First launched in 2016, our Faces of Central Arkansas series aimed to highlight individuals in our community who truly stood out, uplifting and excelling in their fields.
From farm-to-table dining to historic renovations and CBD wellness, these selected individuals embody remarkable dedication, significant contributions, and a collaborative spirit within The Natural State. They are your neighbors, friends, and family, collectively ensuring Central Arkansas remains a premier destination among surrounding states.
Just as our initial spotlight shone on these exceptional people, we invite you to delve into their stories and celebrate their impactful work.
The Faces of Hillcrest.
Embodying the spirit of community and collaboration that defines the vibrant neighborhood, Jim Metzger (left) and Daniel Bryant (right) are truly the “Faces of Hillcrest.” Metzger, affectionately known as the “Mayor of Hillcrest,” has dedicated years to various volunteer roles, from tree planting to Christmas light displays. Bryant has joined him in many of these efforts, co-leading initiatives like the Hillcrest Residents Association parks committee and serving as vice president of the Hillcrest Merchant Association. Their combined efforts, alongside other key community figures, are evident in highly anticipated events like the Ice Cream Social, which brings hundreds of residents together. The pinnacle of their cooperation is the annual HarvestFest, a massive event that drew over 20,000 people last year and generated nearly $20,000 for local schools and civic improvements. Through their tireless work, Bryant and Metzger exemplify how resident and merchant associations can unite to enhance Hillcrest’s charm and community spirit.
Jim Metzger
Daniel Bryant
The Face of Southern Home Cooking.
Homer’s Kitchen Table, a Little Rock staple since 1986, embodies the “Face of Southern Home Cooking.”
With David Connell, son of the original founder, now at the helm, the restaurant offers comforting, delicious fare reminiscent of grandma’s house as the newly branded Homer’s Kitchen Table. Known for classics like chicken fried steak, shrimp & grits, and southern fried chicken, and their popular meat-and-three daily specials, every dish is crafted with love and care. They cultivate a warm atmosphere of Southern hospitality, where regulars from all walks of life feel like family. Expect fresh, made-from-scratch meals and a friendly greeting that keeps people coming back. Exciting expansions are coming soon to Homer’s, so keep your eyes peeled for news in the coming months.
The Face of CBD Wellness.
Healing Hemp of Arkansas, established in 2018, is the “Face of CBD Wellness” in Central Arkansas, distinguishing itself with a brick-and-mortar presence for personalized guidance. They stand firm on the pillars of education and trust, fostering enduring relationships with their clientele. The knowledgeable staff at Healing Hemp is well-versed in cannabinoids and the diverse health benefits of their offerings, ensuring they can find a suitable product for every customer.
Their commitment extends to ensuring customers are fully educated on the safety and usability of their products. By working exclusively with high-quality vendors, Healing Hemp provides a comfortable environment where individuals can confidently explore and purchase trusted CBD solutions, ultimately empowering them to achieve optimal results.
The Face of Farm-To-Table Dining.
. Brave New Restaurant champions the direct connection from local agriculture to their kitchen as the “Face of Farm-To-Table Dining.” Their team passionately collaborates with regional farmers, fostering collective growth and showcasing the exceptional quality of Arkansas produce. They strategically source from farms across the state, even extending the season for special crops like heirloom tomatoes, which are the state fruit and vegetable. Brave New’s dedication educates farmers on the market potential of their produce, driving demand for high-quality ingredients. Their commitment stems from a genuine appreciation for farming, ensuring every dish reflects the fresh, seasonal bounty of Arkansas.
Brave New Restaurant’s famous heirloom BLT.
Paul Rainwater (owner)
The Face of Premium Custom Clothing.
Q Clothier stands as the definitive “Face of Premium Custom Clothing,” mastering the art of personalized style. They understand that impeccable fit is paramount, offering meticulous adjustments to ensure absolute satisfaction. Their seasoned tailors blend time-honored artistry with contemporary methods, delivering superior garments with unparalleled attention to detail. Clients can select from a curated array of performance fabrics sourced globally, chosen for their luxurious quality and endurance. From bespoke suits to casual wear, Q Clothier offers an extensive range of styles to suit any lifestyle. Their client-first approach and inviting, well-appointed showrooms, complete with amenities like a whiskey bar, ensure a truly exceptional and indulgent experience.
Billy Roehrenbeck (client)
Haney Contractors, led by the father-son duo Gary and Kevin Haney, is truly the “Face of Historic Renovations” in Little Rock. For over two decades, they’ve masterfully blended modern functionality with deep respect for architectural heritage across cherished districts like the Heights and Quapaw Quarter. Their work on iconic projects, from revitalizing the 11-story Pyramid Place Building into a vibrant hub to restoring beloved local restaurants, showcases their commitment to quality. Honored with the Richard C. Butler Award, Haney Contractors doesn’t just remodel; they breathe new life into historic structures, ensuring Little Rock’s past is preserved for its thriving future.
Face It: You’re A Big Deal.
This is your moment to shine!
Whether you’re the queen of cupcakes, the king of construction, or the boss of balance sheets— we’re looking for standout pros from every corner of the community. From finance to food trucks, architecture to aesthetics, FACES OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS is your chance to be celebrated for doing what you love.
Be the face of your field. Be featured in print. Be recognized for your passion.
We’ve got more faces to feature—and one of them could be yours! Don’t miss this chance to stand out among Central Arkansas’s best and brightest.
Contact your sales representative or Brooke Wallace, brooke@arktimes.com, 501-658-7483 for details.
The Face of Catering.
Whole Hog Café North Little Rock has truly become the “Face of Catering” in Central Arkansas, a testament to their massive scale and unwavering dedication. Handling between twenty to thirty catering orders weekly, they prepare three and a half to four tons of meat to feed anywhere from dozens to hundreds of guests. Their thriving catering arm, which owner Rich Cosgrove calls the “biggest bite of our business,” is built on nearly two decades of strong customer relationships. It’s a high-energy operation that never stops, fueled by Rich’s personal investment in every detail. Their success comes from ensuring each client’s exact needs are met with meticulous planning, providing everything required for a flawless event. At Whole Hog Café North Little Rock, it’s clear that their commitment to service is continuous and deeply rooted in community connection.
