francis says, “Evergreen Beef Co. is a pastured raised, frozen-packaged beef vendor, and we pride ourselves on providing the Fayetteville community with premium, dependable, and delicious cuts of beef. As first-year vendors at the Farmers Market, we have been blown away by the enthusiasm and support of our customers!”

design. build. reproduce.

Three UltraUnique Getaways for Families

A TRIO OF FUN-FILLED ESCAPES THAT WILL LEAVE YOUR FAMILY BEGGING FOR MORE

ARTICLE BY NADINE BUBECK

Introducing Vermejo...

“At the end of the day, your feet should be dirty, your hair messy and your eyes sparkling.”

Bienvenidos to Raton, New Mexico, home to Vermejo Ted Turner Reserves. Flaunting over 550,000 acres of picturesque terrain, Vermejo will welcome your family to a crown jewel of natural beauty.

This destination invites you to custom plan a swoon-worthy experience; choose between kid-friendly fishing expeditions, hiking tours, horseback rides, archery, and more. Indulge in your choice of luxe accommodations and take your taste pallet on a culinary adventure thanks to delectable dining options.

Notably, the property values conservation efforts including the protection of wildlife like bison and wolves.

Rates inclusive of meals and two daily activities.

Introducing Glenwood Springs...

“The greatest legacy we can leave our children is happy memories.”

Happy memories await in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Known for its hot springs, the Rocky Mountain resort city is rich with wildlife and sheer beauty. Offering an array of family-friendly activities, the area is home to the esteemed Glenwood Springs Adventure Park, a must-do with amusement rides and subterranean caverns—a magical geological excursion.

Surely, you’ll want to take a dip in the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. Invigorating and rejuvenating for adults and super fun for kids, there’s a vast splash zone, water slide, diving board, and lap lanes.

Glenwood Springs is primed with pristine river spots; the white water is mild and ideal for guided rafting adventures. You can also rent duckies (inflatable kayaks) or paddleboards.

If you’re going to check one hike off your list, opt for the Doc Holliday memorial, and for older kids, explore mountain biking paths for every skill on the paved Rio Grande Trail. In addition, Bair Ranch, located in Glenwood Canyon, offers several activities like horseback riding, ATV & Jeep tours, and sport clay shooting.

Family accommodations include Hotel Glenwood Springs, located at the Glenwood Gondola base that goes to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. The property also flaunts a small indoor water facility. For included admission to the hot springs pool, families can also book the Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge. The exciting city has over 80 restaurant choices as well.

Introducing Snow Mountain Ranch...

“Never underestimate the importance of having fun.”

Consider Snow Mountain Ranch a fun hub for families; a camp-like atmosphere for those seeking a genuine back-tothe-basics escape. Located in Grand Country Colorado, the YMCA of the Rockies destination is what vacation is meant to be... packed with frivolous play. Awake to breathtaking mountain views and the sound of songbirds, and after an actionpacked day, witness a dreamy sunset from your personal porch.

Accommodations vary; choose between private cabins, spacious lodge rooms, scenic campgrounds, or yurts. Cabins can sleep up to 12, and are equipped with full kitchens, a fireplace, and a deck. You’ll likely spot some deer outside your front door.

Included in all stays: roller skating, swimming, mini-golf, sports, hiking/biking trails, nature walks, and more. But

what makes Snow Mountain extra special are the entertaining “extras.” To make the most out of your stay, partake in archery, axe throwing, horseback riding, arts/crafting, knot-tying, geocaching, and beyond. Plus, there are tons of educational programs that teach guests about local wildlife like bears and wolves. And here’s a tip; if you’re craving some adult-only time, choose to register your child (ages 3+) for summer day camp. Grown-ups can do some adventuring of their own while the kids get a taste of what summer’s supposed to be. And as for food, there’s an array of on-site dining options available.

Everyone will feel like a kid at Snow Mountain Ranch, and the secret’s out; cabins book far in advance, so be sure to secure your spot well ahead of time.

RO A D CHOW

A FUN AND CREATIVE TRAVEL SNACK

GUARANTEED TO SATISFY EVERYONE IN THE FAMILY.

ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP

Planning to load up the family truckster and head out on an adventure? This easyto-pack and satisfying snack is a great way to keep growling tummies quiet while you’re behind the wheel. Grab the kids, prepare it together, and try not to eat them all before you hit the road!

BREAKFAST COOKIES

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups quick oats

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 cup peanut butter

• 1/4 cup honey

DIRECTIONS:

• 1/3 cup apple butter

• 1 large banana, mashed (1/2 cup)

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1/2 cup pepitas

• 1/2 cup raisins

1/ Preheat oven to 325°F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper.

2/ Combine all the ingredients into a large bowl of a stand mixer (or hand mixer). Mix until all the ingredients are combined and the dough is thick and heavy.

3/ Portion 1/4 cup mounds of cookie dough onto prepared cookie sheets. Use the back of a spoon to slightly flatten out into a cookie shape. (The cookies will not spread in the oven.)

4/ Bake for 16-18 minutes or until the edges are slightly brown. Cool cookies on the baking sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool.

5/ Cover leftover cookies and store at room temperature for up to 5 days or 10 days in the fridge.

BEST MARGARITAS

NORTH OF THE BORDER

EXPLORE THE GUISINGERS COCKTAILS

ARTICLE BY LANDON MCKAY PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY HENDRICK

City Park and Feed & Folly owners present Guisinger Cocktail Club, Fayetteville Square’s new gem!

“Verde Margarita” – Local twist with authentic Tomatillo Salsa “Vesper” – Bestselling martini “Grassping at Straws”

Lemongrass Vanilla Syrup

• 1 cup Lemongrass stalks (cleaned, beat, chopped)

• 1 cup Cane Sugar

• 2 cups Hot Water

• 0.5 oz Pure Vanilla Bean Paste

Step 1. Peel lemongrass outer layers, rinse, beat with mallet, chop

Step 2. Blend Lemongrass, Cane Sugar, Water

Step 3. Strain finely, bottle, refrigerate ~week

Clarified Milk Punch

• 6 oz Chili Infused Blanco Tequila

• 4 oz Lemongrass-Vanilla Syrup

• 3 oz Clement Rhum Agricole Blanc

• 3 oz Lime Juice

• 0.5 oz Bitter Truth Cucumber Bitters

• 0.5 oz Coconut Cream

• 2 oz Whole Milk

Step 1. Combine all but milk

Step 2. Funnel milk into separate container

Step 3. Funnel mixture into milk – pour against container’s side

Step 4. Cover, freeze 3 hours

Step 5. With strainer and coffee filter, strain, removing milk curds

Step 6. In new container, strain, covered, 3-4 hours

Step 7. Serve over ice with sweet drop pepper

Yields 4

Prescriptive PILATES

“It’s preventative medicine,” says Michelle Meiklejohn, owner of Connections Pilates. “I want Pilates to be seen in the wellness and fitness community as a viable source of prevention in the next step after physical therapy, to continue to heal and increase health longevity.”

Recently, Meiklejohn had a client who injured her rotator cuff and was advised to get a replacement. Instead, she worked with Meiklejohn for months and was able to avoid surgery, enjoy fitness, and continue her work as a nurse.

Meiklejohn always wanted a career in healing, but in 2007, her journey took a turn. After a c-section left her with limited abdominal strength, she stopped pursuing medicine as an infection disease specialist to a profession in health and exercise science.

She looked to Pilates class as a possible source of rehabilitation. There, she got stronger and was able to resume her hobby of competing in dressage. Afterwards, she switched to health and exercise science, she started teaching Pilates for students at the University of Oklahoma.

Ever since, Meiklejohn has continuously practiced “prescriptive Pilates” to help rehabilitate people to their favorite activities, saying, “What I’ve always known is I’ve wanted to help people.”

Joseph Pilates defined Contrology as “the comprehensive integration of body, mind, and spirit.”

The exercise methodology targets the bodies core and teaches increased body awareness, good posture, builds strength, enhances flexibility, and improves balance. Even joint and muscle aches can be alleviated.

Meiklejohn says Pilates is a form of  “cross-training” and “intelligent movement.”

Visit Connection Pilates on the Johnson Square!

ARTICLE

BY TREVOR SPENCER PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY HENDRICK

Discovering a way back to the activities you love.